SSE (Schwimm- und Sprunghalle im Europa-Sportpark)

In Prenzlauer Berg, Europe's largest swimming pool is almost invisibly hidden in a green hill: The SSE at Europa-Sportpark combines two 50-meter competition pools, an Olympic diving tower, and pools for every skill level. World-class architecture, competition history, and daily operations under one roof.

The Velodrom and the SSE are located directly next to each other, almost completely sunken into an artificially raised landscape base. Only the flat roof slabs protrude one meter from the plateau planted with apple trees. So, if you’re looking for one of Berlin’s best swimming pools, you’ll have to look closely.

Europe’s Largest Swimming Pool in Berlin

With a water surface of 3,391 m², the SSE is Europe’s largest sports swimming pool. It was designed together with the Velodrom in 1992 by the French architect Dominique Perrault, on the occasion of Berlin’s bid for the 2000 Olympic Games. The swimming and diving hall finally opened for operation in 1999. The fact that Sydney was awarded the bid at that time means Berlin gained a swimming pool of this magnitude.

Two 50-meter competition pools, a separate diving pool with platforms up to 10 meters, and 3,000 spectator seats make the SSE a central venue for national and international swimming, water polo, and diving competitions. Since its opening in 1999, the hall has been the scene of numerous competitions. The International Swim Meeting (ISM) is regularly held here, and since 2004, the German Swimming Championships have been regularly hosted there. However, the area with the large diving tower complex and spectator stands is usually closed for public use. At least, you can watch the divers train from the stands.

Swimming at SSE: Pools, Courses, and Practical Information

For non-swimmers and the youngest, there is a 36 °C warm non-swimmer pool with a small water slide and teaching pools. Baby swimming, aqua fitness, and swimming lessons are also offered. Additionally, there is a therapy pool for people with disabilities, whose water depth can be adjusted as needed. The water temperature there is 33 °C.

Beautiful 50-meter lanes and, thanks to generous opening hours, the crowds are well distributed, so slalom swimming is generally not necessary. Those who come early in the morning or late in the evening also benefit from a Happy Hour: The offer is valid for 90 minutes between 06:30 and 08:00 and between 20:30 and 22:00. Before visiting, it’s worth a quick look at the website, as the SSE is occasionally closed due to competitions. The hall is located on Landsberger Allee in the Prenzlauer Berg district, and from the Landsberger Allee S-Bahn station, there is a direct underpass to the building.