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12 Awesome Day Trips from Berlin, Germany

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From walking over Rakotzbrücke Bridge to exploring Potsdam, these are some of the best day trips from Berlin for your next trip to Germany!

Berlin is an awesome city. The art, food, history, nightlife and overall cool urban vibes makes it one of my favourite cities in Europe. For a travel blogger that’s quite a big claim!

But with loads of cool day trips from Berlin on offer, it’s also a great idea getting out of the city and seeing some more of Germany . Getting a taste of other towns like Potsdam and Dresden is a sometimes welcome break from Berlin’s edgy culture and gritty character.

There’s a real mix of experiences available too.From hiking in Saxony to wandering around the streets of Lipzig to relaxing at the Tropical Islands Resort, there really is something for everyone here.

These places can all be reached within a few hours of Berlin, so they are proper day trips. You can be back in Berlin in time for dinner in Kreuzberg and a night out at the techno clubs, no problem.

So, here are my recommendations for the best Berlin day tours, ready for whenever you’re next in the city. Go on one of these and I guarantee you’re in for an amazing time.

If you’re planning a trip to Berlin, then make sure you check out my Berlin itinerary , my guide to Berlin in spring , and the coolest hotels in Berlin . All of these should help plan that amazing weekend away.

Are you planning an amazing weekend in Berlin? If so, you may want to book your hotels and tours asap to ensure availability. Here are some links to quickly help plan your trip!

Best hotels and apartments in Berlin:

• The Mandala Hotel (top rated 5* hotel)
• Urban Loft Berlin (top rated 4* hotel)
• Motel One Berlin-Alexanderplatz (top rated 3* hotel)

Best activities and tours in Berlin :

• Discover Berlin Walking Tour (top rated tour!)
• 3-Hour Secret Food Tour (this one is super yummy)
• TV Tower Fast View Ticket (best views in the city)

Berlin Day Trips

You might hear Leipzig described as Berlin’s little brother. While it’s true that it shares a similar carefree spirit, don’t write off a visit to Leipzig thinking it’s just a smaller, quieter Berlin. I promise you it’s not.

I was stunned at how beautiful the architecture is here. Just go for a stroll around Altsandt, the Old Town, and you’ll see what I mean. It’s lined with buildings in Saxon style and it’s more classical than other cities in Germany.

There’s a stand-out art scene in Leipzig too. Happy browsing galleries and sniffing out your next coffee in cosy cafes all day long? If that’s a yes, then out of all the Berlin day trips, this might be the one for you.

A 2 and a half hour tour of Leipzig costs £16/US$20 taking in the best sights around the city.

2. Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp

Berlin itself is packed full of ways to learn about the country’s World War II history. None of it really compares, or prepares you, for visiting Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp .

The former Nazi concentration camp stands in Oranienburg, just outside of Berlin. Here, over 30,000 inmates died in the horrendous conditions, subjected to all kinds of evil. The tour guides are very knowledgeable and share the story of Sachsenhausen, as well as giving you wider context.

I understand why people might be reluctant to visit. However, choosing to learn about what happened and remember the people who lost their lives is an important act. I always feel that learning about man’s inhumanity to man is one of the best ways of atrocities like this ever occurring again. I would really encourage you to think about taking a Berlin tour here. 

A 6-hour tour of Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp from Berlin costs £16/US$20 and goes into the history of the area. This tour includes a train ride through the forests too.

3. Saxon Switzerland National Park

One word comes to mind when I think of hiking in the Saxon Switzerland National Park: magical. This rock national park is made up of sandstone cliffs, valleys and gorges, and some amazing wildlife.

Among the atmospheric forest lies the Bastei Bridge – the park’s star attraction. Almost blending into the sandstone rock towers, it feels like it’s come straight from a forgotten fairy-tale.

I was amazed to find out that the bridge, as we see it today, was rebuilt for tourists in 1851. Travellers like me have been walking the same steps for over 160 years – so cool!

By the way, despite confusingly having Switzerland in its name, Saxon Switzerland is definitely in Germany and a doable distance from Berlin. It takes roughly three hours by car or train to deliver you from the bustle of the city into this natural paradise.

You can learn more about the hiking the Bastei Bridge in my blog post. It’s up there with my of the best things I’ve done in Germany!

4. Rakotzbrücke Bridge (The Devil’s Bridge)

Speaking of bridges, this one is an absolute showstopper. Rakotzbrücke gets its nickname ‘The Devil’s Bridge’ because its precarious stone structure was seen as so dangerous, people thought it must have been the work of Satan.

What actually makes this 19th-century bridge special though is its reflection. When the light hits the river, it forms a perfect circle.

I’ve always been bowled over by how beautiful this bridge is – I mean, just look at it!? The best time to visit is in autumn when the surrounding trees and colours make it all the more stunning.

You can’t walk across it but that really doesn’t matter. The experience is all about admiring it from afar. Just don’t forget your camera.

Visiting Rakotzbrücke Bridge is without a doubt one of the most popular day trips from Berlin so make sure you add it to your list.

Since Potsdam can be reached in as little as 25 minutes from Berlin, it’s a top a choice if you’re short on time. Best of all, its a really spectacular place well worth visiting on any trip to Germany.

You’ve got the striking architecture in the Old Dutch Quarter, which is one-of-a-kind in Europe. Then there’s the Sanssouci Park, where you can see not one but three major palaces. This is everyone’s favourite spot in the city.

Film and history buffs like me should come here just to see Filmpark Babelsberg . It’s one of the oldest and largest film studios in the world, with a massive place in the movie history of Germany. 

A full-day tour of Potsdam from Berlin costs £42/US$53 and includes transport with live commentary on the history of the city, a beautiful tour of Sanssouci’s garden and discovering more of the city.

You might wonder whether another big city should be one of your Berlin day tours. Well, I can’t decide for you but I can tell you Hamburg’s character feels a million miles from the capital’s.

With limited time, I’d suggest sticking to a handful of highlights instead of rushing around trying to cram more in. See the historic Speicherstadt district, tuck into some food at the Fish Market and wander down the infamous red light district (it’s a major tourist attraction today).

You can ride the city’s RiverBus too – this is one of the most unique modes of transport I’ve ever come across. When you see it you’ll understand.

One of the most famous tours in Hamburg is a sex and crime tour where you learn all about the history of the red light district (where the Beatles first made a name for themselves). This is genuinely such a good tour.

Hamburg is one of those places where you’ve just got to soak up the atmosphere – it is such a cool city and I always recommend it to people.

7. Tropical Islands Resort

I’ll be honest, I wasn’t totally convinced by the idea of a Berlin day trip to a semi-summer resort. Then I heard it housed Europe’s largest indoor pool and I started to come around to the idea.

The setting is super cool – it’s inside a converted aircraft hangar which makes it feel like you’re in the middle on a film set. And the tropical theme makes it a fun place to chill out for the afternoon. Think artificial waterfalls and waterslides galore. I mean, who doesn’t like the sound of that?

It can be just what you need after a jam-packed schedule of sightseeing and travelling. This is definitely one of the best family friendly activities from Berlin.

8. Spreewald

Spreewald in summer is bliss. This forest is a UNESCO protected nature reserve, which serves as a picturesque and peaceful escape from the city.

The reserve is best explored by bike, on foot or actually on the river Spree. There are canoes and kayaks to rent in Lübbenau or Burg. I chose to kayak and enjoyed a little leisurely adventure after a lot of eating, drinking and indoor activities in Berlin.

If you’re sticking on solid ground, there are nice trails that you can follow to Lehde or Leipe. The first is a lagoon village, while the second is a quaint fishing village. The hiking is really nice here and it’s well worth spending an afternoon exploring the area.

Another great place for kicking back in summer and one of the most popular day trips from Berlin is Wannsee. The suburb is most famous for its lakeside lido. Unfortunately, it’s not exactly a well-kept secret and any sunny day will be busy. But that’s part of the fun, right?

If you do manage to save yourself and your beach towel a spot on Strandbad then you’ll be sorted for a day. Swim, sunbathe, repeat. It’s amazing how popular this place is during summer, but it does quieten down during week days.

There is more to Wannsee than the lido, though. I checked out the House of the Wannsee Conference, which anyone who’s interested in WWII history will find interesting. 

A 2-hour tour of the idyllic Havel Lakes costs £12/US$15 per person and takes you to some of the most beautiful places in the area.

10. Dresden

Dresden was one of the Berlin tours that won me over immediately, thanks to its awesome architecture. Everywhere from The Church of our Lady to the Stallhof, where they once hosted jousting tournaments, is spellbinding to look at.

It’s hard to believe that that this city was flattened by Allied bombings in 1945. Thankfully, the blueprints of the city and the buildings remained, and ever since the war Dresden has been meticulously rebuilt to its former glory.

Dresden was immortalised as a ‘Florence on the Elbe’ by the Italian master Canaletto and I think that tagline is still fitting today. I really hope I can squeeze in a return visit soon. You can find out more about Dresden and why I love it some much in this blog post .

One of the best tours of Dresden is the Taste of Dresden food tour . Then you get to eat your way around the city while learning all about it’s history too.

11. Peacock Island

One of the most popular day tours from Berlin is to Peacock Island.

Called Pfaueninsel in German, Peacock Island is a compact little nature reserve covering an area of just 1.5km by 0.5km.

True to its name, plenty of magnificent peacocks call the island home. I spent a good deal of my time here just watching them strut their stuff and admiring those opulent feathers. They’re kind of mesmerising!

When you do pull yourself away from the birdwatching, there are some nice walks to do and historic architecture to look at. The neo-gothic Kavalierhaus is probably the most photographed. That’s not surprising as the white design is particularly striking.

12. Britzer Garten

Britzer Garden is a beauty of a green space near Berlin. It’s a modern landscape park where you can stumble across a host of themed gardens, all boasting eye-catching flowers and designs.

And it doesn’t stop at pretty flowers. Check out Europe’s largest sundial, ride on the park train, spot the sculptures that are dotted around and more.

The garden was founded as a place to enjoy the outdoors by inhabitants of West Berlin, who were cut off from countryside at the time. I love the idea that it remains a place for locals and travellers alike to enjoy a piece of nature close to the city. This is just another of those Germany day tours that’ll surprise you – this is why I love travelling here so much!

Will you be heading on any of these tours from Berlin? Let me know what you think in the comments below!

If you’re travelling around Germany, then make sure you check out my guides to Dresden , Dusseldorf , Munich , Nuremberg and Stuttgart .

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About the Author

Macca Sherifi is the founder of the multiple award-winning blogs An Adventurous World and the Great British Bucket List. Every month he inspires over 200,000 avid readers to travel the world.

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4 thoughts on “12 Awesome Day Trips from Berlin, Germany”

Great post and collection of quirky places to see in Berlin!

Thank you so much! I have so much time for Berlin – love that city so much.

Wow!! So many great things and amazing pictures. Thanks for sharing this.

No worries! There are so many amazing things to do in Berlin!

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Best Day Trips from Berlin in 2024

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Planning a trip to the German capital and want to add a day trip or two (or even a few days)? You’ve got lots of great options! Here are the best day trips to take from Berlin.

Berlin is such a vibrant and exciting city it’s easy to see why it’s one of the most visited tourist destinations in Europe. After all, it’s home to world famous sites like what remains of the Berlin Wall, the Brandenburg Gate, the Holocaust Memorial, Reichstag Building, and many more.

But once you’ve seen the main sights in your Berlin itinerary , there’s still so much you can explore, since the city is a great base for day trips (or weekend trips)!

Within a few hours, you can reach all sorts of places – medieval towns, castles, historical sites, riverside cities, national parks, mountains, and forests. As amazing as Berlin is, day trips give you a change of scenery show you even more of Germany’s beauty.

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Planning a couple day trips while in Berlin is an easy way to see more of Germany without the hassle of packing up and traveling to a new town for just 1 or 2 nights. It’s the easiest way to maximize your time while traveling. Especially if you book a guided tour that takes care of all of the details for you. Then all you have to do is show up and enjoy the day.

Keep reading to find out about the best Berlin day trips (or weekend trips) to add to your itinerary! We also show you your options for getting to these day trip destinations so you can choose what will work best for you.

• 1 Berlin Day Trip Transportation Options
• 2 Best Day Trips from Berlin
• 3 Day Trips That Are A Bit Further Away From Berlin
• 4 Day Trips That Are Best as Weekend Trips

Berlin Day Trip Transportation Options

In order to actually take a day trip from Berlin, you’ve got to figure out how to get there. Here are your options.

Berlin Public Transit (U-bahn/S-bahn) Many of these day trips can be easily done by using Berlin’s own public transportation system, especially those that are nearer to central Berlin. Places just outside the city limits (like Spandau or Potsdam) are easily reached by U-bahn and S-bahn (sometimes also bus).

German Trains For other cities that are a bit farther away, you can easily take a regional or fast train. We recommend checking train schedules on the Deutsche Bahn (German Rail) website. You can also purchase point-to-point tickets, special offers, and tickets for groups, adults traveling with kids, regional day tickets and other discounted tickets.

If you’ll be doing a lot of day trips and traveling around Germany via train, we suggest looking into the German Rail Pass to get unlimited flat-rate travel all over the country. If you don’t want to spend a huge amount of time researching train tickets or don’t want to be bound to taking specific trains (and thereby losing your ticket and money if you miss a train), a rail pass is a great option.

FlixBus Buses are also good options if you want to save money, but the travel time may be longer for some destinations. Note that FlixBux is separate from the city bus system.

Guided Tours Another great option is searching for guided tours that come with private transportation. This way you don’t have to worry about the logistics (which I can tell you from experience can sometimes take hours to figure out!) — you can just show up stress free to the meeting point on the day of your day trip! Some guided day trips also offer unique experiences like boat tours or night walking tours. And they can be a great way to make friends with other travelers! A good place to look for guided day trips from Berlin is on Get You Guide.

Rental Car For the most convenience and flexibility, rental cars are the way to go. You’ll have the independence to follow your own schedule and you set your own pace, which is nice if you find yourself wanting to stay at a place for a longer period of time than expected. Rental cars can be a great deal if there are 2 or more people traveling together. Can you rent a car just for 1 or 2 days? Yes! Check out Kayak for the best deals on rental cars in Germany.

Grab our FREE Germany Trip Planning Checklist Now!

Best Day Trips from Berlin

The first group of day trip options are very close to Berlin and can be reached using Berlin’s public transit system. Some are in the “C” zone so you’ll either need a day ticket for the A/B/C zones or an extension ticket for the “C” zone if you already have a transit pass for the A/B zones.

1. Potsdam and Sanssouci Palace

Probably the most popular place for day trips from Berlin is nearby Potsdam, since it’s easily accessible by S-bahn or regional train and only takes around 30 minutes to reach from the city center.

The main attraction of Potsdam is Sanssouci Palace, a former royal residence with stunning Rococo architecture that’s often compared to France’s Versailles. Highlights include the sprawling English gardens, vineyard terraces, the traditional Chinese teahouse, and classical statues and artwork.

Since there’s so much to see – and sights are pretty spread out – that we recommend booking a stress-free guided tour of the palace from Berlin which also includes transportation.

If you want to explore more of Potsdam, this guided tour takes you to Sansoucci and other points of interest like the Baroque Old Town, the famous Dutch Quarter and other castles like the Cecilienhof Castle, and the opulent New Palace. 

2. Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Memorial

Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp , located just north of Berlin in the town of Oranienburg, is another popular day trip from Berlin. This sobering historical site can be visited during a half-day trip as it’s only a scenic 45-minute ride away via Berlin’s S-bahn.

This former concentration camp shows where Jewish prisoners were imprisoned during the Nazi regime. Walking through the camp’s remaining prison barracks and buildings, you’ll learn about the history of World War II while commemorating the victims.

Sachsenhausen is free to visit but we recommend getting the €3 audio guide. You can tour Sachsenhausen on your own in a couple hours but if you want to go more in depth and read the many text-heavy displays, plan for a longer visit.

You can do this day trip on your own by taking the S-bahn to Oranienburg and then walking or taking the bus to Sachsenhausen (about 7 minutes). Or book a guided half-day tour led by a professional in order to gain a deeper understanding of this important memorial. 

3. Marzahn-Hellsersdorf

This neighborhood is only about 30 minutes away from Berlin’s Alexanderplatz but feels like a different world.

If you hop on the U5 and take it to Kienberg Gärten der Welt you can spend a couple hours to half a day exploring the famous Gardens of the World, riding the sky tram to Kienberg (or hike up to the top), enjoying the spectacular view from the Wolkenhain (see photo above), and walking around the beautiful wetland area.

If you visit on a Sunday you can stop by the WBS 70 Museum Apartment and step inside a preserved East German Plattenbau apartment from 1986 (open from 2-4pm on Sundays only, free).

4. Pfaueninsel  ( Peacock Island )

Peacock Island is a perfect day trip for those looking for a romantic, fairytale-like natural landscape or seek something other than the traditional museum. The entire island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in the Havel River just southwest of Berlin near Potsdam.

The island invites visitors to walk through the beautiful gardens, admire the free-roaming peacocks, and visit various historical landmarks like the Peacock Island Palace, a former summer residence of Prussian royalty. You can reach Peacock Island by taking the S-bahn to Wannsee and then a ferry to the island.

Wannsee is a city and lake area only 30 minutes from downtown Berlin by S-bhan. It’s a great place to explore via boat. Check out this 2-hour boat tour from Wannsee that goes around the Havel Lakes , including Little Wannsee, Pohlesee, Jungfernsee, Glienicker Lake, and many others.

After the relaxing boat ride, you can take a walk and admire the beautiful landscape of Wannsee or lay out by the inland beaches and enjoy the sun among locals. You can combine a trip to Wannsee with a visit to Peacock Island.

6. Spandau Citadel

The Spandau Citadel is one of the best preserved Renaissance fortresses in Europe. Surrounded by moats, this fortress houses a museum that takes you through the rich history of the fortifications.

Nowadays, the citadel is a cultural center with medieval jousting festivals, concerts, festivals, and a popular bat cellar exhibition.

This is an easy day trip since you can take public transportation (U7 metro line) directly from the city center to Spandau. Travel time is approximately 30 to 40 minutes. 

7. Köpenick

Köpenick is the perfect place for those who don’t want to venture too far out of Berlin but want somewhere more tranquil and slow-paced. It’s known for its natural beauty since it’s very rich in lakes and woodlands. It also has its fair share of historic buildings such as the Köpenick Palace, a 17th-century mansion turned into Kunstgewerbemuseum (Museum of Decorative Arts) and the Old Town Hall. To end your day trip, make sure to take a walk on the Long Bridge and enjoy the riverside views.

8. Müggelsee 

Müggelsee is located in the suburbs of Köpenick and is the largest lake of the German capital. It’s a great spot for boat trips and water activities like sailing, surfing, swimming, and even motor sport boats in certain areas.

The area around the lake also features various restaurants, coffee shops, boathouses, and the museum of the historic Friedrichshagen waterworks. At the south of the lake, you’ll find the Müggelberge hills and the Müggelturm tower, offering panoramic views of the lake and the skyline of Berlin.

Seelow, home to the Seelow Heights battlefield, is a good option for history buffs. Though it was one of the lesser known battles, it was actually one of the most brutal confrontations in the Eastern Front.

The Seelow Heights today is maintained as a memorial, which houses the Seelow Heights War Museum and a military cemetery to commemorate the fallen soldiers.

If you’re interested in this rare opportunity to visit one of the untouched World World War II historic sites in Germany, book this guided tour.

Day Trips That Are A Bit Further Away From Berlin

This next group of day trip ideas are a bit further away from Berlin and can be reached by regional or fast train, car or guided tour.

10. Spreewald (Spree Forest)

Spreewald is a UNESCO-protected nature reserve and a great alternative to the hustle and bustle of the big city. It takes about an hour from Berlin via regional train to reach Lübbenau, the most populous town in the region.

The forest has a relaxing atmosphere and is a beautiful place to visit all year long. The Spreewald is known for its diverse flora and fauna, Sorbian culture and history, locally-made pickles, and small canals, which are perfect for kayaking, canoeing or riding on one of the traditional Kahn boats.

If you have time, make sure to visit Lehde, a nearby village and protected heritage sight accessible by boat to get a glimpse of the everyday village life in this region of Germany.

11. Magdeburg

Ok, I’m a bit biased about this one because I used to live in Magdeburg, but at less than 2 hours away from Berlin via train, it makes a great day trip from Berlin! Magdeburg is one of the oldest cities in the country, and the Elbe river that flows through the city is one of the major rivers of Central Europe, traversing through big cities like Berlin, Hamburg, Dresden, Leipzig, and Prague.

One of its most famous historical sites is the Cathedral of Magdeburg, the burial place of the Holy Roman emperor Otto the Great. Make sure to climb to the top of the towers to get city and river views! You can also check out the university campus and Hundertwasser’s Green Citadel building.

12. Leipzig

Leipzig is a classic day trip from Berlin, since it’s only a short trip away (around 1 hour and 15 minutes via direct train). It is said to be quite similar to Germany’s capital but it has its own character that makes it worth visiting.

Must-sees include the Old Market Square and the town hall located in the city center. A short walk away you’ll find the St. Thomas Church, where Bach is now buried. You can’t leave without visiting the Monument to the Battle of the Nations, a memorial to the biggest battle of the 19th century.

13. Dresden

Dresden is another city by the river Elbe, less than 2 hours away from Berlin. If you don’t want to worry about transportation, consider booking a round-trip guided tour that provides the comfort of a minivan and shows you the highlights of the city. These include Zwinger Palace, a Baroque royal building with lush gardens, the Frauenkirche with its impressive stone dome and viewing platform, and Old Town.

You also can’t miss Brühl’s Terrace, known as the “Balcony of Europe,” which stretches over the river and is a beautiful place to admire the views while enjoying a cup of coffee.

Like many German cities, Dresden is very walkable so it’s easy to get around. But to make the most out of your time and see as much as you can, we recommend booking a Dresden Hop On Hop Off bus tour.

14. Schwerin  Castle

To the north of Berlin around 2 hours away depending on your train, you’ll find the small but charming city of Schwerin. Most people visit to admire Schwerin Castle and for good reason! Standing on its own island amidst Schwerin Lake, the castle looks straight out of a fairytale, as it’s surrounded by forests and water. The inside is equally grand with over 600 rooms, a throne room, and a vast collection of artifacts in the museum. 

Aside from the castle, Schwerin offers other landmarks like the Schwerin Cathedral, the Pfaffenteich lake, and the Schwerin State Museum. Book a walking tour of the city to see everything! If you’re looking for a fun experience, book a night walking tour guided by a night watchman who takes you to the city’s highlights after sunset. 

15. Greifswald & Stralsund

Greifswald and Stralsund are two cities 2-3 hours north of Berlin that are also part of the German state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. Greifswald has a good variety of museums and medieval churches such as the Pomeranian State Museum, Museumshafen, Dom St. Nikolai, St.-Marien-Kirche, and St.-Jacobi-Kirche.

Stralsund is the oldest city in Pomerania and its old town was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002 because of the important Brick Gothic architecture that was significant during the Hanseatic League. Spend a day walking through the old town to admire the many different churches, buildings, and monuments that will take you back to medieval times.

16. Rostock

Rostock is the largest city in the German state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania (about 1 hour 45 minutes from Berlin). Much like its neighboring cities, Rostock is filled with beautiful architecture showcasing Brick Gothic and Baroque style churches like Petrikirche and Marienkirche. A major attraction of the city is Warnemünde Beach, where both locals and tourists can swim, enjoy campfires or barbecues in the summer, and climb up the lighthouse. You can reach Rostock by train from Berlin.

17. Bad Muskau 

Bad Muskau is a small town near the Polish border about 2 hours away from Berlin. Its most famous landmark is the Muskauer Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest and one of the most famous English gardens in Central Europe. Sitting in the vast gardens is the Muskau Castle which adds to the fairytale feel of the landscape. You can reach Bad Muskau by train from Berlin.

18. Rakotzbrücke (The Devil’s Bridge) 

After exploring Bad Muskau, head on to the famous Devil’s Bridge located nearby in Kromlau. The bridge is an amazing architectural feat and is definitely one of the most picture-worthy sights in eastern Germany. The arch of the bridge is a semi-circle so when you look at the reflection in the water, it forms a perfect sphere. The backdrop itself is amazing. The best time to visit is in springtime when the flowers are in full bloom or during autumn with the vibrant red leaves of the surrounding trees. This day trip is easiest by car.

