Weekend in Dahlem

A 13th-century fieldstone church in the old village centre, surrounded by a small park. It's unassuming from the outside but has well-preserved medieval frescoes and a simple, peac

Tip: Open only during services (Sun 10:00) or by chance. Check the noticeboard for summer open days. The graveyard is always accessible and makes a quiet place to sit.

A large, open green space on the site of a former Siemens research campus. Now a public park with lawns, walking paths and a few benches. It's used by locals for dog walking, joggi

Tip: Combine with a walk along the Teltowkanal—there's a footpath that runs alongside the canal for 2 km. Quietest on weekday mornings.

A short, cobbled street with historic farmhouses, a few artisan shops and a small green. It's the original village core, now pedestrianised. You can see half-timbered buildings and a working blacksmit

Tip: Stop by the café at number 12 for a cheap slice of cake and coffee (under €5). The forge is free to watch but donations welcome. Best light for photos is late afternoon.

A major collection of Asian art from Japan, China, Korea and India, housed in the Dahlem Museums complex. Entry is €8, but under-18s and students (with ID) get in free. The permanent exhibits are exte

Tip: Visit on the first Sunday of the month for free entry to all state museums, including this one. Arrive early to avoid queues.

One of the world's largest botanical gardens, covering 43 hectares with over 22,000 plant species. Entry is €6 for adults, but free for under-18s and on the first Sunday of the month. The glasshouses

Tip: Bring a picnic and head to the arboretum section—less crowded and perfect for a quiet afternoon. The museum is small but free with garden entry.