Take a break from the buzz of central Berlin with a stroll or a picnic in the pleasant, easy-to-access green space of the Spreebogenpark. Facing onto the waterfront, this small but pretty and well-maintained park offers lovely views of the River Spree as well as many of Berlin’s best-known buildings. This is the ideal place for a rest after a few hours of sightseeing.
The name Spreebogenpark literally translates to “Spree arc park,” and indeed the park follows an arc-like shape, with its front curving to follow the line of the river. The park was designed by respected landscape architects Weber and Sauer. Work on it commenced in 2002 and was completed in 2005.
Learn about the site’s troubled history before you visit. This part of the city was initially largely cleared under Hitler’s rule, as he intended for his World Capital to be located here. Clearly, this never came to pass, but still more of the site was destroyed during the sustained air attacks of World War II.
Today, the park is a place of peace and relaxation. Find a nice spot somewhere within its 6-acre (2-hectare) area and set up for the day with a book, a blanket and some snacks, or join the many locals who take a seat along the waterfront in brightly colored deckchairs on sunny days.
Find the start of the western edge of the park at the historic Moltkebrücke, a picturesque and historic bridge that dates from 1891. The park runs along to the far more modern Kronprinzenbrücke, another bridge, but this time a creation of the early 1990s. Both bridges offer wonderful views of the city. Close by, you’ll find famous Berlin sights such as the iconic Reichstag Building and the Brandenburg Gate, as well as Zoo Berlin.
Visit the Spreebogenpark whenever you like for free, as it is a public space. Come on a sunny day to make the most of this delightful place. Note that the park also connects to the much larger Großer Tiergarten park, which you can spend hours exploring if you need a change of scenery from the Spreebogenpark.