Day Trips That Are Best as Weekend Trips

This last set of day trips are the furthest from Berlin and can be done as day trips with some very good planning, a car, and an early start. These types of day trips aren’t for everyone! If you’re ok getting just a taste of an area, check out these ideas. Better yet, turn your day trip into a weekend trip and plan to stay for a couple days!

19. Saxon Switzerland National Park

It’s a stretch to visit this area on a day trip but it can be done if you have access to a car and plan ahead. Because Saxon Switzerland National Park is spread out along the river Elbe, the easiest way to get here if you don’t have a car is to take a train from Berlin and transfer in Dresden. We suggest booking a half-day guided tour from Dresden so you don’t have to worry about the transportation and focus on enjoying the natural beauty of the park.

If you have access to a car you can drive right to Bastei Bridge rock formation and then explore the area – there are outdoor activities like hiking, rock climbing, and cycling, and you can also visit the Königstein Fortress.

20. Harz Mountains 

In the Harz Mountains you’ll find many beautiful towns but it’s also one of the best places to visit for nature lovers. The Harz mountains are best reached from Berlin by car (regional trains can take several hours to reach this area). The area is big and there’s lots to do! One of the most popular outdoor destinations is the Bode Valley, a valley with green forests and rivers that’s perfect for a relaxed hike. There are also waterfalls like the Ilsenburg Lower Falls, Lonauer Waterfall, Radau Waterfall, and more.

21. Quedlinburg

Quedlinburg is a medieval gem of a city is located near the Harz mountains. The city is known for its cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses. It’s one of the best preserved medieval and Renaissance towns in Europe, since it managed to avoid significant damages during WWII.

You’ll also find the famous Quedlinburg Castle-Hill here, home to the Collegiate Church of St. Servatius and burial site of the first German King. While you can reach Quedlinburg by train, it takes over 3 hours from Berlin, so the best way to do this day trip is by car.

22. Wernigerode

Wernigerode is another fairytale small town in the Harz district on the northern slopes of the Harz Mountains. It has everything from half-timbered houses, a castle, an intriguing town hall, and steam trains traversing through the mountains.

The Wernigerode Castle is a hilltop castle originally built as a fortress but then rebuilt to a similar style to Neuschwanstein. It can be reached by a specialized motor train. Once at the top, you’ll get to explore the grand interiors and also enjoy great views overlooking the town. 

Close to Quedlinburg, Wernigerode is best reached by car if visiting on a day trip (it’s about 4 hours away from Berlin by regional train).

23. Görlitz

Görlitz is a well-preserved picturesque town located near the Polish-German border in the state of Saxony. The most famous landmark of the town is the Parish Church of St. Peter and Paul, an impressive church with soaring towers and the Sun Organ. The Church is just one of the many styles of architecture you’ll see in Görlitz – everything from Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, to Art Nouveau.

To visit Görlitz you can take the train from Berlin (about 2 hours 40 minutes each way) or drive (3 hours each way). If you drive, you can combine this day trip with a stop at the Rakotzbrücke or even the Bastai Bridge.

This day trip is best done in the summer when you have lots of day light. If you want to visit Görtliz in the winter, get an early start so you arrive when the sun is rising and take then hop on the train as the sun is setting.

24. Szczecin, Poland 

Located near the Baltic Sea, Szczecin is a city in Poland that’s right by the German border. It’s a great day trip for those looking for a change of scenery and want to venture out of Germany. The heart of Szczecin, Stare Miasto (Old Town), is lined with pastel-colored historic architecture. Some main landmarks worth visiting include the Gothic Pomeranian Dukes’ Castle, Solidarity Square, and the Chrobry Embankment. Don’t forget to get some delicious pierogies and Polish beer in between sightseeing! You can reach Szczecin by train or bus.

25. Rügen Island

Rügen is Germany’s largest island, located off the Pomeranian Coast in the Baltic Sea. It is linked to Stralsund via the Rügen Bridge and the Rugia Causeway. It’s a bit farther from Berlin and takes 3-4 hours travel time by car or train, but it’s one of the most beautiful places to visit, especially for those who love the beach and coastal towns. The island is known for its sandy beaches stretching over 40 miles, white chalk cliffs with amazing panoramic views, and the Jasmund National Park for its hiking and walking trails and rare species of plants and birds.

Cate has been traveling to Germany for 30+ years. She has lived in Germany, taught college German, and has a PhD in German Applied Linguistics. She loves helping travelers plan their dream trips to Germany!

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19 Best Day Trips from Berlin: Hidden Gems & Popular Routes

What Are the Best Day Trips from Berlin?

Day trips from Berlin can be a total lifesaver! Sometimes, all we need to refuel is a quick trip to another city. Or even another part of the city. I’m a huge fan of such short trips, as there is so much to discover just around the corner. In the blog post, you’ll discover 19 of the best day trips from Berlin easily accessible by train. Conveniently, all destinations are within 35 minutes to 3.5 hours of the Central Station. 

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Best Berlin Day Trips An Hour Away Or Less

Brandenburg an der havel.

Travel time from Berlin’s Central Station: 45 minutes by IC or 55 minutes with the RE1.

Why you should visit . There is lots of history in Brandenburg, the capital city of its eponymous region until Berlin took over in 1417. Today, you can get lost in the cobblestone lanes of the old town, with half-timbered houses left and right.

Although 70% of Brandenburg was bombed during the Second World War, some of the original fortifications, a stately cathedral, and many beautiful homes remain intact. What’s more, Brandenburg is set on the Havel River, where locals like to stroll or relax.

Königs Wusterhausen

Travel time from Berlin’s Central Station: 35 minutes with the RE2.

Why you should visit.  This town is home to a 14th-century castle (remodelled in the 18th century as a hunting lodge) on the Notte Canal, only a few 100 meters from the Dahme River and several swimming lakes.

Königs Wusterhausen has a Tiergarten of its own, with waterways, walking trails and 250-year-old oak trees. This town was a favourite of several Prussian Kings.

Lübbenau (Spreewald)

Travel time from Berlin’s Central Station:  1h05 with the RE2.

Why you should visit. Imagine Venice in Germany and you’ll have a good idea of what to expect in Lübbenau. Day trips from Berlin to the Spreewald typically include leisurely gondola rides along pristine canals – or kayak tours, if you’d rather be more active. The Spreewald’s canals do not look man-made, even if they are. When you get off the water, don’t forget to try a local delicacy: Spreewälder Gurken, or Spreewald Gherkins.

Travel time from Berlin’s Central Station: 54 minutes (take the S3 to Friedrichshagen, then catch Tram 61 for 3 stops or walk 1.8 km.

Why you should visit.  Müggelsee is to East Berlin what Wannsee is to the West: a large lake surrounded by forested walking trails. Locals love spending the day here for the expansive beach and water sport offerings in the summer, and hiking year-round.

Travel time from Berlin’s Central Station: 30 minutes with the RE1 or RE7.

Why you should visit.  Potsdam is officially referred to as “the city of castles and gardens”. Isn’t that a promising start? If you love history, culture or simply taking breathtaking pictures , do not skip out on this destination! And being so close, you can actually go on multiple day trips from Berlin to Potsdam, if you so choose.

Day Trips from Berlin to Other German Cities & Towns

Travel time from Berlin’s Central Station: 3h05 hours with the ICE.

Why you should visit. It may take a bit longer to reach Bamberg, but the 3.5 hours train journey is well worth it. Bamberg is a stunning medieval town, designed over the centuries to resemble both Venice and Rome.

Like Rome, Bamberg has 7 hills providing sweeping views over the 13th century old town. Like Venice, you’ll find yourself crossing ornate bridges as you explore the Altstadt ‘s intricate laneways. Make sure you stop at at least one cafe to refuel – Bamberg arguably has the best selection between Munich and Berlin. And don’t forget a relaxing boat ride along the river!

With ICE trains running every hour, you can leave as early as you wish and return quite late to get up to a good 12 hours in the city. Of course, this applies to summer day trips. As we all know, the sun likes to disappear around 4 pm in the winter.

Travel time from Berlin’s Central Station: 2 hours by train or 2.5 hours by bus.

Why you should visit.  Once the seat of Saxon royalty, the Dresden of today is one of Germany’s most visited destinations. Although much of the city was destroyed during World War II, Dresden was rebuilt to exactly replicate its former glory.

As you wander around the Old Dresden, you’ll have stunning cathedrals and palaces at every turn. Dresden is as captivating during the day as it is at night, with all the monuments and heritage buildings lit up after dark. 

Travel time from Berlin’s Central Station: 2h40 with the ICE.

Why you should visit.  Erfurt is a great place to experience more “traditional Germany”. Day trips from Berlin to Erfurt consist of strolling alongside  rows and rows of half-timbered houses. In fact, Erfurt boasts the oldest merchant bridge in Europe, entirely covered by half-timbered homes. Today, people still live and work in the houses on the bridge. This instantly makes Erfurt one of my top day trips from Berlin!

The first time I visited Erfurt, I arrived at around 11 in the morning and the bridge was already crawling with tourists. The second time, I was able to get to the Old Town by 8 AM and had the medieval squares and Krämerbrücke all to myself.

Travel time from Berlin’s Central Station: 3.5 hours

Why you should visit.  Freiberg is a great option if you’re looking for day trips from Berlin that change from the pace of big city life. The university town has existed for over 800 years, and today, the centre is a UNESCO heritage site. Freiberg has many cafes, a colourful, tidy town square and cobble stone streets, as well as a palace and several museums.

While you’re there, don’t miss the Tierpark Freiberg. This zoo is home to over 170 animals, ranging from local farm animals and pets to more exotic species. All the animals have plenty of space to roam. Entry and parking are free.

Travel time from Berlin’s Central Station: 2h40 with the RE2, followed by the RB65.

Why you should visit. Görlitz will leave you dreaming! The old town is in perfect movie set condition, with ornate residences, a cathedral with white steeples and one of the most beautiful – and complete – libraries in the world. In fact, many famous movies were filmed in Görlitz: The Book Thie f and The Grand Budapest Hotel among them.

Plus, you can simply walk across a bridge and be in the Polish town of Zgorzelec. 

Travel time from Berlin’s Central Station: 1h40 by ICE.

Why you should visit. The closest big city to Berlin, Hamburg has much for visitors to see. The famous Elbphilarmonie , Hamburg’s futuristic philharmonic orchestra, watches over water’s edge. Some of the world’s largest cargo and cruise ships dock in the port.

Plenty of lovely cafes and restaurants are tucked away off the main boulevards. And while you’re here, don’t forget to buy some fish and chips at eat them at the marina to soak up the Portside atmosphere.

Travel time from Berlin’s Central Station: 2h30 with the ICE and local S-Bahn.

Why you should visit. This one is for lovers of the great outdoors. The village of Königstein is nestled in the mountains of Saxon Switzerland. You can easily combine a day of exploring the village with a hike up Pfaffenstein .

At the same time, you’ll be transported out of Germany to the Swiss Alps. This part of Saxony is aptly named; it really does feel as though you could run into Heidi at any moment.

Travel time from Berlin’s Central Station: 2h20 via ICE and local S-Bahn.

Why you should visit.  Pirna is a lovely town on the Elbe River and the gateway to Saxon Switzerland and a local wine region. Visit the charming old town’s ivy clad buildings or make your way up to the Landschloss Zuschendorf – a palace surrounded by botanical gardens.

Quedlinburg

Travel time from Berlin’s Central Station: 3h15 hours with the RE1, followed by the RE11.

Why you should visit.  Quedlinburg is another one of those day trips from Berlin that is well worth the 3-hour journey. All you have to do is see one photo of Quedlinburg, and you’ll most likely want to visit ASAP.  Or at least, that was my case!

The UNESCO World Heritage site is half-timbered heaven: a perfect introduction to this architectural style, especially for non-European visitors. You’ll find half-timbered homes from 5 different centuries here. The oldest building in town (and one of the oldest in Germany) dates back to the 1300s.

Escape to the Sea for the Day

Travel time from Berlin’s Central Station: 2h40 via ICE

Why you should visit.  I was pleasantly surprised to discover this coastal suburb of Rostock. Warnemünde is a traditional German holiday destination and gateway to 15 km of sandy beaches.

If you’re ever in the mood for a beach day but cannot leave Germany (Corona, I’m looking at you), grab your sunscreen and hop aboard the ICE to Warnemünde. You’ll get all the coastal atmosphere you can absorb.

Now you know that day trips from Berlin include getting some Vitamin Sea!

International Day Trips from Berlin

Szczecin, poland.

Travel time from Berlin’s Gesundbrunnen Station: 1h50 with the RE66

Why you should visit.  If you love pretty squares, palaces that look a little bit like wedding cakes and delicious food, you should go to Szczecin. Even visiting on a cold February day did not dampen my joy at being in this lovely city.

For the perfect Instagram snap, do not miss Stare Miasto. In all fairness, you’ll likely stumble upon it as you amble around the old town.

Zgorzelec, Poland

Travel time from Berlin’s Central Station: 3.5 hours transiting through Görlitz, where you can catch a local train for the rest of the journey. But you can also get off the train in Görlitz, walk through the Old Town and cross the border on foot (it takes about 20 minutes to walk from Görlitz’s train station to Zgorzelec).

Why you should visit.  If you’re looking for offbeat day trips from Berlin, I highly recommend Zgorzelec. Grittier than Szczecin but wielding its own charm. In fact, if you like the grungier side of Berlin, you’ll like Zgorzelec. The architecture is gorgeous and there are plenty of hideaways along the Neisse River where you can relax and unwind in nature. Not to mention cafes tucked away in basements serving delicious home-made pierogis. 

I wandered around a lot in areas where people did not speak German and loved every minute of truly being in a foreign country, even if I was just across the border.

Poznań, Poland

Travel time from Berlin’s Central Station: just under 3 hours via direct train (EC 59)

Why you should visit. The grand city of Poznań is one of the oldest in Poland, with a splendid Renaissance old town and a thriving business district. The sights are endless, with the Imperial Castle, the vibrant Old Market Square and a Gothic cathedral figuring prominently among them. While you can knock off the top sights in a day, it might be even better to spend the weekend in Poznań .

Děčín, Czech Republic

Travel time from Berlin’s Central Station: 2h40 via direct train (EC 379).

Why you should visit. Děčín’s castle on the cliffs is enough to get me on a train. If you’re an architecture lover, you’ll also appreciate the beauty of the Old Synagogue, or simply strolling around town. Undoubtedly one of the most romantic day trips from Berlin, Děčín is set on the Elbe River and surrounded by hills,.

Save Money on Day Trips from Berlin by Train

Best of all, day trips from Berlin do not have to be expensive! If you book a one-day train pass courtesy of Deutsche Bahn, you can travel all across Germany with up to 5 friends. Each additional person (up to 5) will only cost a fraction more of the price of a single ticket. Please note that the Quer-Durchs-Land-Ticket is only valid aboard region trains, however.

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Which Day Trips from Berlin Are Your Top Picks?

As you can see, there are so many day trips from Berlin easily accessible by train. There truly is something for every taste! From beautiful old cities to nature retreats, you’ll quickly be able to escape Berlin – even if you’re only free for the day. Let me know in the comments which excursion you’ll be going on first!

22 thoughts on “ 19 Best Day Trips from Berlin: Hidden Gems & Popular Routes ”

I am planning to visit Germany, France, and the UK in 2021. Hopefully, the pandemic will be over by then. Saving this informative post for the future. Thank you.

These are all beautiful countries! I hope you do make it over here post-pandemic and plan enough time in the Berlin area 🙂 So glad you found this post helpful!

Great list of day trips! I really wanted to visit Dresden, but just didn’t make it. Now I am really bummed I didn’t. Poznan is one of my favorite villages in Poland. Thanks for sharing!

I love Germany so much! Next time I’m there, I definitely want to get to Berlin and explore the surrounding area. All of these towns look so beautiful! 🙂

I was hoping to plan a trip to Berlin next year and was going to research some unique day trips. So this post has come in handy and I’ll be taking your tips on board!

I have been to Berlin 3 times but the only other cities I visited in this list is Hamburg. I really loved this city! Glad you shared a ton of inspiration!

I love all these day trip suggestions! Each place is so charming! You’ve given me so much inspiration for my Europe bucket list!

Great post. Will definitely come in handy when I get to Germany. Bamberg looks particularly beautiful. I’d love to visit Hamburg as we’ll pinned!

I love the details you put into this! I am from Berlin and these are some great tips. Thanks for sharing 🙂

Great post! Dresden looks stunning. Adding it to my bucket list ASAP!!

Super useful article for us as my boyfriend is from Berlin (we live in Paris) so we spend a lot of time there. We have done a few of your recommendations but it gives ideas for the next trips it’s great!

Great list, I loved the international ideas too. I’ve been to Berlin twice but I only did Potsdam as a day trip. I need to go back and do more.

I love Freiburg! I need to visit Germany again so I can visit some of these places! Thanks for all of these great ideas 🙂

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Wow so many things I wouldn’t have thought to do or go see! Thanks for all the great info!

• Pingback: 19 Top Bamberg Activities: Discover a Fairytale Town | Berlin & Around

Quedlinburg can really be recommended 🙂

You shared some great day trips! I really like how you structured this post btw, it’s super easy to find day trips based on how much time you have. Hamburg and Potsdam are my two faves on this list!

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Your vivid descriptions and insightful tips make each place come alive, making it easier for readers like me to plan unforgettable day getaways. From charming castles to picturesque lakeshores, your suggestions offer a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Your passion for travel and exploration shines through in every word, inspiring us all to embark on these exciting journeys. Thank you for sharing these hidden gems and for giving us the ultimate guide to making the most of our time around Berlin!

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Home » Travel Guides » Germany » 15 Best Day Trips from Berlin

15 Best Day Trips from Berlin

Berlin is a cosmopolitan, hipster-cool capital, with historic sites and modern attractions in equal measure. Here lies the Berlin Wall, with its epic street art; here stand some of the most exclusive and elusive clubs in Europe; here is World War II history in the Reichstag and Checkpoint Charlie; here is modern art and spectacular art galleries.

Berlin is a great place to spend some time on a European adventure, if you’re looking for a place with diverse appeal, great food and epic nightlife.

But if you want to explore further afield, then there’s plenty to do in its surrounds as well.

Here are fifteen fantastic day trips that you should make from the German capital.

1. Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp

A visit to Sachsenhausen is certainly a worthwhile, if sobering, addition to your Berlin itinerary.

The closest camp to the capital, at Sachsenhausen you can take a tour of the premises, and learn more about the horrific reality of life at a Nazi concentration camp.

It might leave you feeling sad rather than uplifted, but this day trip certainly provides a worthwhile history lesson, and the poignant memorial displays are well worth a visit.

‘Arbeit macht frei’ (work will set you free) still hangs imposingly above the entrance.

Just a short hop from Berlin lies pretty Potsdam, with its intriguing Dutch Quarter, the Russian-influenced Alexandrovka, and the main attraction: Sanssouci palace.

The city as a whole is beautiful, but the palace really takes the biscuit, with its beautiful Chinese teahouse, extensive gardens, and the New Palace in pride of place.

Sanssouci certainly gives the Palace of Versailles in France a run for its money.

Spend as much time as possible wandering round and soaking up the atmosphere, before heading back on a coach to Berlin.

Just two hours from Berlin sits the pretty riverside city of Dresden.

Theatres, castles, and beautiful buildings a-plenty characterise this southwest German gem.

Take some time to stroll through the main squares – Theaterplatz and Schlossplatz – and cross the Augustus Bridge to get a view out along the river.

A visit to the Old Town won’t go amiss, either: don’t neglect to visit the old market square and the new market.

Dresden is eminently walkable, so make sure you’ve grabbed your comfiest trainers for this fantastic day trip.

4. Lehnitz Sea

From Tegel, you can take a boat trip all the way out to Lehnitz Sea, passing through the calm waters of Berlin’s surrounds.

You’ll float on down through the Tegel Sea, the Oberhavel and pass through the Lehnitz Lock on the Oder-Havel Canal.

Sit back, relax and enjoy the ride as you explore Berlin’s extensive waterways, finally getting a glimpse of Friedrichsthal and Malz at the trip’s furthest point before making your way back to the capital.

It’s a great choice if you need a break: the calm waters of the canals will soothe your soul.

5. Rüdersdorf

By boat, you can make it all the way to Rüdersdorf from Berlin in a day – a great chance to explore its famous Museum Park.

En route you could also choose to stop off at the cute historic towns of Köpenick and Friedrichshagen, whose rustic buildings and laid back pace of life are sure to appeal.

The riverside journey is a fantastic way to discover more of rural Germany, from the extensive waterways of the Müggelsee to the quaint habitations that fringe the water.

Get your camera out and keep it handy, for you’ll certainly want to get snap-happy on this cruise.

Wannsee often finds itself a spot on lists of best day trips from Berlin, and it’s easy to see why.

The largest European inland beach is ever-popular among tourists and locals alike, and sometimes it can be hard to find yourself a spot to lay your towel.

Even still, it’s a great day trip – especially in summer when you can soak up the sunshine, swim and simply relax.

Insider tip: just a little distance from Wannsee is the quieter spot of Kladow.

Just hop on a ferry and you’ll escape the crowds but still score the benefits of the sandy-shored lakes and tranquil grasslands.

Under two hours by train from the capital, if you feel like a change of scenery but don’t want to stray beyond the city life, perhaps Hamburg is a good option for you.

It’s very different from Berlin, as a port city, but it’s got more than enough to field an entertaining trip out from the capital.

Hamburg certainly has atmosphere to be soaked up as you meander among the boats tied up in the harbour, or explore the famous fish market.

The UNESCO World Heritage status earned by Germany’s second-largest city in 2015 is well-deserved.

And, for something more thrilling, you can check out Heide Park to experience the twists and turns of its rollercoasters – both wooden and steel.

Saxony’s largest city is surprisingly cool: more chilled out and much cheaper than the capital, it has begun to attract Germany’s young creatives, and this certainly shows.

The Altstadt (old town) is well worth a look round, with its impressive Saxon architecture.

Leipzig also holds a lot of cultural appeal in its museum offerings: with options from Bach to fine art, most will be able to find something to tempt them.

There are also lots of great restaurants in the city, and some excellent street art.

9. Pfaueninsel

Pfaueninsel, or Peacock Island, provides something a little different for a diverting day trip.

Just 1.5km in length, and a mere 0.5km wide, Peacock Island makes for easy exploration, yet it still provides plenty to do.

Spend time marvelling at its historic buildings such as the Kavaliershaus, and of course, pointing out the island’s many peacocks.

Peacock Island Castle is another key draw, built in the late 18th century by Frederick William II. It’s amazing how much is packed into this tiny stretch of land.

10. Spreewald

This picturesque forest is a real steal of a day trip – you’ll likely encounter more locals than tourists among the trees.

There’s hardly a better place to get back to nature so close to Berlin, and Spreewald has trails a-plenty for walking, cycling and exploring by water.

Hiring kayaks is a fun, unusual option for discovering the UNESCO-protected nature reserve, if you feel like a change from endless wandering by foot.

Stop off at the lagoon village of Lehde, or the cute fishing village of Leipe, for a peek at rural German life at its most peaceful.

11. Tropical islands resort

A strange concept for a resort, perhaps, but Tropical Islands is a fantastic place to spend the day with the family, once you’ve exhausted all the manifold cultural attractions around the capital.

Make this a day to relax, and splash about in the largest indoor pool in Europe.

Housed inside an old aircraft hangar, the Tropical Islands resort has plenty to keep kids and adults alike occupied for the day – waterfalls, lagoons and a tempting array of waterslides.

12. Wandlitzsee

The lido in Wandlitzsee is a bit of a hidden spot – but it’s so close to Berlin that you wouldn’t believe it.

It’s certainly a relaxing place to spend a day out: simply pack a picnic and soak in the tranquillity of the lakeside area.

If you feel like doing something more active, there are rowing boats available for hire, and of course there are plenty of swimming options – as well as diving boards if that floats your boat.

