Berlin – to most people it’s all about urban cool, turbulent history and optimistic renewal. But if you want to kick back and enjoy the city like the locals do, pack a swimming costume, your biggest towel, a bucket and spade, and head down to the beach.

The beach? In Berlin? Why not? Catch a tram to bustling Strandbad Wannsee, find your patch of sand and settle back into a deckchair. Okay, so you might be beside the lakeside rather than the seaside, but who cares? There are plenty of opportunities to indulge in all the traditional beach holiday pursuits, from enjoying a paddle while eating an ice cream, to building a castle in the golden sand.

For those who want to enjoy a more secluded beach and a solitary swim, head out to Strandbad Grünau. Here you’re sure to be able to find a quiet corner and a traditional striped wicker lounger to relax in, and if you feel like a plate of sausage and a beer, the shore-side restaurant will be ready to serve you.

If you don’t want to venture further than the heart of the city, you can even enjoy a flavour of the beach at the lively Strandbar Mitte, where your days can be spent with your feet in the sand, and your evenings on the dance floor. Or if you fancy a truly urban swim, take yourself down to the Badeschiff, a pool that floats in the River Spree. Converted from the hull of a ship, it will give you the opportunity to take in a few lengths while enjoying Berlin’s bank side views.