Highlight • Parking
Johannisthal Airfield Park
Cycling
4.9
(424)
Running
4.7
(78)
Hiking
5.0
(2)
Johannisthal Airfield Park, nestled in the southeastern part of Berlin between the districts of Johannisthal and Adlershof, is a sprawling landscape park with a rich aviation history. Once Germany's pioneering commercial airfield, this unique urban green space now stands at an elevation of approximately 80 meters, offering a fascinating blend of nature, recreation, and historical significance within the vibrant city of Berlin.
Visitors consistently praise the park as a wonderfully quiet and beautiful green oasis, providing a serene escape from urban life. Many appreciate its relaxed atmosphere, noting that it offers a tranquil alternative to more crowded spots like Tempelhofer Feld. This expansive area is cherished for its ability to combine historical depth with natural beauty, making it a beloved destination for those seeking peace and open space.
Before visiting, it's helpful to know that the park features largely open terrain, with limited shade, especially during warmer months. While the former runways provide excellent, flat surfaces for activities, comfortable footwear is always recommended for exploring the diverse zones. For those arriving by car, several Johannisthal Airfield Park parking options are available around its perimeter, ensuring convenient access. Public transport also serves the area well, connecting it to central Berlin.
The park is ideal for various activities throughout the year, though summer offers the best conditions for enjoying its vast open spaces. It's a popular spot for cyclists, rollerbladers, and skaters who utilize the former runways, while walkers and trail runners can explore the extensive network of paths. The unique blend of nature reserve and activity park makes it perfect for family-friendly walks, picnics, and observing local wildlife, including grazing cows and sheep.
One of the most distinctive aspects of Johannisthal Airfield Park is its three-zone concept, which includes a vital nature reserve at its heart. A partially elevated trail encircles this protected area, offering hikers and nature enthusiasts views of diverse flora and fauna, including "botanical immigrants" and larks. Beyond the nature reserve, an activity park provides playgrounds, a skate park, and beach volleyball courts, ensuring there's something for everyone.
Exploring the park reveals numerous historical remnants from its aviation past, such as old laboratories, motor test beds, and hangars, which now serve as intriguing landmarks. These historical markers, combined with vibrant graffiti art on abandoned structures, create a distinctive atmosphere that appeals to history buffs and urban explorers alike. The park's ability to blend its industrial heritage with a thriving natural environment is truly remarkable.
To fully experience this unique Berlin highlight, explore the many Johannisthal Airfield Park popular trails and routes available. Whether you're interested in a leisurely stroll, a brisk cycle, or a family-friendly adventure, komoot offers a variety of routes to help you plan your visit. Discover the rich history and natural beauty of this former airfield, a true green lung in Berlin's southeast.
Cycling is not permitted at this location
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Ehemaliges Flugfeld Johannisthal
Tips
May 31, 2016
Cycling
•
April 8, 2020
Cycling
Fortunately.
Together with parts of today's WISTA, Berlin's first airfield.
More information: de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flugplatz_Johannisthal
•October 31, 2020
Cycling
Luckily.
Together with parts of today's WISTA, it was Berlin's first airfield.
More information: de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flugplatz_Johannisthal
•
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Johannisthal Airfield Park
Details
Informations
Elevation 80 m
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Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 11.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Johannisthal Airfield Park suitable for families with young children?
Absolutely! The park is very family-friendly, offering wide, flat paths perfect for strollers and young cyclists. There are also dedicated playgrounds within the activity park zone, providing ample space for children to play. The unique sight of grazing cows and sheep adds an extra element of wonder for kids.
Are dogs allowed in Johannisthal Airfield Park, and are there specific rules?
Yes, dogs are welcome in most areas of Johannisthal Airfield Park. It's a popular spot for dog walkers due to its expansive open spaces. However, please keep dogs on a leash, especially near the nature reserve area to protect wildlife, and always clean up after your pet.
What are the best options for parking at Johannisthal Airfield Park?
Several parking options are available around the perimeter of the park, ensuring convenient access. While specific parking lots aren't detailed, visitors often find spots along the streets bordering the park. It's advisable to arrive earlier on weekends or during peak seasons, as parking can fill up quickly.
How can I reach Johannisthal Airfield Park using public transport?
The park is well-connected to central Berlin by public transport. You can typically reach it via various bus lines or by taking the S-Bahn to nearby stations like Adlershof or Johannisthal, followed by a short walk or bus connection. Checking current public transport schedules for the most direct route is recommended.
Are there any cafes, pubs, or accommodation options near Johannisthal Airfield Park?
While the park itself is primarily a natural and recreational space without internal cafes or pubs, the surrounding districts of Johannisthal and Adlershof offer various dining and accommodation options. You'll find local cafes, restaurants, and hotels within a short distance, particularly in the more developed areas of Adlershof.
What kind of terrain can I expect, and is it suitable for all fitness levels?
The park features largely open and flat terrain, making it accessible for almost all fitness levels. The former runways provide excellent, paved surfaces for activities like cycling, rollerblading, and easy walks. Even the trails around the nature reserve are generally flat and well-maintained, though comfortable footwear is always recommended.
Are there any specific historical landmarks or viewpoints to look out for?
Yes, the park is rich in history! You can discover historical markers, monuments, and remnants from its aviation past, including old laboratories, motor test beds, and hangars from the German Experimental Institute for Aviation. The partially elevated trail encircling the nature reserve also offers excellent viewpoints of the park's diverse flora and fauna, as well as educational displays about its history.
Is Johannisthal Airfield Park suitable for a winter hike?
Yes, Johannisthal Airfield Park can be a beautiful destination for a winter hike. Its open spaces offer expansive views, and the flat terrain makes it generally easy to navigate even with light snow. However, be aware that shade is limited, and paths might be exposed to wind, so dress warmly. Always check local conditions before heading out.
How long does it typically take to walk a full loop of Johannisthal Airfield Park?
The time it takes to walk a full loop depends on your pace and the specific route you choose, as the park is quite extensive. A leisurely stroll around the main perimeter, including the trail around the nature reserve, could take anywhere from 1.5 to 2.5 hours. Many shorter paths and cross-sections allow for quicker visits as well.
Is Johannisthal Airfield Park wheelchair accessible?
Given its largely flat terrain and wide, paved former runways, much of Johannisthal Airfield Park is considered wheelchair accessible. The main paths and the elevated trail around the nature reserve are generally smooth and easy to navigate. However, some unpaved or grassy areas might be more challenging.
How crowded does Johannisthal Airfield Park get on weekends compared to other Berlin parks?
Visitors often praise Johannisthal Airfield Park for being a wonderfully quiet and beautiful green oasis, noting that it's generally less crowded than more central spots like Tempelhofer Feld. While it sees more visitors on sunny weekends, its vast size allows for a relaxed atmosphere, providing ample space for everyone to enjoy without feeling overwhelmed.