There are different areas to set up camp, so if you’d prefer a bit more of an escape, you can head further round the lake for more peace and quiet.

13. Brandenburg an der Havel

Brandenburg an der Havel is just the thing for outdoor lovers, with its lakes, nature and myriad walkable attractions.

The town centre is worth having a look around, and for a thrilling ride visitors should hop on the small tram that hurtles around the streets.

Check out the old market square, marvel at the stilted constructions on the riverside – and if you’re still looking for things to do, then browse the local wine shop, Belmondo.

Take yourself up to the highest point of the city for spectacular views of greenery interspersed with red roofs peeking through.

14. Saxon Switzerland National Park

On the fringes of the Elbe River lies Saxon Switzerland National Park – a popular spot for German locals, but lesser known by the tourist masses.

Densely forested paths trickle throughout the park, but one of the key highlights of the place is the Bastei Bridge.

Crafted among the limestone pillars that the park is famous for, the bridge forms an imposing and impressive mark on the landscape.

There are great views from the bridge itself, too: panoramic vistas of the tree-carpeted Elbe Valley.

15. Devil’s Bridge

As the name might suggest, the Devil’s bridge (Rackotzbrücke in German) is another place where the main attraction is a bridge.

Arching attractively over the water, if you see it from just the right spot in calm waters you can get a great picture of a perfectly circular reflection – and in autumn, the red and gold of the trees show the place in a gorgeous backdrop.

It’s housed in the Azalea and Rhododendron park, was commissioned in 1860 – and has been delighting visitors ever since.

15 Best Day Trips from Berlin:

• Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp
• Lehnitz Sea
• Pfaueninsel
• Tropical islands resort
• Wandlitzsee
• Brandenburg an der Havel
• Saxon Switzerland National Park
• Devil’s Bridge

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Home » Europe » 12 Most Incredible Day Trips In Berlin [2024 GUIDE]

12 Most Incredible Day Trips In Berlin [2024 GUIDE]

Berlin is a hip and captivating city. Once you’ve thoroughly explored the vibrant culture, incredible food and historic landmarks of the enigmatic capital city, you might want to spread your wings a little and see more of Germany.

Luckily there are many incredible day trips from Berlin in the pursuit of adventure and new experiences. There are also heaps of half-day trips if you’re short on time too.

If you find yourself in love with Berlin, then you’d enjoy spending a day in Leipzig, a city that exudes a similar coolness and charm but with a much more local vibe. You can also opt to take a half-day trip to the beautiful Potsdam and rejoice in the views of Dutch Quarters, Sanssouci Palace.

When in Berlin, there’s a lot to see and do both in the city itself as well as within a few hours travel. You can not only take in the gritty streets of Berlin on your trip but you can see magnificent castles, charming lakeside villages, stunning palaces and some of the darker history of Germany too.

Here are 11 of the best tours and destinations just a few hours from the city.

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Half-Day Trips in Berlin

Full-day trips in berlin, final thoughts.

When you’re in Berlin, no time goes to waste! Even if you’ve only got a weekend or a few days on your hands to explore there are many memorable trips that are just an hour away from the city. 

These short Berlin day trips are fun, unforgettable, and best of all, they only take half a day! So you’ve got plenty of time to explore all the great things to do in Berlin as well as the surroundings.

Day Trip to Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp 

On July 12, 1936, the Third Reich transferred 50 prisoners to a location near Oranienburg to begin the construction of one of the first concentration camps in Germany. This became the infamous Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp which served as the primary death camp for the Berlin area. 

For all those visiting Berlin , this grim national memorial is a sorrowful sight not to be missed. Just a short 45-minute train ride from the city centre, the camp is a brutal and hard-hitting reminder of the worst time in human history. 

A sombre visit offers a glimpse of the sickening living conditions experienced by more than 200,000 people imprisoned here. See the grim reality of the gas chambers, Station Z and the punishment cells in an experience that will surely never leave your memory. Learn stories of both tragedy and heroism as you not only leave here moved in sorrow but inspiration too. 

For a more detailed and historic insight, you can also take a guided tour and learn more deeply about the dark past and all the horrific events that went down in the very place you stand. Whether you are a history buff or just someone visiting with family, this camp is a sobering reminder of what should never be repeated.

Suggested trips – Private Tour to Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Memorial , Small-Group Sachsenhausen Memorial Walking Tour

Day Trip to Muskau Park, Bad Muskau

Bad Muskau is a spa town in Germany just two hours away from Berlin. One of its top attractions is the legendary Muskau Park, a mesmerizing UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its landscaped gardens and classic Neo-Renaissance German castle make the magical site feel more like a fairytale. 

Muskau Park is kingly, magnificent, and breathtaking. Much of the credit for creating this masterpiece goes to the horticulture designer, Prince Pueckler. He designed the park after being influenced by landscape paintings and used only local plants to enhance and merge with the surrounding landscape.

Muskau Park offers such a different ambience and scenery than urban Berlin. The quiet and serene grounds, with their tranquil landscape and lush English Garden, are a perfect escape. Meander the paths that criss-cross this idyllic park before coming across the striking Schloss Muskau dating back to 1815.   While this makes for a perfect half-day trip if you find yourself enamoured by Bad Muskau and need another day to explore the town, stay at the highly-rated Am Schloßbrunnen, located just minutes away from the park.

Day Trip to the Tropical Islands

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of visiting Berlin ? The wall, checkpoint charlie, The Brandenburg Gate… or what about flamingos and palm trees?! Yeah, you read that right! Whatever time of year you’re visiting, pack your budgie smugglers because you’re in for a tropical treat! 

Just an hour from the city, there’s a whole other world to discover, one that seems out of place in Northern Europe! Here is the world’s largest indoor waterpark where you can take a Caribbean-style mini-vacation in the Tropical Islands Resort in Krausnick and be back in your bed before bedtime! 

The tropical resort came to life when a former Soviet aircraft hangar was transformed into a resort where it’s summer all year round. Once you walk through the doors you’d be forgiven for thinking you were in the depths of the rainforest. With a constant balmy temperature, it’s no wonder the Tropical Islands are a popular place to escape the brutal Berlin winter.  

You’ll find 13 different bars and restaurants at your service for after your adventure. That’s not all. If you end up changing your mind about heading back home, you can also choose accommodation in the Tropical Island Resort with themes such as South America, Africa, or Asia-Pacific. 

Day Trip to Spreewald 

Berlin is one of the coolest cities in the world and is well known for its energetic character. The lively ambience of the city is certainly one of its charms, but now and then there comes a time when you want to escape the concrete, tall buildings and noise. Thankfully less than two hours from the city you can unwind amidst an ancient forest and explore the many peaceful waterways. 

Spreewald is a picturesque biosphere reserve with breathtaking views and endless opportunities for adventure. This day trip from Berlin promises pure relaxation and serenity amongst nature, it’s the perfect escape after a few days exploring the exhilarating but often exhausting capital. 

One of the most popular ways of exploring the canals and waterways of Spreewald is on Kahn – a punt-like boat. You can also go kayaking or explore the beautiful location while on the many incredible bike trails. There are also many opportunities for hiking and camping here should you want to indulge more in the natural surroundings. 

There’s a lot to do in this quaint retreat, you can spend half a day here and still have so much more to see. If you end up extending your stay, we would highly recommend choosing quality accommodations such as Hotel Ebusch for the night.

Day Trip to Neuruppin, Germany

One of the loveliest little towns in Germany, it’s located just an hour northwest of Berlin. It might be little, but this town was the birthplace of one of the biggest German poets and writers in Theodor Fontane whose work often spoke of the beauty of his hometown. 

What makes this town even more beautiful is its lakeside location. The best way to enjoy this town is to take a stroll along its old town centre and behold the well-preserved historic architecture. Along your stroll, you’ll also find local markets and food stalls as well as the historic St. Trinity Church, which dates back to 1246, along the waterfront promenade. 

Finish your trip with an easy and relaxed afternoon by the lake, you can even take a dip in the waters depending on the time of the year or your levels of bravery! The town also offers hiking and cycling in forests surrounding the idyllic ‘Ruppiner See’. If the history buff in you couldn’t help wanting to stay in one of these historic houses, we suggest booking this cosy city apartment near Lake Neuruppin for an unmatched experience.

Berlin is a magnificent city to visit , but it’s also buzzing and unrepentantly lively. If you want a break from the beautiful chaos of the German capital, we’ve got you covered. Escape from the city and find yourself amidst the serene lakes and scenic forests of Germany, all within a few hours’ drive from Berlin. 

Day Trip to Potsdam

When busy Berlin makes you crave quietness and solitude, the best place to run away is just 30 minutes by train. Potsdam has so much to offer its visitors so you’ll need an entire day to explore the World Heritage city with its palaces and parks belonging to the Prussia kings. 

While this city has its place in the history books as the home to some of the most significant historical events. It also has a serenity and stillness about it which makes visiting here all the more special.  

On your trip to Potsdam, you must visit Sanssouci, the summer home of Frederick the Great, former King of Prussia. From there, continue to explore the enormous Sanssouci Park, surrounding the palace. Not to be missed in Potsdam are the Dutch Quarters – an entire neighbourhood of beautiful Dutch-style homes. Another point of interest in the city is Cecilienhof, the final palace of the House of Hohenzollern. 

Every step of the city tells a story that took place centuries ago. If you are especially tickled by history and the old sovereign rulers, Potsdam is an excellent choice for one of your Berlin day trips.

Suggested trips – Discover Potsdam

Day Trip to Dresden

Dresden often doesn’t get its due credit, it is in fact one of the greatest Baroque cities in the world. If you are especially a fan of stunning old-world European architecture then you’ll love it. There’s a good reason behind it being nicknamed “the Florence on the Elbe”. 

It would be a shame not to visit the charming city of Dresden when you are just a little over two hours away in Berlin. A stroll along the vibrant riverfront and into the Old Town takes you back to the grand past of this magnificent city. It really does make for an excellent weekend day trip from Berlin.

In Dresden, the biggest point of interest is the Zwinger Palace, which is believed to be inspired by Versailles with its ornate gardens, courtyards and houses. 

Another highlight is the magnificent Frauenkirche with its impressive stone dome and 67-metre-tall viewing platform. Some of the most majestic buildings in Germany are located in the city square of Schloßplatz. It is here that you’d stumble across the famous Dresden Cathedral. If you still have time, don’t miss out on the Semperoper opera house and the Brühl’s Terrace promenade by the Elbe River.

Suggested trips – Dresden Highlight – Big City Tour with Bike ,  Dresden Private Walking Tour , Dresden City Tour with Hotel Pick up and Drop off

With a Berlin City Pass , you can experience the best of Berlin at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Day Trip to the Azalea and Rhododendron Park, Kromlau

If off the beaten path adventures and hidden gems are something you crave on your travels, then this is the day trip from Berlin for you. This spot is the perfect place to de-stress and unwind. The serenity and beauty it offers make it a hard place to part from! 

To reach the famed Devil’s Bridge in Azalea and Rhododendron Park, you’d need to drive or take a train to the small town of Kromlau – located on the border of Germany and Poland. The distance is easily covered in just over two hours.  

From there, make your way to the 200-acre park, and behold the sight of Rakotzbrücke (Devil’s Bridge). The bridge is shaped in a semicircle, the other half being completed by the reflection in the water. Legend has it that this bridge was built by the devil himself!

The best thing about this trip is that it’s not actually all that popular despite how magnificent it is. This means that the peace and tranquillity you come here to experience is unlikely to be spoiled by hordes of tourists.

If you get the chance, be sure to visit in Spring as the park is in full bloom with red, yellow and purple hues. While you’re visiting this magical place, enjoy comfortable accommodations in the Grüne Villa , which is only 8 minutes away from the infamous Devil’s bridge.

Day Trip to Magdeburg

The lesser-known city of Magdeburg is often overshadowed by its more popular neighbouring cities. Make no mistake though because though it might be less popular, Magdeburg is by no means boring. If anything, it is the complete opposite! 

This humble city is just a short train ride away from Berlin and is one of the oldest cities in Germany – 1200 years old to be exact. The entire city is steeped in history and anyone would feel revered strolling down its streets. 

This is a day trip from Berlin that will forever be stamped on your memory. In the past, Magdeburg held a special position in the ancient Holy Roman Empire. You’ll find evidence of this in all the cathedrals dotted around the city and the large numbers of Emperors buried there.   

The best way to explore this remarkable city is by biking or strolling down the streets and observing all the gothic medieval architecture from up-close. All the modern additions in the city serve as a reminder of the bombings of World War II that partially destroyed it. The past and present are interwoven on the streets of Magdeburg. 

You need a whole day to explore this amazing city, so make sure your accommodation for the night is comfortable and aesthetically pleasing like a Condo in Helles Apartment .

Day Trip to Leipzig 

A trip south to the city of Leipzig is a classic day trip from Berlin. Leipzig is a lot like the capital, but it has a character and charm of its own that makes it stand out. For all those who fall head over heels in love with Berlin (and who doesn’t), a visit to Leipzig is sure to be a roaring success! 

You can take an express train from Berlin and reach Leipzig in just 90 minutes. The first thing you’ll notice once you jump off the train is the distinct architecture of the old East German style. That, combined with the university culture, youth population, cheap cafes and markets, guarantees good times even on a budget.   

This city has everything to entertain the adventurous traveller with the touch of the past and an alternative look at Germany beyond the palaces and castles. Here it’s all about cutting-edge attitudes combined with that Eastern Bloc aesthetic. There’s lots to explore and enjoy in Leipzig beyond the cold war, the city is also famous for the timeless music of Bach, Mendelssohn and Wagner.  

Suggested trips – Leipzig Private Walking Tour , Leipzig: 70-Minute Motorboat Canal Sightseeing Cruise

Day Trip to Rüdersdorf

How about taking a unique day trip from Berlin on a boat rather than by train or road. You can make a memorable trip to Rüdersdorf from Berlin through the waterways. 

This mode of travel brings a whole new level of adventure, and the trip becomes just as exciting as the destination itself. Located on the outskirts of the city the journey gives you an alternative look at many areas you might have otherwise missed.    

Make your first stop at the Museum Park and watch firsthand how limestone is extracted from the largest deposit in Germany. Go back in time and see the industrial heritage of the town and marvel at the historic architecture here used over centuries by hard-working miners. Limestone has been mined and processed here for over 765 years and it was from here the materials that make the Brandenburg gate came from. 

Rüdersdorf is also just the place for outdoorsy people and you can spend some time by the lake at Flakensee or visit Woltersdorfer Schleuse, the historic water lock, and the pedestrian bridge along the scenic canal. 

Once you reach Rüdersdorf, book into a snug little room in Gästehaus am Kleinen Stienitzse . Once you are well-rested, get ready to explore this diverse district.

Day Trip to Brandenburg an der Havel 

If you are fond of nature, have a desire to explore new places or fernweh as Germans’ would call it, then we suggest planning a trip to Brandenburg An Der Havel. This federal state of Germany is less than two hours away from Berlin and is flanked by the stunning Westhavelland Nature Park.

Here you’d find picturesque lakes, historic charm and an off the beaten track city to explore away from large groups of tourists. It’s a perfect spot for those backpacking through Germany .

Begin your weekend in Brandenburg An Der Havel by visiting the famed gothic Brandenburg Cathedral and behold the architecture of the 11 th century. Another stunning piece of historical architecture is the Old Town Hall that dates back to 1470. You can also explore the remains of the medieval fortifications of Brandenburg, four towers still remain, the most impressive is the 17-metre cylindrical Plauer Torturm.

Suggested Trips –  Walking tour of Brandenburg an der Havel

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

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Don’t Forget your Berlin Travel Insurance

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

With such a vast array of choices on offer to explore both within and around Berlin, you’ll have some tough decisions to make. It’s one of the reasons Berlin is a city you just seem to be drawn back to time and time again whether you come to Berlin for a weekend or much longer.  

Berlin has not only so much to take in but it’s situated so close to some of Germany’s ultimate attractions. If you’re visiting during the cold Berlin winter you might be tempted to head straight for the Tropical Islands Resort after exploring the city’s streets. It’s a great escape and a fun way to recharge and combine a city break with a more conventional holiday!  

However, if you want to explore the wonders of Germany out in the open air then take the revitalising journey to Azalea and Rhododendron Park. This mesmerizing retreat in nature, with few souls around, allows you to truly escape somewhere magical. 

But we’ll be honest, there’s no place on this list that you will regret going to, whichever you end up choosing! When planning your day trips, be sure to pick an area of Berlin close to public transport so you can maximise your time.  

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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19 Unmissable Day Trips From Berlin, Germany (by Train!)

Created On: August 25, 2022   |   Updated: April 4, 2024   |   4 Comments

Looking to escape Berlin for the day? Here are the best day trips from Berlin by train. All are easy to reach and make for an awesome day out!  

This post contains affiliate links. We may receive a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on one of these links. You can read our full affiliate disclosure here .

I’ve lived in Berlin since 2019 and while I adore being in the hustle and bustle of the city, sometimes I just need to escape the city for the day. Lucky for me, there are so many day trips out of Berlin. Unluckily for me, a lot of these types of posts that have been shared online require you to own or rent a car to reach destinations outside of the city.

For those of you who also don’t have a car and don’t feel like dropping the cash on a rental, I’ve created a list of the top day trips from Berlin that can be reached via train or public transport (book your tickets via the Deutsche Bahn website or through Omio ). And because I love you, I even ordered the list by length of travel time. You’re welcome.

I’ve visited every Berlin day trip destination shared in this post, so I can personally vouch for each and every one of them being awesome. When possible, I’ve linked to my ultra detailed city guides to make planning your day trip even easier.

Note that all of these day trips out of Berlin are a maximum of 2.5 hours away from the main train station (you may have to take the ICE, as a heads up). If traveling to a day trip destination takes longer than that, it’s just far too long of a day for me!

Table of Contents

Click “show” to see the full table of contents for this post. You can jump around the post as desired by clicking on the individual sections listed below.  

Berlin Day Trips by Public Transport

If you’re looking for short day trips from Berlin, you’ll likely want to limit your search to cities in Brandenburg. The following day trip ideas are accessible with Berlin’s public transport system (win!), so you don’t have to buy an extra train ticket.

Just note that you DO need to purchase an ABC zone ticket to visit the places listed below. You can use any BVG ticket machine to buy an ABC zone ticket.

Travel time: 35 minutes

Potsdam is my all-time favorite day trip to take from Berlin. Potsdam is accessible via the S7 line as well as the RE1. The highlight of any trip to Potsdam is a visit to the stunning Sanssouci Park . Within this park, you’ll find Sanssouci Palace — an opulent palace built in the Rococo style for Frederick the Great that helped garner Potsdam the nickname “ Versailles of Germany .”

Other favorite places to visit in Potsdam include the Dutch Quarter, Cecilenhof (where the 1945 Potsdam Conference took place), Babelsberg Castle (shown above), and the historic city center.

Oranienburg

Travel time: 45 minutes

At the far end of the S1 line, you’ll find the town of Oranienburg. In this peaceful suburb of Berlin are the haunting remains of the Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp, now an open-air museum and memorial.

Sachsenhausen was conceived as an “ideal concentration camp” and played a special role in Hitler’s Third Reich. Between 1936 and 1945, it’s estimated that more than 200,000 people were imprisoned here. Of those, only about 3,000 were eventually liberated by Soviet forces at the end of the war.

Entrance to Sachsenhausen is free. The exhibits detail the history of the camp and some of the prisoners who lived and died there. The historic prison building has been almost wholly preserved and is open to visitors.

This isn’t a day trip to be taken lightly, but it’s certainly the most important on this list.

Berlin Day Trips by Train

I’ve tried to be as methodical as possible when compiling this list of the best day trips from Berlin by train. The day trip ideas work their way from the closest to Berlin to the furthest away, and I’ve done my best to list the various train options available to you.

Wittenberg (Lutherstadt) 

Travel time by train: 45 minutes via ICE, 1 hour 30 minutes via regional train 

The name says it all! Wittenberg is the home of the Reformation. On October 31, 1517, Martin Luther nailed his Ninety-five Theses to the door of the Castle Church. 

As you can imagine, your day in Wittenberg will comprise primarily of key Reformation sites relating to Martin Luther and the city’s other famous reformer, Philipp Melanchthon. 

Must-see attractions in Wittenberg include: 

• Castle Church —including the famous Theses Door and the epic view from atop the church’s tower. 
• Assisi Panorama — provides a 360º experience that transports you back to 16th century Wittenberg. 
• Church of St. Marien — the “Mother Church of the Reformation.” This is where Luther preached. There’s also a stunning Reformation altar in the nave that was painted by Lucas Cranach the Elder and Lucas Cranach the Younger.  
• Luther House — where Martin Luther lived first as a monk, then with his family. The house now has exhibits on the history of the Reformation. 

Travel time by train: 1 hour via ICE

There are too many things to do in Leipzig to squeeze everything into a day trip, but you can see most of the historic city center in that time. Music lovers will be thrilled to learn that Leipzig was the home of Johann Sebastian Bach for nearly 30 years. It was at St. Thomas Church that the famous composer wrote some of his most famous works, such as the St. Matthew Passion.

Other highlights of a day trip to Leipzig include: the Völkerschlachtdenkmal (the Monument to the Battle of the Nations), the Grassi Museum, and the charming Old Town.

Brandenburg an der Havel

Travel time by train: 1 hour via regional train

An underrated day trip out of Berlin is the town of Brandenburg an der Havel (sometimes just called Brandenburg). This charming city isn’t a tourist hotspot whatsoever, so it’s a great place to come for a taste of authentic German culture!

Brandenburg is best known for its Gothic red brick buildings, quaint Old Town, and of course the beautiful Havel River that cuts through the city. There’s more to see than there is to do here — lots of places to pop your head into, not so much to book tickets for if you catch my drift. (Check out my favorite things to do in Brandenburg here !)

Keep an eye out for the bronze “Forest Pug” statues hidden throughout the city. They’re based on a cartoon by the German cartoonist Loriot, who was born and raised in Brandenburg. The pugs are life-sized and make for a fun scavenger hunt!

Ludwigslust

Travel time by train: 1 hour via ICE, 2 hours via regional train

Ludwigslust is a sleepy town north of Berlin. If you’re familiar with Schwerin, the town was built up by the same family who inhabited Schwerin Castle further north.

Ludwigslust is a true Berlin day trip in that there’s not a lot happening here so it’s the perfect get in, get out destination. The top three attractions (perhaps the only three attractions?) in Ludwigslust are the baroque castle, the castle park, and the main church.

Ludwigslust is famous for its papier-mâché decorations, called Ludwigslust Board. This special material was created as a substitute for stucco or wood.

I suggest bringing snacks and wearing comfy walking shoes as you can spend the better part of the afternoon picnicking and exploring the park behind the castle!

Braunschweig (Brunswick) 

Travel time by train: 1 hour 30 minutes via ICE

Braunschweig (called Brunswick in English) is often poo-pooed by Germans for being a less-than-interesting destination, but its rich history makes it an excellent day trip from Berlin. 

Why Braunschweig? For one thing, it served as the ducal residence of Henry the Lion in the 12th century — he’s the guy who founded Munich! — and you can visit his tomb within St. Blasii Cathedral. 

Next to the cathedral is Dankwarderode Castle ( Burg Dankwarderode ). It originally served as Henry the Lion’s residence, and today it contains the medieval collection of the Duke Anton Ulrich Museum (which I also recommend visiting, if you have the time!). 

Last but not least, you can’t visit Braunschweig without exploring the Magniviertel (Magni Quarter). It’s a small area packed with half-timbered houses, with the house at Ackerhof 2 boasting the oldest half-timbered inscription in the country (1432)! 

Travel time by train: 1 hour 45 minutes via regional train

One of Germany’s oldest cities, Magdeburg is best known for being the final resting place of Otto the Great, who served as Holy Roman Emperor from 962 until his death. You can visit Emperor Otto I’s grave at the Cathedral of Saints Maurice and Catherine , which also happens to be the first Gothic cathedral ever built in Germany.

In addition to your pilgrimage to Otto’s grave, I recommend visiting the Green Citadel (a bright pink, whimsical complex designed by architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser) as well as exploring the rest of the Old Town on foot.

