On the outskirts of Greater Berlin find one of the city’s most picturesque neighbourhoods, named for the stunning lake at its centre.

Just a short tram ride from the city center, find yourself in the semi-rural district of Weissensee. Built around one of Berlin’s most popular swimming lakes, the area features large wooded areas, one of Berlin’s most influential schools of art and a historic Jewish cemetery. Visit Weissensee on a summer day to enjoy swimming in the large lake or in winter for a picturesque stroll through the forest.

Translating to White Lake, Weissensee is a photogenic area. As one of Berlin’s least populated urban areas, it has managed to retain a slower pace of life than the neighboring Prenzlauer BergOpens in a new window and Pankow districts. Ride the tramline from central Berlin to this cosmopolitan area with a lively artist community. The Weissensee School of Art, one of Germany’s most respected art schools, attracts students and visitors from around the world.

Bring your bathing suit to dive into the crisp waters of the borough’s namesake lake. Extremely popular in summer, Weissensee has a designated beach area with a small admission fee. Once inside you’ll be immersed in the beach’s lively but family-friendly atmosphere. Pack a picnic to enjoy beneath the shade of a low-lying tree or have refreshments at one of the beer gardens that line the lake. Try locally made beer from the Berlin and Brandenburg areas or sample traditional German fare at one of the area’s many restaurants.

Spend an afternoon of contemplation at the Weissensee Cemetery. Covering 100 acres (40 hectares), it is one of the largest Jewish cemeteries in Europe, with over 115,000 graves. Pay your respects at memorial stones to concentration camp victims and resistant groups. Travel through the beautiful grounds to see the final resting place of notable Berliners as well as citizens who took their own lives rather than going to extermination camps.

Reach Weissensee by tram, train or bus in just 30 minutes from the city center. Ample street parking is available in the area.