Berlin is a city full of secrets. From underground clubs to hidden courtyards, there is always something new to discover. As a local expert, I have spent years exploring the city and uncovering its hidden gems. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, here are some of the secret spots only locals know about in Berlin.

1. Klunkerkranich – Rooftop Bar and Garden
Located on top of a multi-story car park in Neukölln, Klunkerkranich offers stunning views of Berlin’s skyline. The bar and garden are filled with plants, making it a perfect spot to escape the city’s hustle and bustle. It’s a popular spot among locals, but many tourists don’t know about it yet.

2. Teufelsberg – Abandoned Spy Station
Teufelsberg is an abandoned Cold War spy station that has been turned into a street art gallery. The station is located on top of a hill in Grunewald, and the views from the top are breathtaking. It’s a bit of a hike to get there, but it’s definitely worth it.

3. Badeschiff – Floating Pool
Badeschiff is a floating pool located in the River Spree. It’s a popular spot among locals during the summer months, and it’s a great place to cool off and relax. There is also a bar and restaurant on site, making it a perfect spot to spend the day.

4. Mauerpark – Flea Market and Karaoke
Mauerpark is a popular spot among tourists, but many don’t know about the hidden karaoke sessions that take place on Sundays. Locals gather at the park to sing their hearts out, and it’s always a fun time. There is also a flea market on site, making it a perfect spot to spend a lazy Sunday.

5. Hohenschönhausen – Former Stasi Prison
Hohenschönhausen is a former Stasi prison that has been turned into a museum. It’s a sobering reminder of Germany’s dark past, and it’s an important place to visit for anyone interested in history. The tours are led by former inmates, adding an extra layer of authenticity to the experience.

6. Markthalle Neun – Food Market
Markthalle Neun is a food market located in Kreuzberg. It’s a popular spot among locals, and it’s a great place to sample some of the city’s best food. There are also events and workshops held on site, making it a perfect spot to spend an afternoon.

7. Prinzessinnengärten – Urban Garden
Prinzessinnengärten is an urban garden located in Kreuzberg. It’s a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city, and it’s a great place to escape the crowds. There is also a cafe on site, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a coffee.

8. Arminiusmarkthalle – Food and Drink Hall
Arminiusmarkthalle is a food and drink hall located in Moabit. It’s a great spot to sample some of the city’s best food and drink, and it’s a popular spot among locals. There are also events and workshops held on site, making it a perfect spot to spend an evening.

9. Tempelhofer Feld – Former Airport turned Park
Tempelhofer Feld is a former airport that has been turned into a park. It’s a popular spot among locals, and it’s a great place to go for a bike ride or a picnic. There are also events and festivals held on site throughout the year.

10. Schwarzes Café – 24 Hour Coffee Shop
Schwarzes Café is a 24-hour coffee shop located in Charlottenburg. It’s a popular spot among locals, and it’s a great place to go for a late-night caffeine fix. There is also a bar on site, making it a perfect spot to spend the evening.

11. Rummelsburg – Secret Beach
Rummelsburg is a secret beach located in the east of the city. It’s a bit of a hike to get there, but it’s definitely worth it. The beach is surrounded by trees, making it a peaceful spot to escape the crowds.

12. Einstein Kaffee – Coffee Shop and Bookstore
Einstein Kaffee is a coffee shop and bookstore located in Mitte. It’s a popular spot among locals, and it’s a great place to go for a quiet afternoon. The coffee is great, and there is a wide selection of books to choose from.

13. Zitadelle Spandau – Fortress and Museum
Zitadelle Spandau is a fortress and museum located in Spandau. It’s a great place to visit for anyone interested in history, and the views from the top are stunning. There are also events and concerts held on site throughout the year.

14. Kulturbrauerei – Brewery and Cultural Center
Kulturbrauerei is a brewery and cultural center located in Prenzlauer Berg. It’s a great spot to sample some of the city’s best beer, and there are also events and concerts held on site throughout the year.

15. Yaam – Beach Bar and Club
Yaam is a beach bar and club located in Friedrichshain. It’s a popular spot among locals, and it’s a great place to go for a night out. There is also a restaurant on site, making it a perfect spot to spend the evening.

16. Tierpark Berlin – Zoo and Botanical Garden
Tierpark Berlin is a zoo and botanical garden located in Friedrichsfelde. It’s a great place to visit with kids, and the botanical garden is a peaceful spot to escape the crowds. There are also events and workshops held on site throughout the year.

17. Kater Blau – Underground Club
Kater Blau is an underground club located in Friedrichshain. It’s a popular spot among locals, and it’s a great place to go for a night out. The music is great, and the atmosphere is always electric.

18. Volkspark Friedrichshain – Park and Beer Garden
Volkspark Friedrichshain is a park and beer garden located in Friedrichshain. It’s a popular spot among locals, and it’s a great place to go for a picnic or a bike ride. The beer garden is also a great spot to relax and enjoy a cold beer.

19. Grüner Salon – Cabaret and Theater
Grüner Salon is a cabaret and theater located in Mitte. It’s a popular spot among locals, and it’s a great place to go for a night out. The shows are always entertaining, and the atmosphere is always lively.

20. Kaffee Mitte – Coffee Shop and Gallery
Kaffee Mitte is a coffee shop and gallery located in Mitte. It’s a great spot to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee, and there are always interesting exhibitions on display. The staff are friendly, and the atmosphere is always welcoming.

Berlin is a city full of surprises, and these hidden gems are just a few of the many secret spots only locals know about. So next time you’re in Berlin, be sure to explore beyond the tourist hotspots and discover the city’s hidden treasures.

Helpful Q&A:

Q: What are some of the secret spots in Berlin that only locals know about?
A: There are a lot of hidden gems in Berlin that only locals know about. For example, Klunkerkranich, a rooftop bar that is located on top of a parking garage in the Neukölln district. Another hidden gem is the abandoned Spreepark, which is an old amusement park that has been closed for years. It’s a great place to explore and take pictures. Additionally, the Prinzessinnengarten is a community garden that offers a green oasis in the heart of the city.

Q: How do I get to these secret spots?
A: Some of these secret spots can be difficult to find, but that’s part of the adventure. For example, to get to Klunkerkranich, you need to take an elevator to the top floor of a parking garage and then climb a few flights of stairs. Spreepark can be accessed by taking the S-Bahn to Plänterwald and then walking a few minutes. Prinzessinnengarten is located in the Kreuzberg district and can be reached by taking the U-Bahn to Moritzplatz.

Q: Is it safe to visit these secret spots?
A: While these spots may be off the beaten path, they are generally safe to visit. However, it’s always a good idea to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially if you’re exploring alone or at night.

Q: What should I bring with me to these secret spots?
A: It’s a good idea to bring a camera to capture the unique atmosphere of these secret spots. You may also want to bring a water bottle and snacks, as some of these spots may not have food or drink options available.

Q: Can I bring my kids to these secret spots?
A: It depends on the spot. Klunkerkranich and Prinzessinnengarten are both family-friendly, with activities for kids and a laid-back atmosphere. However, Spreepark may not be suitable for young children, as it is an abandoned amusement park with potential safety hazards.

Q: Are these secret spots open year-round?
A: Some of these spots, such as Klunkerkranich and Prinzessinnengarten, are open year-round. However, others, such as Spreepark, may only be accessible during certain times of the year or may require permission to enter. It’s always a good idea to check ahead of time to avoid disappointment.