Guide: Best Lakes Around Berlin for Swimming, Sunbathing, and Some Questionable Decisions

Berlin might be landlocked, but don’t let that fool you—this city knows how to get wet. When the city’s concrete starts to sweat and your third Club-Mate isn’t doing the trick, it’s time to strip down and get yourself to a lake. And not just any lake. You want vibes, soft grass, maybe some light nudity, and the type of cold plunge that feels like a full-body reset.

Bring sunscreen. Leave shame at home.

1. Schlachtensee

Schlachtensee is the lake you bring home to your parents. Clean, classic, and extremely accessible (S-Bahn right to the water’s edge). The water’s crystal-clear, the crowd is a mix of grannies and flirty students, and the vibe is relaxed picnic energy. You can even walk the whole thing like a softcore pilgrimage of summer hedonism.

Vibe: Romantic. Wholesome. Mildly flirty.

Bring: Strawberries, prosecco, that book you pretend you’re reading.

2. Krumme Lanke

This is Schlachtensee’s cooler, slightly messier sibling. More trees, more sneaky makeouts, and at least one person playing acoustic guitar badly. Locals love it. The water’s great, and if you wander far enough, you’ll find a nudist area—because this is Berlin, after all.

Vibe: Queer-inclusive forest fantasy.

Bring: Portable speaker, something edible-turned-aphrodisiac, and an open mind.

3. Wannsee

Wannsee is big. Like, bring-a-floatie-and-stay-awhile big. The lido (Strandbad Wannsee) is iconic with its wide sandy beach and vintage changing cabins that scream Weimar Republic nostalgia. Expect families, but also expect couples dry-humping under towels. There’s enough space for everyone.

Vibe: Historic beach holiday meets chaotic Berliner youth.

Bring: Cash for entry, a huge towel, and no fear of PDA.

4. Plötzensee

If lakes were Tinder dates, Plötzensee is the one you think you’re too good for—and then totally fall for. It’s not fancy, but it’s central and charming in its own slightly-trashy way. Plus, the water’s warm, the crowd is fun, and there’s a tiny bar that sells cold beer.

Vibe: Gritty chic. Mild hangover fixer.

Bring: Your weirdest bikini and someone you can make bad decisions with.

5. Weißensee

A lake smack in the middle of the city? Yes, Berlin did that. Weißensee is tiny but mighty. Surrounded by families, hip dads, and a surprising amount of attractive people reading philosophy books shirtless. There’s a legit beach, shady spots, and cafés nearby.

Vibe: Urban escape. Literary thirst trap.

Bring: Something vegan, overpriced sunglasses, and a copy of The Second Sex (even if you don’t read it).

6. Liepnitzsee

Liepnitzsee is Berlin’s best-kept not-so-secret. It’s a turquoise gem surrounded by forest, accessible by a cute little ferry or a woodland hike. Honestly, it feels like you’re in Sweden—but with more tattoos and fewer rules. Come early or stay late. Skinny dip at sunset. Live your best cottagecore fantasy.

Vibe: Fairytale rave in the woods.

Bring: Snacks for 8 hours, rolling papers, and someone who won’t complain about bugs.

7. Teufelssee

Nestled under Teufelsberg (the former U.S. spy station turned urban legend), Teufelssee is for the wild ones. Small, forested, and full of Berliners who gave up on conventional beachwear long ago. The water’s icy, the vibe is feral, and the sunsets? Orgasmic.

Vibe: Pagan nudist utopia.

Bring: A towel, a flask, and absolutely no expectations.

8. Müggelsee

Müggelsee is Berlin’s biggest lake, and it feels big—like, pack-a-map big. There are spots for everyone: nudists, families, punks, retirees, and that one guy trying to sell mojitos out of a cooler. Bring your bike, ride around, find a hidden cove, and settle in.

Vibe: Anything goes. Come as you are.

Bring: A bike, snacks, and low expectations that will definitely be exceeded.

Final Dip: Find Your Lake, Find Your Summer Self

Berlin’s lake culture is about more than just staying cool. It’s about connection—body to water, body to body, body to bratwurst. Whether you're here for the nudity, the nature, or the nap under a tree, there’s a lake waiting for you. Just remember to respect the space, recycle your beer cans, and maybe skinny dip at least once. It’s the Berlin way.