Travel time by train: 1 hour 45 minutes via ICE

I’m lucky enough to have a friend who lives in Hamburg, so I visit this lovely port city at least twice per year. In a perfect world, you’d have three to four full days to explore Hamburg, but if that’s not the case then a day will do!

Some of my favorite things to do in Hamburg are: explore the historic city center, relax in Planten un Blomen, go up to the viewing platform of the Elbphilharmonie (shown above), and walk around the Außenalster.

This university city in northern Germany deserves more love and attention! I’ll admit, once you leave the cute Old Town area the city does become more industrial. But overall the city has a very laid back vibe and you can see a lot in just one day!

My recommendations for things to do in Hannover include touring Herrenhausen Palace and its gardens, popping into the Marktkirche, climbing the tower of the New Town Hall, and walking along the banks of the Machsee.

Often overlooked by tourists, Erfurt is the capital of the German state Thuringia. It’s not as pretty as its neighbor, Weimar (also on this list of day trips!), but it’s equally rich in history and you can easily fill an entire day here.

Top attractions to see in Erfurt include the  Cathedral of St. Mary , where Martin Luther was ordained, as well as the beautiful  Church of St. Severus . 

My favorite site in Erfurt is the  Merchants’ Bridge  ( Krämerbrücke , shown above), which is the longest series of inhabited buildings on any bridge in Europe. The merchants along the bridge still sell handmade crafts, spice blends, and more — it feels very authentic and not super touristy, to my delight!

You’ll also want to visit the  Old Synagogue , a beautifully preserved medieval synagogue in the heart of the city. 

Travel time by train: 2 hours via IC

Called the “Florence of the Elbe,” Dresden is known for its stunning Baroque architecture. One of the most beautiful buildings in Dresden is the Zwinger Palace , which was once an exhibition hall and festival grounds for the Dresden court. Today it houses three small museums.

In addition to Zwinger Palace, other fun things to do in Dresden include touring the Residenzschloss, visiting the Frauenkirche, and meandering around the Old Town.

Wismar is a more unique day trip out of Berlin to the Baltic Sea. The town truly looks like it came straight from a postcard , and it’s one of the loveliest spots to leisurely explore on foot — stopping for a spot of Kaffee und Kuchen  in the afternoon, of course!

I have an entire guide to Wismar that I recommend checking out, but my favorite spots in this quaint town are the Church of the Holy Spirit, the old harbor, and the market square. Wismar is also where the German department store chain Karstadt was founded , which obviously means it’s your duty to do a bit of window shopping while you’re in the area!

Travel time by train: 2 hours via IC / ICE, 2 hours 45 minutes via regional train

Rostock is yet another charming city in northern Germany, and it has a fascinating history. Post-WWII Rostock served as East Germany’s largest port. I know the Wall fell before my lifetime, but I still get chills every time I walk around cities that were formerly under Soviet control!

You can see Rostock’s top attractions simply by exploring the historic city center on foot. Definitely pop into St. Mary’s Church to see its 14th century astronomical clock — it still plays every day at noon and is hand wound twice per day! There are lots more lovely churches to see in Rostock, as well as plenty of shops and cafes.

Travel time by train: 2 hours 15 minutes (ICE to Erfurt, then switch to a regional train)

Berliners wanting a serious dose of culture need to make the day trip to Weimar. Two of Germany’s greatest literary talents, Goethe and Schiller, lived in Weimar and founded a literary movement known as “Weimar Classicism.”

Not a big fan of reading? Architecture buffs will also love Weimar, as it was the birthplace of the Bauhaus School. Founder Walter Gropius’ aim with the Bauhaus movement was to combine architecture, sculpture, and painting to create simpler and more affordable home designs for the blossoming post-war society. The Bauhaus Museum in Weimar attracts visitors from around the world and is really interesting to visit!

Other top attractions in Weimar include the ornate Anna-Amalia-Library, Goethe’s house, a quaint market square, and the lush Park an der Ilm.

Wolfenbüttel 

Travel time by train: 2 hours 20 minutes via ICE (will need to transfer trains in Braunschweig) 

Wolfenbüttel is a half-timbered paradise! An estimated 1,000 half-timbered houses populate the city center, so definitely bring your camera along. (It’s also the home of Jägermeister, but alas they no longer offer guided factory tours.) 

In addition to the half-timbered houses, I suggest touring Wolfenbüttel Castle (Schloss Wolfenbüttel). Half of the castle now houses a high school, but the other half remains decorated and provides an overview of Wolfenbüttel during the Baroque era. 

Be sure to admire the Herzog August Library (currently closed for renovations) after you’re done at the castle. 

St. Mary’s Church near the Kornmarkt is one of the prettiest churches I’ve visited in the region, so definitely pop in once you’ve had your fill of half-timbered houses. 

This is the only day trip destination that requires a train transfer — sorry! You’ll have to take the ICE to Braunschweig and then transfer to a regional service to travel the remaining 30 minutes to Wolfenbüttel. 

Travel time by train: 2 hours 30 minutes via IC (can also take the train to Rostock and then take Rostock’s public transportation further to Warnemünde)

For a proper day trip from Berlin to the Baltic Sea, head to Warnemünde! Warnemünde is a beachside town just 30 minutes away from Rostock. It boasts a 5-kilometer long white sand beach, which is where you’ll want to spend most of your time if the weather is decent.

Other things to do in Warnemünde include strolling along the Alter Strom, climbing the historic lighthouse for an epic view of the seaside, and walking along the beach promenade.

Travel time by train: 2 hours 30 minutes via regional train, 3 hours via ICE

Castle lovers, you have to visit Schwerin! The absolute must-see attraction in Schwerin is Schwerin Castle. It’s one of the top 5 castles I’ve ever visited … and I’ve visited a LOT. Other wonderful things to do in Schwerin are explore the castle gardens (also stunning!), visit the Staatliches Museum, and window shop in the Old Town.

If you’re visiting Schwerin as a Berlin day trip, you’ll want to spend most of your time at the castle and in the Old Town.

Travel time by train: 2 hours 30 minutes

Lübeck has it all — handmade marzipan, a massive Old Town, fabulous museums, and did I mention the marzipan? If you’re a history lover, Lübeck will be heaven for you as well. This small city played a big role in shaping Northern Germany as we know it today.

During the reign of King Frederick II, Lübeck became a free imperial city, created its own system of laws, and was self-governed. The “Laws of Lübeck” that the city used were adopted by over 100 cities in the area!

Some of the best things to do in Lübeck during your day trip are visit the St. Annen Museum (housed in a former priory), tour the Behnhaus Drägerhaus Museum, and get your window shopping on in the Old Town.

Bye Bye, Berlin!

If you’re ready to bust out of Berlin but can’t go on an extended vacation just yet, take a day trip! This list of the best day trips from Berlin, Germany should get the trip planning process started and best of all you can visit each of these places by train.

Please leave me a comment below with any questions you have about the destinations shared in this post, and I’d also love to hear any more Berlin day trip recommendations you have!

Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram to keep up with my daily adventures in Berlin and beyond!

More German Cities Worth Visiting:

• Day Trip Guide to Mainz, Germany
• Unmissable Things to Do in Aachen, Germany
• Fun Things to Do in Bremen, Germany
• Top Things to Do in Heidelberg, Germany
• All of my Germany recommendations!

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Comments & Reviews

July 29, 2023

Hi Claire,enjoyed reading your travel guide in and around Berlin.My sister and I age 65 and 71 are on a Company tour there in December 2023,thereafter will go our own way by train,to Krackow,for a couple of day’s.

I hope we will able to visit and explore a couple of place’s you have kindly listed. My question is,we will depart from Germany after we do our own tour of Auschwitz. Leaving from a hotel in Krackow.What would be your suggestion re flying or by train to Paris from what station if by train?I had a bit of a look around the train site,it was not easy.

Thank you Michelle from Australia

August 14, 2023

Hi Michelle! Taking the train even from Berlin to Paris would take close to 10 hours, so if you’ll be going from Poland to Paris I think flying would be quickest and easiest. If you buy tickets now, the prices shouldn’t be too bad, either! Enjoy your trip to Europe!

September 24, 2023

What is the best way to get to my Airbnb from the Berlin airport…I will be staying in the Mitte area. I don’t want to break the bank!

September 25, 2023

Hi Kathleen! I recommend taking the “Flughafen Express” (FEX) train from the airport to the central train station. You’ll need an ABC Zone ticket (costs 4 Euros) and the journey takes about 30 minutes. The FEX train runs every 30 minutes, I believe. Enjoy your visit to Berlin!

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15 Coolest Day Trips from Berlin in 2024

Who else is guilty of making the same New Years Resolutions every year? My resolutions come down to just a few things in essence: try to like running, consume less cheese, and finally become a grown-up. The fact that none of these things seem to ever happen is somehow reassuring (#foreveryoung).

This year I did try another resolution though: travel more within Germany .

For the past three years I’ve been feasting on this European buffet of fantastic countries, going to every place I had ever imagined. I’ve hit the big ones: France, Spain, Italy, England. I’ve hit some smaller ones too: Croatia, Denmark, Czech Republic. But the number of cities I’ve been to in Germany? I could count those on one lonely hand.

Luckily for anyone coming to Berlin and perusing this list, I didn’t get too ambitious with my Germany travel and instead have a bunch of amazing day trips from Berlin – most of which are within 2-3 hours of the city where you can go to unwind and take a break from the pervasive smell of Döner kebap.

You’ll find both Berlin excursions that get you into nature, as well as cities close to Berlin you can just enjoy for a different pace. I absolutely recommend adding a few day trips to your Berlin itinerary .

Are you sold? Let’s get started.

Best Berlin day trips

The easiest way to reach all of these places is by renting a car. Driving in Germany is much more straightforward than a lot of other European countries.

If you’re able to drive in Germany, I highly recommend DiscoverCars as someone who takes a lot of road trips in Europe.

Without further ado, here are the absolute best Berlin day trips I personally recommend, based on my experience living in the city for nearly 7 years.

1. Potsdam and Sanssouci Palace (The Versailles of Germany)

• Distance: 36 kilometers (22 miles)
• Travel time: 1 hour each way
• Reach by: Tour or public transit

Potsdam is a posh town right outside of Berlin, charming and worth strolling through, however the main draw is undoubtedly the Schloss Sanssouci (Sanssouci Palace).

If you’ve been to Versailles during a trip to Paris, you might notice some similarities right away. Sanssouci has large, dedicated gardens, as well as smaller buildings along the grounds that you can go up into. The interior isn’t as vast, but the design of the palace rooms is just as elaborate and showy.

A stop in Potsdam and Sanssouci is easily the most popular Berlin day trip for first-time visitors to the city, and for a good reason. It’s beautiful, affordable, and easy to reach.

Especially if you’ve been to Versailles you’ll appreciate when I say this: comparatively few tourists visit Sanssouci. You don’t have to push your way through to see everything or fight people for a photo. Instead, it’s possible to just walk through, do some reading, and learn some history!

That said, buying tickets in advance is highly recommend during the high Summer tourism season to avoid waiting in a long line. Tips on that below.

How to reach Potsdam from Berlin

To reach Potsdam, take the S-Bahn (S7) to the Potsdam Hauptbahnhof (Postdam Main Station). Directly in front of the stations are busses that will connect you to the palace.

But as with most historical areas, it can be 10x more interesting when you have someone to explain the history to you. Personally, I’m so much more likely to actually remember things from a tour as opposed to passively reading signs inside the palace. This particular Potsdam + Sanssouci tour includes an English-speaking guide, tickets to the palace, and 1,000+ positive reviews.

2. Harz Mountains

• Distance: 239 kilometers to Wernigerode (142 miles)
• Travel time: 2.5 hours each way
• Reach by: Car

Germany’s Harz Mountains is a stunning forest region located 2.5-3 hours west of Berlin. Here you’ll find some of the best-preserved medieval towns in the entire country. But if you love nature, then waterfalls, forest hikes, traditional German food, and blissfully poor cell phone reception all await you in Harz .

But there’s something even more incredible about Harz you might not expect…

The absolute lack of foreign tourists. German travelers flock to Harz to get a taste of traditional Germany, see famous locations from Goethe’s Faust , and to fulfill the stereotype of being obsessed with hiking.

But apart from a healthy dose of Danes, Harz has completely flown under the international tourism radar. Which is a little surprising given how Instagram-worthy its towns full of Fachwerkhäuser (half-timbered houses) are.

Take, for example, a look at this sinister-looking Rathaus (town hall) in Wernigerode .

We spent an entire week in Harz and still ran out of time to do everything. In a leisurely day trip, you could definitely make it to Wernigerode to see the town hall (above), hike to the castle (first photo), and visit a traditional brewery. If you wake up early with a car, you could probably also add Goslar and Quedlinburg to your trip and visit all three major in a super packed day.

Read my dedicated Harz Mountains guide for details on the Harz National Park, the best towns to visit, where to stay in Harz, and how to extend your trip for a week or weekend.

The Harz Mountains in Germany are a gorgeous highland area famous for forests, medieval towns, and witches of yore. Find out the best things to in Harz in this detailed travel guide.

How to get to Harz from Berlin

It’s best and fastest to get to Harz by car, which will shave 45 minutes off your arrival and departure trips. Plus, trains and busses in this region leave infrequently so this gives you much more flexibility.

It is possible to reach some of the main towns in Harz like Wernigerode , Goslar , and Quedlinburg by train in roughly 3 hours.

3. Saxon Switzerland

• Distance: 230 kilometers (142 miles)
• Travel time: 3 hours each way

Saxon Switzerland is a stunning national park and hilly region near the Elbe Valley, located about 230 kilometers southeast of Berlin. It’s one of the most beautiful places in East Germany, especially overlooking the Bastion Bridge ( Basteibrücke , shown above).

From Saxon Switzerland, you can also get sweeping views of the River Elbe . The most popular things to do in Saxon Switzerland include hiking, climbing, cycling, and visiting rock formations and vantage points beloved by landscape photographers. Perfect for either a single day or a weekend escape.

If you want to experience nature in Germany and take a break from the city, this is the best day trip from Berlin I can recommend to you. Here’s how to get there from Berlin.

How to reach Saxon Switzerland from Berlin

Reaching Saxon Switzerland from Berlin takes about 3 hours of travel each way, and is best done by car. Again, my recommended car rental company for Europe roadtrips is DiscoverCars .

Since Saxon Switzerland is a popular day trip for Berlin locals (especially during school holidays and weekends) visit during the week when possible.

4. Spreewald

• Distance: 100 kilometers (62 miles)
• Travel time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Reach by: Car or train

Spreewald is a UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve located just 100 kilometers outside of Berlin in the state of Brandenburg. It features over 200 canals you can navigate by kayak, canoe, or a traditional punting boat (called Spreewaldkahn ) for a total of 276 kilometers.

Besides being able to paddle around, you’ll also get a glimpse into the traditional Sorbian village of Lehde . This region was originally settled by the Sorbs and Wends, who came here over 1,400 years ago from the Carpathian mountains. In fact, the word “Berlin” originally comes from the Slavic word for “swamp”!

Spreewald is a gorgeous day trip from Berlin in any season, but Summer and Autumn are especially beautiful. It’s also a great example of local tourism, as you’ll find very few other foreigners here.

How to reach Spreewald from Berlin

The most efficient way to reach Spreewald from Berlin is by renting a car. Again, DiscoverCars is my go-to. Otherwise, it is possible to reach Spreewald by train from Berlin by disembarking at the Lübbenau/Spreewald stop.

Read my dedicated guide to Spreewald, Germany for more details on visiting this gorgeous forest in Brandenburg, and things to do in the area.

• Distance: 55 kilometers (34 miles)
• Travel time: 1 hour by car or train

Are you into so-called “Dark Tourism”? Beelitz is a former Sanatorium, now completely dilapidated and overgrown with trees. Today, you can walk through the canopy on a treetop walk, called the Beelitz Baumkronenpfad (“Beelitz Canopy Path”).

Some say the hospital ruins are haunted, and when you take a tour through the parts of it that are still accessible, you might get an idea why. It was originally built to treat tuberculosis patients en mass , before being repurposed as a military hospital to treat Nazis during World War II and Soviet soldiers until the 1990s. You can go inside some parts of the former hospital today on a guided tour:

Most famously, some World War II-era scenes from The Pianist were shot at Beelitz. It was also featured in a Rammstein music video. If you like visiting abandoned places and learning about their history — or just think the treetop walk looks awesome — make your way to Beelitz.

How to reach Beelitz Sanatorium

The easiest way to reach Beelitz is by car, and takes just one hour of driving. There’s a lot of parking at Beelitz, as the Sanatorium and Treetop Walk has been converted into a proper attraction with tours (including in English) and food stalls. Car is how we reached Beelitz ourselves.

It’s also possible to reach Beelitz by train, as there is a train station right at Beelitz-Heilstätten . From Alexanderplatz, it takes about 1 hour to get there.

• Distance: 190 kilometers (118 miles)
• Travel time: 90 minutes by express train, 2.5 hours by car
• Best reached by: Car or train, but bus is also possible

Looking for an off-beat city trip? Leipzig is your answer. Just a 90-minute train ride from Berlin, and you’re in a place that the New York Times won’t stop calling “The New Berlin”.

As someone who used to live in Leipzig, I disagree. But that doesn’t mean it’s not a great city.

Leipzig is hip, it’s cheap, and it’s a little bit like what Berlin must’ve been like 15-20 years ago. Leipzig used to be one of the biggest cities in East Germany before the wall came down, but saw a mass exodus of people when the country was reunited. That’s why real estate prices are low, there are a lot of abandoned buildings, and the city has struggled to recover to its former glory.

That said, Leipzig has a lot to offer in a small, concentrated package, so it makes for a wonderful Berlin day trip.

What makes Leipzig unique? Leipzig, in some ways, is like a time capsule. Although the city is modernizing, demolishing, and rebuilding, the city’s architecture is distinctly East German. Combine that with the youth and university culture, Leipzig is a place where you can have a good time on little money without having to go far.

Best things to do in Leipzig

Of course I have to turn this into a blog post at some point, but here’s a quick rundown of the things I would say are essential for having a city trip in Leipzig.

• Visit the Christmas market – Leipzig has one of the most charming Christmas markets I’ve ever visited, and it happens right in the middle of the car-free city center.
• Go for a walk through Clara-Zetkin Park – If you look on a map, you might be shocked to see exactly what the relative size of this park is to the rest of the city. In the summer, people gather on the Sachsenbrücke to drink beer al fresco and create live music.
• Check if you’re in town for the Bier Börse , an annual beer festival. You’ll get to try a variety of German beers (and beers from the Czech Republic, Belgium, pretty much anywhere in Europe that’s known for beer).
• Take a walk through the city center and absorb the main sights : Augustusplatz, Leipzig Opera, Thomaskirche (where Bach is NOT buried, but they say he is). There’s a local brewery near the Thomaskirche which always has a different seasonal beer on tap.
• Spend an afternoon in trendy Plagwitz, a neighborhood west of the center. Here you’ll find the Baumwollespinnerei , a former textile factory turned into art exhibits. There’s a lovely beer garden, as well as an fabulous art store (where only university students and “unknowing tourists” can shop), great for gifts.
• Visit the Völkerschlachtdenkmal (Monument to the Battle of Nations), which is pictured above. It celebrates the fact that Napoleon was defeated at Leipzig in a big way. Fun fact: This is where the Backstreet Boys performed when they visited Leipzig.
• Go for a beer my favorite beer garden in all of Germany : Substanz in Reudnitz, the district best known for student life. The best time to go is when the beer garden is open from late Spring through early Autumn. If you can’t make it, there’s still the piano bar. The burgers are divine.

Restaurant recommendation in the city center: Imperii

How to reach Leipzig from Berlin

There’s a train between the two cities that runs every hour between main stations – you can decide between a fast train and a slow train. 1 hour 45 minutes). These trains are possible to book directly in the station, although you will save some money by booking in advance. Booking the same day means the trip costs about 50 EUR, and in advance can bring it down to half that.

Besides trains, you can take a bus between Berlin and Leipzig , which will run you between 10-20 EUR. The most comfortable option of all would be booking the express train (ICE) far enough in advance.

7. Bad Muskau

• Distance: 163 kilometers (101 miles)
• Travel time: 2 hours by car

Bad Muskau is home to the Muskau Park, officially called the Fürst-Pückler-Park Bad Muskau . It’s one Central Europe’s largest and most famous gardens. This town is right on the border to Poland if you want to easily add another country to your own personal count. The Muskau Park was added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2004.

Today you can go to the Museum, walk around the gardens, go to the cafe, and have a picnic. Bad Muskau is just down the street from Kromlau Park (listed below) so if you’re going to one, it makes sense to combine them for a day trip.

How to reach Bad Muskau

Drive southeast from Berlin for about 2 hours along the A13 and then the A15. You’ll basically follow the signs to Cottbus for most of the way, and will drive right through Spreewald as you do. Trying to do this trip by train would take 12+ hours, so if you want to see this area, coming by car is virtually your only option.

8. Germany’s Devil’s Bridge in Kromlau

Kromlau is a small town on the border between Germany and Poland, and Kromlauer Park is a hidden gem, visited by a very small number of foreign tourists.

This 200-acre park is home to the Rakotzbrücke, also called Germany’s Devil’s Bridge for the legend behind it that the devil helped build it in exchange for the first living soul to cross it once completed. In Autumn, this park is absolutely breathtaking, although lacking a lot of the flowers and ponds that would otherwise be there in Spring.

What makes Kromlau unique? It’s not a city, it’s not on any major tourism website – it’s a local sanctuary that few find out about. If you want to see something in Germany that few others have, Kromlau is waiting for you!

How to reach Germany’s Devil’s Bridge from Berlin

The trip can be a half-day trip if you’re going by car, but will most likely require a full day if you’re going to take public transit. By car, you’ll start driving towards Dresden, and then towards Cottbus as soon as you see signs for it. By public transit, you’ll take the train to Cottbus and then transfer to an old steam train to make it into Kromlau.

This legendary bridge in Saxony, Germany will make you feel like you've fallen into a fairytale. It's one of those places where it's just as magical in photos as it is in real life.

• Distance: 26 kilometers (16 miles)
• Travel time: 50 minutes
• Reach by: Car or S-Bahn

Wannsee has a dark history behind it, but nonetheless is a beautiful area to visit from Berlin. Nowadays, people mostly come to Wannsee to visit the lake, which is one of the most popular sandy beaches surrounding the city. On a hot day it can get crowded, but there’s plenty of beer and beach food to keep you comfortable.

Wannsee is most famous for being the site of the Wannsee Conference, where senior Nazi officials met to plan the Final Solution to the “Jewish Question”. The location of this meeting, the Wannsee Villa, has been converted into a free exhibition where you can read real clipping from the newspapers and internal documents alike, demonstrating how the Jews were targeted and blamed for Germany’s problems. Honestly it’s unsettling to be in the same building where this happened, but seeing the original words of the people involved is eye-opening nonetheless.

What makes Wannsee unique? I’d say the fact that you can have a really balance day of learning about history, and then relaxing on the lake. Neither has to be a full-day activity, so there’s some real variety to this day trip.

Quick tips for visiting Wannsee:

• The Haus der Wannsee-Konferenz (House of the Wannsee Conference) is a free exhibit, where you’ll pass through several rooms, all overlooking the beautiful Wannsee .
• Another villa, the Liebermann Villa , hosts artist Max Libermann’s paintings of his home and garden. Unlike the Wannsee villa, it is not free to enter.
• Pfaueninsel is a nearby nature reserve, which tops numerous other lists of best day trips from Berlin. I went last Summer and it was a really nice trip to enjoy some of the nature around Berlin.

Pfaueninsel, as it's called in German, is home to a charming Prussian castle and only a short S-bahn ride outside of Berlin. Here are things to do on Pfaueninsel and how to get here!

How to reach Wannsee

You’ll take the S-Bahn S1 line, which passes through major stations throughout Berlin such as Potsdamer Platz, Brandenburger Tor, and Friedrichstraße. The S7 line is also an option, which passes through Alexanderplatz, Hackescher Markt, and Hauptbahnhof (Berlin main station).

