How To Explore Treptow-Köpenick, Berlin’s Under-the-Radar Summer Neighborhood
You might not have heard of Treptow-Köpenick, despite the fact that this one-time East Berlin neighborhood—tucked away in the southeast corner of the capital—is the city's largest by area. However, though not as well-known as überhip Berlin neighborhoods such as Kreuzberg, Neukölln, or Friedrichstein, Treptow-Köpenick is the ideal spot in which to escape from the bustle of the city.
And don’t think for a minute that you’ll be bored—there’s plenty to explore here, including a serene park with museums, a vibrant dining and nightlife scene, and even an abandoned amusement park. Here are some highlights you won’t want to miss while visiting.
1. Enjoy family-friendly activities in an urban park
There's lots of things for families to enjoy here, from forest strolls to space exploration.
While in Treptow-Köpenick you can easily spend a full day in FEZ, a wooded recreation park offering playgrounds, museums, a bathing lake, and more. There, take the time to explore the wonders of the solar system at Orbitall Space Centre, check out the interactive exhibitions at the Alice children’s museum, or catch a play or film at one of the park’s multiple stages. Or simply take a stroll through the forest, where you can see miniature replicas of Berlin’s major monuments.
2. Attend the city’s hippest beach party
Dance and drink the day away in Berlin, making time to cool off in a floating pool as you go.
Any Berlin neighborhood worth its (pretzel) salt needs some great party spots, and Treptow-Köpenick doesn’t disappoint. Slather on some sunscreen and head to a day rave at Badeschiff, a floating bathing pool and beach bar located right on the Spree.
This seasonal outdoor space hosts parties that start early afternoon and often last late into the night. In between dancing and cooling off in the water, order some cocktails and food—just make sure to book a reservation in advance.
3. Explore an abandoned amusement park
See how Berliners used to get their thrills at this unusual Treptow-Köpenick attraction.
A trip to this neighborhood wouldn’t be complete without a tour of Plänterwald’s abandoned Spreepark. Built in 1969, it was the first amusement park in the German Democratic Republic.
Today, you’ll find an eerie wasteland scattered with life-size dinosaur statues and roller coaster remains. Make sure to go with a guide to explore safely and hear about the park’s fascinating history.
4. Dive into Treptow-Köpenick’s natural attractions
This neighborhood might just be the ultimate destination for outdoor adventures in Berlin.
Just a short U Bahn ride from Mitte, the neighborhood is a hidden green paradise for those looking for a spot of nature. It’s the perfect spot for outdoorsy types who want to do some jogging, windsurfing, or sailing.
Plus, at the city’s largest lake, Muggelsee, you can take a dip to beat the summer heat or rent a boat with which to explore. During the summer months, expect crowds of locals enjoying a barbecue, picnic, or even a rave, so get there early to nab a pleasant spot to chill.
5. Eat at a floating restaurant
You can enjoy a seafood feast right on the Spree at Spree Arche.
If you’re looking for an unusual dining experience, head to the Spree Arche, a floating log-cabin restaurant on the Spree river. The 2-level rafts structure seats about 35 people, and there are two big terraces for soaking up the sun and the stunning views. On the menu you’ll find plenty of seafood dishes—paired with hearty German beers, of course.
6. Relax by the river
Rent a canoe or catch an outdoor movie to make the most of the River Spree in Treptow-Köpenick.
Treptower Park was quite the attraction when it first opened in 1888. At more than 200 acres (80 hectares), it’s one of Berlin’s largest parks, offering room for everything from rose gardens to sunbathing spots to places to rent canoes or paddle boats for floating down the Spree.
Here, you can walk over a bridge and through a castle-like entrance to find Insel der Jugend (Island of Youth), where you can catch an outdoor movie during the summer. Or if you’re feeling really adventurous, take a ride on a seaplane for stunning views of the city.
7. Soak up some history
Take the time to learn about the area’s past, especially its role in the Soviet Union.
Treptow-Köpenick was officially formed in 2001 when Berlin merged Treptow and Kopenick into one large borough. But it has a much, much longer history that you can explore when you visit.
Take a tour of Friedrichshagen, Berlin’s biggest and oldest waterworks, or learn about its dark Nazi history at Schöneweide, the city’s last preserved concentration camp. In Treptower Park you’ll also find the Soviet War Memorial, which is the resting place of 5,000 war victims.
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