It seems as though going to lakes in the summertime is simply a Berlin given, but it took me more…read morethan two years before I actually made it to a lake for the purpose of hanging out and swimming. This is actually not all that surprising, given that I am a saltwater girl. I grew up swimming in oceans and seas, not lakes, and although I have fond lake memories from my childhood, something about them has never completely sat well with me. Part of it is in regards to that slimy gross feeling on your feet when you wade into a lake, and part of it is simply the fact that you can't see what's in the water. But it was a hot day, with highs projected to be around 100, so we knew better than to stay inside our non-air-conditioned flat and instead opted to go swimming. Schlachtensee was the destination, chosen namely for its closeness to the S-Bahn station, but also because its water quality tends to rank a bit higher than many other Berlin lakes. We arrived at the S-Bahn stop of the same name, and nearly walked directly onto the beach. But I wanted sun, and a bit more of a quieter spot, so we set off in search of a place. Mind you, if you arrive at 2 p.m. on a hot weekend afternoon, you are probably going to have to walk a ways to find something. But we were persistent, and eventually found a spot exactly halfway around the lake (or a good 2-kilometer walk). We set up camp and spent the next few hours undisturbed in our mostly sunny spot. We also had easy access to the water, and I was surprised at home most of the shoreline spots have clear-ish water and sandy beaches, so I didn't have to get too squeamish. The lake is also very long but not so wide, and one could likely leisurely swim between the North and South sides within 5 minutes. Keep in mind that the North side is also the dog side, although the Germans, stickler for rules that they are, will conveniently ignore the signs where their dogs are concerned and they will be seen all over. Luckily, I only encountered happy dogs and zero dog shit, so good for the owners. Pro tip: If possible, walk to the Nikolassee S-Bahn if you're taking the S1 or S7 back into Berlin. That way, you will be guaranteed a seat on your ride home and be able to avoid the masses of people shoving onto the train at the Schlachtensee stop.

I love this Lake, doesn't matter what season it is, each one has its own little charm to the lake…read more In winter, if the ice is thick enough dare to do some ice skating or just walk around the lake and get some mullet wine or hot chocolate to warm ones icy finger s at the Fischerhütte Beer garden. But my fave is the summer, just take some snacks, a bottle of wine and look for a nice sunny spot with your friends and enjoy the lake and all its beauty. The lake is nice and clear for swimming or just rent a boot and take a sun bath in the middle of the lake defo highlight of the long summer months. It's easy accessible via U-bahn from U-Bahn Krumme Lanke or via the S-Bahn from the Stop Schlachtensee. Only recommendation don't stay right at the big lawn next to the SBahn stop its getting overcrowded and the Lake has way nicer little spot if you just start walking around it ;)

One of the few places, where you can get the beach feeling in Berlin. Do not expect crystal clear…read morewaters, matter of fact, on my last visit the water smelled pretty weird. But with the positive attitude, and the right company you can have an enjoyable time here. The food is average, and the prices are kind of high.

My family and I very much enjoyed our day at this "beach". It's well designed, so it feels like a…read morepark, with green space. And a beach, with clean sand. There are many food vendors along the walkway, and many clean-ish bathrooms. There are also showers. The cost is minimal, for a family to enter. A great day out.

What a playground. Water play. Rope jungle. Huge animal statues. Clay making. Climbing areas that…read morego on and on. And that's apparently just one of three playgrounds here at Britzer Garten, a huge suburban park that's got a lake, a little train, plentiful benches and flower gardens, several snack stands and at least one very nice looking cafe on the small lake. This made a very fun outing for our crew of young European travelers (i.e., kids 4-8) who had enjoyed all the sightseeing but were also ready for a good place to just run around with the local kids. If you're going from downtown Berlin: it's only 20 minutes or so on the U-6 to Alt-Mariendorf, but you will then definitely want to take the bus to one of the park entrances. It's only a 5-10 minute bus ride -- and pretty easy to figure out once you arrive at Alt-Mariendorf -- but the distance is further than it looks on a map... and you don't want to use all your little people's energy just walking down a semi-busy street. Also, check out the map on the park's website before you go. I'd suggest aiming for one of the SW entrances (bus 179 as of this week), which are adjacent to the playground our kids enjoyed. (We entered from the North and bus 181, and there is not much up there other than flowers). Overall the park is plenty close that it's not a big deal getting there, but far enough that I'd consider it at least a half-day outing.

This is a wonderful place to see. Give yourself lots of time- it's over 90 hectares…read more There is a playground, lots of lakes, paths to stroll and sculptures to contemplate. Don't miss out on a great crepe while you're there! Bring your kite if it's breezy...