Swimming season begins in Berlin's outdoor pools, yet attendance remains low.
Outdoor pools in Berlin face a slump in visitor numbers this season, with cooler temperatures and infrastructure challenges deterring bathers. According to the Berlin Baths Operations, only 43,541 visitors have taken a dip so far, significantly lower than the 112,096 recorded at the same point last year.
The reasons for the drop are multifaceted. Cool weather conditions have been a primary factor, as the city has experienced fewer warm days this year compared to 2024. A spokesperson for the Baths Operations explained that in May 2025, "we had virtually no bathing weather, and it was the same in 2024."
The city's outdoor pools are also facing a significant backlog in renovations, with many facilities in poor condition or undergoing repairs. Berlin has a renovation backlog amounting to over €410 million, indicating that the condition of existing sports and pool facilities may be a contributing factor to the lower visitor numbers.
Competition from natural swimming options like lakes and lidos could also be drawing visitors away from built outdoor pools. Meanwhile, the Berlin government's focus on controversial projects like bidding for future Olympic Games has been criticized for diverting funds away from urgently needed maintenance and operations of existing sports venues, potentially reducing the attractiveness and visitor numbers of outdoor pools.
Despite these challenges, a few pools will be heated to 22 degrees this season, and entrance tickets can be conveniently purchased online. Early bird discounts and family rates are available, and online indicators show the pool's capacity on hot days. The Prinzenbad, the summer pool in Kreuzberg, opened first on April 30, followed by several other pools.
It remains unclear whether the new prices are contributing to the slump, and a final balance of the income cannot yet be drawn. Nevertheless, the Baths Operations emphasized that there are still many discounts and rebates available for visitors.
This season, only four baths can be heated with fossil fuels, and solar-powered pools rely on the sun for warmth. As in the past year, the internet provides updates on the pool's occupancy and the need for tickets on hot days. The low visitor numbers at outdoor pools this season may indicate a need for urgent investment in pool maintenance and the management of leisure infrastructure to boost usage of outdoor pools in Berlin.
- The decline in attendance at Berlin's outdoor pools this season could be linked to the increased popularity of home-and-garden murals featuring outdoor living motifs, offering locals an alternative means to enjoy the outdoors.
- To stimulate interest in outdoor pools, the Baths Operations might consider partnering with home-and-garden influencers, showcasing the unique features and benefits of their facilities, thereby connecting the lifestyle choice of outdoor living with the city's pool culture.
