Fancy a swim in a museum-like setting? Now that the days in Berlin are finally getting longer, we’re drawn back out to the most beautiful lakes in Brandenburg. But the capital itself also has some worthwhile swimming spots to offer. And above all, one that has now become a hotel! We’re talking about the Stadtbad Oderberger. It’s one of Berlin’s most spectacular Neo-Renaissance buildings and can be transformed into an event venue when needed.
Not your average indoor pool
The Stadtbad Oderberger in Prenzlauer Berg is a prime example of the successful revitalization of historic buildings. It was designed in 1902 by architect Ludwig Hoffmann in the Neo-Renaissance style, after which it served as a public swimming facility for decades. In 1986, however, it had to be closed due to structural defects and cracks in the pool.
After nearly 30 years in a state of neglect, it was finally extensively renovated and reopened in 2016 as part of the Hotel Oderberger. And today, you can go swimming there again— in the authentic atmosphere of yesteryear.
Swimming by day, fashion shows by night
Here you can swim laps under a cathedral-like swimming hall. The vaulted ceilings, delicate arcades, and ornate wall reliefs make the hall well worth seeing. What makes the facility unique today is that the floor of the swimming pool can be raised as needed, transforming the pool hall into a magnificent event hall. Thus, where swimmers are doing laps in the morning, dinner events or fashion shows regularly take place in the evening.
If you’re looking for something truly romantic: You can also book the swimming hall! During the “Midnight Swim,” the pool is all yours and your guest’s alone. From 10 p.m. to midnight, you can reserve the pool, including the sauna, with lighting in the color of your choice .
The pool offers a unique blend of nostalgic charm and modern wellness luxury. It is open to both hotel guests and external visitors. Simply book your time slot via the website. In addition to the reconstructed swimming pool in its original size, there is also a small spa area. Anyone swimming here feels more like they’re in a museum or a palace. The Oderberger City Bath is a far cry from your typical indoor pool.