10. Britzer Garten (in Spring)

• Distance: 12 kilometers (7.4 miles)
• Travel time: 45-60 minutes

Germans love nature, and nature loves the Germans – nowhere is it clearer than Britzer Garten, a large park featuring a lake, rose, tulip, and dahlia gardens, a functioning windmill, and a Liebesinsel (Love Island). Both dogs and bicycles are banned in this park, so it’s guaranteed to be peaceful. There’s a cafe overlooking the lake, as well as convenient spot for ice cream.

Come here if you’re looking for an early taste of Spring – when everything else is still waking up from their winter’s sleep, the cherry blossoms at Britzer Garten are already showing off how pretty they are.

You don't have to go to Japan to experience cherry blossom season. Berlin has over two kilometers of cherry blossoms waiting to be wandered through, admired, and photographed! Here are the best places in Berlin to enjoy cherry blossoms.

When we came to Britzer Garten, we packed for a picnic and ate right across from the Love Island. Everything was fine and dandy until a swan decided he wanted to share our meal! I pretty much thought he was going to fight us, but somehow we managed to defend our food.

What makes Britzer Garten unique? Like Kromlauer Park, Britzer Garten is a place enjoyed mostly by locals who are looking for some time out of the city. You’re unlikely to get stuck behind hoards of tourists trying to snap an identical photo – you can just come here to wind down in the middle of a busy tour through Germany.

How to get to Britzer Garten. You can take the U6 U-Bahn south in the direction of Alt-Mariendorf. From there, transfer to the 179 Bus towards Gerlinger Str. and disembark at Sangerhauser Weg. A short walk (6 min, 550 meter) down the same road and you’re there!

11. Müggelsee

• Distance: 21 kilometers (13 miles)
• Travel time: 50 minutes by S-bahn from Alexanderplatz
• Reach by: S-bahn

Berlin is surrounded by countless lakes, and if you come in Summer on a weekend, you’ll see the public transit full of people who are clearly heading for a day at the beach. Müggelsee is one of the most popular lakes in Berlin, given its shallow waters make it one of the warmer options. You can bring your family or set up solo. There are some snacks available at the lake (for a premium) or bring your own food and drinks.

How to get to Müggelsee. The easiest way to get to Müggelsee is to take the S-bahn (S3) to Köpenick and then ride your bicycle around the lake. Otherwise at Köpenick you can connect to a bus that will take you closer to the lake. All in all the trip takes between 50-80 minutes depending on where you’re starting in the city.

12. Wittenberg

• Distance: 112 kilometers (69 miles)
• Travel time: 90 minutes by car, 1 hour 40 minutes by train

If you learned about the Protestant Reformation in school, there’s a good chance you’re familiar with Wittenberg’s most famous resident: Martin Luther. It was in Wittenberg that he nailed the 95 theses to the door of the church, and if you come here you can see the exact door that he nailed it on.

The city isn’t huge but you can come by and explore some small shops, get an ice cream, and give yourself a small historical tour. Near the church there is also a museum about Martin Luther and the protestant reformation.

How to get to Wittenberg

You can simply book a train directly from Berlin to Wittenberg, or opt for renting a car if you prefer. You can book a train on the Deutsche Bahn English website .

• Distance: 349 kilometers (216 miles)
• Travel time: 4 hours by car, 4.5 hours by train

It’s arguably a stretch to call Prague a day trip, but if you really want to see Prague from Berlin it’s doable. You need to get up early, and you need to come back late, but it can be done! I’ve done it as a day trip from Leipzig before.

Plus, the Czech Republic is probably the easiest of all the countries near Berlin, Germany to visit.

Prague may be one of the most popular cities with tourists coming to Europe and it’s no surprise why – the architecture is beautiful, the prices are still rather low, and there is a ton of things to do in this historic city.

How to reach Prague from Berlin

In the interest of time, the best way to get here is by car. It’s also possible to take a train which will add an hour on to your travel time, or even to take a six hour bus. At six hours I would argue it’s easier (and probably costs just as much) to take a plane!

14. Hamburg

• Distance: 289 kilometers (179 miles)
• Travel time: 2 hours by express train, 4 hours by car

I’ve only been to Hamburg once in the dead of Winter and it was cold and dreadful. But in the Summer, Hamburg is known to be one of the prettiest cities to visit in Germany. It’s a port town, with nautical vibes up and down. You can take a walk along the sea, participate in its famous nightclub scene, or infamous Reeperbahn.

How to get to Hamburg. Trains run regularly from Berlin to Hamburg, so you’ll have no issue booking one with Deutsche Bahn. If you prefer you can also go by bus via Flixbus, but it will take much longer.

15. Dresden

• Distance: 193 kilometers (119 miles)
• Travel time: 2 hours 25 minutes by car or train

I have to admit – I’ve never been to Dresden! I’ve always wanted to go but never quite made the time. Which is a shame because it’s so close to Berlin and is meant to be very beautiful. You can spend a weekend here and enjoy the history of the city, which came under heavy fire during the second world war. Today you can visit the reconstructed version of Dresden’s most famous sight, the Frauenkirche (Church of our Dear Lady).

How to get to Dresden. Similarly to Hamburg, there are plenty of regular trains at your disposal as well as bus service. Dresden is close to Saxon Switzerland so if you’d like, you can combine these trips into one.

Have you ever been to these cities and towns outside of Berlin?

What’s your favorite daytrip you’ve even taken outside of a major city? For me, Kromlau is my absolute favorite out of Berlin (although Leipzig might contend if I were truly a first-time visitor). Versailles was also cool, but way too crowded! Let me know what your favorites are in the comments!

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About the author

Hi there! I'm Monica, an American expat living in Germany for over six years and using every opportunity to explore the world from my homebase in Berlin. My goal is to capture my memories in photos and posts that show how easy it is to start from scratch and travel the world by working abroad.

Follow along on Instagram , Twitter , Bloglovin , & Facebook .

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12 UNMISSABLE Day Trips from Berlin

Published October 6, 2019

// By Margherita

Planning to visit Berlin? The city offers a lot to see and do, but we also highly recommend planning some day trips from Berlin – to nearby towns like Hamburg or Dresden, nature day trips to the lakes, or even day trips from Berlin to Poland.

After visiting the German capital over 10 times, here are our 12 favourite, unmissable day trips from Berlin!

As German author Karl Scheffler wrote in 1910, Berlin is “a city condemned forever to becoming and never to being”. This quote can still be applied today to describe this unique city in constant development. A city that, despite the never-ending construction sites, proves to be alive, dynamic and revolutionary.

Many people like to describe Berlin as one of those cities that either you love or you hate – you know we love Berlin, right?

We love the vibe of alternative Berlin , its crazy street art and quirky museums, and all the different neighbourhoods – we never get bored, even when we visit Berlin in winter and the weather is just horrible. 

It is very different from other European capital cities and in order to really appreciate it, you must forget all expectations and be prepared to find non-conformist city, definitely out of the ordinary.

From monuments and museums, to shops, breweries, restaurants and night clubs, Berlin is full of things to do and see during your stay , but, as it often happens, after some time in a big city, there are times when you feel like escaping the chaos and embarking on a little adventure.

So, if you have an extra day to fill or you want to get out of the city, there are many day trips from Berlin that you can do.

Where to Stay in Berlin

Here are some options for cool design and boutique hotels to choose as your Berlin base!

• SO/Berlin Das Stue – with interiors by celebrity designer Patricia Urquiola and a great restaurant!
• nhow Berlin – Europe’s first music hotel with themed decor!
• Provocateur Berlin – quirky, whimsical interiors with lots of red velvet and playful details, perfect for a couple getaway
• Henri Hotel – around the corner from the Ku’damm, this hotel screams #AccidentallyWesAnderson!
• Hotel Zoo Berlin – with a mix of industrial and classic style, and a speakeasy style bar
• 25Hours Hotel Bikini Berlin – funky, colourful hotel with a fun rooftop bar 

Day Trips from Berlin to Nearby Cities

1) berlin to dresden day trip.

Dresden is the perfect day trip from Berlin if you like strolling around and admiring Baroque architecture – the reconstructed Altstadt (Old Town) is the perfect place to do that.

This city is often called the ‘Florence on the Elbe’ thanks to its beautiful location on the banks of the river, its elegant architecture, interesting museums and – naturally –  lots of biergartens (beer gardens).

Among the best things to do in Dresden to enjoy on a day trip, we recommend:

– a visit at the Zwinger Palace, inspired by Versailles and now home to museums such as the Old Masters Picture Gallery, the Dresden Porcelain Collection and the Royal Cabinet of Mathematical and Physical Instruments;

– the ascent to the dome at the Frauenkirche , the reconstructed Lutheran church

– attend a show at the Semperoper

– wandering around Neustadt , to discover street art and quirky bars

Just outside of the city you can also visit Moritzburg Castle , which is situated on a small artificial island, or take a hike through the nearby Saxon Switzerland National Park.

Getting to Dresden: by train from Berlin Hauptbahnhof. Travel time 2 hours each way.

Best Dresden Tours from Berlin

• Florence on the Elbe: Tour of Dresden from Berlin
• From Berlin: Guided Day Trip to Dresden
• Dresden: Round-Trip Guided-Tour from Berlin
• Bohemian Saxon Switzerland Tour

2) Berlin to Leipzig Day Trip

Despite not being as well known as other German cities, Leipzig has become one of the most liveable cities in the region , and a cheaper alternative to the capital.

This upcoming city attracts young artists, design-lovers and businesspeople from all over the world.

The perfect itinerary for a day trip to Leipzig from Berlin begins with a walk around Altstadt , the old town with its rich architectural heritage dating back to the 19th and 20th centuries, and around the Market Square (Markt).

Afterwards, music and art lovers pick a museum to visit – some options are the Leipzig Museum of Fine Arts , the three-in-one Grassi Museum (home to the Etnography Museum, the Musical Instruments and Applied Arts Museum), or to the Bach Museum.

For a complete culinary experience, before heading back to Berlin make your way south of the centre along Karl-Liebknecht-Straße and explore the Zentrum-Süd and Südvorstadt districts, admiring the colourful street art and choosing your meal between numerous bars and restaurants.

Getting to Leipzig: by train from Berlin Hauptbahnhof. Travel time 1 hour 15 hours each way.

Best Leipzig Tours

• FREE Leipzig Walking Tour
• Leipzig: 90-Minute Trabi City Tour
• Combo Tour in Leipzig: Guided City Tour & City Sightseeing
• Gruseltour Leipzig: A Haunted Guided Tour
• Leipzig: Mulled Wine Motorboat Tour

3) Berlin to Hamburg Day Trip

Hamburg is one of Germany’s most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities . It is also the main German port even though the city does not directly face the sea, but it develops along the Elbe river and its estuary.

Severely bombed during the Second World War , you will not find many monuments to visit or historical architecture to admire, therefore it is often described as a city that needs to be experienced to be appreciated – spend one night enjoying nightlife in St.Pauli and the Reeperbahn to know what I mean.

That doesn’t mean there aren’t many things to do and see in Hamburg – actually, quite the opposite. 

If you only have one day to explore the city, you can choose between wandering through the Speicherstadt , taking a river cruise, touring the new Elbphilharmonie , or indulging your inner child at Miniatur Wunderland .

Getting to Hamburg: by train from Berlin Hauptbahnhof. Travel time 1 hour 40 hours each way.

Best Hamburg Tours

• FREE Hamburg Walking Tour
• 2-Hour Hamburg Port Tour: Maritime Flair
• Hamburg Dungeon: Savings Ticket
• Hamburg: Guided Tour Elbphilharmonie  
• Sex and Crime in St. Pauli – Adults Only Tour

4) Berlin to Potsdam Day Trip

Potsdam is one of the most popular destinations for a  day trip from Berlin. Only 30 minutes away from the city, this is the perfect place to go if you’re looking for a complete change of scenery.

In contrast with gritty Berlin, Potsdam is known for its beautiful gardens and palaces , its picturesque centre with its historic architecture and one of the best cheesecakes you’ll ever taste – just head to Café Guam to know what I mean!

We also recommend visiting the Old Dutch Quarter with its unique red-bricked Dutch-style architecture, and the city’s gates as the medieval Nauener Tor, Brandenburg Gate and Hunters’ Gate.

Naturally, you can’t return to Berlin without visiting Sanssouci Palace and its park , dreamed up by Frederick the Great as a place where he could spend his time ‘sans souci’  (without cares).

Getting to Potsdam: by S-Bahn from Alexanderplatz or any other station along the S7. Travel time approx 30 minutes each way.

Best Potsdam Tours

• Soviet Tour of Potsdam
• Berlin: Potsdam – Kings, Gardens & Palaces 6-Hour Tour
• Potsdam Half-Day Tour from Berlin – The Imperial City
• Segway Tour: Potsdam Highlights
• From Berlin: Day Trip to Potsdam – City of Emperors

With its two UNESCO World Heritage Sites , the impressive Market Square and its whimsical statues, Bremen is worth visiting during your time in Berlin , even though it’s 400 kilometres away.

If you can, plan Bremen as an overnight trip from Berlin , to explore this fascinating town after dark!

Bremen is a 1200 year old city filled with historical treasures and fun things to do. Head to the Old Town and take a stroll in the old Market Square with its Cathedral and, in December, its popular  Christmas Market , admire the old Town Hall and the five-and-a-half-meter-tall statue of Roland, Germany’s most famous knight, erected in 1404.

To experience a quirkier side of the city, head to the Viertel quarter to admire the street art and experience its laid back cafés and late-night entertainment.

Getting to Bremen: by train from Berlin Gesundbrunnen. Travel time about 3 hours each way.

Best Bremen Tours

• Bremen: Walking Tour in German with Night Guard
• Tour of Bremen’s Underworld
• Bremen: 3-Hour Beck’s Brewery Tour
• Bremen: Sightseeing Tour with a Historic Streetcar

6) Braunschweig 

Braunschweig , founded in 1895 by the Duke of Saxony, Henry the Lion, is the largest city between Berlin and Hanover.

A major trading hub in the Middle Ages and severely bombed during the Second World War, Braunschweig is filled with tourist attractions that combine the traditional and the modern: from buildings that go back to the days of the city’s foundation, up to the contemporary Happy RIZZI House, a collection of buildings covered in colourful cartoon-inspired street art.

When visiting Braunschweig don’t miss the Burgplatz and its Dom (Cathedral), the Burg (Castle) and the Landesmuseum .

Getting to Braunschweig: by train from Berlin Gesundbrunnen. Travel time about 3 hours each way.

Day Trips from Berlin to Poland

Berlin is also a great starting point for a day trip to Poland – Poznan is a great option, a town known for its laid-back attitude and its many sights, as well as its incredible food scene.

Among the best things to see and do in Poznan we can mention visiting the Old Town , watching the mechanical billy goats appear at noon on the clock on top of Town Hall, visiting the Croissant Museum, and walking the halls of the former Imperial Castle .

You can also have a stroll around the Citadel Park , Poznan’s largest urban park, or enjoy the street art and choose between the many traditional Polish restaurants and hip cafes.

Getting to Poznan: by train from Berlin Lichtenberg. Travel time about 2 hours 20 hours each way. Alternatively, you can reach Poznan more cheaply by Flixbus, but travel time is 4 hours each way. 

Best Poznan Tours

• Good Evening Poznań – Craft Beer and Food Walking Tour
• Poznań Bites & Sights – Food Walking Tour
• Poznan: Private Traditional Polish Food Tour
• Private Tour of Poznań

8) Szczecin

If you want to visit Poland on a day trip from Berlin but don’t want to make it all the way to Poznan, then Szczecin is a great option, being only two hours away from Berlin.

The city is filled with historical sites, interesting architecture, museums, trendy bars and traditional restaurants.

Among the best things to see in Szczecin , we recommend visiting the Pomeranian Ducal Castle and Tower of Seven Mantles , admiring the architecture at Wały Chrobrego (the city’s most representative embankment) and strolling around the Old Town and Solidarity Square.

Szczecin is also the best place to try the famous Polish pierogies and beers and to watch a performance at the Philharmonic.

Getting to Szczecin:  by Flixbus from Alexanderplatz. Travel time approx 2 hours each way. 

Nature Trips from Berlin

Did you know Berlin is surrounded by spectacular lakes? One of the best known is  Wannsee , also is home to one of Europe’s largest inland outdoor beaches.

Wannsee is one of the most popular destinations for a day trip from Berlin during the summer , so it might not be the best option if you’re looking for a day of peace and relaxation along the shores of the lake.

Despite the crowds, Wannsee, once a small village where the king rested and changed horses en route his palace in Potsdam, is now one of the most exclusive residential areas for the rich and famous.

The Strandbad is the perfect place for sunbathing and swimming and, on the opposite side of the lake, you can take a walk along Am Großen Wannsee  to look at some of the most impressive historical homes of the area.

Last but not least, Wannsee and Potsdam are only three stops away on the S7 from one another, so you can easily combine both in one – long – day trip from Berlin!

Getting to Wannsee: by S-Bahn from Alexanderplatz or any other station along the S7. Travel time about 20 minutes each way.

Best Wannsee Tours

• 2-Hour Seven Lakes Tour from Berlin’s Wannsee
• Berlin-Wannsee to Potsdam 3-Hour World Heritage Cruise
• Berlin: 2-Hour Lake Oberhavel Cruise from Tegel

10) Spreewald

Only one hour away from the city, Spreewald is the perfect getaway for a day trip to escape bustling Berlin , and immerse yourself in the quiet atmosphere of the small towns scattered around the region.

Spreewald is a swampy area extending about 100 km southwest of Berlin, famous for its intricate network of waterways. As a result, the best known activity to enjoy in Spreewald are definitely boat tours around the protected UNESCO biosphere.

There are many kinds of boat tours available – you can paddle yourself on a kayak or jump on one of the traditional Spreewald punts , where you can sit on wooden benches sipping (copious amounts of) beer, while a boatman manoeuvres the boat with a long stick. 

These tours are really good fun and a great way to spend your day trip. If you prefer hiking to boating, you can also hike along a trail in the forest that leads to Lehde , one of the oldest traditional villages.

We also recommend spending some time checking out Lübbenau , one of the prettiest town in Spreewald – don’t miss a stroll in the historic Town Center, and if you have time also check out the unique Gurkenmuseum , dedicated to the most famous Spreewald product – the legendary gherkins!

Getting to Spreewald: by train from Berlin Lichtenberg. Travel time about 1 hour each way.

11) Kromlau (Rakotzbrücke)

Kromlau is one of the most sought-after picture-perfect destinations you can reach with a day trip from Berlin.

The main feature of Kromlau is its Rakotzbrücke (Devil’s Bridge), located in the middle of Kromlauer Park, and the perfect circle that forms in combination with its reflection on the water. 

Its name comes the legend behind its construction, which is exactly the same as the many ‘Devil’s Bridges’ all over Europe – the bridge was so challenging to build that the Devil was asked for help, and he accepted in exchange for the first soul to cross it.

However, cunning locals managed to get a cat, or goat, or pig (some kind of animal basically) to cross first, preventing eternal damnation for another human being. 

This legend dates back to Medieval times, but the Rakotzbrücke was commissioned by a local knight back only in 1860.

The bridge is another Instagram eye-candy favourite , and countless ‘influencers’ have posed on it in recent years, damaging the ancient stonework and potentially endangering themselves, since the bridge has no railings or parapet.

This doesn’t stop people from trespassing, even though there are many Verboten signs – please don’t do it!

Kromlauer Park is also a great place to relax and explore the area’s attractions such as Kromlau Castle.

This place is perfect for a day trip also combined with a visit in Spreewald , Bad Muskau or Lubbenau.

**2019 UPDATE** 

Renovation of the bridge is currently ongoing and the lake bed is filled with machinery, meaning you’ll miss out on those Insta-perfect mirror images – it is uncertain when works will end, so if you want to plan a day trip from Berlin, make sure get some updated info!

Getting to Rakotzbrücke: if you can, we highly recommend hiring a car – driving time is approximately 2 hours from Berlin. 

If you’re set on travelling by public transport from Berlin, the best way is getting a train to Cottbus and another to Weißwasser, where you can hop on bus 257 to Kromlau. Travel time is about 3 and a half hours each way.

12) Sachsenhausen

Even though it’s not what you would call a fun day out from Berlin , a visit at Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp it is without a doubt one of the most touching experiences you can make in your life.

Sachsenhausen was one of the largest concentration camps in Germany. It served as both a concentration camp and for the training of commanders and personnel that was then being sent to the other camps.

Between 1939 and 1945 about 200,000 people were deported to the camp of Sachsenhausen and many of these lost their lives due to starvation, exhaustion, medical experimentation or execution.

After the war, it fell into Soviet hands  – making Sachsenhausen the only concentration camp that to be used both by the Nazi and by the NKVD , the Soviet secret service, who imprisoned over 60,000 inmates over a five-year period. Over 12,000 ended up losing their lives. 

A visit at Sachsenhausen camp includes several museums and information sites, so be prepared for a lot of walking – or book a tour to get the historical background of the site. 

Getting to Sachsenhausen: by train from Berlin Gesundbrunnen to Oranienburg, travel time 35 minutes. From there, you can either walk for 20 minutes to Sachsenhausen, or take bus number 804.

Best Sachsenhausen Tours

• Berlin: Sachsenhausen Small Group Bus Tour
• Sachsenhausen Memorial: 6-Hour Tour
• Berlin: Half-Day Sachsenhausen Memorial Walking Tour
• From Berlin: Sachsenhausen Memorial Walking Tour

Are these the 15 BEST DAY TRIPS from Berlin?

But what if you need a break from the big city? Will you be able to find the same history, culture, food and fun outside of the city limits?

There’s plenty to see and do outside of Berlin, as long as you know where to look. That’s why we put together this guide of the 16 best day trips from Berlin!

We’ll help you narrow down which destinations are the best fit for your interests and style. By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to book your day trip from Berlin with confidence and ease.

Here are the 16 best day trips from Berlin.

Editor’s note – For a cheap and cool place to stay, check out our 20 Best Hostels in Berlin!  

Quick Answer: Best Day Trips from Berlin

• Day Trips from Berlin by Train – Forbidden City: 6-Hour Tour of Potsdam from Berlin
• Romantic Day Trips from Berlin for Couples – Pfaueninsel
• Best Day Trips from Berlin with Kids – Berlin WelcomeCard: Transport, Discounts & Guide Book

#1 – Potsdam

Day trips from berlin by train.

Just a short hop, skip and a jump from Berlin is the charming city of Potsdam . Famous for its castles, landscape and charming town centre, this World Heritage Site is a must-see for anyone looking for a day trip from Berlin.

Sanssouci Castle is undoubtedly Potsdam’s most famous attraction. A fantastic rococo palace, Sanssouci is made up of lavish salons and amazing interiors. It’s opulent decorations and incredible detail are often compared to Paris’ famous Palace of Versailles.

Surrounding the palace is the grand and elaborate Park Sanssouci. It features terracing vineyards, a baroque flower garden, lush lawns, verdant hedges, and more than 3,000 fruit trees.

It’s important to know that the palace has a limit of 2,000 persons per day, so get there early or book your place in advance to avoid disappointment.

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#2 – Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp

40 kilometres north of Berlin is the Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp . An uncomfortable reminder of past atrocities, a day trip from Berlin to Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp is a sombre yet educational experience.

The closest concentration camp to the capital, Sachsenhausen, allows visitors to tour the grounds and visit the barracks where camp inmates lived and slept.

Best explored with a knowledgeable guide, Sachsenhausen is where you’ll learn the depressing and horrific realities of life in the camp. Your guide will share with you poignant stories and history lessons, and will help explain the memorial sites that are found throughout the grounds.

Although not an upbeat day trip, Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp is very much worth a visit.

Heading to Germany? Save some money with our guide to the coolest hostels in Germany !

#3 – Leipzig

Looking for a break from the action in the capital? Why not take a day trip from Berlin to Leipzig .

Located just over an hour south of Berlin, Leipzig is the largest city in the German state of Saxony. Considered a more chilled out and cheaper version of Berlin, Leipzig has interesting sights, a rich history, excellent shopping, and a lively and vibrant nightlife.

Culture vultures will love exploring Leipzig thanks to its wealth of fascinating museums and exhibitions. Whether you’re interested in history, music, coffee, pharmacy or art, there’s a museum that is sure to peak your fancy.

Leipzig is also a great destination for architecture buffs. Not only is the Old Town a feast for the eyes, but throughout the city you’ll find great examples of architecture, from Baroque, Neoclassical and Saxon styles to modern and colourful high rises.

#4 – Hamburg

Hamburg is Germany’s gateway to the world. Home to the largest port in Germany, Hamburg sits north of Berlin on the River Elbe nearly 100 kilometres from the North Sea.

With its rich and diverse maritime history, it should be no surprise that Hamburg is built around water. Canals run throughout much of the city and, right at its centre, you’ll find Alster Lake.

Hamburg’s most infamous and notable attraction is the Reeperbahn. Located in the Sankt Pauli district, the Reeperbahn is one of the most famous red-light districts in the world. From burlesque dancers and ladies of the night to shops and bars, there’s no shortage of activities and attractions in this part of the city.

But it’s not all seedy – the Reeperbahn is also where you’ll find some of the best bars and clubs in Hamburg. Whether you want to dance the night away or enjoy a few casual cocktails, the Reeperbahn has something for everything.

If you are traveling to Munich, you gotta check out our article on Munich’s coolest neighborhoods!

#5 – Dresden

Whether you’re into history, culture, politics, shopping, or just having a great night on the town, Dresden is a city for you!

Approximately two hours from Berlin , Dresden is a charming riverside city in Saxony. A great day trip by car or train, you’ll love the ride through the countryside almost as much as you’ll love exploring the town.

For history buffs, Dresden has a compact old town, winding cobblestone streets and a stunning baroque palace for you to explore.

Culture vultures will love taking in an opera, ballet or live rock show at one of Dresden’s many historic theatres. The city also hosts a number of international events and festivals throughout the year, so no matter when you visit you’re sure to find something great!

For night owls, the Neustadt district is where you’ll find Dresden’s young, hip and fabulous. It has a wide variety of bars and clubs that cater to all styles, ages and orientations.

Editor’s Tip: Beat the crowds by booking a hostel near Frankfurt Airport  and getting out for a morning tour!

#6 – Szczecin

A day trip from Berlin to Szczecin , Poland is a bit of a hike, but totally worth the trip!

The capital of West Pomerania in Poland, Szczecin is a city with a rich and diverse history. From the beginning of the 18 th -century through the end of the Second World War, it was a German territory and served as the port of Berlin. Following the war, Poland gained control of Szczecin, and as they say, the rest is history.

The city is divided into two parts, separated by the large port. Both sides feature a variety of activities and attractions that will interest all types of travelers.

One of the highlights of Szczecin is it’s Old Town. Although currently under construction (which originally began in the 1990s), the Old Town is home to charming shops, cosy cafes, delicious restaurants and historic houses. Explore the Old Town on foot and lose yourself in its history and magic.

Staying Safe in Berlin

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Fill out the form below to get a quote so you can have a stress-free time traveling around Germany!

#7 – Pfaueninsel

Romantic day trips from berlin for couples.

Pfaueninsel, or Peacock Island , is one of the most romantic day trips from Berlin for couples.

Located 40 minutes outside the city centre, Pfaueninsel was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990. It’s a small island in the River Havel that spans 67 hectares and is covered in magical forests, lush lawns and fields.

Pfaueninsel’s most notable attraction is its fairy-tale castle. Built in the late-18th-century as a summer palace for Friedrich Wilhelm II, King of Prussia, the castle features interesting architecture, distinctive towers, and a bright white exterior. Pfaueninsel castle managed to survive the Second World War unscathed, so visitors can explore its remains in their original form.

Outside of the palace, Pfaueninsel is home to Peacock Island Park, a sprawling landscaped green space that features well-manicured gardens, colourful blooms, and a large number of roaming peacocks.

Pack a picnic and spend the day relaxing and exploring romantic and idyllic Pfaueninsel.

Once you’ve booked, check what there is to do in Munich !

#8 – Brandenburg an der Havel

For outdoor lovers, there’s no better place to visit than Brandenburg an der Havel. A small town west of Berlin, Brandenburg an der Havel was once the capital’s main rival for power and population. Today, it’s a small town in comparison but one that is full of charm, history and interesting sights.

Cathedral Island is the historic heart of Brandenburg an der Havel. Here, you’ll find the magnificent and imposing Dom St. Peter und Paul, as well as Katharinenkirche, and the Alstädtisches.

For the best views in the city, climb to the observation deck of Friedenswarte. The tallest building in the city, you’ll be able to take in incredible views of Brandenburg an der Havel and beyond from 32.5 meters in the air. Enjoy unparalleled scenes of lush greenery dotted with traditional red tiles roofs as you look out over Germany.

Traveling on a budget? Have you seen our cheap hostel recommendations for Hamburg ?

#9 – Wandlitzer See, Wandlitz

Get back to nature with a day trip from Berlin to Wandlitzer See. Less than one hour outside the city centre, Wandlitzer See is a tranquil and serene lake in Brandenburg. Stretching more than 2.15 square kilometres, this lake is the ideal place to take a dip, soak up some sun, and relax on the beach.

One of the best places in and around Berlin for swimming, Wandlitzer See has a large pier stretching out into the lake and a dive tower so you enjoy the calm, cool waters.

Paddle and rowing boats are also available for hire if you want to explore the lake without getting wet.

Pack a picnic and get ready for a day of sunshine and fun at Wandlitzer See.

P.S. – These are the top areas to stay in Dusseldorf, Germany!

#10 – Saarow Therme, Bad Saarow

For a truly relaxing and rejuvenating day, plan for a day trip from Berlin to Bad Saarow . Saarow Therme is a federally recognized salt water and mud bath spa. It’s one of the most beautiful and modern facilities in the country and is situated amongst lush and stunning nature.

Start your day with a luxurious spa treatment. Make use of Saarow Therme’s indoor and outdoor pools, as well as the underwater geysers, massage jets, whirlpools, saunas and more. There’s even a pool where soothing music is played underwater! You’ll emerge from the pools feeling pampered, relaxed and completely free of stress.

When it’s time for lunch, pop over to the restaurant where you can enjoy delicious local cuisines and an unbelievable view of the lake.

Although children are welcome at Saarow Therme, it’s best to leave them at home. There aren’t many activities or attractions that will keep little ones entertained, so why not make this an adults-only day

Not traveling 4-star? These cheap hostels in Berlin won’t disappoint you!

#11 – Poznan

Add a few more miles to your passport and take a quick day trip from Berlin to Poznan, Poland.

A large city located less than three hours from Berlin, Poznan is steeped in history. One of the first Polish capital cities, Poznan is believed to be the birthplace of the Polish nation.

There’s plenty to do and see in this great Polish town, from its interesting museums and historical attractions to its lively nightlife and charming and vibrant atmosphere.

One of Poznan’s most notable attractions is Ostrów Tumski, Cathedral Island. This small and quiet island is thought to be the spot where the city was founded. Here you’ll find a number of imposing churches and charming historic houses.

Rynek, or Old Town, is one of the most beautiful medieval centres in Europe. The historic heart and centre of Poznan, this quarter has charming streets and alleyways, colourful buildings, and a myriad of shops, restaurants and attractions to visit.

When it comes time to eat, stop at one of the city’s famous milk bars. Established in the communist era, milk bars are where you can find a cheap, delicious and hearty traditional Polish meal.

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#12 – Tierpark Berlin

Best day trips from berlin with kids.

Lions and tigers and bears, oh my! Tierpark is an awesome day trip from Berlin for families with children.

Located within the Berlin city limits, Tierpark Berlin is the biggest animal park in all of Europe. Home to more than 8,000 animals, kids and adults alike will enjoy spending a day seeing their favourite creatures up close and personal.

Tierpark Berlin places a great emphasis and importance on the protection and preservation of the species that live there. They routinely host workshops and sessions that educate kids on how to feed and take care of the animals, as well as how to properly pet and handle them.

While you might not have the nerve to pet a tiger or a lion, you might be able to enjoy a meet n’ greet with a monkey, penguin, giraffe or turtle. A day trip from Berlin to Tierpark Berlin is really something the whole family will love.

Not what you’re looking for? Read about other great hostels near Frankfurt Airport !

#13 – Baum & Zeit Treetop Walkway

Baum & Zeit Treetop Walkway is by far one of the most unique day trips you can take from Berlin.

Baum & Zeit Treetop Walkway is a wooden path suspended more than 30 meters up in the air. Stretching more than 320 meters, this pathway twists and turns, taking visitors over and around a number of historic buildings, including an abandoned sanatorium, lung clinic, and the World War II ruins of an Alpine house.

Discover old buildings and magnificent architecture as you take in a once-in-a-lifetime view of Germany. Before you end your visit, make sure you climb to the top of the 40m tower and enjoy breathtaking views and vistas. On a clear day, it’s said you can see as far as Berlin!

Need specifics? We also have our favorite hostels near Schoenefeld Airport Berlin !

#14 – Liepnitzsee, Wandlitz

Liepnitzsee is one of the most beautiful lakes in and around Berlin. It’s a calm and peaceful lake, perfect for swimming, splashing, laughing and playing. Families with kids of all ages won’t want to miss adding a day trip from Berlin to Liepnitzsee to their itinerary.

A little over an hour outside of Berlin, Liepnitzsee is a serene and tranquil lake that’s not crowded. Even on the hottest day of the year, you’ll be surprised at just how quiet it is.

One of the cleanest lakes in Berlin, the water here is so clear and turquoise that you won’t believe your eyes! There’s also a small sandy beach where you can set down your towel, enjoy a picnic lunch and soak up some rays,

Getting to Liepnitzsee via public transit can be a bit of a challenge. Save yourself time by taking this day trip from Berlin by car.

Not sure what to do in Frankfurt? We break it down in this guide to Frankfurt !

#15 – Tropical Island Resort, Krausnick

A tropical island resort in the middle of Germany? Yes, you read that right!

Tropical Islands Resort is a theme park located in the small municipality of Krausnick. Located more than 60 kilometres south of Berlin, this theme park is housed in the Aerium, a former airship carrier hangar and the biggest freestanding hall in the world.

Tropical Island Resort is the world’s largest indoor water park. And here, it’s paradise every day of the year. No matter what the weather is outside, inside the hall it’s always 26 degrees and tons of fun!

Kids of all ages will adore spending a day at Tropical Islands. It has everything you could ever want from a water park, including an indoor rainforest, pools, waterslides, saunas, spas, mini golf, snack bars and restaurants. With four themed areas and a wide range of attractions, you’ll find yourself spoiled for choice on this day trip from Berlin to Tropical Islands.

Bonus Trip! – Spreewald Biosphere, Spreewald

More than one hundred kilometres southeast of Berlin is the lush and idyllic Spreewald Biosphere . Home to more than 18,000 species of plants and animals, nature enthusiasts will surely love taking a day trip from Berlin to Spreewald.

One of 15 biospheres in Germany, Spreewald is a natural reserve dedicated to the protection and preservation of species. Covering more than 47,500 hectares, this nature reserve has nearly 1500 kilometres of streams and canals, Ice Age tributaries, and hundreds of rare and endangered plants and animals.

The Spreewald Biosphere can be explored in several ways. On foot, you can visit the three visitors centres where you’ll learn about the life and history of the reserve as well as the many plants, animals and landscapes that are unique to this area of the world.

Alternatively, you can rent a canoe and paddle along the waterways taking in the biosphere from a completely different angle. If you choose to canoe, learn where the 15 legal rest areas are so you don’t accidentally disturb the nature by stopping in the wrong spot.

Conclusion to the Best Day Trips from Berlin

Germany is a country steeped in history. From the centre of Berlin to its small surrounding towns, there are historic landmarks, colossal castles, glorious green spaces and thrilling theme parks to peak your interest and keep you entertained.

Whether you’re traveling by train, by bus or by car, Berlin is a great base from which to explore Germany and beyond! Not only is the city well connected throughout the state and country, but you can take a day trip into neighbouring Poland with relative ease.

From medieval towns to treetop walkways, the perfect day trip from Berlin is ready and waiting for you!

Have we missed anything? Let us know in the comments below!

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Your Trip to Berlin: The Complete Guide

Weather & Climate

Berlin's Airports

Neighborhoods to Know

Public Transportation

Top Things to Do

Free Things to Do

Things to Do With Kids

Lakes & Beaches in Berlin

Berlin's Tiergarten Park

Top Museums in Berlin

Day Trips From Berlin

Food to Try in Berlin

Berlin's Best Restaurants

The Best Bars in Berlin

Breweries in Berlin

Best Berlin Day Trips

Beyond Berlin - Day Trips From the Big City

Are you a seasoned Berlin traveler and can find everything from the Brandenburg Gate to  Tempelhofer Field with your eyes closed? Then steal yourself away from Berlin and take a day trip to one of these destinations, all within 2 hours by train or car from the German capital.

From wellness and nature to culture and history, these Berlin day trips are great escape from the big city.

When Frederick the Great wanted to escape the formalities of his life in Berlin, he retreated to his summer palace in Potsdam. You should do the same

After a short local train ride from Berlin, you can enjoy the rococo style palace, surrounded by 700 acres of ornate royal gardens, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites .

Then head into the Old Town of Potsdam and wander the narrow cobble stone streets of the Dutch Quarter. The lovely townhouses are home to cafes, little shops , and tasty bakeries.

Transportation : Take the S1 or S7 to Potsdam. Takes approximately 45 minutes.

Pfaueninsel

This destination is still within Berlin’s city limits, but it feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of the German capital.

A ferryboat brings you on to Pfaueninsel (Peacock island), a nature reserve in lake Wannsee. On the island, you'll find a dreamy castle built in the 18 th century for the Prussian king and its favorite mistress. On the grounds are various greenhouses and fountains, but the best part is the free roaming peacocks and the beautiful gardens and trees. This is the perfect getaway for romantic strolls and picnics.

Transportation : Take the S1 or S7 towards Potsdam, get off at Wannsee station, and then bus 216 or 316. To get onto the island, you will need to take a very short ferry across the water. Takes approximately 1 hour.

Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

The memorial site Sachsenhausen , a former concentration camp in Oranienburg, is a must-visit for history buffs. The camp was erected in 1936 and until 1945 more than 200,000 people were imprisoned here by the Nazis.

Sachsenhausen was in many ways one of the most important concentration camps in the Third Reich. It was the first camp established under Heinrich Himmler (Chief of the German Police) and its architectural lay-out was used as a model for almost all concentration camps in Nazi Germany.

Transportation : At the edge of tariff zone C, Oranienburg is the terminus of the S-Bahn line S1, as well as regional trains RE5 and RB12. The nearest station is actually Sachsenhausen (Nordbahnhof), but the RV 12 is the only train that stops there. Visitors can take bus N°804 to the camp (Gedenkstätte stop) or walk 25 minutes from Sachsenhausen.Takes approximately 50 minutes.

Shaped during the ice age, the landscape of the Spreewald (Spree forest) is breathtaking. More than 200 canals crisscross this stretch of marshland, dotted with pine forests, grasslands, meadows, and islands with ancient villages. The best way to explore this extraordinary biosphere reserve is by taking a trip in a traditional punting boat .

The locals of the Spreewald still use these waterways to get to work or to go shopping. Many of them are descendants of the Slavic tribes of the Sorbs who preserved their language, traditions, costumes and recipes. Make sure to try delicious regional specialties like the Spreewald pickle .

Transportation : Regional train to Spreewald Therme/Burg. Takes approximately 1.45 hours.

VW Factory Wolfsburg

If you are a car enthusiast , head to the Volkswagen factory in Wolfsburg which prides itself in being the largest auto plant in the world.

The adjacent Autostadt (car city) is an automobile theme park and offers everything from a car museum, pavilions dedicated to various VW cars, to driving courses for adults and kids. Of course you can also tour the factory itself and see how the Volkswagen is made from start to finish.

Transportation : ICE train to Wolfsburg. Takes approximately 1.5 hours.

Bad Saarow is a small spa town 60 km east of Berlin . Located at the shore of a big lake and surrounded by hills and farmland, this is the ideal spot to kick back. Make sure to visit the state-of-the-art thermal salt-water spa, one of the best in Germany .

End your day with a dinner at The Buehne  restaurant, right next to the train station, where you can enjoy regional cuisine in the atmosphere of the 1920s.

Transportation : Regional train to Fuerstenwalde, then local train to Bad Saarow. Takes approximately 2 hours.

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Lübeck: Planning Your Trip

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Visiting Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp

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Germany Guide: Planning Your Trip

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20 day trips from Berlin - by regional train (0-1 change, 0.5-4 hours), tested by locals

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Looking for the best day trips from Berlin by train? We have personally tested the best places to visit near Berlin by regional train with a maximum of 4 hours ride and 1 change of train - including the best cities near Berlin as well as the best nature spots. Of course, you can always spend the night to turn your Berlin day trip into a weekend trip from Berlin.

We have used the 9 Euro Ticket extensively and have found great destinations for a day trip from Berlin. Whether you are looking for one day trips from Berlin or weekend trips from Berlin, our local travel guide has got you covered. We include how easy it is to get to our Berlin day trip destinations by local train, a map, as well as the best things to do on your day trip or weekend getaway from Berlin.

Check out bahn.de for the current schedules and make sure to check local transport only for the best rates.

The best day trips from Berlin, sorted by length

1. day trip from berlin to potsdam, 2. day trip from berlin to werder, 3. day trip from berlin to beelitz heilstädten, 4. day trip from berlin to strausberg, 5. day trip from berlin to bad saarow, 6. day trip from berlin to lübbenau, 7. day trip from berlin to wiesenburg and bad belzig, 8. day trip from berlin to wittenberg, 9. day trip from berlin to cottbus, 10. day trip from berlin to dessau, 11. day trip from berlin to waren (müritz), 12. day trip from berlin to ueckermünde, 13. day trip from berlin to tangermünde, 14. day trip from berlin to leipzig, 15. day trip from berlin to greifswald, 16. day trip from berlin to warnemünde, 17. day trip from berlin to stralsund, 18. day trip from berlin to goslar, 19. day trip from berlin to usedom (heringsdorf), 20. day trip from berlin to breslau / wrocław, less than 1 hour train ride from berlin, berlin to potsdam by train: 23 min, no change of trains.

Only 30 km (18 mi) away from Berlin central station, you can find the capital German  state of Brandenburg. The city of Potsdam is with around 183,000 inhabitants largest city in Brandenburg as well. There are enough things for you to do to easily spend two days here.

Best things to do on a day trip to Potsdam

• Visit all the castles . Of course, Sanssouci is the highlight but if you’re really into castles, you can visit around 30 in the area. One of our personal favourites is the Belvedere .
• For movie enthusiasts, Filmpark Babelsberg is a must-visit. It’s a film-themed amusement with over 20 film-specific attractions, shows, a 4D theatre, and original sets.
• Take a stroll through the city centre with the pedestrian street , Potsdam’s very own Brandenburg Gate , the St. Nikola church , as well as one of our favourite museums in the Berlin area, the Barberini museum .
• Go on a boat tour on the Havel or one of the many lakes.
• Visit the Russian Colony for traditional wooden houses and authentic Russian food.
• Explore the dutch quarter with its 134 brick houses and the best cheesecake you’ll have in your life.

Berlin to Werder by train: 45 min, no change of trains

The best time to visit Werder is during the tree blossoms in spring. The small town is most famous for hosting the Baumblütenfest (tree blossom celebration), the biggest folk festival in eastern Germany.

Best things to do on a day trip to Werder

• Visit the Baumblütenfest (tree blossom celebration). Every year in spring, you can enjoy the beauty of the blossoms, taste local fruit wines, and try different rides.
• Explore the old town , which is located on an island! Stroll the cobblestone streets, visit the market square or walk around the island on the lakefront promenade.
• Go on a boat tour on the Havel and beyond. You can either choose a cruise or rent your own small boat to explore.
• Enjoy the view from the Bismarckhöhe , which also features a beer garden.
• Enjoy fresh fish either on a budget at Mai Wilhelm Fischerei or seated with a view at Fischrestaurant Arielle
• Go on a hike . In spring, the Panoramaweg Werderobst i s lovely. If you have the fitness, you can also hike the Glindower Alps - don’t worry they are not nearly as high as their southern German counterpart 😉

Berlin to Beelitz by train: 48 min, no change of trains

The workers' pulmonary sanatoriums Beelitz-Heilstätten, built between 1898 and 1930, form one of the largest hospital complexes in the Berlin area. It is an ensemble of 60 buildings on a total area of around 200 hectares that you can nowadays visit as a lost place on guided tours.

Beware that the sanatorium, the tree top path, and the barefoot park come with three different entrance fees.

Best things to do on a day trip to Beelitz Heilstädten

• The main attraction of Beelitz Heilstädten is a guided tour through the sanatorium. You used to be able to visit on your own but nowadays a guided tour is necessary. You cannot prebook the regular tours online and English tours are available on request only.
• The second highlight is the treetop path leading through (and over) the ruined buildings of the sanatorium.
• The barefoot park is the largest nature adventure park in Brandenburg. You can experience barefoot walking on the 15-hectare site in the middle of the forest with a total of 3 km (1.8 mi) of trails and 68 nature experience stations.
• Beelitz town is just a short bus ride away. While this cute town might not be worth a day trip on its own it’s a great addition to the sanatorium to stroll the cobblestone streets. Make sure to visit my favourite piece of art: human-size asparagus.
• Speaking of asparagus : Beelitz is famous for this vegetable. Make sure to have some when you visit in season!
• Beelitz is the location of the 2022 Landesgartenschau (State Horticultural Show) which is particularly interesting if you’re into flowers and gardening.

Berlin to Strausberg by train: 52 min, no change of trains

You can reach this day trip destination with the S-Bahn! It’s a perfect combination of small-town charm and nature’s delights. It’s a great place to visit especially in summer when you can swim in the lakes.

Best things to do on a day trip to Strausberg

• Take the S-Bahn to Strausberg Stadt and stroll through the cute town centre. You can even follow a self-guided city tour .
• Take the ferry over to the other side of the Straussee .
• Go on a hike . The easiest hike takes you around the Straussee. You can prolong the tour by adding the Fängersee , Bötzsee , and Herrensee .
• Go for a swim . There are plenty of beaches around the Strausberg lakes that are less crowded than the Berlin lakes in summer.
• Go scuba diving . Yes, you can scuba dive in Brandenburg!
• Stay in a castle . Well maybe it’s not a real castle but it looks like one and comes with a nice spa.

1 - 2 hours train ride from Berlin

Berlin to bad saarow by train: 1h, 1 change of trains.

Bad Saarow is all about the spa (Bad meaning bath or spa in English). In summer, you can also enjoy the beautiful Scharmützelsee.

Best things to do on a day trip to Bad Saarow

• By far the main reason for a day trip to Bad Saarow is to visit a spa. The Therme Bad Saarow is the most famous but there are also more spa hotels than you can count.
• Enjoy one of the many beer gardens and beaches around the Scharmützelsee .
• Rent a boat on the Scharmützelsee. You can either rent your own motorised or motorised boat or go on a cruise.
• Enjoy the bath architecture in Bad Saarow as many famous inhabitants like Maxim Gorki, Theodor Fontane, and Max Schmeling did. There’s even a guided tour on Sundays.
• Go on a hike . The most straightforward route is around the Scharmützelsee but you can also hike towards the Rauener Berge with their 24/7 view tower.
• If you’re into escape rooms, the Kletterwald Bad Saarow has something special to offer: an outdoor escape game.

Berlin to Lübbenau by train: 1h 5min, no change of trains

Lübbenau is located in the heart of the Spreewald, a biosphere reserve full of canals.

Best things to do on a day trip to Lübbenau

• The single best thing to do in Lübbenau is to rent a kayak and explore the canals on your own. There are even some restaurants with kayak docks along the way.
• The second best thing to do is go on a guided barge tour. There is no motor, the guide will push you forward with a stick. You’ll also have the possibility to snack some gherkins.
• The Spreewald is famous for its gherkins or pickled cucumbers. Don’t leave without having tried one. You can also try some unique cucumber specialities like cucumber soda, ice cream or shakes. There’s even a gherkin museum.
• Relax in the Spreewelten Bad Lübbenau spa. Where else can you swim with penguins?
• Visit the Open Air Museum Lehde . It’s the oldest open-air museum in Brandenburg offering a view into the lives of the residents of the Spreewald more than 100 years ago. Houses were brought together from various regions of the Spreewald and rebuilt here to form a whole village.
• Stroll through the cobblestone streets, eat in one of the many restaurants and explore the castle. You can even spend a night in the castle .

