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The Olympic Stadium is worth a visit even if no particular sports events are scheduled. The giant edifice, constructed by Werner Mach for the Olympic Games in 1936, reflects the architectural style typical of the Nazi period. Two statues by Arno Breker flank the main entrance. Opposite the 80,000-seater stadium are the Maifeld, inspired by the architecture of ancient Rome, and a belltower from where you have fantastic views of Berlin. The stadium itself was renovated and partially covered in 2000–4. Berlin’s premier-league football club, Hertha BSC, plays its home games here. An exhibition documents the history of the stadium (see Best of the Rest) .

Horse races take place against the historical backdrop of the Union Club 1867’s traditional race track, considered to be the most attractive track between Moscow and Paris. In the audience, horse- and betting-mad Berliners mingle with the city’s upper classes.

Exciting trotting races such as the annual derby for the “Blue Ribbon” take place on the Trabrennbahn in Mariendorf.

This futuristic, silvery sports arena is the focal point for Berlin’s cyclists. Every year in January, this is where the legendary Sechstagerennen (Six Day Race) takes place.

The large green spaces in Berlin and Potsdam are ideal for cycling excursions. Districts such as the Scheunenviertel or Dahlem are also well suited for exploration by bike. There are several places where you can hire a bicycle – for example, in the centre at Friedrichstraße station (see Getting Around Berlin) .

The most attractive swimming baths in Berlin date back to the late 19th century. These luxuriously fitted Art-Nouveau baths make swimming a rather special experience.

This charming badminton and squash centre is based in a former Schultheiss brewery. It has four halls with 23 courts on several levels; and there is also a bar.

In the western centre of the city is this Fitness Centre for Women, which guarantees a relaxed and cheerful atmosphere for exercise on standard equipment as well as many classes, away from prying eyes. The staff are very helpful.

The paths and tracks in the northern half of the Großer Tiergarten park, as well as around the perimeters of Straße des 17 Juni, are excellent for inline-skating away from the traffic. Skating in the busy city streets – though practised – is officially forbidden.

Berlin’s friendliest and most elegant fitness studio follows a holistic approach to wellbeing. Visitors can relax, attend classes on a day ticket or enjoy a massage as well as use the pool and sauna.