Berlin has lots to offer by day and by night, but the moments of sunset might be the most breathtaking. Berlin is not Barcelona, Miami or Rio. Most of the year the weather is poor. Berlinians don´t have beaches to hang out and they have to pack all their outdoor activities into some short weeks a year.
But, it is like that it turns out that the Berliners live out the summer to the fullest. One way to do so is pretending to live on the beach with a big promenade where you can watch people passing by, sip some cold drinks, meet good friends, listen to some cheesy music or just dream away while watching the sunset.
TEMPELHOFER FELD
This is one of the most special places in Berlin, and watching a sunset here has a kind of vast, otherworldly quality to it. Tempelhof is the defunct airport of the GDR. Today its former landing strips provide a unique track for joggers, cyclists and skaters. In summer the huge area, which includes a permaculture and community garden, is transformed into a festival-like affair, as friends gather with music, food and beer and give thanks to the last light of the setting sun.
LANDWEHRKANAL
This gorgeous, grassy banked canal draws hoards of people to its edge during the closing hours of the day. Watching the light turn the water into dreamy pinks and oranges is something special, and the collective atmosphere, when the sunset hits your face, is tangible. There are a few options to choose from along the riverside; Admiralbrücke tends to draw a lot of people playing the guitar, while the Hobrechtbrücke or Glogauer Brücke offer great sundowner respite, and you can always trust in the Späti around the corner when you need a refill.
ALT-STRALAU
Not far from Elsebrücke, this former east Berlin neighbourhood is settled in a bank of the Spree river. The sunset here by the Spree riverbanks is stunning. Find a spot at Regattaufer Park and watch this spectacle of nature. Gaze at the boats floating, coming and going, and enjoy the scenic views of the Island of Youth on the other side.
BRANDENBURG GATE
One of the most famous and important monuments in Germany. A former symbol of the divided city that is now a symbol of unity. It was built in a neo-classical style in the 18th century. It’s a beautiful structure and a must-see while in Berlin. It’s also breathtaking at night when it is all lit up and sunset hits your face.
KLUNKERKRANICH
Klunkerkranich is an amazing rooftop restaurant and events space that sits on top of the Neukölln Arcade. It boasts incredible views over the city, and having a beer among the quirky, up-cycled decor and furniture and plants is a perfect way to end a day watching the sunset. They also host live concerts and bring in some of Berlin’s best DJs. Usually, a small donation that goes towards their efforts will get you inside.
TEUFELSBERG
The Radio Tower on the ICC Exhibition Grounds in Grünwald is open to the public every evening except Mondays until 11 pm. Here you have majestic views over the forest and River Havel, and panoramic views of the Siegessäule and the TV Tower. It’s a pretty heavenly place to usher in the evening.
OBERBAUMBRÜCKE
This beautiful, historic bridge offers sun-seekers spectacular views of the Spree river and Berlin’s skyline. There are always street musicians adding more atmosphere to the moment while boats cruise along the river and into the sunset – it’s pure romance. TV TOWER This one’s going to cost you a little more in money and patience and you’ll have to navigate the long queue, but once you get there golden light will be streaming into your view from the tallest building in Berlin. The viewing deck is around 200 square metres and open until midnight. Make sure to arrive early – or the sun might go down without you.