Things To Do
in Brandenburg

Brandenburg, Germany is a picturesque state located in the northeastern part of the country, surrounding the capital city of Berlin. Known for its rich natural landscapes, it features numerous lakes, forests, and charming villages that attract both nature lovers and history enthusiasts. The region is steeped in history, boasting impressive landmarks such as Sanssouci Palace and the historic city of Potsdam.

With a blend of cultural experiences and outdoor activities, Brandenburg is an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility and adventure alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Potsdam
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Sanssouci Park to admire the stunning gardens and architecture of Sanssouci Palace.

afternoon
:

Explore the historic Dutch Quarter, filled with unique shops and cafes, and have lunch at one of the local eateries.

evening
:

Enjoy a leisurely boat cruise on the Havel River, followed by dinner at a restaurant overlooking the water.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Head to the Spreewald biosphere reserve for a guided canoe tour through the serene waterways.

afternoon
:

Visit the town of Brandenburg an der Havel to explore its medieval architecture and the Brandenburg Cathedral.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional German restaurant and enjoy local dishes while soaking up the cozy atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍺Beer (0.5L)$3
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$15
Coffee$2.50
🚌Public transport ticket$2.50
🏨Hotel (per night)$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical attractions.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Affordable compared to larger cities like Berlin.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger urban areas.
  • Public transport can be less frequent in rural areas.
  • English may not be widely spoken in more remote regions.
  • "Guten Morgen" - Good morning
  • "Danke schön" - Thank you very much
  • "Könnte ich die Rechnung bitte haben?" - Could I have the bill, please?
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Brandenburg

Visit one of these nice places.

Sanssouci Palace

Capture stunning shots of the palace's baroque architecture and beautiful gardens.

Spreewald Canals

Photograph the serene waterways and traditional wooden boats in this UNESCO biosphere reserve.

Brandenburg Cathedral

A majestic structure that offers a great backdrop for architectural photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Brandenburg

Brandenburg offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects its regional traditions and natural resources. Visitors can enjoy hearty dishes, local specialties, and fresh ingredients sourced from the surrounding countryside.

Brandenburg Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bockwurst

A popular German sausage often grilled or served with mustard.

Must-Try!

Grüne Soße

A green sauce made with herbs, served cold, typically with boiled eggs and potatoes.

Spreewaldgurken

Famous pickles from the Spreewald region, known for their crunch and flavor.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Potsdam Market

A vibrant market held weekly where you can sample local cheeses, meats, and baked goods.

Food Trucks at Havel Festival

Street food vendors offering a variety of international and local dishes, especially during festival seasons.

Climate Guide

Weather

Brandenburg experiences a temperate oceanic climate, characterized by mild summers and cold winters. Average summer temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), while winter temperatures can drop below 0°C (32°F). Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with slightly wetter months in summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Germans value punctuality, so be on time for appointments and meetings.

Greetings

A firm handshake is the common greeting; address people with their titles and last names until invited to use first names.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin, and keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows).

Safety Guide

Safety

Brandenburg is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, like in any location, it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, avoid poorly lit areas at night, and secure valuables.

Tipping in Brandenburg

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to round up the bill or leave a tip of around 5-10% in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is still preferred in smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Enjoy blooming flowers and mild temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring gardens.

Summer

Experience warm weather ideal for hiking, swimming in lakes, and attending local festivals.

Autumn

Marvel at the fall foliage and partake in wine and harvest festivals.

Winter

Expect cold weather with potential snow; enjoy winter sports and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Brandenburg at Night

Brandenburg's nightlife is relaxed yet vibrant, especially in Potsdam and Brandenburg an der Havel. The region features a mix of cozy pubs, stylish bars, and occasional live music venues. Visitors can enjoy local beers and wines, and dance clubs often host themed nights and events during weekends.

Hiking in Brandenburg

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Rundweg um den Schwielowsee

A scenic circular trail around Lake Schwielow, perfect for leisurely walks and enjoying nature.

Hiking Trails in the Sächsische Schweiz

Located a bit farther away, these trails offer breathtaking views of sandstone formations and dense forests.

Airports

How to reach Brandenburg by plane.

Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER)

The main international airport serving the region, located about 35 km from Potsdam, offering numerous connections across Europe and beyond.

Getting Around

Walkability

Brandenburg's cities, particularly Potsdam, are quite walkable, with pedestrian-friendly streets and numerous parks. Many attractions are within walking distance, making it easy to explore on foot. However, the rural areas may require a vehicle for convenient travel.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

Many young professionals are attracted to Brandenburg for its proximity to Berlin and affordable living.

Retirees

The scenic landscapes and calmer lifestyle appeal to retirees seeking a peaceful environment.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is highly popular, with local clubs and amateur leagues throughout the state.

Rowing

Brandenburg's many lakes and rivers make rowing a favored sport, with clubs and competitions held regularly.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Brandenburg is generally manageable, especially outside of peak hours. Public transportation includes trains and buses that connect cities and towns, but rural areas may have limited services. Cycling is also a popular option for short distances, with dedicated bike paths available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Brandenburg.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, though vegan options may be limited.

Gluten-Free

Some restaurants can cater to gluten-free diets; it's advisable to inquire beforehand.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Brandenburg is of high quality, with numerous hospitals, clinics, and medical facilities available. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and travelers should ensure they have appropriate travel insurance for access to medical care.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide