Overview

• Most outdoor pools in Germany are now open, with Essen and Berlin leading early starts while some cities like Dresden delay openings to mid-May.
• Rising energy and labor costs have led many Bavarian pools to increase entry fees, with average prices climbing to around 4 euros per adult.
• Sustainability efforts include expanded use of solar and biogas heating systems to reduce energy costs in several facilities, including those in Bayreuth and Augsburg.
• Staffing shortages for lifeguards have eased slightly this year due to targeted recruitment campaigns by municipalities and pool operators.
• Unique local policies, such as a swimwear-entry ban for hygiene in Kleinblittersdorf and partial closures for repairs in Essen's Grugabad, reflect varied approaches to operational challenges.