Tempelhofer Feld is a public park on the site of Berlin’s former Tempelhof Airport, south of the city centre between Tempelhof and Neukölln. Its broad runways and open grassland give you room to cycle, skate, jog, fly a kite or spread out a picnic. The airport closed in 2008, and the space reopened as a park in 2010. Look for community gardens and, if you want to explore the old tower, its exhibition and café. With little shade across the field, a breezy sunset visit suits the setting better than a hot midday picnic.
From airfield to public park
Tempelhofer Feld occupies the former Tempelhof Airport site in southern Berlin, between the Tempelhof and Neukölln districts. The airport closed in 2008, and the grounds opened to the public as a park in 2010. The transformation followed public opposition to development plans, leaving the former airfield available for recreation.
The site’s past reaches further back than aviation. It was used as a military parade ground before becoming an airport. The airport’s history also includes the Berlin Airlift of 1948 and 1949, when it played a central role. The airfield’s runways and taxiways remain part of the park, so the scale and layout of an airport are still easy to read as you walk across it.
The terminal building is another reminder of the site’s aviation past. Its history includes construction under the Nazi regime. Visitors interested in the building can look into tours of the former terminal, while the tower has an exhibition and a small café. Rooftop access requires a ticket, so check the current details before making it part of your plans.
Walking, cycling and flying kites
The broad, flat paved routes suit cycling, running, skating and rollerblading. Walking the old runway offers a different way to take in the field: the open view and long stretches of tarmac make the former airfield’s size tangible. If you want to cover more ground, cycling is a practical choice. The park is also used for kite flying, particularly when the wind picks up.
There is space for a quieter visit, too. Bring something to eat and choose a spot on the grass, or head to the community garden area. Designated barbecue areas make grilling another option. The park also has playgrounds and sports facilities, including courts and a baseball field, so families and people looking for active time outdoors have alternatives to the runways.
The open ground has few shaded places. On a hot, sunny day, a long picnic or barbecue can be uncomfortable, so consider going later or bringing what you need for sun protection. The field can also be exposed to wind and rain, with little shelter if the weather changes.
A living public space
Tempelhofer Feld is used for both everyday recreation and community activities. Alongside people cycling, jogging and skating, you can find urban gardening projects and events. The mix gives the former airfield a different feel from a landscaped garden: its wide, unobstructed spaces remain central to the experience.
The park is also shaped by wildlife protection. Parts of the inner field are cordoned off during spring and summer to protect nesting skylarks. Respect the barriers and keep to areas open to the public. Drones are not permitted.
For a visit that combines the site’s history with time outdoors, walk or cycle the former airfield, then look for the gardens or tower exhibition. Near sunset, the open horizon gives you a broad view across the grounds. Tempelhofer Feld is a poor fit if you want tree cover, sheltered paths or a compact sightseeing stop; its appeal is the scale and freedom to spend time outside.
FAQ
How long should you spend at Tempelhofer Feld?
Plan for one to three hours to walk or cycle the former airfield and spend time in the park. Allow extra time if you also visit the tower exhibition.
Can you visit the old airport tower?
The tower has an exhibition and a small café. Rooftop visits require a ticket, so check access and ticket details before you go.
What can you do at Tempelhofer Feld?
You can walk, cycle, run, skate, fly a kite, picnic and use the sports facilities. Community gardens and barbecue areas are also part of the park.
Is there shade at Tempelhofer Feld?
There is little shade across the open field. Bring sun protection or plan your visit for later in the day.
