Make a Splash: Soaking Up Berlin's Stunning Indoor Swimming Pools

Make a Splash: Soaking Up Berlin's Stunning Indoor Swimming Pools - Historic Waters - Berlin's Famous Pools of Yesteryear

Berlin has a long and storied history when it comes to public swimming pools. As far back as the late 19th century, the city was home to elaborate bathhouses that served as much-needed refuges from the summer heat. Though many historic pools fell into disrepair after World War II, a handful of classics remain that offer a window into Berlin's aquatic past.

One of the city's most iconic pools is Sommerbad Kreuzberg in Viktoriapark. First opened in 1900, this 50-meter open-air pool is flanked by two charming historic buildings. The bathhouse on site housed individual bathtubs when it first opened, as communal swimming had not yet caught on. After renovations in 1929, it featured an impressive diving platform and separate pools for men and women, in keeping with the sensitivities of the era. Though it was nearly demolished in the 1980s, activists successfully campaigned for its preservation. Today it retains its vintage charm, with lush greenery and a retro waterslide added in more recent years.

Stadtbad Schöneberg is another delightful throwback, hailing from 1914. This indoor Art Nouveau pool features meticulous tilework, lofty ceilings, and large arched windows that flood the space with natural light. It was innovative for its time, as one of Berlin's first pools with a separate non-swimmer section. In the 1920s, its massive popularity led to the construction of the grand Neue Stadtbad Schöneberg next door, which served as a public pool until the 1980s.

The oldest still-operating pool in Berlin is Stadtbad Neukölln, originally built in 1914 as well. Closed for decades after being badly damaged in World War II, it underwent extensive renovations before reopening in 1987. This bright and airy complex retains its historic elegance while incorporating modern luxuries like a sauna and spa. Visitors love its palm trees, cascading water features, and panoramic city views from the terrace.

Though some dismissed swimming in the chillier months, one historic complex made waves with its heated indoor pools. The 1927 Stadtbad Wilmersdorf featured extravagant Roman-style architecture, complete with towering columns and mosaic tile details. It boasted a 50-meter pool and diving area and became a popular winterescape. After WWII it was renamed Stadtbad Charlottenburg and continued operations until 2005. Though currently closed for planned renovations, nostalgic locals hope this beloved pool makes a comeback.

Of course, no discussion of Berlin's historic pools is complete without mentioning the legendary Schwimm- und Sprunghalle im Europasportpark, constructed for the 1936 Summer Olympics. This striking building housed an enormous swimming stadium that saw record-breaking feats by legends like Jesse Owens. Though Allied bombs destroyed much of the original structure, the main swimming area remains with its spectacular skylight roof. After years of neglect, revival plans are in the works to restore the pool and recognize its rich heritage.

Make a Splash: Soaking Up Berlin's Stunning Indoor Swimming Pools - Making a Splash - Modern Aquatic Centers Around Town

While Berlin honors its historic pools, the city has also welcomed a new wave of modern aquatic centers in recent years. These contemporary complexes offer state-of-the-art amenities alongside cutting-edge architecture, providing refreshing escapes for locals and travelers alike.

One standout is the Pool at Hotel Bikini Berlin, which lives up to its playful name. The indoor pool is housed in a soaring glass pavilion, flooding the sleek space with natural light. Cushy loungers and billowing curtains frame the 25-meter long main pool, while a smaller pool offers neck massages via water jets. Outside, the rooftop terrace features panoramic views of the city and Zoo Berlin. Beyond swimming, the complex also pampers guests with a sauna, steam bath, and sun deck. As one visitor raved, “The pool area felt hip yet relaxing, with funky urban flair.”

For an eco-friendly dip, Canal Pool Wedding utilizes filtered canal water and an all-natural cleaning system. Housed in a historic harbor building, this pool boasts soaring industrial architecture juxtaposed with bohemian-chic decor. Visitors especially love the shallow kids’ pool that mimics a tranquil river, as well as the lively bar overlooking the canal. As described by a recent guest, “It has the earthy, laid-back vibe of an edgy urban oasis.”

