Canoe through Berlin’s industrial charm, dance barefoot on an airstrip, or sip cool island drinks – a few insider tips reveal a different side of the city this summer.
These hidden gems won’t be in every guidebook, but they deserve a spot on your list.
Gather your favourite people, pack your swimwear, dancing shoes and let the adventure begin – see you in Berlin!
Lost-place vibes with canoeing at Funkhaus Nalepastraße
Studio One Funkhaus Berlin
Hidden away in Berlin-Oberschöneweide and yet full of history and life is the Funkhaus Nalepastraße. You can take a 90 minute guided tour (group tours are offered in German or English) through the original recording studios of the East German state-run broadcaster which is now a venue for music events, cultural activities, and experimental sound studios. Set over a vast area of over 13 hectares it is said to be one of the largest multi-studio facilities in the world. Concerts regularly take place in the impressive halls of the Funkhaus, so it’s worth taking a look at the programme.
At the back of the site is Backstagetourism. Here you can hire canoes or paddleboards or take part in a guided canoe tour. And after your excursion on the water, you can stop off at the Neopolitan pizzeria ZOLA or the authentic seventies charm of Milchbar for refreshments.
Where: Nalepastraße 18, Treptow Köpenick
Dance, make music and have fun at Tempelhofer Feld
The former Tempelhof Airport is transformed into a dance floor in Berlin
Every Thursday, the south-western tip of Tempelhofer Feld is transformed into a Mediterranean dance floor when the sounds of the tarantella, a lively folk dance from southern Italy, can be heard. An easy workshop for all newcomers begins at 6 pm. Then it’s time to dance, drum and join in. With traditional instruments such as tamburello and accordion, the collective brings the Mediterranean spirit directly to the red Kulturgate container. It’s easy to get started, the atmosphere is warm and the music is captivating – whether you want to dance or just listen to the music.
Where: Tempelhofer Feld, south-west entrance (Tempelhofer Damm), Tempelhof-Schöneberg
The Kolonnaden Bar in Berlin Mitte
Kolonnaden Bar in Berlin Mitte
In summer, the Colonnade Courtyard in front of the Alte Nationalgalerie is transformed into a hotspot where you can enjoy the beautiful weather in the centre of the Museum Island.
The idea of a place for stimulating conversation, casual get-togethers and good drinks has a long tradition on Museum Island. At the end of the 19th century, a drinking hall opened under the colonnades on the River Spree, which remained in operation until the 1930s.
Under the motto “Here We Are”, Wednesdays to Sundays, until 31 August are ambient sounds, acoustic sessions, DJ nights, urban collectives and classic sundowners make every evening special.
Where: Kolonnadenhof in front of the Alte Nationalgalerie, Museum Island, Mitte
Explore art, history and culture after dark with ‘Love’ in the Long Night of Museums
More than 70 museums across the city participate in the Long Night of Museums on 30th August 2025, offering a wide range of activities until 2 am on this special night Visitors can learn about famous couples from history and mythology or hear about secret affairs and tragic love stories among artists.The effects of heartbreak on the body and brain will be explored, as will sex education in the GDR. Of course, there will also be plenty of entertainment on the theme, so you can sing along to the most beautiful love songs at a masked ball.
Berlin’s Top 11 Flea Markets
Arkonaplatz flea market
c: visitBerlin Foto Koschel
No Berlin weekend is complete without a stroll through one of its beloved flea markets. From retro furniture and rare books to handmade jewellery and local art, each market has its own unique flair. Whether you’re browsing, bartering or just soaking up the atmosphere, these 11 standout spots promise vintage charm and authentic Berlin spirit.
Plenty more to do here:
Film nights under the stars: Open-air cinemas
Stay cool: Shady spots for hot days & top ice cream parlours
Holiday vibes: Scenic views by the water
Bliss on two-wheeles: Summer cycling routes
Splash around: The ultimate Berlin bathing map
Read more: SUMMER TIPS from VisitBerlin
READ MORE CULTURE in BERLIN from our own correspondent Sabine ‘Bee’ Koch
Speak Your Mind