The Tiergarten (Berlin)

The Tiergarten is Berlin's largest municipal park and located right in the heart of the city. Originally a royal hunting ground in the 19th century, it is now a playground for Berliners to enjoy leisure time walking, picnicking and rewarding sporting activities. It is especially popular during summer city breaks in Berlin when people flock here in their thousands to enjoy balmy summer evenings. It takes its name from the historic zoo which is located here and is probably the number one family attraction in the city. It is also famous for its English rose gardens which make for the perfect place to relax after a long day of sightseeing.

 

Almost twice the size of London’ Hyde Park, the Tiergarten has a varied topography of meadows, woodland walks, elegant avenues and ponds which can be explored on foot or by bicycle. Spend a relaxing afternoon boating on the Neuer See lake or while on winter city breaks in Berlin, you may even get the opportunity to go ice skating here. There are numerous ball parks for impromptu games of football and Sunday afternoon barbecues are a Berlin institution. During Christmas the Tiergarten takes on a whole new festive appearance with quaint market stalls and a colourful and chaotic funfair that no child will want to miss.

 

The park is dotted with historic landmarks which are well worth exploring during weekend breaks in Berlin. The most commanding is the 200 feet high Romanesque Victory Column which can be climbed for wonderful city views. Nearby is the white stucco Bellevue Palace, another imposing sight which dates from the 17th century and is the official residence of the German president. The most rewarding attraction of all at the Tiergarten is the House of World Cultures, a fascinating exhibition delving into the heritage and traditions of nations around the world. It is easy to spend several hours in this green oasis and makes for a well-deserved rest where the kids can run wild.