Peacock Island

Situated in the Havel River west of Wannsee is Peacock Island or Pfaueninsel in German. This peaceful 165 acre island escape is a true hidden gem.
Here you can relax and roam around the island pathways, checking out the numerous landmarks while photographing the different views, and, of course, the wild peacock that roam freely.
There is even a castle on the island (Schloss auf der Pfaueninsel). Built in 1794, it was the summer home for King Frederick William II and was intentionally designed to look like a ruined Roman country house. You can visit the inside of the castle from April through October after the restoration work is complete. Check the official website for updates. The restoration work does not affect access to the rest of the island and its landmarks.
Starting 1821 King Frederick William III, who loved collecting animals, brought about 900 wild animals from around the world to the island. He opened it up for public viewing which became popular to the point of having to restrict the number of people visiting. His heir, King Frederick William IV transferred the animals to Zoo Berlin which opened in 1844. Today the island is protected as a nature preserve.
Several other historic landmarks remain to be discovered as you stroll around the island - most of them were built for King Frederick William II as well. One such landmark is the dairy built to look like a Gothic Revival Church and surrounded by a beautiful English garden. All of the landmarks have informational signs describing them in both English and German.
The island has a grassy picnic area with plenty of surrounding trees to provide shade on a hot day. A beer garden is available to quench your thirst.
A lovely rose garden located near the castle bursts with colour from spring through early summer.
The Pfaueninsel Ferry is not free nor included in your BVG fare or day pass. It is operated independently by the Prussian Palaces and Gardens Foundation. At the time of writing fares are €4 for adults, €2 for kids over 6, and free for kids under 6 which includes admission to the island and Palace.
The ferry operates daily from March 1 to October 31. Sailings start at 9 am and end at dusk. Frequency depends on demand with the norm being every 15 minutes.
The proximity to House of the Wannsee Conference and Liebermann-Villa am Wannsee makes Peacock Island and ideal place to visit during a day trip from Berlin to Wannsee.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: Yes - €4 for adults, €2 for kids over 6, and free for kids under 6Peacock Island Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Address: Nikolskoer Weg, 14109 Berlin, Germany
Phone: 0331 9694200
Official Website: Peacock Island
Peacock Island Reviews
Rated
I enjoyed spending my Saturday on this beautiful island. To get there, you need to buy a ferry ticket for 6 euros. Once you arrive, you can walk around the island, see unique wildlife, and dine at the only restaurant available. Be sure to take the same ferry back before 6:00 PM.
Zeinab Jam - 2 months ago
It is a normal park with peacocks. Specified area for peacock and birds. Peacocks are not in the whole park.
They charged 6€ only for few seconds ride(only 50 seconds may be). To get to the peacock island. Which is not worth it.
Asma Sartaj - a month ago
Pfaueninsel – A Serene Day Trip to Nature and History
Pfaueninsel (Peacock Island) in Potsdam is a truly beautiful and peaceful escape, surrounded by lush forests and serene waters. The entire island is a nature lover’s paradise, and I was deeply impressed by its natural charm and thoughtful design.
What makes this island even more magical is the presence of freely roaming peacocks. I was lucky enough to see them up close, including a stunning white peacock. It was a unique and memorable experience, as they wander the island undisturbed.
I explored almost the entire island and discovered there are around ten noteworthy spots to visit. It's a hidden gem that's perfect for a relaxed and scenic day trip from Berlin.
If you're planning a visit from Berlin, I recommend taking the S-Bahn to Wannsee Station. From there, you can catch Bus 218, which runs every 30 minutes (typically at :21 and :51 past the hour), directly to the ferry dock. The return bus from the island also departs at regular intervals, usually every 30 minutes. The short ferry ride to the island costs €6 per person (round trip).
Pfaueninsel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, adding historical significance to its natural beauty. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful retreat from the city, this island is a must-visit.
Note: The last ferry departs at 6:00 PM, so plan your visit accordingly to make the most of your time.
Ankit Dua - 3 weeks ago
Beautiful place if you’re in Berlin and have time you should go and visit. I never saw before in my life white peacock.
The restaurant in the island was very cloudy and a very long queue .
C. V. - 2 months ago
This place is a treat to one’s soul! Mesmerizing beauty and calmness all around. I can always recommend to visit here.
There is enough please to park your car free of charges, you can take baby stroller or bicycle in ferry ⛴️.
Entry to island needs no ticket.
To and fro ferry ride costs €6 ticket, can be taken from the ticket machine (card only payment) at the location or you can book it inline.
Amazing cakes! We grabbed some with tea, it was a must since it was a cloudy day.
Aarti Jangid - 2 months ago
Directions
How to get to Peacock Island by S-Bahn + Bus
Nearest S-Bahn + Bus Line(s): S1 or S7 + Bus #218
Nearest S-Bahn + Bus Station(s): S Wannsee Bhf
Take the S-Bahn to Wannsee Station and then Bus #218 to the Pfaueninsel ferry stop. Take the two-minute ferry ride across to the island.
Map & Instant Route Finder
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Accommodations near Peacock Island:
Photo Gallery
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Photo Credit: Chrissie Sternschnuppe - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Chrissie Sternschnuppe - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Chrissie Sternschnuppe - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Chrissie Sternschnuppe - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Chrissie Sternschnuppe - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Chrissie Sternschnuppe - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Chrissie Sternschnuppe - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Mike Bonitz - cc license via Flickr
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