Brandenburg, the federal state surrounding the German capital Berlin, is a true paradise for anyone looking to relax in nature, discover historic cities or simply enjoy a break from everyday life.
In many areas, it has still been spared from the large influx of tourists. But if you take a closer look, you will discover many beautiful excursion and travel destinations.
Brandenburg is often referred to as the “land of a thousand lakes” – and not without good reason. The region offers one of the most impressive water landscapes in Germany. Whether paddling, swimming, sailing or simply relaxing on the shore – Brandenburg’s lakes and rivers are perfect places for an active vacation or relaxation. The Havel runs through Brandenburg like a lifeline. Havelland in particular is popular with sailors, canoeists and birdwatchers.
The UNESCO Spreewald Biosphere Reserve is an absolute highlight for nature lovers. The branching waterways, known as rivers, are best explored by boat, canoe or bicycle.
Brandenburg has a rich history, which is reflected in its charming towns and impressive buildings. Here are some of the cultural highlights you shouldn’t miss:
- Potsdam: the capital of Brandenburg is an absolute must-see. Sanssouci Park with the palace of the same name, the historic old town and the Glienicke Bridge (famous from the Cold War) are just some of the highlights. Potsdam is also a center for film history – visit the Babelsberg film studios!
- Cottbus: This city in the south-east of Brandenburg is the gateway to the Spreewald. Branitz Park, designed by the famous landscape architect Prince Pückler, is a highlight for garden lovers.
- Brandenburg an der Havel: As the namesake of the federal state, this city offers a beautiful old town, numerous waterways and the Brandenburg Cathedral Abbey, an impressive building from the Brick Gothic period.
Discover destinations in Brandenburg
To the north of Berlin lies the Barnimer Land. For Berliners in particular, it is the ideal region for a day trip, and for holidaymakers in Brandenburg, the Barnim is a dream destination.
The city of Brandenburg an der Havel is about 70 kilometres from Berlin. By regional express train, you can reach Berlin's main station in 45 minutes and Potsdam in 25 minutes.
The Dahme-Spreewald district is located in the south-east of Brandenburg. A holiday in the Dahme-Spreewald area is a dreamy and relaxing time out at the gates of Berlin.
The district of Elber-Elster is located in the south of the federal state of Brandenburg. Anyone planning a holiday in this region will have a wonderful quiet time.
Frankfurt (Oder) is located in the federal state of Brandenburg, directly on the German-Polish border. A visit to the city invites you to explore the town and take some time out on the Oder.
To the west of Berlin stretches Brandenburg's Havelland region with its numerous lakes. A holiday in the Havelland means a relaxing break on the edge of Berlin, Potsdam and Brandenburg an der Havel.
The district of Oberhavel is located in the north of the federal state of Brandenburg. The upper course of the Havel River flows through the area from north to south and has given the district its name.
In the south of the federal state of Brandenburg lies the small district of Oberspreewald-Lausitz, a beautiful and varied holiday region.
The Oder-Spree district is located in the east of the federal state of Brandenburg. Both the Oder and the Spree rivers touch the district.
Potsdam borders directly on Berlin. A city trip to Potsdam thus offers the opportunity to visit the capital of Brandenburg and the capital of the Federal Republic.
The Potsdam-Mittelmark district of Brandenburg is located in the west of the state. A holiday in the Potsdam-Mittelmark district takes place in two well-known Brandenburg travel regions: Fläming and Havelland.
In the north-west of Brandenburg, halfway between Berlin and Hamburg, is the holiday region of Prignitz. Those who holiday here are looking for the peace and idyll of the countryside away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
In the Brandenburg district of Ostprignitz-Ruppin lies the state-recognized resort of Rheinsberg. Here at the Rhin, a tributary of the Havel, you can enjoy your vacation in Rheinsberg.
Not far from Berlin, in the south-east of Brandenburg, lies the Spreewald holiday region. Here in the lowland area is a unique biosphere reserve and interesting cultural area.
The district of Teltow-Fläming is located in the south-west of the federal state of Brandenburg. The popular Brandenburg holiday region of Fläming forms part of the district.