Runjoying #01: From Alexander Platz to Tiergarten and back for a treat: Berlin’s Must-Run Route

This is probably one of the best cities in Central Europe to visit for running. On top of that, it provides plenty of reasons to convince your boss (or your partner) that you need to be there.

You may be surprised that this place holds so many World Marathon Records. Two of the three fastest marathon records were recorded in Berlin. Eight World Records in history!. Possibly the fastest streets on the planet, but since our blog is not about speeding—what about enjoying your life while running (and afterwards)?

Here are the key reasons to take our running route cutting thought the heart (and lungs) of Berlin:

• A combination of outstanding 19th and 20th-century architecture ⛪ with the vast area of Tiergarten Park 🌳🌳🌳.

• The weather is definitely your friend. Expect mild temperatures and possibly light rainfall, (except in summer when it can be hot with afternoon thunderstorms) ⛅ . 

• No need to worry about air quality ♻️ .

• It’s more affordable than many other European capitals 💰💰.

This loop takes you right through the historic city center into the green patches of Tiergarten Park before heading back for a treat. Since some of the areas are somewhat touristy, aim for mornings, possibly on weekends.

1. Start near Alexanderplatz or at the south end of Museum Insel (Museum Island).

2. Run along the river, enjoy canals next to the Museum Insel, slow down if you fell like it. Then take the iconic “Unter den Linden”. Go west! 

3. Reach the famous Brandenburg Gate for an iconic selfie before heading into the park area.

3b. (Optional) Take a short detour to catch a glimpse of the Reichstag.

4. Run around the Tiergarten Park. Depending on your appetite for distance adjust the loop size. You can add anything up from 3-4 km to your route running around the park .

4b. Finish along the southeastern end of the park. Check out some post-1990 architecture in this area. You may want to stop to explore Potsdamer Platz while you’re there.

5. Run back east along Französische Straße toward the river Spree. Stop for a moment an take a peak at the Jewish Memorial Monument if you have time.

Treat yourself: Continue all the way to the Nicholas Quarter and end your run in the oldest part of the city. Slow down and stroll the historic little squares. Berlin is relatively young city, and Nicholas Quarter still holds some vibe of medieval town. You’ll find restaurants and cafes in the area, grab a bite (or a Berliner) - you've earned it!. 

Berliner kommt auch als alkoholfrei

Take our word for it Berlin is great for runs, Konrad got so much into this city he’ll be doing a half marathon this spring. 

Have we convinced you? Planning your Berlin trip? 

Here are som practical hints to make this happen 👇

Excuses:

For the Family:

Take your kids to see the Technisches Museum or the zoo. Your partner may be more convinced by museums, Art Week, or nightlife. 

Technisches Museum, great excuse for Berlin trip for the family, fun for all ages

For Work:

For your boss, depending on industry you could be ITA Berlin (if you’re in electronics), Web Week (digital) or re:publica (media). On top of that dozens of startup, AI or IT related events. Top tech companies (SAP, AWS) also invite their corporate clients here - make sure you get picked ;-) 

Have you enjoyed this post? Any personal comments?