6 Day Trips from Berlin to Explore Typisch Deutschland
When we first moved abroad, one of the inevitable first questions from Germans would be “Why did you move to Berlin?”. We would start on how we had always dreamed of living in Germany before they would interrupt, “but Berlin is not Germany.”
This drove us mad…until we realized how true this was. Berlin is totally its own place, quite different from the rest of the country. The capital has unique museums, street food, and architecture – but more than that, it is the way the city feels and moves. When other expats or travelers talk about their time in Germany, we’ll tilt our heads and think Berlin is nothing like that.
Therefore, it is crucial for the Germany lover to venture out of the capital for a more typical German experience. You don’t need to go far to find a totally different German world. Here are six day trips from Berlin to discover typisch Deutschland.
1. Gorlitz
Address: 02 Görlitz, Germany
This East German town was nearly forgotten before attracting the attention of filmmakers. A perfect time capsule of Jugendstil (Art Nouveau) architecture, the town caught the eye of Wes Anderson and played a prominent role in his film, The Grand Budapest Hotel.
2. Brandenburg an der Havel
Address: 14 Brandenburg, Germany
Brandenburg an der Havel is a medieval town located about an hour away from Berlin on the River Havel. This quaint village boasts a history of over a thousand years, and the majority of the altstadt is easily reachable within 15 minutes walking from the train station. The Altstädtisches Rathaus (Old Town Hall) exhibits late Gothic red brick architecture and features a statue of the knight Roland erected in 1474.
Explore the town’s medieval walls and the four remaining watchtowers, or delve into Germany’s recent past at the Brandenburg Euthanasia Centre, a small yet impactful museum dedicated to the treatment of the mentally ill during the National Socialist regime.
3. Liepnitzsee
Address: Liepnitzsee, 16 Wandlitz, Germany
Swim-seeking Berliners often look for the perfect lake each summer, and Liepnitzsee might just be it. Nestled amidst refreshing forests, the waters are almost crystal clear, and an island, Großer Werder, is accessible by ferry.
If you seek more than serene swims, the surrounding area showcases GDR history, as the elites of the party favored this site for their summer homes, leaving behind several fine estates to explore.
4. Werder (Havel)
Address: 14542 Werder, Germany
Once a year in May, lively groups of fruit wine enthusiasts flock to this agricultural hamlet for the Baumblütenfest. One of the largest drinking festivals in Germany, this event draws city dwellers to this peaceful town.
Yet, with vibrant blossoming trees and the nourishing waters of the Havel flowing through the center, there is much to keep visitors engaged year-round.
5. Spreewald
Address: Pallasstraße 15, 10781 Berlin, Germany
Phone: +49 30 902777151
This UNESCO-protected forest southeast of Berlin is often referred to as the “green lung” of Brandenburg. Thousands of man-made waterways weave through the region, best explored by canoe in the summer; winter adventurers can enjoy ice skating along these paths.
While many come for nature, lovely town centers in places like Lübbenau, Lübben, Burg (Spreewald), and Leipe also invite exploration. Don’t forget to taste a famous Spreewald pickle before you leave!
6. Rostock
Address: 18 Rostock, Germany
Prior to visiting, all I knew about Rostock was its tough, right-leaning football team. However, as I explored, I discovered its rich Hanseatic heritage, characterized by red brick architecture, the Fishermen’s Bastion, and a bustling harbor.
Wander through historical city gates to reach the Neuer Markt (New Market) and the Rathaus (Town Hall), where 13th-16th century buildings create an elegant skyline. A visit to the Universität Rostock, one of the oldest universities in the world, founded in 1419, is also a must.
