Volkspark Humboldthain — Attraction in Berlin

Origins & Design

Designed by Gustav Meyer, it was created from 1869 to 1876 to mark the 100th birthday of naturalist Alexander von Humboldt .

Originally featured sweeping lawns, diverse tree species, a botanical display, the first public playground, glasshouses (1885–1894), a schulpture of a marble bull (€1902) and a pavilion church .

🏗️ War’s Impact: Flak Towers & Rubble Hills

During 1941–42, two massive flak towers (gun tower + control tower) were constructed for air defence and civilian shelter—up to 15–16k people .

Post-war, French forces partially demolished and buried these bunkers beneath rubble, creating two hills: the northern Humboldthöhe (about 84 m) and southern Gustav-Meyer-Höhe with a sledding slope .

🚶‍♀️ What to See & Do Today

Feature Description

Humboldthöhe viewpoint Climb winding paths or 163 stairs to the top—two flak towers’ remains serve as viewing platforms with sweeping views of Berlin . Underground bunker tours Berliner Unterwelten offers guided visits April–October. Winter sees around 250 bats hibernating below . Rock climbing The exposed bunker walls are used by the German Alpine Association (DAV) for climbing . Rose garden & sculptures The rosegarden offers a peaceful retreat; also note a 1967 reunification sculpture by Arnold Schatz and a bronze "Diana with greyhounds" by Walter Schott (~1926) . Sommerbad Humboldthain A 50 m outdoor pool with slide, diving board, paddling area, sunbathing lawns, restaurant, playground—open in summer . Playgrounds, meadows & paths Excellent for families, dog-walkers, picnickers, joggers—plus some vineyards producing local "Hauptstadtsekt" served at...

Humboldthain is one of the biggest and most beautiful parks in the district of Wedding. There are a lot of opportunities for fun activities — there is a public pool, playgrounds for kids, climbing centre on the facade of on old bunker, wine gardens and more. There is a lot to do and to explore in this huge green oasis. The Rose Garden at Humboldthain Park is probably one of the most precious gardens of the city and due to its secluded location on the side of the park surroundend by thick forest and with only one gated entrance it’s pretty much a hidden gem that a lot of people in Berlin don’t even know about. Only accessible in the summer time the garden hosts a wide range of different roses arranged in beautiful Victorian garden structures with as many romantic scenarios you can dream of. There are also other types of flowers on a little hill facing...

It's not the park that's of interest, it is the structure within that is. You may not hear or see anything in guide books about the Flak Towers, there were 6 built, do at least have a look. We booked the tour through Berliner Unterwelten, it took 1.5 hours and our guide was very experienced, knowledgeable and willing to answer all our questions. The whole time is inside the building so if you suffer from claustrophobia beware. Make sure you enter the park from Brunnenstrasse, opposite the underground as signs are better from there. There are a lot of steps for the fitter ones but also easier climb via slopes. Wear sturdy shoes, even in summer temps no more than 10°c so warm jacket...