Berlin to Wiesenburg and Bad Belzig by train: 1h 10 min, no change of trains

Wiesenburg was already featured in our blog post highlighting the best things to do all over Germany and we reconfirm that the town and the beautiful castle are worth a visit. It’s easily combined with Bad Belzig, be it on foot or by train.

Best things to do on a day trip to Wiesenburg and Bad Belzig

• The Wiesenburg Castle with the beautiful lake and observation tower is easily worth a day trip itself.
• You can comfortably combine a visit to Wiesenburg with a visit to Bad Belzig - be it by train or by hike. We totally recommend you to hike if you’re able to as a Kunstwanderweg (art trail) with 10 different objects connects the two villages. The whole loop is 21 km (13 mi) but you can easily cut it in half by deciding on the north or the south route.
• The charming town centre of Bad Belzig i tself is worth exploring.
• The Landmark of Bad Belzig is Burg Eisenhardt . You can climb the castle walls and the observation tower. Don’t miss the amazing chocolate at the Chocolaterie .
• To be honest, we have not done this ourselves and the reviews online are mixed but there’s a 9 km (5.5 mi) Barefoot Hike around Bad Belzig which is on our bucketlist.
• While this is not strictly the material for a touristy day trip, we still wanted to mention the amazing Coconat coworking space. After all, you could leave the city to work in the beautiful Brandenburg countryside for one day.

Berlin to Wittenberg by train: 1h 21 min, no change of trains

Wittenberg’s claim to fame is that it was the city of the revolution - namely the reformation that led to the protestant religion splitting from the Catholics. Hence also the name Lutherstadt Wittenberg after the reformer Martin Luther. It’s also part of the world heritage region Dessau-Wittenberg.

Tip: As the town is quite touristy many of the sights, including the churches, come with an entrance fee.

Best things to do on a day trip to Wittenberg

• Do some revolution sightseeing. You can visit the Lutherhaus , the Schlosskirche where Luther posted the Ninety-five Theses, the St. Marien church where the first German service ever took place, and the house of the reformer Melanchthon .
• • Follow the well-marked sightseeing trail through the city centre with bilingual descriptions of all the major sights including the old city wall, the town hall, and the historic university.
• There are countless cute cafes and restaurants in Wittenberg, many of them in picturesque backyards. Just to mention a few there’s the von Bora i nside the courtyard of the Lutherhaus, the Hofwirtschaft in the Cranachhof, and Café Klatschmohn .
• A hidden gem of a museum is the Museum of City History in the historic building of the Zeughaus. It features 700 years of the history of Lutherstadt Wittenberg.
• If you’re a sucker for views like we are, you can summit the tower of the Schlosskirche . You can purchase a chip at the entrance of the church and let yourself in.
• If you’re a nature enthusiast, we recommend you to cycle along the Elberadweg .

Berlin to Cottbus by train: 1h 24min, no change of trains

To be honest, there’s a bit of prejudice against visiting Cottbus. So we were even more surprised to encounter a charming city with loads of greenery on our day trip.

Best things to do on a day trip to Cottbus

• Get an overview from the Spremberger Tower . It does not cost much and the people who work there will be able to give you many recommendations.
• Do some sightseeing in the old town. Some of our highlights are the old market, the monastery , the city castle , the city wall , and the oldest building of Cottbus, the Gerberhäuser . You can even go on a guided tour on some weekdays.
• Stroll the walking street with its many shops and enjoy Cottbuss's many restaurants. Don’t miss the Stadtwächter for some traditional cuisine next to the medieval city wall.
• Check out the pyramids . Yes, you heard right, there are pyramids in Cottbus. They are part of the super cool Fürst-Pückler-Park Branitz , which is free to visit and super interesting.
• Enjoy the river Spree be it walking or cycling.
• Visit the old Cottbus-Nord opencast mine . It was flooded in 2019 and is now called Cottbusser Ostsee (The Baltic Sea of Cottbus). To be honest, it was still a mine when we last visited but there seem to be observation towers nowadays and it does look super interesting. There’s still an active mine in Welzow .

Berlin to Dessau by train: 1h 38min, no change of trains

Like Wittenberg, Dessau is part of the world heritage region Dessau-Wittenberg. It’s famous for its Bauhaus architecture.

Tip: You can save some serious money if you buy the WelterbeCard .

Best things to do on a day trip to Dessau

Get an overview of Bauhaus architecture by doing a self-guided Bauhaus tour. You can either walk or take the Bauhaus Bus ( Line 10 ) that will bring you to the most important Bauhaus buildings like Törten Settlement, Historical Arbeitsamt, Bauhausmuseum, Meisterhäuser, and Kornhaus.

Bauhaus is important in Dessau so you shouldn’t miss visiting the museum Bauhaus Dessau , Bauhaus Museum Dessau , and the Meisterhäuser .

The Räucherturm might look a bit sketchy but it offers great views over Dessau for free.

While Bauhaus is the main focus, the old city centre is also worth a visit. Highlights include the city castle , the Marienkirche , and of course the Georgium . You can follow a well-marked trail with bilingual explanations to do a self-guided tour.

Beware that the main walking street does not really have historic charm in Dessau.

Dessau is close to the UNESCO World Heritage Middle Elbe Biosphere Reserve . You can best explore the old trees and branched arms of the river by bike.

Probably a day trip in itself, the Gartenreich Dessau-Wörlitz with its gardens, palaces and avenues is worth a visit. You can reach it by train from Dessau.

Berlin to Waren (Müritz) by train: 1h 40min, no change of trains

Waren (Müritz) is located in the heart of the Mecklenburgische Seenplatte (Mecklenburg Lake District) yet easy to reach from Berlin by train.

Best things to do on a day trip to Waren (Müritz)

• The highlight of the region is the Mecklenburgische Seenplatte (Mecklenburg Lake District). Don’t skip exploring it by boat - either on your own with a rental kayak or on a cruise. You can opt for a three, five, or seven lakes cruise.
• With more than 2000 km (1250 mi) of cycle paths and mostly flat terrain, the area of the Mecklenburgische Seenplatte is a cyclists’ paradise ! While not strictly a bike, you can rent a trolley and paddle on a railway through the Nature Park Mecklenburg Switzerland.
• Don’t miss out on the city centre with its churches, market square, and town hall. The harbour is also worth a visit.
• Since 2021, Waren is a state-approved spa . The Waren thermal brine has a high iodine content and is supposed to have healing properties. Anyways you can never go wrong with a relaxing spa treatment in the Waren Spa Centre.
• The Müritzeum is an interactive adventure world that exhibits the nature around the Müritz and the Mecklenburg Lake District. It features the largest freshwater aquarium in Germany with over 40 species of fish. Like with all museums/aquariums you have to make the decision yourself.
• With an area of over 320 square kilometres (120 square miles), the Müritz National Park is the largest terrestrial national park in Germany. Three quarters are covered by forest and it features around 100 lakes and many smaller bodies of water. The national park is named after the Müritz, Germany's largest inland lake.

2 - 3 hours train ride from Berlin

Berlin to ueckermünde by train: 2h 20min, 1 change of trains.

While Ueckermünde is not nearly as famous as its counterpart on the other side of the Stettiner Haff Usedom, it’s nonetheless worth a visit, significantly less crowded and much cheaper.

Best things to do on a day trip to Ueckermünde

• If it’s the right temperature, go and hit the beach. The Haffbad with its beach chairs to rent is super nice.
• If it’s not the right weather to hit the beach, check out the charming Haffmuseum in the old castle. Here you’ll learn about the history of Ueckermünde. Additionally, you have a great view from the tower.
• Stroll through the city centre and along the Uecker promenade .
• Check out the Klappbrücke (bascule bridge). The Sir Henry Fischbistro is a great place to have a drink and a fish roll while you wait for ships to pass the bridge. If you’re really into bascule bridges, there’s also a wooden one across the Köhnischer Kanal.
• Take a boat to Poland ! We really loved Swinemünde / Świnoujście and we love boat tours so this is a win-win. Of course, you can also cruise the Stettiner Haff.
• Explore the area by bike. If you make it all the way to Altwarp (17 km or 10 mi), you’ll be rewarded with a historic windmill and shifting dunes. Additionally, you can hop on a quick little ferry to Neuwarp / Nowe Warpno in Poland on a charming cutter. Of course, you can also take the bus.

Berlin to Tangermünde by train: 2h 30min, 1 change of trains

Honestly, we probably would have never heard about Tangermünde if our friends had not had their wedding in this beautiful historic Hanseatic town. We would have missed out…

Best things to do on a day trip to Tangermünde

• Stroll through the historic city centre. The half-timbered houses are as cute as they can be, the brick churches are impressive, the towers imposing, and the city wall is like nothing we’ve ever seen. There’s even a small local history museum.
• Don’t forget to visit the castle . They have a restaurant and a hotel with a spa . The view from the Kapitel Tower is the best in the city.
• Not one but two rivers float through Tangermünde: the Tanger and the Elbe. Tangermünde is located along the Elbe bike path with a total length of 1270 km (790 mi) - but don’t worry, you don’t have to cycle it all. The Nature Observation Tower Bölsdorfer Haken is an easy 5 km (3 mi) hike or bike ride away. Of course, you can also ride further towards Buch.
• Try a local Kuhschwanzbier (cow tail beer). You can get it at the Zecherei , a restaurant in an old church with a very medieval atmosphere which is totally worth a visit.
• Sleep in a brewery. Schulzens Brauerei is not only a hotel but also a restaurant and a bar. You can have tastings, guided tours, and even brew your own beer - a beer lovers’ paradise.
• To reach Tangermünde, you have to change trains in Stendal . If you have the time, don’t skip this historic Hanseatic city.

Berlin to Beelitz by train: 2h 40min, 1 change of trains

With more than 600000 inhabitants, Leipzig is the biggest city in Saxony. Of course, you’ll find plenty of cultural events, restaurants, and museums here.

Best things to do on a day trip to Leipzig

• Visit the Völkerschlachtdenkmal (Monument to the Battle of the Nations). The monument was erected in memory of the Battle of the Nations in 1813 and, at 91 meters high, is one of the tallest monuments in Europe. Climb to the top and enjoy the view over Leipzig.
• Enjoy the view from the Panorama Tower . The MDR television high-rise building is the tallest building in Leipzig. When it was completed in 1972, it was the tallest building in Germany. Located in the city centre, it offers a great view of the city and the surrounding area of Leipzig.
• The Haus der Geschichte - Zeitgeschichtliches Forum teaches you about the history of the GDR - completely for free!
• We normally don’t recommend visiting zoos but in Leipzig, you can find Gondwanaland - Germany’s biggest jungle. We’re just suckers for tropical houses, especially in German winter. Here, we saw tapirs and comodo dragons before we saw them in the wild. They even have a section featuring living fossils!
• Eat and drink to your heart’s content in the Barfußgäßchen also called Drallewatsch which means going out in Saxonian.
• Explore the beautiful city centre. You can go on a free walking tour or do a self-guided tour. If you want to learn about Leipzig’s role in the German reunification, we recommend the English App "Leipzig '89" .

Berlin to Greifswald by train: 2h 48min, no change of trains

In between the popular islands of Rügen and Usedom, Greifswald often gets overlooked. A shame because the university city and the city with the youngest inhabitants in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania is well worth a visit.

Best things to do on a day trip to Greifswald

• Greifswald is famous for its Backsteingotik (brick gothic) buildings. The market square is especially beautiful. The historic university from 1456 is well worth a visit.
• Climb the tower of the St Nikolaus church for the best view in town.
• With more than 50 ships, the museum port is the biggest in Germany. There’s a lot of information about each ship - all completely free!
• The famous romantik painter Caspar David Friedrich was born in Greifswald. Of course, he painted many pictures of his home town. You can follow the Bildweg (picture path) with 15 stations, see his paintings in the Pommersches Landesmuseum , and visit the Caspar David Friedrich-Centre .
• The Fischerdorf Wieck (fishing village Wieck) is well worth a visit. You can bike, walk, take a bus, or even a boat along the Ryck river. It’s famous for its bascule bridge which is still drawn manually. Strengthen yourself with a fish roll before you cross the bascule bridge to reach
• Eldena . This part of Greifswald is famous for its brick gothic monastery ruin - Klosterruine Eldena . Additionally, you can visit one of the oldest windmills  in the Baltic Sea. If the weather allows for it, you can have a relaxed day at the beach at the Strandbad Eldena (lido Eldena).

3 - 4 hours train ride from Berlin

Berlin to warnemünde by train: 3h 11min, 1 change of trains.

We all know the main event when visiting Warnemünde is going to the beach. Here are some other things you can do as well.

Best things to do on a day trip to Warnemünde

• Walk along the seafront promenade - this also secures you a more remote spot on the beach.
• Eating a fish roll is a must.
• Check out the lighthouse . You can climb it for a view.
• There’s a local museum but to be honest, we’ve never been.
• Do some boat-watching . You can see small boats on the Alter Strom, cruise ships and ferries along the Warnow, and there’s even a Maritime Museum in between Rostock and Warnemünde.
• To go to Warnemünde, you have to change trains in Rostock which is quite a nice city. Don’t miss the Stadthafen (city port) with its many restaurants when you go.

Berlin to Stralsund by train: 3h 14min, no change of trains

Stralsund is the jumping-off point to the German island of Rugen as you have to change trains here to cross the Rügen bridge. The city is definitely worth a stopover on your way and can even make for a nice day trip.

Best things to do on a day trip to Stralsund

• The main draw of Stralsund is its lovely old town with highlights like the St Nikolai church , the old market and city hall , and the old city wall with its gates . There’s even a free walking tour although it seems to be available only in German.
• The culinary highlight is the Störtebeker Brauquartier with amazing beers and food.
• The museum ship Gorch Fock I is a must-visit. The famous sailing training ship of the German Navy, Gorch Fock I, is moored in Stralsund's city harbour.
• Go on a boat tour. You can either choose a harbour cruise or take a ferry to many different destinations for example on the island of Rügen.
• If you don’t want to go all the way to Rügen, you can walk along the Sundpromenade to reach a nice sandy beach .
• The Ozeaneum (like every kind of zoo) is a debatable tourist attraction. Here, you can visit exhibitions featuring the Baltic Sea, North Sea and the open Atlantic. There are many aquariums with fish, coral and crabs. They collaborate with Greenpeace so they seem to be as animal friendly as aquariums get.

Berlin to Goslar by train: 3h 42min, 1 change of trains

Being born in Lower Saxony , we could not have not included the beautiful Harz mountains. Goslar is one of the destinations in the Harz mountains easiest reached by train. Most of the day trips on this list are geared toward warmer weather whereas the Harz mountains are amazing in winter as well.

Best things to do on a day trip to Goslar

• Go skiing . There are some ski schools in town for beginners and plenty of ski lifts around, for example at Bocksberg.
• Bocksberg can be reached by bus. It’s great in winter for skiing and tobogganing but also amazing in summer. There’s a summer toboggan run , you can zip line , hike the Liebesbankweg (love bench path), and of course visit the Instagram-famous stave church in Hahnenklee.
• Speaking of winter, the Christmas market in Goslar is one of our favourites in Germany. It comes with a Christmas Forest full of beautifully lit firs. The backdrop of the historic houses is just the cutest.
• Our favourite thing to do in Goslar is visiting the Cultural Heritage For All Humanity: The Rammelsberg mine . You can ride the mine train into the mountain, just like the miners did. You can even inquire about English tours via email.
• Another UNESCO World Heritage Site is the Kaiserpfalz (Imperial Palace). Erected between 1040 and 1050 under Henry III, the imperial palace is a unique monument of secular architecture. For more than 200 years, German and European history was written here at numerous Reichs- und Hoftage .
• Speaking of UNESCO World Heritage Sites: The whole old town of Goslar is part of it! Make sure to stroll the cobblestone streets with their half-timbered houses, visit the market square, and enjoy the view from the tower of the Marktkirche . The only thing we did not enjoy was the pewter figures museum, which is mostly interesting for the pewter figure enthusiast and less for the regular tourist.

Berlin to Usedom (Heringsdorf) by train: 3h 52min, 1 change of trains

The German island of Usedom is undoubtedly touristy. Like many touristy places, rightly so. Beware that it can get crowded and prices are higher. Also, you should be aware that you have to pay a tourist tax of currently 2.70€ when you visit.

Best things to do on a day trip to Heringsdorf

• dog beaches
• nudist beaches (eastern Germany is famous for them)
• family-friendly beaches with beach chairs to rent
• Speaking of beaches: The beach is incredibly long. In fact, you can walk all the way to Swinemünde / Świnoujście in Poland along the beach!
• Heringsdorf is part of the three Kaiserbäder Ahlbeck, Heringsdorf und Bansin . They are connected by one of Europe’s longest beachfront promenades. The three towns are famous for their architectural style called Bäderarchitektur (bath architecture).
• All three Kaiserbäder feature impressive Seebrücken (piers). While the pier in Bansin is not very spectacular, the piers in Heringsdorf and Bansin have buildings on top with a restaurant inside.
• A small train called the Kaiserbäder-Express connects the three towns. It runs roughly every 40 minutes and is a lot of fun.
• If you have enough of the beach, you can visit the Healing Forest . Here, you can exercise, meditate, or check out different viewpoints.

Bonus: day trip from Berlin to Poland (over 4 hours train ride from Berlin)

Berlin to breslau / wrocław by train: 4h 18min ec or kulturzug (culture train).

You can reach Wrocław within 4h and 18min with an EC from Berlin making it a day trip destination. What we recommend you do though is take the amazing Kulturzug (culture train) for 19€ and spend a night. The train runs from Berlin to Wrocław Saturday morning and back Sunday evening. And the best? You’ll be entertained throughout the ride!

Best things to do on a day trip to Breslau / Wrocław

• Climb the roof of the Renoma shopping centre for a great free view.
• Stroll through the beautiful old town with the Rynek (Market Square). Like everywhere, we recommend you take a free walking tour .
• Don’t miss out on Cathedral Island which is the oldest part of Wrocław from the 10th century. It’s super pretty with a church at almost every turn.
• Hunt for the many little dwarfs which are the symbols of Wrocław. Rumour has it that there are around 500.
• Indulge in some delicious Polish food in the market hall . We recommend Pierogi and Bigos.
• Explore the alternative Nadodrze district to find street art and German signs.

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The 8 best day trips from Berlin

Jul 24, 2023 • 6 min read

You won’t leave the city limits on a day trip that includes a stop at Treptower Park, but it'll feel like you did © Bojan Brecelj / Getty Images

Berlin is surrounded by the forest-filled, lake-spotted state of Brandenburg , which offers year-round respite from the streets of the capital. Forest walks, cycling routes, dips in the lake, historic sites and much more are all within easy reach, sometimes still within the city’s boundaries.

Just know that you’re unlikely to be exploring alone – Berliners themselves love nothing more than a day out, especially when the weather is schön , and booking ahead for popular sights or tours is often your only option.

1. Paddle along the canals of Spreewald

Travel time: 1 hour and 10 minutes

Spreewald is a Unesco Biosphere Reserve, occasionally referred to as Germany’s Little Venice. Well, forget about that, and instead go for the chance to take a peaceful paddle along the extensive network of forest-lined waterways. The gentle waters are easy to navigate, even for paddling novices, and you might be able to pull up at a little snack stop, restaurant (where excellent Spreewald gherkins are guaranteed) or beer garden along your chosen watery route. All stops are delightfully quaint and wholesome. 

Lübbenau is one of the best towns from which to explore Spreewald. From Lübbenau’s Altstadt, it’s a short walk to Bootshaus Kaupen , where you can hire wooden kayaks and canoes and get information on suggested routes of up to 20km (12.4 miles). The old town itself is worthy of a wander, with a small market (for more Spreewald gherkin sampling), Brauhaus Babben (for post-paddling brews) and plenty of gherkin-inspired kitsch around town.

How to get to Spreewald from Berlin:  Spreewald Biosphere Reserve is located approximately 100km (62 miles) southeast of Berlin in the state of Brandenburg. It’s easily reached by taking the RE2 train from Berlin to Lübbenau. You can also hire boats in nearby Lübben, for a similar experience.

2. Admire the grandeur of Potsdam

Travel time: less than 1 hour

The classic day-trip destination from Berlin is Potsdam , the capital of Brandenburg, Berlin’s surrounding state.

Nothing in Potsdam screams for your attention more than yellow-hued Schloss Sanssouci  – the rococo summer palace of the Prussian King Frederick the Great, today a Unesco World Heritage Site. The palace grounds are also wonderfully impressive, and you'll find a number of other ornate buildings, such as the Chinese House and the New Palace, to gawk over. Book tour tickets in advance, lest you miss out. 

If the palace and its grounds don’t keep you all day, Museum Barberini is another fixed Potsdam highlight, featuring international art exhibitions with a focus on impressionism. Since opening in 2017, headline exhibits have featured the likes of Monet and Van Gogh.

Before or after undertaking your sightseeing itinerary, take a wander around the historic Dutch Quarter and stop for a coffee at the locally beloved Buena Vida Coffee Roasters – it just might end up being one of your favorite coffee stops on your trip. 

How to get to Potsdam from Berlin:  Potsdam is approximately 35km (22 miles) southwest of Berlin. It can be reached in less than an hour from central Berlin, on the S-Bahn (S1 or S7). The city lies within Berlin’s C fare zone, so you’ll need an ABC ticket.

3. Swim in the clear waters of Liepnitzsee

Travel time: 1 hour and 50 minutes

Plenty of swimmable lakes lie within easy enough reach of the city – there are approximately 3000 in Berlin and Brandenburg, after all – but Liepnitzsee is a standout for its clean, clear water and lush forest surroundings.

Hardly a secret among Berliners, the banks of Liepnitzsee are filled with city escapees on warm summer weekends, and you may have to search a while to find the perfect spot to lay down your towel, either on a secluded spot nestled between trees or on one of several sandy beaches. 

Pack a picnic and spend your day dipping in and out of the refreshing water that appears, from a distance, to be a mesmerising emerald green. If that’s too sedate for you, hire a paddle boat, walk or ride around the lake, or ferry to the island plonk in the middle, Großer Werder.

Not swimming weather? Go anyway. The lake and surrounding forest is picturesque at any time of year, even when covered in snow, and you may still see people swimming when others wouldn’t dare take off their scarves. 

How to get to Liepnitzsee from Berlin: Driving the 40km (25 miles) northeast from Berlin to Liepnitzsee is your easiest option, but getting there with a combination of train and bike is the most fun. Take the S2 to Bernau and then ride the final 12km leg through the forest. If you don’t want to cycle, take the regional train all the way to Wandlitz; you'll need to walk from there.

4. Celebrate asparagus season in Beelitz

Travel time: 45 minutes

Germans are serious devotees of seasonal produce, whether it’s bärlauch (wild garlic), strawberries or Federweißer (a young, bubbly wine).

An absolute favorite arrives in Berlin in early spring : spargelzeit (asparagus season). During the short season, starting in mid-April and ending, punctually, on 24 June (St John the Baptist Day), Spargel is celebrated on menus across city, both the white and green varieties, and you won’t have to look long to find Spargel served as soup, with hollandaise sauce or something more inventive.

Deepen your own appreciation of this vegetable with cult status by heading to the regional center of production, Beelitz, where you can visit local farms to see how the regional variety is grown and, if you time it right, attend the annual Spargelfest.

While you’re in the area, you should dedicate part of your day to the Baumkronenpfad Beelitz-Heilstätten , a treetop walkway above the sprawling grounds of an abandoned (and crumbling) sanitarium, once used to treat tuberculosis patients and later soldiers (including Adolf Hitler) in both World Wars. You must join a guided tour to visit the buildings.

How to get to Beelitz from Berlin:  Beelitz is approximately 50km (TK miles) southwest of Berlin. Beelitz-Heilstätten train station is connected to Berlin Hauptbahnhof (Berlin Central Station) by the RE3. From the train station, you can reach the town by bus.

