Gardens of the World

The Gärten der Welt (Gardens of the World) sit at the northern foot of the Kienberg hill in the Marzahn area and rank among the finest green spaces in eastern Berlin. The park opened on May 9, 1987 for Berlin's 750th anniversary, to plans by Gottfried Funeck, then head of city gardens in East Berlin. Originally laid out as the "Erholungspark Marzahn" and covering about 52 acres (21 hectares), it was the eastern counterpart to the Britzer Garten in West Berlin. Over the years it grew to its current size through the addition of international themed gardens.

The heart of the park is that set of artfully designed gardens from different cultures: a classical Chinese garden, a Japanese garden, and Balinese, Korean, Middle Eastern and Christian gardens follow one after another, joined by an Italian Renaissance labyrinth and a hedge maze. For the International Garden Exhibition (IGA) in 2017 the park gained a cable car over the Kienberg, a water garden and further grounds. Ride the gondola and the summit rewards you with a wide view over Marzahn and the Berlin skyline.

The Gardens of the World make an excellent relaxed day trip, especially for families, photographers and anyone who wants a few hours away from the inner city. Events, concerts and horticultural shows run through the year. The park is easy to reach on the U5 subway line at the Kienberg (Gärten der Welt) station. Check current admission prices and hours shortly before you visit, since they vary by season.