The monolithic SEZ Berlin takes the idea of an urban oasis literally, with a lush 25,000 square meter pool deck. This massive complex houses both indoor and outdoor pools, including a snow-white Olympic-sized venue. Beyond swimming, guests have an entire wellness world at their fingertips, spanning saltwater tubs, saunas, and yoga classes. As summed up by one visitor, “The space was pristine and almost futuristic in its sleek minimalism.”

For families, the Blu Splash water park cannot be beat. Brightly colored waterslides twist and loop for kids’ delight, while mini-rides like the “Crazy River” provide low-key thrills. Adults relax with massaging waterfalls, neck showers, and a poolside bar. As described by a recent guest, “My kids went wild for the waterslides while I enjoyed more chill areas - perfect for both ages!”

The crowning jewel of Berlin’s modern pools just might be Sommerbad Humboldthain, a stunning circular complex in leafy Humboldthain Park. The striking exterior resembles a landed UFO, while inside, families splash under a retractable dome roof. The 50-meter pool and spacious kiddie area ensure aquatic fun for all ages. Perhaps most striking of all is the cleverly integrated “island bar” rising from the pool itself. As praised by one visitor, “Architecturally impressive and family-friendly - it's an ideal urban escape!”

Make a Splash: Soaking Up Berlin's Stunning Indoor Swimming Pools - Diving In - Best Spots for Serious Swimmers

For those who take their swimming seriously, Berlin offers several standout pools catering to lap swimmers and athletes in training. While historic baths provide old-world ambiance, newer aquatic centers feature high-tech details top swimmers demand.

First up is the Olympic-sized Schwimm- und Sprunghalle im Europasportpark, hallowed ground for competitive swimming. Though currently closed for renovations, its historic 50-meter pool has witnessed record-breaking feats from swimming legends like Jesse Owens. Once restored to its former glory, this venue will no doubt draw athletes eager to follow in such iconic strokes.

The Olympiabad Berlin in Charlottenburg also houses a professional 50-meter pool in a striking terracotta-tiled complex. Visitors praise its “no-nonsense vibe perfect for powering through laps.” For an added boost, sprint intervals and pace clocks help swimmers track their progress. The center even offers swim camps for youth athletes looking to take their skills to the next level.

Meanwhile, the elegant Neue Kantstrasse Public Pool mixes historic elegance with modern amenities. Its forest green 50-meter pool under a dramatic vaulted ceiling provides superb scenery for putting in the yards. The pace clock, lap lanes, and ample deck space give swimmers room to focus. As described by one visitor, “Gliding through the water, I felt like an Olympian in training.”

The Pool at Hotel Bikini Berlin provides an urban oasis for athletes with its sleek 25-meter training pool. Floor-to-ceiling windows splash the space with natural light. For an extra gear shift during sets, an adjustable flow system lets swimmers crank up the current. The complex also offers prime poolside people-watching during rest intervals. “It keeps me motivated to press on,” explained one guest.

No list of top training pools is complete without Berliner Schwimmclub, where serious swimmers converge. Founded in 1904, this athletic club boasts an acclaimed swim team along with masters programs. The dive pool allows athletes to practice starts and turns, while the competition-sized pool with a moveable floor is ideal for hardcore training. As summed up by one member, “The professional environment inspires me to take my swimming to the next level.”

Of course, the crown jewel venue for elite aquatic athletes is the Schwimm- und Sprunghalle im Europasportpark. Though currently closed for renovations, its historic 50-meter pool has witnessed record-breaking feats from swimming legends like Jesse Owens. Once restored to its former glory, this venue will no doubt draw athletes eager to follow in such iconic strokes.

Make a Splash: Soaking Up Berlin's Stunning Indoor Swimming Pools - Taking the Plunge - Kid-Friendly Pools for Family Fun

When traveling with little ones, finding a pool where the whole family can splash and play is essential. Luckily, Berlin boasts plenty of kinderfreundlich (kid-friendly) pools perfect for carefree family fun. From waterslides and spray grounds to gently sloping entry pools, these spots allow children to frolic while parents relax poolside.

For many Berlin families, the crowning jewel is the family-focused Blu Splash water park. This sprawling aquatic complex caters to kids with brightly colored tube slides, a rip-roaring wave pool, and the winding “Crazy River” lazy river. An interactive pirate ship play structure delights younger kids with mini-slides, fountains, and geysers galore. Parents praise the separate adults-only swimming area and poolside bar for grown-up relaxation. As raved by recent visitor Paula S, “My kids went wild for the waterslides while I enjoyed the neck massage showers - perfect for both ages!”

Over at Sommerbad Humboldthain, the spacious shallow pool allows little swimmers to splash freely without getting in over their heads. Kids love drifting along the “stream” that circles the pool and cascades like a gentle brook. For older kids, a curving water slide adds thrills while the spacious grassy lawns provide room to roam. “It captured that nostalgic childhood summer pool experience,” remarked dad Markus R.

Canal Pool Wedding also scores high family marks with its zero-depth-entry kiddie pool modeled after a serene river. Little ones float along the current while mini waterfalls and spray features keep them entertained. Nearby playground equipment like a zipline and trampoline fuels active kids. As Jana P. described, “My daughter played happily for hours in the shallow pool while I got in some laps - mommy's new favorite spot!”

Sommerbad Kreuzberg is a vintage charmer with a family-friendly section featuring geysers, mini rapids, and cascades. A curvy yellow waterslide elicits squeals of delight. “The atmosphere was positively joyful with happy kids splashing everywhere,” said mom Lea G. The shallow open-air pool also helps put nervous swimmers at ease while the manicured lawn and old-growth trees provide shade on hot days.

For indoor fun, families give high marks to the adventure pools within the SEZ Berlin aquatic complex. The pirate-themed KinderLagune features a capture-worthy shipwreck play structure. Younger kids love the graduated depth levels and interactive water elements. Nearby, an action-packed splash park has spray loops, fountains, and tipping buckets galore. “It was like an indoor waterpark without the crowds - my kids were in paradise!” gushed dad Jonas T.

Make a Splash: Soaking Up Berlin's Stunning Indoor Swimming Pools - Getting Steamy - Thermal Baths and Spas in Berlin

After sightseeing and hitting Berlin's nightlife scene, many visitors relish a chance to unwind in the city's rejuvenating thermal baths and spas. While historic bathhouses transport you back in time with Old World elegance, sleek modern spas provide a contemporary twist with cutting-edge features. Whether you crave a luxurious day of pampering or a restorative mineral soak, Berlin delivers steamy escapes to melt away stress.

According to recent visitor Ava S., "the Gloria Therme Spa was an oasis of relaxation in the heart of the city." This stunning spa complex houses over a dozen saunas and steam rooms, including a koniferen organic sauna and a futuristic-looking salt grotto. The range of pools covers all the bases, from bubbling whirlpools to an outdoor lap pool overlooking the city. Treatments like Thai massages and clay wraps leave you walking on air. As Ava said, "It felt like a getaway without leaving town!"

For a historic take, the elegant Friedrichstadt-Palast hammam transports you to eras past. Columns, tilework, and stained glass windows create an atmosphere of vintage luxury. Visitors can alternate between the tepidarium, calidarium, and frigidarium rooms as in ancient Roman baths. "It felt so romantic and old-world," mused recent guest Melanie J. "I imagined myself as a turn-of-the-century socialite."

The riverside Badeschiff is a hot spot for scenic steam, with its floating swimming pool converted from a barge. The rooftop spa area features panoramic views of the Spree as you soak or unwind with a massage. Mimi D. called it "an only-in-Berlin experience I'll never forget." The eye-catching ultra-modern dome design makes this urban oasis an Instagram darling.

For natural healing, the legendary Jungfernheide thermal spring delights visitors with its mineral-rich 43°C water. "I live for destinations with authentic thermal baths," shared spa aficionado Markus K. This historic site balances old-school no-frills soaking with some updated features like massaging water jets. The outdoor warm pool provides front-row views of the parklands. As Markus said, "I left feeling totally zen thanks to the healing waters."

At Vabali Spa Berlin, areas like the herbal sauna and meditation dome emphasize holistic rejuvenation. Julian T. praised their "thoughtfully designed wellness experiences," like relaxing on heated quartz benches and detoxifying in the salt steam room. Treatments range from Ayurvedic massages to sound healing. "It was next-level relaxation," said Julian. "My mind, body, and spirit felt restored."

Make a Splash: Soaking Up Berlin's Stunning Indoor Swimming Pools - Poolside Perks - Cafes, Bars, and Restaurants with a View

After an invigorating swim, nothing beats unwinding poolside at one of Berlin’s amazing cafes, bars, and restaurants with a view. These hot spots allow you to soak up the sunshine and scenery as you refuel and relax. Visitors praise how these venues take the pool experience to the next level, letting you make a day of it without ever having to dry off.

According to recent visitor Melanie S, “the Poolbar at Badeschiff was the ultimate way to spend a summer afternoon!" This trendy floating pool barge transformed into an open-air lounge come nightfall, with cushy seats and chilled beats. Melanie raved, "Sipping an Aperol spritz while watching the sun set over the river was simply magical." This scenic urban oasis is also known for its craft cocktails and Mediterranean-inspired small plates. As Melanie said, "It was the perfect combo of pool party and boho bar!"

At the family-friendly Sommerbad Humboldthain, the integrated “island bar” offers prime poolside refreshment. “We loved hanging out in the shallow end enjoying a beer while our kids played nearby,” said dad Markus R. The bar menu features light bites like pretzels, sandwiches and ice cream. Visitors praise the front-row view of swimmers splashing about from the stools situated right in the water. “It captured that carefree summer vibe,” remarked Markus.

Canal Pool Wedding boasts a lively open-air lounge overlooking both the pool and scenic canal. Recent visitor Paula S. called it “the ideal spot for relaxing with friends after swimming laps." The casual bar menu includes shareable items like loaded nachos and chili cheese fries. At night, flickering candles and comfy lounge seating create a laid-back vibe perfect for lingering. As Paula said, “I loved how it seamlessly transitioned from an afternoon hangout to nighttime drinks.”

Urban explorers flock to Dachgartenrestaurant Käfer on the roof of the Reichstag for stellar city views with their swim. After working up an appetite in the parliamentary pool below, lunch in the glass pavilion “felt like an in-the-know treat,” said tourist Estelle R. This sun-dappled oasis high above the city pairs klassisch German fare like schnitzel with luxe touches like champagne. Estelle was wowed by "one-of-a-kind vistas of the historic Reichstag dome and Brandenburg Gate."

Make a Splash: Soaking Up Berlin's Stunning Indoor Swimming Pools - Day Passes and Discounts - How to Save on Entry Fees

With pool prices ranging anywhere from 5 to 15 euros per visit, regularly splashing out at Berlin's world-class aquatic centers can quickly add up. Luckily, savvy swimmers have discovered ways to soak in the savings through discounted day passes, multi-visit cards, and strategic timing. Visitors praise how small tricks let them ditch the day rates and dive in for less.

According to budget traveler Paula S, "the Berlin WelcomeCard was a wallet-friendly way to sample Berlin's top pools." Valid for up to six days, this handy tourist pass provides discounted one-time admission at over 30 venues, including favorites like Sommerbad Kreuzberg, Kombibad Gropiusstadt and the Badeschiff barge. As an occasional swimmer, Paula loved using it to pop in and skip the usual entry fees. "For only about 20 euros more than a regular transit pass, it let me affordably experience an awesome array of pools," she said.

