Venture beyond the well-trodden paths to uncover Berlin’s hidden treasures. Viktoriapark offers serene views, while Märchenbrunnen in Volkspark Friedrichshain enchants with its fairy-tale sculptures. Spreepark reveals an abandoned amusement park’s eerie allure, and Teufelsberg, a Cold War relic, provides unique insights and views. Mitte’s hidden backyards unveil the city’s intimate secrets and creative spirit. This tour is an invitation to explore Berlin’s lesser-known facets, offering a glimpse into its hidden corners where history, mystery, and beauty quietly reside.
Tour overview
Viktoriapark
Viktoriapark offers a peaceful escape with its lush landscapes and the historic National Monument. Climb to the top for a scenic vista of Berlin, or enjoy a lazy afternoon by the cascading waterfall. Fun fact: the monument at the top commemorates the victory over Napoleon, and the park’s waterfall was designed to mimic the cascades of the Giant Mountains in today’s Czech Republic.
Märchenbrunnen
The enchanting Märchenbrunnen in Volkspark Friedrichshain is a hidden gem featuring fairy-tale sculptures and ornate water fountains. It’s a magical spot perfect for a peaceful stroll or a family picnic. Here’s a secret: Märchenbrunnen translates to „Fairy Tale Fountain,“ and the statues represent beloved characters from German fairy tales, making it a whimsical destination for all ages.
Spreepark
Tour the eerie, abandoned Spreepark, once a thriving amusement park. Now it offers guided tours that take you through a ghostly landscape of dilapidated rides and overgrown paths—a hauntingly beautiful scene. A curious tidbit: the park closed in 2002, and many of the rides were left as they were, creating an almost surreal, post-apocalyptic atmosphere that’s perfect for urban explorers.
Teufelsberg
Ascend to Teufelsberg, an artificial hill built from WWII rubble, topped with a former NSA listening station. The area is now popular for its art installations and sweeping views of Berlin’s forested areas. Did you know that Teufelsberg means „Devil’s Mountain“ and that the hill was originally planned to be a university campus before it became a Cold War spy station?
Hidden Backyards in Mitte
Discover the Hidden Backyards in Mitte, where charming courtyards reveal Berlin’s layers of history, creativity, and café culture. These quiet enclaves are perfect for those looking to uncover Berlin’s secrets. Fun fact: many of these backyards are home to independent galleries, quirky shops, and cozy cafes, offering a tranquil retreat from the bustling city streets.
