CANAL TOURS IN BERLIN
Discover Berlin’s canals! Cruise along the idyllic Landwehr Canal or the industrial Westhafen Canal!
Berlin in the evening – that’s something truly special! Discover the Spree River and the Westhafen Canal in the north of the city with a Berlin Canal Tour!
Boarding: Friedrichstraße
Duration: 2.5 hours
100% free cancellation
Guaranteed seating with online booking
374 Reviewsfrom 37€
Enjoy the center of Berlin. Start on the Spree River and then cruise through the idyllic and colorful Landwehr Canal.
Boarding: Jannowitzbrücke & Treptower Hafen
Duration: 3¼ hours
100% free cancellation
Guaranteed seating with online booking
522 Reviewsfrom 39€
EXPERIENCE AN ENTERTAINING CANAL TOUR IN BERLIN
A CANAL TOUR ON ONE OF BERLIN’S MANY CANALS
Canal tours in Berlin offer a unique perspective on the German capital, allowing you to experience it from a whole new perspective from the water. Berlin’s historic waterways extend over an impressive network of more than 180 kilometers and picturesquely connect the city’s most important sights. During your Berlin canal tour, you’ll glide past magnificent government buildings, historic bridges, and modern architectural gems rising majestically from the banks. The Spree River and the Landwehr Canal form the main arteries of these fascinating waterways, which have shaped the cityscape for centuries. Particularly impressive is the cruise through the historic center, where you can admire the Nikolaiviertel, Museum Island, and Berlin Cathedral from a completely new perspective. The gentle cruise on the water offers you not only relaxing moments but also countless photo opportunities that will make your trip to Berlin unforgettable. Experienced captains will navigate you safely through the canals and share their extensive knowledge of the history and significance of Berlin’s waterways with you.
EXPERIENCE THE BEAUTY OF THE CITY WITH A CANAL TOUR IN BERLIN
The history of canal tours in Berlin stretches back a long way and is closely linked to the city’s development. The first artificial waterways were created as early as the 17th century to facilitate trade and transport. Today, these historic canals serve as the perfect backdrop for unforgettable tourist cruises. During your Berlin canal tours, you’ll pass important industrial monuments and former warehouse buildings that bear witness to Berlin’s economic heyday. Modern tourist ships combine a historic ambiance with contemporary comfort – generous panoramic windows or open decks allow you unobstructed views of the passing cityscape. Expert commentary on board will provide you with fascinating background information about the canals’ origins, their role during the division of Berlin, and their current significance as a local recreation area. The stories of escape attempts via the waterways during the GDR era are particularly fascinating. Canal tours in Berlin thus create a perfect connection between past and present, allowing you to experience the capital’s multifaceted history up close.
WHY CANAL TRIPS IN BERLIN ARE REALLY WORTH IT
Canal tours in Berlin are undoubtedly one of the most beautiful ways to explore the German capital. The unique combination of relaxation, sightseeing, and historical education makes these excursions an essential part of any visit to Berlin. Not only will you enjoy a welcome break from hectic city life, but you’ll also experience the city’s most important sights from a completely new perspective. The tranquil waterfront cruise offers the perfect opportunity to take in the city’s unique impressions and capture spectacular photos. The variety of views is particularly impressive—from magnificent government buildings to idyllic parkland and trendy urban neighborhoods. Canal tours in Berlin are a delight regardless of the weather, and every season offers its own special charm. Whether in spring with its blossoming banks, in summer with bright sunshine, in golden autumn, or in the snowy winter—each season lends your Berlin canal tour its own magic.
TOP 5 REASONS TO TAKE A CANAL TOUR IN BERLIN
1. Unique perspective on landmarks: From the water, you’ll experience Berlin’s famous buildings like the Reichstag, Berlin Cathedral, and Museum Island from a completely new angle.
2. Relaxed city exploration: You can discover the city while comfortably seated, without long walks or crowded public transportation.
3. Historical journey through time: The cruise takes you through different epochs of Berlin’s history – from Prussian buildings to industrial architecture to modern government buildings.
4. Discover green oases: The waterways lead through surprisingly green and quiet areas of the metropolis that are often unreachable on foot.
5. Architectural diversity: In a short time, you’ll see the entire spectrum of Berlin’s architecture – from historic bridges to modern residential complexes to futuristic new buildings.
10 FACTS ABOUT THE CANALS OF THE CAPITAL BERLIN
1. Berlin’s canal system comprises over 170 kilometers of German waterways, making it one of the largest networks in Europe.
2. It is divided into seven main canals: Spree, Landwehr Canal, Dahme-Spree Canal, Oder-Spree Canal, Panke Canal, Teltow Canal and Havel-Oder Waterway.
3. It was built between 1755 and 1910 as part of Frederick William I’s plan to make Berlin navigable.
4. In the 18th century, many industrial warehouses and factories were built on the banks of the canals as they were conveniently located for trade.
5. The walls around the city were replaced by these waterways when they became obsolete, but many of them are still preserved today as important landmarks.
6. Köpenick Palace served as a tax control point on the Spree in the 19th century; its impressive Baroque architecture can still be seen today from passing ships!
7. Boats traveling on the canal system must follow some rules and regulations; for example, horn signals must be given when passing through locks and narrow bridges!
8. Many local businesses offer sightseeing tours with commentary on Berlin’s canals, giving visitors insight into Berlin’s history and culture as well as breathtaking views of the city skyline!
9. Swimming in the canals is prohibited, but visitors are welcome to explore them by kayak or paddleboat if they wish!
10. The canals are home to a variety of animals, including ducks, swans and herons – a great opportunity for nature lovers to observe some rare species!