Treptow-Köpenick—Where We Swim All Day And We Party All Night

Within Treptow-Köpenick, the geographically easternmost and largest borough of Berlin, there are some of Berlin's most beautiful lakes, parks, and river views. Although the district contains the localities of Adlershof, Alt-Treptow, Altglienicke, Baumschulenweg, Bohnsdorf, Friedrichshagen, Grünau, Johannisthal, Köpenick, Müggelheim, Niederschöneweide, Oberschöneweide, Plänterwald, Rahnsdorf, and Schmöckwitz, a majority of my favorite places to hang out in Treptow-Köpenick are located right over the border from Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg in Alt-Treptow.

Upon crossing over the Landwehr Canal from Kreuzberg into Alt-Treptow, you immediately become mesmerized by one of the most alluring and refreshing neighborhoods that Berlin has to offer.

Immediately inside of Alt-Treptow is Club der Visionäre (Am Flutgraben 1), a bar and cafe situated along a canal which is infamous for its great minimal and electronica, as well as a fantastic location. With nearly half of the club situated on rafts floating in the water, Club der Visionäre creates a very relaxed atmosphere that is seemingly lacking from other venues.

Try to hit up CDV on a Wednesday night, when they won't be too busy, as on the weekend this place is packed. But beware—the club, which is located outside, is closed from October until April when the Berlin winter is in full swing, so if you're looking for a good time when there's snow on the ground, you'll have to head elsewhere.

Just meters away from CDV is the Badeschiff (Eichenstrasse 4), a fresh water pool that sits inside the Spree River. Originally opened as part of an art project, the Badeschiff is open daily from 8:00 AM in the warmer months, and more sporadic hours during the winter, when it also plays host to two saunas (and a bar!). In the summer, it's an absolute steal at €3 entrance—expect to pay more in winter, around €8.

After taking a dip, walk down Puschkinallee towards Treptower Park, where you'll find a market every Saturday and Sunday.

If you want to get a great view of Berlin, head to Köpenick to walk up the 29.61 meter (97 foot) high Müggelturm. Although the tower itself isn't nearly as tall as other structures in Berlin, the Müggelturm is located near Treptow-Köpenick and Berlin's highest natural landmark, providing for great views of the city and the surrounding forests.

After taking in the view you should head to Müggelsee, the largest lake in Berlin. Many boats travel along the area, and you can take a cruise along the lake and down the Spree on any number of commercial vessels, all of which provide a wicked fun time.