The typical tourist visit to Berlin often follows a fairly standardized protocol: Once along Unter den Linden to see the usual sights in one go. A few museums here, bars and clubs there and the trip is already over. You can certainly organize a nice visit to Berlin with all these typical places to go. However, if you want to hike on the road less traveled to hunt for Berlin’s hidden gems is on the right track with us.
Berlin’s largest garden
Located in the south of Berlin, the Britzer Garten is a green area with ponds, hills, colorful flowerbeds and a central lake. The building of the unconventional starfish on the main lake breaks out of the idyllic landscape with contrasting brutality. That makes it an absolute eye-catcher! The aesthetic concrete block was designed by Berlin architect Engelbert Kremser, a famously passionate advocate of organic architecture, which can be admired here in all its artistic forms.
Nikolai Quarter – Berlin’s historic center
We have already heard about the Nikolaiviertel elsewhere and have to do it again in a moment! Despite its location right in the heart of Berlin, the historic district is often overshadowed by Berlin’s many bigger and brighter attractions. Just a five-minute walk from Alexanderplatz, you will find an oasis here where time seems to have stopped. At least the 13th century church, winding alleyways and Biedermann-style houses bear witness to this.
Buddhist house in Frohnau
Our next spot is again just on the border with Brandenburg, but this time in the north of Berlin. The most important place of worship of Buddhism in Western Europe can be found in the cozy Frohnau: The Buddhist House. The main building, whose pagoda-like tower is decorated with Sinhalese style elements, is situated on a hill. At the same time, the construction is definitely one of the capital’s more mysterious places. A library in Ceylonese style is nestled right next to it. Evening meditation sessions are also offered here several times a week, promising respite from the usual tourist miles.
Heavy-duty body
Tempelhof is home to one of the most inconspicuous architectural remnants of the Third Reich: in 1941, the Nazis had a 12-ton concrete cylinder erected here. This was intended to simulate the statics of a gigantic triumphal arch, which was to be erected after Hitler’s “final victory” in connection with the transformation of Berlin. The reason for the trial run is the sandy-marshy soil the capital, whose resilience was to be tested.
Victoria Park
Not far from the concrete block you will find an urban oasis with lush greenery, tranquil ponds and an enchanting waterfall – the only one in Berlin, mind you! In addition to this natural highlight, the Kreuzberg National Monument in particular attracts a lot of attention. This is located on a hill just above the waterfall and therefore offers not only a wonderful view over the park but also a panoramic view of the whole city.
Cloud grove
Thanks to its futuristic design, the 102-meter-high viewing platform is an eye-catcher in itself. But it gets even more exciting when you venture up high and can enjoy a view over the neighboring Gardens of the World . The park in Marzahn lives up to its name and forms a botanical patchwork that combines small gardens in the style of different world cultures. Here you can also find the installation Reflecting Gardens by artist Jeppe Hein, a mirror labyrinth that fuses nature and illusion.