Lietzensee and Bootshaus

A small and serene local retreat
Noteworthy for: The corner of Witzlebenplatz has a charming neighbourly atmosphere, and it's easy to while away a few hours here between exploring the paths around the pond.

Popular plate: Head to the rustic yet elegant Engelbecken opposite the park for a light German lunch.
This beautiful pond, with the branches of willow trees dripping in its waters, and swans cutting across the calm water, is surrounding by lush grassy banks and flower beds all lending to the air of serenity. This small park in West Charlottenburg is away from the main tourist drag, which makes it more charming.

Head to the Stella am Lietzensee boathouse for a cool beer on their terrace after sunbathing. Or join the local workers who bring a picnic for their lunch break, stripping off their clothes at the first sign of sunshine.

Across the road is the utterly mesmerising St Canisius Jesuit Church, a feat of religious architecture. The wooden chapel is sculpted inside a giant white cube, infusing the chapel with the scent of a sauna. A twisted modernist Christ is the only icon of this entirely white interior, black against the bare walls. It's deeply affecting.