Marzahn

Marzahn stands like few other districts for the East Berlin of GDR modernism: sprawling estates of prefab high-rises, broad axes and surprisingly much greenery in between. Come here and you'll discover a district that left its image behind long ago. The absolute highlight is the Gardens of the World in the Marzahn recreation park, an expansive area with themed gardens from China, Japan, Korea, Bali and the Middle East, a cable car over the grounds and viewpoints across the high-rise skyline. Around the park, a stroll through the old village green of Alt-Marzahn with its church, post windmill and cobblestones is worthwhile.

For the active, Marzahn offers relaxed bike rides along the Wuhle and into the adjacent recreation area, plus museums like the Gründerzeit Museum in Mahlsdorf on the district's edge. If you stay overnight, you'll find quiet, affordable lodging away from the tourist bustle, and you're in the center in about 25 minutes by S-Bahn. Marzahn is especially suited to families and anyone who wants to get to know a green, down-to-earth side of Berlin.