Venture out to Treptow-Köpenick and watch as the apartment blocks and concrete of central Berlin gradually give way to open roads, forests and country inns. The region is divided by a large network of waterways, which offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation in the warmer months.

Treptow-Köpenick is one of the largest boroughs in Berlin and forms part of the outer section of the administrative city-state, bordering on Brandenburg. The district was created by a merger in 2001.

Look for the distinctive silver Treptowers skyscrapers on the River Spree in the north of the borough. Rising out of the water beside the towers are the iconic Molecule Man sculptures. For great views of the 98-foot (30-meter) tall metal figures, head to the Elsenbrücke road bridge.

Walk, cycle and sunbathe in the vast Treptower Park. The park has a long waterfront, paths that wind through trees and on busy summer days, a festive vibe. Pause for reflection at the park’s Soviet War Memorial, where about 5,000 Soviet soldiers are buried. Discover the wonders of the universe at the Archenhold Observatory, just a short walk from the memorial. This renowned institution features a planetarium and various observation devices.

Continue further south again to see the historic palace of Schloss Köpenick. This regal Baroque complex is set on a small island on the river.

The waterways here are among the borough’s biggest charms and attract visitors from all over the city. Splash around in Müggelsee, Berlin’s largest lake. Rent a canoe and paddle around the water or put on your hiking boots and walk to the picturesque fishing village of Rahnsdorf on the southeastern side of the lake.

Treptow-Köpenick is bordered by the hip neighborhood of Neukölln to the northwest and stretches all the way down south to the more tranquil area around the Seddinsee lake. Driving is one of the best ways to get around, although S-Bahn lines do operate here.