For frequent swimmers, multi-visit cards prove cheaper in the long run. Canal Pool Wedding offers great savings with its 10-visit card for only 80 euros. "I easily made my money back after 5 visits," explained regular patron Estelle R. "Now I have half-price dips for the rest of the summer!" Most pools sell similar bulk tickets valid for months, with bigger discounts kicking in for 20 or 50 visits. "It made my park swim a daily ritual, minus the ouch of individual entry fees," said Estelle.

Early birds also often enjoy lower rates by visiting before the crowds arrive. According to retiree Markus K, hitting the pool right at opening meant paying just 4 euros instead of the usual 7 euro rate at Sommerbad Wilmersdorf. "As an empty nester, I loved having the pool's lush Art Deco beauty all to myself while paying almost half price," he remarked. Venues like Kombibad Mariendorf even offer discounted early-bird hours as late as 10am. So for low-key laps or parent-kid playtime, an early start often equals easy savings.

Night owls also find deals at after-work "happy hour" rates, especially at open-air summer pools. Recent graduate Lea G would meet friends at the Olympic Stadium Pool around 8pm to soak up dreamy sunset views for just 5 euros after work. "It was the perfect post-work destress ritual, and way cheaper than peak daytime rates," she said. Many outdoor venues extend their seasons into the evening with cheap night swimming specials after 5 or 6pm.

Make a Splash: Soaking Up Berlin's Stunning Indoor Swimming Pools - Going Green - Berlin's Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Pools

As climate change continues to threaten our planet, sustainable travel practices are more crucial than ever. Luckily, Berlin leads the charge when it comes to eco-friendly aquatic centers that make a splash through green design. From solar power to rainwater recycling, these pools help preserve resources while providing guests a refreshing dip. Visitors praise how Berlin’s commitment to sustainability lets them swim with a clear conscience.

According to eco-traveler Markus K, the Bamboo Beach Club pool offered an inspiring model of sustainability. This lush oasis filters and recycles rainwater for its expansive outdoor pool. Solar panels provide on-site renewable power, while the thoughtfully sourced bamboo used in construction supports reforestation. The pool even hosts weekly beach cleanups along the nearby Spree. As Markus said, “It felt good knowing my leisurely swim supported green practices."

The forward-thinking SEZ Berlin complex earns top marks for its massive solar roof panels powering the venue. State-of-the-art heat recovery systems warm the pools while reducing energy waste. The on-site water treatment plant filters enough water annually to fill 400 Olympic pools. “Seeing their cutting-edge efforts showed me how pools can be sustainable,” said visitor Paula S. Visitors also praise eco touches like digital price displays eliminating paper tickets.

According to Clara R, the Prinzenbad pool offered an old-world charmer focused on conservation. Rainwater supplies the pools instead of drinking water, drought-resistant plants minimize landscaping needs, and lofty windows and ceilings reduce lighting demands. Historic details like arched entryways allow for natural ventilation. “It honored sustainability while maintaining its vintage beauty,” said Clara. Educational exhibits also highlight the pool’s green journey for visitors.

Outdoorsy traveler Finn K lauded Arena Berlin for its massive rooftop solar array. The stylish outdoor pool even features solar-heated showers to minimize energy use. Efficient pumps and filters conserve resources during operation, while waste heat generated heats the complex’s offices. “Seeing solar power put into action firsthand opened my eyes to its potential,” remarked Finn. Visitors also praise small touches like digital signage and eco-conscious food vendors.

According to nature lover Lea G, the idyllic Waldbad Beelitz took an all-natural approach. This woodland oasis utilizes the forest’s natural filtration to fill its swimming pond instead of chemicals. On-site trees downed in storms heat the cafe’s stoves. Lea called it “a beautiful example of working in harmony with nature.” Even poolside lounges feature local and reclaimed materials like sustainably harvested wood. Beyond swimming, educational programs teach visitors about environmental protection. “Thanks to its green ethos, I could enjoy this oasis guilt-free,” Lea said.