Summer in Berlin
By Jessica Montevago
Berlin is a city bursting with character, unique in not only its past but present. The German capital respects its history with thoughtful and poignant monuments and museums that should be at the top of the itinerary. That is entwined with the modern aspects of Berlin. From its world-renowned nightlife scene to new spaces being created for experiencing art exhibitions, culture, and science.
While it might be a surprise to some, Berlin is a wonderful summer destination that can be less crowded than more traditional beach vacations. In fact, one of the best ways to see the city is by boat. Clients can explore Berlin's famous sights and important buildings comfortably from the water as they sail along the Spree River for a sightseeing tour. Depending on the tour, highlights can include Museum Island, the TV Tower, and Berlin Cathedral, the government district, Reichstag, and more.
Panoramic view of Berlin featuring TV Tower on the Right
There are also many lakes in and around Berlin, which lends itself to water sports and swimming. Berlin's largest lake, Müggelsee, is in the Treptow-Köpenick neighborhood. It’s about a 50-minute ride on the S-Bahn or 40-minute ride by car.
Of course, what’s a trip to Germany without a visit to a beer garden? In the summer, seats in the shade and cold pints draw in locals and visitors alike. Travelers can also enjoy a spectacular view across the city from the roof decks on summer evenings or spend the evening on the waterfront while the weather is warm. Pop-up beach bars, complete with palm trees and real sand, can be found all over Berlin once summer arrives, along the banks of the River Spree and at many of the city's lakes. Badeschiff, for example, is always popular with visitors. Located on a floating dock on the Spree, it offers great views, serves food and drinks until late in the evening, and even has a floating swimming pool on the river. Sunbathers can head to Ku'damm Beach on Halensee Lake—a luxurious beach bar that serves cocktails and champagne, with lounging chairs.
Berlin Cathedral and Spree River
Where to stay
If clients would like to escape the city center in favor of some lush greenery, the Tiergarten Park is just a short walk from the InterContinental Berlin. The upscale hotel, originally built in 1958, overlooks the 500-acre park. Easily recognizable by its famous chessboard façade, the hotel offers an indoor swimming pool, spa, and gourmet dining in a Michelin star awarded 14th-floor restaurant with panoramic city views.
If clients are looking for a property right on the waterfront, the Hampton by Hilton Berlin City East Side Gallery is located right along the Spree River. The modern hotel is situated in the trendy Friedrichshain district, right between the Mercedes Benz Arena and the East Side Gallery and is a short distance from the S-Bahn. The area is filled with pubs, restaurants, and cafés, as well as clubs—but the hotel offers continental or hot breakfast in the morning.
The 268-room NH Collection Berlin Mitte Friedrichstrasse, meanwhile, offers several standout amenities including breakfast buffet and babysitting services. There’s also a restaurant and bar, bicycle rental, gym, and sauna available to guests. The hotel is located in the center of Berlin in the Mitte district, a short walk to the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag Building and the other attractions.
The historic Hotel am Steinplatz, Autograph Collection-- Marriott’s luxe boutique flag-- Built in 1913, is housed inside the elegant building designed by the German Art Nouveau-inspired architect August Endell. Its 84 rooms, three suites, a restaurant and lobby bar are done in sleek Art Deco black and cream. In addition to the restaurant and lobby’s Bar am Steinplatz, there’s a 24-hour rooftop gym (with windows that offer voyeuristic peeks into surrounding pricey townhouses), two saunas and a spa. It’s a short walk from the zoo and Kurfürstendamm, Berlin’s version of Manhattan’s Fifth Avenue.
Book these hotels, and more, using the TSA rate code in the GDS. Non-GDS users can book these hotels using tripXpress.
Banner photo: Charlottenburg Palace | Sergey Kelin - stock.adobe.com
