Things To Do
in Cottbus

Cottbus is a charming city located in the eastern part of Germany, known for its rich history and vibrant cultural scene. It serves as a gateway to the Spreewald Biosphere Reserve, famous for its picturesque canals and unique biodiversity. The city boasts beautiful parks, historical architecture, and a lively arts community, making it an attractive destination for travelers.

With its blend of tradition and modernity, Cottbus offers a unique perspective on German life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Cottbus
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Branitz Park, where you can enjoy a stroll through its beautifully landscaped gardens and admire the Branitz Castle.

afternoon
:

Head to the Cottbus City Museum to explore exhibits showcasing the city's history and culture, followed by lunch at a nearby café.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional German restaurant and then catch a performance at the Cottbus State Theatre.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a guided tour of the Spreewald Biosphere Reserve, where you can explore the unique waterways by canoe or on foot.

afternoon
:

Visit the Cottbus Zoo, which features a variety of animal species and lovely walking paths, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.

evening
:

Dine at a local eatery specializing in regional cuisine and finish the night with a drink at a popular bar in the city center.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍺Pint of beer$4
🚌Public transport ticket$2
🏨Hotel (per night)$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical heritage
  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities
  • Friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Language barrier for non-German speakers may be challenging
  • Public transportation may not be as frequent during off-peak hours
  • "Guten Tag" - Good day
  • "Danke schön" - Thank you
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me
  • "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?

Best Activities in Cottbus

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Canoeing in the Spreewald

Experience the beautiful canals of Spreewald by canoe, an adventurous way to explore the unique landscape.

Hiking in Branitz Park

Explore the scenic trails of Branitz Park, offering a mix of nature and history with its beautiful gardens.

Cycling along the Spree River

Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the Spree River, with picturesque views and well-maintained paths.

Tours

Uncover the best of Cottbus with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Cottbus

Visit one of these nice places.

Branitz Park

With its stunning landscapes and historic castle, Branitz Park offers picturesque views perfect for photography.

Cottbus City Center

The blend of modern and historical architecture in the city center makes for captivating urban photography.

Spreewald Canals

The unique waterways and lush surroundings of the Spreewald Biosphere Reserve provide breathtaking natural photography opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Cottbus

Cottbus offers a delightful culinary scene that showcases both traditional German dishes and local specialties.

Cottbus Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Cottbuser Senfsuppe

A creamy mustard soup that is a regional specialty, often served with bread.

Must-Try!

Spreewald Gurken

Pickled cucumbers from the nearby Spreewald region, known for their unique flavor and crunch.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Cottbus better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Cottbus Weekly Market

Held every Tuesday and Friday, this market offers fresh produce, local cheeses, and handmade products.

Climate Guide

Weather

Cottbus experiences a temperate oceanic climate with distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Winters (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, averaging around -1°C to 3°C (30°F to 37°F). Spring and autumn are transitional seasons, characterized by mild temperatures and occasional rainfall.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Germans value punctuality; being on time for meetings and social gatherings is considered respectful.

Greetings

A firm handshake is the standard greeting, and addressing people with their title and surname is polite.

Waste Disposal

Proper waste disposal is important; separate recycling bins are available, and littering is frowned upon.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of Cottbus with these exclusive activities.

Safety Guide

Safety

Cottbus is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to take common safety precautions, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Cottbus

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to round up the bill or leave a 5-10% tip at restaurants, especially for good service.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or at markets.

Top Things To Do

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Cottbus.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild temperatures, making it a great time for outdoor activities and park visits.

Summer

Summer is warm and vibrant, perfect for enjoying outdoor festivals and exploring the nearby lakes.

Autumn

Autumn showcases colorful foliage, ideal for photography and enjoying seasonal harvest festivals.

Winter

Winter can be cold and snowy, but the holiday season brings festive markets and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Cottbus at Night

Cottbus offers a lively nightlife scene with a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The city center is bustling with options, from casual pubs to trendy cocktail bars. Many places host events, including live music and themed parties, catering to diverse tastes. The atmosphere is generally friendly and welcoming, making it easy for newcomers to mingle and enjoy the night.

Hiking in Cottbus

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Spreewald Hiking Trails

These trails offer scenic routes through the Spreewald Biosphere Reserve, featuring lush landscapes and tranquil waterways.

Cottbus Forest

A beautiful area for hiking, featuring well-marked paths and opportunities to observe local wildlife.

Unforgettable Journeys

Delve deeper into Cottbus through these rare and unique activities.

Airports

How to reach Cottbus by plane.

Dresden Airport (DRS)

Located about 120 km from Cottbus, Dresden Airport offers both domestic and international flights, providing convenient access for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Cottbus is a highly walkable city, with a compact city center that makes it easy for visitors to explore on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and many attractions are within a short walking distance of each other. Additionally, pedestrian zones in the city center enhance the walking experience, allowing for leisurely strolls through shops and cafés.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

A growing demographic in Cottbus, young professionals are attracted to the city for its educational institutions and job opportunities.

Students

With the presence of several universities, Cottbus has a vibrant student community, contributing to the city's cultural diversity.

The Soul of Cottbus

Discover the essence of Cottbus through these truly unique experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is immensely popular in Cottbus, with local teams competing in regional leagues and a passionate fan base.

Handball

Handball enjoys significant popularity in Cottbus, with local clubs actively participating in national competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Cottbus is generally manageable, with a network of roads connecting the city to nearby towns. Public transportation consists of buses and trams, which are reliable and frequent, making it easy to navigate the city without a car. Biking is also popular, with dedicated bike lanes available throughout the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Cottbus.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan Options

Many restaurants in Cottbus offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, but it's advisable to check the menu in advance.

Gluten-Free Options

While gluten-free options may be limited, some eateries do cater to dietary restrictions; inquire when making a reservation.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Cottbus is of good quality, with several hospitals and clinics available. Emergency services are prompt, and medical professionals are well-trained. For tourists, it's advisable to have travel insurance that covers health care costs. EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for access to public healthcare services.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide