Stadtbad Neukölln

The Neukölln Stadtbad in Ganghoferstrasse is one of Berlin’s oldest still-operating baths. It opened in 1914, over 110 years ago. Nevertheless, today it appears anything but museum-like.

Stadtbad Neukölln: Swimming like in an ancient Roman bath

Designed by city building councillor Reinhold Kiehl and architect Heinrich Best, the two drew inspiration from ancient Roman baths. This is easily recognizable by the arcades, the seven-meter-high columns, and the elaborate mosaics. On the outside, the indoor pool appears quite simple, but inside, its rich artistic furnishings amaze visitors. The neoclassical building originally housed both the Stadtbad and the public library. Both were connected by an atrium, as Kiehl’s concept was to combine physical exercise, personal hygiene, and intellectual edification. Therefore, upon its opening, the swimming pool was considered one of Europe’s most beautiful baths.

Sauna, two pools, and a newly renovated sauna area

In addition to the sauna, there are also two swimming pools: a 25-meter and a 19-meter long one. Both pools have non-swimmer areas. Parallel to the women’s evening in the sauna, on Mondays, access to the swimming pools is also restricted to women. Particularly good news: After several months of construction, the sauna facility in the historic Stadtbad Neukölln will reopen on February 1, 2026. The Finnish sauna has been combined with the previous sanarium into a single unit, and a new sauna stove has been installed, now located in the center of the cabin. Additionally, the sauna area offers a steam bath, a caldarium, a sanarium with colored lights, relaxation rooms, and a roof garden. For those who only wish to swim: The historically restored warm-water pool is also open again. Before visiting, it’s worth checking the Berliner Bäder-Betriebe website.