Tiergarten is one of Berlin’s most extensive and iconic parks, rich in history, natural beauty, and family-friendly activities. As the city’s “green lung,” this vast space spans over 200 hectares and offers visitors a wealth of sights and experiences.
From historical monuments and memorials to serene picnic spots and interactive playgrounds, Tiergarten is a must-visit destination in Berlin for both locals and tourists.
A Brief History of Tiergarten
Located at the heart of Berlin, Tiergarten has a storied history. The name “Tiergarten” means “Animal Garden,” a nod to its origins as a hunting ground for Prussian aristocrats, where they pursued boars, deer, and other wildlife.
In the 18th century, this space was transformed from hunting grounds into a public park designed to offer residents a natural retreat within the city.
One of Tiergarten’s most recognizable landmarks is the Victory Column (Siegessäule), located in a large roundabout within the park.
Founded in 1864 to commemorate Prussia’s victory in the Danish-Prussian War, this towering structure offers a panoramic view from its 69-meter-high observation platform, accessible by climbing 285 spiral steps. At the top, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking views of Berlin’s skyline and the lush greenery below.
Tiergarten is also intersected by the Street of June 17 (Straße des 17. Juni), named after an uprising in East Germany in 1953. After the fall of the Berlin Wall, this street gained global fame as the site of the Love Parade, a massive electronic music festival promoting peace and unity.
Key Monuments and Memorials
Tiergarten hosts several critical historical monuments commemorating different chapters of Berlin’s past. The National Bismarck Monument honors Otto von Bismarck, the first chancellor of the German Empire. This grand statue, completed in 1901, reflects Bismarck’s power and influence over Germany’s political landscape.
Eating in Tiergarten: Café am Neuen See
In the heart of Tiergarten, visitors can find a charming café-restaurant nestled by Neuen See, a serene lake under tall trees.
In the summer, this café is a popular stop on any food tour in Berlin. It offers grilled specialties, great pizza from the restaurant’s stone ovens, and some classic Bavarian dishes at both indoor tables and outdoor seating areas.
During colder months, the ambiance changes to a cozy retreat, making it an ideal spot for a warm meal or a post-work cocktail. The café’s scenic setting adds a romantic touch, attracting locals who want to enjoy Berlin’s natural beauty over a delicious meal and tourists who visit Berlin during a guided food tour to experience the city’s culinary delights.
Family-Friendly Features and Play Areas
For families, Tiergarten offers a range of well-equipped play areas for children of all ages.
One of the most popular playgrounds includes high slides, climbing structures, and swings for older kids. This spacious area has a thrilling zip line, providing plenty of excitement for children and parents alike.
It’s the perfect spot for a picnic, with benches and shaded areas for relaxation.
Another favorite play area in Tiergarten is divided into zones based on age groups, allowing young children to enjoy activities at their own pace.
One highlight is a wooden play excavator that young children can operate, along with traditional swings and slides. There’s even a tiny puppet theater for imaginative play, where children can bring their puppets and put on a show. This section also includes a unique pulley system with buckets for children to move sand, encouraging physical activity and creativity.
Flora and Fauna of Tiergarten
Tiergarten is home to a diverse array of plant and animal life and offers a peaceful retreat from the urban hustle.
The park’s flora includes vast lawns, towering trees, and vibrant flowers that change with the seasons. Tiergarten bursts into color in spring with wildflowers and fresh green grass, while squirrels and various bird species, including finches and sparrows, add to the lively atmosphere. Even in winter, when the trees are bare, the park’s charm endures, and the contrast of brown leaves and budding greens signals the promise of warmer days ahead.
Nearby Attractions
Tiergarten’s central location is surrounded by several of Berlin’s most famous landmarks. To the east, visitors will find the Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag Building, two symbols of Berlin’s resilience and historical significance.
The Bellevue Palace, the official residence of the German President, is also located nearby, adding to the park’s cultural and political importance. Additionally, a short walk from Tiergarten brings visitors to Potsdamer Platz, a bustling plaza filled with modern architecture, shopping, and entertainment options.
Monbijoupark offers a unique setting along the Spree River near Museum Island for those interested in exploring other parks in Berlin. Though smaller than Tiergarten, Monbijoupark provides playgrounds, a distinctive concrete pyramid slide, and scenic views of the Bode Museum.