5. Cycle along the Spree in Treptower Park and Plänterwald

Travel time: 30 minutes

You won’t leave the city limits on this day trip – but it will feel like you have. From the Treptower Park S-Bahn station, it’s just a hop, skip and a jump to the Treptower Hafen, from where you can ride (or walk) along the shared bike and pedestrian path as it follows the Spree. The riverside path will take you through Treptower Park and then Plänterwald, passing the Zenner beer garden , Insel der Jugend, playgrounds, the infamous Spreepark and the newly opened Zum Anleger beer garden along the way – all worthy stops if you have the time or are in need of a drink, bratwurst or an ice cream. 

Otherwise, keep on riding until you reach a tiny ferry dock. From here you can take the Fähre F11 across to the other side of the river in just one or two throttles of the engine (you will need a BGV ticket for you and your bike). Once on the other bank, find your way to the Funkhaus Berlin , a former East German broadcasting complex which now hosts curated concerts and music festivals. Here you can grab a coffee or eat a wood-fired pizza from Zola while looking out over the water and summoning the energy for your return journey. It’s the perfect day out and a good one with kids.

How to get to Treptower Park: Treptower Park is easily reached by S-Bahn or bus from almost anywhere in Berlin.

This article was first published June 2019 and updated July 2023

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The Train Diaries

20 BEST Day Trips From Berlin By Train

If you’re paying a visit to Germany’s capital, you’re perfectly poised for some fantastic day trips from Berlin by train.

This city is not just a cultural and historical hotspot itself, but it’s also a central hub from which you can explore the rich and diverse regions of Germany.

Traveling by train from Berlin is not only efficient and comfortable but it also gives you the opportunity to sit back and enjoy the beautiful landscapes that you’ll pass by. Remember, the journey can be just as exciting as the destination!

In this post, we’re going to dive into the 20 best day trips from Berlin by train. From stunning palaces and historic cities to serene nature reserves, there’s something to tempt all kinds of travellers. Let’s get started, shall we?

Want to compare train times and ticket prices? Head straight down to the comparison table.

Table of Contents

T he Magic of Potsdam

First on our list is the magnificent Potsdam, just a 35 minute train ride away from Berlin.

If you’re a fan of history or architecture, or simply love immersing yourself in a bit of royal luxury, Potsdam is a must-visit. It’s known for its collection of stunning palaces, each with its own charm and story to tell.

The star of the show, undoubtedly, is the Sanssouci Palace. Think of it as the German equivalent to Versailles, but on a slightly more intimate scale.

Frederick the Great’s former summer palace is a beautiful rococo gem, surrounded by intricately manicured gardens and a vineyard – yes, a vineyard right here in the heart of the city!

The rooms inside the palace are just as impressive, filled with art and historic artifacts that transport you straight back to the 18th century.

And don’t forget to explore the park around Sanssouci Palace. This sprawling green space is home to several other palaces and historic buildings, including the Chinese Tea House and the New Palace.

The park itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so you can imagine its significance and beauty.

Prefer to join a tour? Check out this 4 hour guided trip from Berlin

Dresden: A Historic Gem

Another incredible place that you can visit from Berlin by train is the historic city of Dresden.

Picture a skyline pierced with elegant domes and spires, intricate palaces and a river gracefully flowing through it all – that’s Dresden for you. This city, with its stunning baroque architecture and rich artistic heritage, is like a step into a classic painting.

At the heart of Dresden is the Frauenkirche, a stunning Lutheran church with a monumental dome. The church was almost completely destroyed during World War II and was painstakingly restored to its original grandeur after the reunification of Germany.

Stepping inside, you’ll be greeted by the mesmerizing beauty of its interior. And if you’re up for it, a climb to the top of the church offers a panoramic view of the city that’s absolutely breathtaking.

Not far from the Frauenkirche is another highlight, the Zwinger Palace. It’s an impressive baroque complex with grand galleries and lush gardens.

Don’t miss the Old Masters Gallery, which hosts an incredible collection of art, including Raphael’s “Sistine Madonna”.

Leipzig: The City of Music

When you think of cities pulsating with the rhythm of music, Leipzig definitely comes to mind. Just around an hour by train from Berlin, this city’s deep ties to musical geniuses like Bach and Mendelssohn make it a haven for music lovers.

First off, there’s St. Thomas Church, where Bach served as a cantor for many years. The church still echoes with his music during the weekly performances by the St. Thomas Boys Choir.

A short walk from the church, you’ll find the Bach Museum, dedicated to the life and works of the great composer. There, you can literally walk in the footsteps of the great composer, and trust me, it’s quite the experience.

Not to be outdone, Mendelssohn’s legacy is also celebrated here. His former residence is now a museum where you can learn about his life, work, and contribution to Leipzig’s music scene.

But Leipzig isn’t just about music. The city’s old town, with its Renaissance-style buildings, is a delight to explore.

Don’t forget to check out the Monument to the Battle of the Nations, a towering tribute to one of the most significant battles in European history. And if you’re a fan of contemporary art, the Spinnerei, a former cotton mill turned art space, is a must-see.

The Bustling Hamburg

If you’re craving a change of pace and an exciting urban adventure, then hop on a train from Berlin to the bustling city of Hamburg.

As Germany’s second-largest city, Hamburg is a big deal. It’s not just its size that’s impressive, though – the city is also known for its vibrant cultural scene, its maritime charm, and its welcoming, cosmopolitan vibe.

One place you absolutely can’t miss in Hamburg is the harbor district. The Port of Hamburg is one of the busiest in the world, and the harbor area is teeming with life.

You can take a boat tour to see the impressive shipping docks and the historic Speicherstadt, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s the largest warehouse district in the world. At night, it’s beautifully lit and offers a mesmerizing view.

Another key spot in the harbor district is the Elbphilharmonie, Hamburg’s stunning concert hall. The building’s modern architecture is quite a sight, and the view from the Plaza, a public viewing area, is absolutely breathtaking.

Beyond the harbor district, there’s so much more to explore in Hamburg. There’s the bustling Reeperbahn, the city’s entertainment and nightlife district, the beautiful Alster Lake right in the city center, and the historic Town Hall.

Reflection at Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp

A day trip that is undoubtedly poignant and thought-provoking, but one I highly recommend, is to Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp. It’s a stark reminder of a dark chapter in our history that should never be forgotten.

Sachsenhausen, located in the town of Oranienburg, just north of Berlin, was one of the first concentration camps established by the Nazi regime. Thousands of people were imprisoned here, suffering unimaginable conditions and brutality.

Visiting the site gives you a sense of the scale of the atrocities that took place, and it’s a place that really puts our history into perspective.

Today, the camp serves as a museum and a memorial. You’ll see several exhibitions that document the history of the camp and the lives of those who were imprisoned there.

It’s a chilling, sobering experience, but it’s important to remember and reflect upon these events to ensure they never happen again.

Going to Sachsenhausen is not about sightseeing, it’s about paying respect and learning from the past. It’s an emotional journey, but one that is incredibly worthwhile.

To get even more out of your visit, you might want to take a look at this half-day guided walking tour

Relaxation at Wannsee

You might be looking for a place to relax and recharge, and Wannsee is just the spot for that. Just a short train ride from Berlin, Wannsee is like a breath of fresh air – quite literally!

Wannsee is most famous for its lake – the Grosser Wannsee. It’s actually one of the largest inland lidos in Europe!

On a sunny day, it’s a popular spot for Berliners and tourists alike to take a refreshing dip, relax on the sandy beaches, or even try their hand at some water sports like sailing or paddleboarding.

You can also take a leisurely stroll along the lakeside promenade, enjoy a picnic in one of the lakeside parks, or even rent a rowboat for a little adventure on the water.

There’s also a lovely bike path around the lake if you fancy a two-wheeled exploration.

Nearby, there’s the Wannsee Villa, a place with a complex history, as it’s where the infamous Wannsee Conference was held during World War II. Today, it houses a thought-provoking museum.

Hanover’s Architectural Blend

If architecture is your thing, you’ll be in for a treat with a day trip from Berlin to Hanover. While it’s a bit longer journey compared to the other trips, the architectural charm of Hanover is absolutely worth it.

Hanover presents an intriguing mix of old and new. The city was heavily damaged during World War II but has since been rebuilt with a careful blend of historical preservation and modern design. One place where you’ll see this striking juxtaposition is the old town, or Altstadt. Here, half-timbered houses dating back to the Middle Ages rub shoulders with sleek modern buildings, creating a fascinating architectural landscape.

One of the highlights in Hanover is the New Town Hall, or Neues Rathaus. With its grand dome and intricate details, it’s a masterpiece of eclectic style. You can even take an elevator to the top of the dome for a panoramic view of the city – it’s a sight to behold!

Then there’s the Herrenhausen Gardens, a stunning baroque-style garden that’s often compared to the Gardens of Versailles. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely stroll amidst beautiful landscapes and historic structures.

And let’s not forget the Sprengel Museum, home to an impressive collection of modern art. The building itself, with its sleek lines and modern design, is a testament to Hanover’s architectural prowess.

The Charm of Lübeck

Fancy a taste of some delicious marzipan and a stroll through a charming old town? If your answer is a resounding yes, then Lübeck is the place for you. This quaint, picturesque city is just a train ride away from Berlin and is a perfect destination for a relaxing day trip.

Lübeck is famously known as the “Marzipan City”. This delicious almond-sugar treat has been crafted here for centuries, and you’ll find some of the best marzipan in the world at the renowned Niederegger Café. You can even visit their marzipan salon and learn about the history of this sweet delicacy.

After treating your taste buds, it’s time to feast your eyes on the historic charm of Lübeck. The city’s old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, packed with medieval buildings, quaint cobblestone streets, and charming courtyards. You’ll find the iconic Holsten Gate at the entrance of the old town, a towering symbol of Lübeck’s rich history.

The centerpiece of the old town is the stunning Lübeck Cathedral and the Market Square, both of which are a testament to the city’s architectural grandeur. And don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore the unique “Gänge und Höfe”, the small alleyways and courtyards hidden between the buildings in the old town.

Erfurt’s Medieval Beauty

If you’re in the mood for a journey back in time, consider a day trip from Berlin to the charming city of Erfurt. It’s an enchanting place, with one of the best-preserved medieval city centers in Germany. Just stepping into the old town is like stepping into a storybook.

The heart of Erfurt’s old town is the magnificent Cathedral of St. Mary, which sits majestically on a hill overlooking the city. Right next to it, you’ll find the Church of St. Severus, another stunning example of Gothic architecture. And between these two landmarks is the Cathedral Square, host to the famous Erfurt Christmas Market during the holiday season.

Another noteworthy site in Erfurt is the Krämerbrücke, or Merchants’ Bridge. It’s not just any old bridge – it’s lined with half-timbered houses on both sides, which today are filled with boutiques, galleries, and cafés. It’s a unique experience to walk across a bridge that feels more like a charming village street!

You should also check out the Erfurt Synagogue, which is one of the oldest synagogues in Europe and now houses a museum showcasing a remarkable medieval Jewish treasure found in the city.

Rostock: A Hanseatic Delight

Are you ready for a little maritime adventure? If so, a day trip from Berlin to the Hanseatic city of Rostock is right up your alley. This vibrant, port city has a rich history that dates back to the Hanseatic League, and it’s just waiting to be explored.

As a key member of the Hanseatic League, Rostock was once a major center for trade in Northern Europe. Its rich past is evident in the city’s stunning architecture, particularly the beautiful gabled houses and brick Gothic buildings in the city center. The centerpiece of the city is the Rostock Cathedral, an imposing church with a richly decorated interior that’s definitely worth a visit.

But Rostock’s charm doesn’t stop at its historical buildings. The city is also home to a bustling port area. The Warnemünde district, at the mouth of the Warnow river, is a vibrant seaside resort with a large sandy beach and a lighthouse offering panoramic views of the area. A walk along the Alter Strom, the old channel, lined with fisherman’s houses, boutiques, and seafood restaurants, is a must-do.

Another unique aspect of Rostock is its historic shipyard, which is still active today. If you’re lucky, you might even get to see a ship being built!

The Biosphere Reserve: Spreewald

Looking for a day trip that takes you away from the city’s hustle and bustle and closer to nature? Then pack your bag and hop on a train from Berlin to the Spreewald Biosphere Reserve. This unique destination is a breath of fresh air – quite literally!

Spreewald, or “Spree Forest”, is a lush, green haven recognized by UNESCO as a biosphere reserve. It’s a world away from the urban landscapes of Berlin, filled with meadows, forests, and an intricate network of over 200 small canals called “Fließe”. This network of waterways is the lifeblood of Spreewald, supporting a rich biodiversity and a unique cultural landscape.

One of the best ways to explore Spreewald is by canoe. You can paddle through the serene waterways, surrounded by unspoiled nature, observing the local wildlife and enjoying the peaceful silence. Don’t worry if you’re not an experienced paddler, as there are guided canoe tours available that cater to all levels of experience.

Apart from canoeing, you can also explore Spreewald on foot or by bike. There are numerous trails that weave through the reserve, taking you past charming old farmhouses and fields full of wildflowers. And don’t miss the chance to try some local delicacies like Spreewald gherkins and fresh fish dishes.

Magdeburg’s Gothic Inspiration

Feel like exploring a city with a striking blend of history and modernity? Then, let’s hop on a train from Berlin to Magdeburg, a city brimming with fascinating landmarks, from Gothic cathedrals to contemporary architecture.

Magdeburg’s most iconic structure is undoubtedly the Magdeburg Cathedral, which towers over the city. As one of the oldest Gothic cathedrals in Germany, it’s a sight to behold with its soaring spires and intricate carvings. The cathedral’s interior is equally impressive, housing several important art pieces, including the famous Magdeburg Rider statue.

But the historical allure of Magdeburg doesn’t stop at its cathedral. The city’s Old Market Square, surrounded by beautifully restored buildings, is a bustling hub of activity. Be sure to check out the Magdeburg Horseman, a bronze copy of the statue in the cathedral.

In stark contrast to the city’s historical sites, the Green Citadel is a testament to Magdeburg’s embrace of modernity. This quirky, pink building designed by the famous architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser is a must-visit. It’s a lively complex housing apartments, offices, cafes, shops, and even a hotel!

And let’s not forget the Elbauenpark, a vast recreational area with walking trails, playgrounds, and the impressive Jahrtausendturm, one of the tallest wooden towers in the world, housing exhibits related to science and technology.

A Day in Frankfurt (Oder)

If you’re up for an adventure that takes you to the edge of Germany, then Frankfurt (Oder) is your ticket. Just a quick train ride from Berlin, this intriguing city sits on the border with Poland, offering a unique blend of German and Polish influences.

First off, let’s clear up any potential confusion. This isn’t Frankfurt am Main, the city that’s famous for skyscrapers and stock exchanges. No, Frankfurt (Oder) is a quieter, more laid-back city that’s rich in history and surrounded by beautiful landscapes.

In the heart of the city, you’ll find the St. Mary’s Church, a striking brick Gothic structure with a history dating back several centuries. The church’s stunning stained glass windows and intricate carvings are sure to leave you awestruck.

Right next to it is the Friedenskirche, a classic 18th-century baroque church known for its beautiful organ concerts. Don’t miss the chance to wander through its peaceful gardens.

One of Frankfurt (Oder)’s unique features is its location right on the Oder River, which forms the border with Poland. Take a stroll on the Oderpromenade, a scenic riverside path that offers great views of the city skyline and the river. You can even cross the iconic Oder Bridge to the Polish town of Słubice for a bit of cross-border exploration!

Before you head back to Berlin, be sure to visit the Kleist Museum, dedicated to the renowned writer Heinrich von Kleist, a native of Frankfurt (Oder). It’s a fascinating insight into the life and works of this important literary figure.

Rheinsberg: Castle Among Water

If a picturesque castle nestled among serene lakes and lush forests sounds like your kind of escape, then Rheinsberg is calling your name. Just a short train ride away from Berlin, this charming town boasts one of the most beautiful castles in Brandenburg.

Rheinsberg Castle is indeed the crown jewel of the town. Overlooking the Grienerick Lake, this stunning rococo palace is sure to leave you spellbound with its ornate facades, elegant interiors, and sprawling gardens. Once the residence of Frederick the Great, the castle now hosts a museum that offers fascinating insights into its royal past.

Take a leisurely stroll around the castle gardens, which extend all the way to the lakeshore, offering breathtaking views at every turn. The gardens are beautifully designed, featuring fountains, sculptures, and a lovely orangery.

Beyond the castle, Rheinsberg offers a multitude of activities for visitors. You can rent a boat and explore the intricate network of lakes and waterways that surround the town. The serene waters and abundant wildlife create a tranquil setting that’s perfect for a leisurely day out.

For those who prefer land-based exploration, the surrounding forest offers numerous walking and cycling trails. And when you’re done exploring, be sure to pop into one of the town’s cozy cafes or restaurants for a bite to eat.

Cultural Journey to Weimar

Weimar is, in many ways, the heart of German Enlightenment and classical literature. Its streets have been graced by the likes of Goethe and Schiller, two of Germany’s most revered writers. These literary giants lived, worked, and left their mark in Weimar, turning it into a mecca for lovers of literature and philosophy.

A visit to the Goethe National Museum, housed in the very building where Johann Wolfgang von Goethe lived for almost 50 years, is an absolute must. Here, you can step back in time and get a feel for the life and works of this literary titan. Not far away, you can visit the Schiller House, where Friedrich Schiller spent the last years of his life and penned some of his greatest works.

But Weimar’s cultural and historical significance goes beyond these two figures. The city is also home to the Bauhaus Museum, dedicated to the famous design school that was founded here, influencing modern design principles around the world.

And let’s not forget the Duchess Anna Amalia Library, a stunning rococo library that houses a vast collection of books, including an impressive number of rare editions. This is a real treat for any book lover!

Natural Wonders of Peacock Island (Pfaueninsel)

If you’re a nature lover and want a bit of a break from the city’s hustle, then let’s take a day trip to a true gem of Berlin’s surroundings: Peacock Island, or Pfaueninsel. A train ride to Wannsee and a short ferry trip will take you to this enchanting oasis right on the Havel River.

Pfaueninsel is a nature reserve and part of the Palaces and Parks of Potsdam and Berlin UNESCO World Heritage site. As the name suggests, yes, there are indeed peacocks freely roaming the island! These colorful birds, along with other wildlife and diverse plant life, add to the island’s unique charm.

The island’s landscape is characterized by beautiful meadows, woods, and trails. Walking around, you’ll discover a tiny, white fairy-tale castle which used to be a royal summer retreat. Now it’s open to the public, offering a glimpse into the romantic era of the 19th century.

Aside from leisurely walks, birdwatching is a favorite activity among visitors. With a bit of patience, you can spot a variety of birds, not just the resident peacocks. If you’re into photography, the island offers countless picturesque spots, so make sure your camera is fully charged!

Also, don’t forget to bring a picnic – there are plenty of perfect spots to lay your blanket and enjoy a meal amidst nature. Just remember, the island is a protected area, so be respectful, don’t leave any trash behind, and keep a safe distance from the wildlife.

Brandenburg an der Havel: Triple Medieval Town

When you think about day trips from Berlin, perhaps Brandenburg an der Havel might not be the first name that pops up, but let me tell you, this city has plenty to offer. Just a quick train ride away from Berlin, Brandenburg an der Havel, known as the cradle of the mark, is a town full of history and charm.

A unique feature of Brandenburg an der Havel is its triple medieval town structure. Yes, you heard that right! The town is made up of three distinct parts – the New Town, the Old Town, and the Cathedral Island – each with its own town center, market square, church, and unique character. These parts were once individual towns that eventually merged, creating a unique city layout.

Start your tour in the Old Town, where you can explore St. Gotthardt’s Church with its remarkable 56-bell carillon. Don’t miss the Mühlentor, one of the city’s original gatehouses, and the impressive City Hall, a splendid example of brick Gothic architecture.

Next, head over to the New Town. Stroll down the Hauptstraße, filled with quaint shops and cafes. Visit St. Katharinen Church, known for its beautifully restored organ and its unique blend of Gothic and Baroque styles.

Finally, make your way to the Cathedral Island, home to St. Peter and Paul Cathedral. It’s the oldest church in the city, featuring a mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. The island is also a great spot for a leisurely walk, with peaceful paths along the river.

Bautzen: City of Towers

Let’s talk about another great day trip from Berlin that takes you straight into the heart of history – Bautzen, affectionately known as the “City of Towers”. About two and a half hours by train from Berlin, Bautzen greets visitors with a picturesque skyline dotted with over 17 towers, each telling its own tale of the past.

Bautzen has been a significant site through various eras, from the Slavic settlement in the 9th century to being a hub of Sorbian culture today. Its rich history is manifested in its well-preserved medieval town center, cobblestone streets, and, of course, the iconic towers.

Your first order of business in Bautzen should be to climb one (or more!) of these towers. Trust me, the steps are worth it. The views from up top are simply stunning – the red roofs of the city stretching out before you, the Spree River winding its way around the town, and rolling green hills in the distance.

The Reichenturm, or the Leaning Tower, is a popular choice. As the name suggests, it leans even more than the famous Tower of Pisa! Don’t miss the Alte Wasserkunst, an old water tower, now serving as a viewing point. The views of the Old Town and the Spree River from here are magnificent.

Strolling through the old town, you can’t miss the Bautzen Cathedral, an impressive mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, and the Ortenburg Castle, now home to several museums.

The Border Town: Görlitz

Pack a bag for Görlitz, a charming border town about 3 hours by train from Berlin. Its unique location, straddling Germany and Poland, means that a stroll across a bridge can take you between two countries!

Görlitz, or “Görliwood” as it’s affectionately known due to its popularity as a filming location, is arguably one of Germany’s most beautiful towns. Untouched by the wars, the town has maintained its architectural integrity over the centuries, boasting an array of styles from Gothic to Renaissance to Art Nouveau.

Start your day at the Upper Market Square, the heart of the town, surrounded by colorful and ornately decorated buildings. Do take a moment to marvel at the stunning façade of the Town Hall and the historic trading houses around the square.

Just a stone’s throw away, you’ll find the Lower Market Square with its beautiful Neptune Fountain and the Baroque Dreifaltigkeitskirche (Holy Trinity Church). Don’t miss the chance to visit St. Peter and Paul Church, the only church in Germany with a sun organ, a unique instrument that symbolizes the sun’s path across the sky.

But the charm of Görlitz isn’t confined to its German side. Take a walk across the pedestrian bridge over the Lusatian Neisse River, and you’ll find yourself in Zgorzelec, the Polish side of the town. Enjoy a meal at one of the riverside restaurants, savoring the view back across to Görlitz.

Cottbus: A Green City

Do you feel like escaping the bustling city life and immersing yourself in greenery without compromising on culture? If so, Cottbus might just be your next day trip destination from Berlin. Nestled between the Spree River and pine forests, Cottbus is just an hour and a half by train from Berlin and is often hailed as the “Green City.”

Upon arriving in Cottbus, the city’s architectural allure will immediately capture your attention. The city center boasts beautiful buildings that encapsulate the charm of the Wilhelminian era. Don’t miss the Art Nouveau Staatstheater, an architectural masterpiece and one of the most beautiful theaters in Germany. Also, take a stroll around the Altmarkt, the old market square, surrounded by historic buildings and buzzing with cafes and shops.

But the real charm of Cottbus lies in its lush parks. The Branitz Park, designed by the eccentric landscape artist Prince Hermann von Pückler-Muskau, is a must-visit. The park is a mesmerizing blend of English and French garden styles with two unique pyramids, yes pyramids – one on land and one in the middle of a lake. The walking trails throughout the park provide stunning views and make for a perfect leisurely stroll.

Moreover, if you’re a fan of exotic flora and fauna, then the Cottbus Zoo is a must-visit. It hosts a diverse range of species and is an enjoyable spot for both kids and adults.

Train Times and Tickets: 20 BEST day trips from Berlin by train

💡Tip: Particularly if you’re travelling in a group, Deutsche Bahn’s regional tickets can be a great way to save money. For valid destinations I’ve linked to the page where you can buy a regional ticket. However it’s always worth entering your journey on the Deutsche Bahn website to see if it’s the cheapest option .

Conclusion : 20 BEST day trips from Berlin by train

There you have it – 20 of the best day trips from Berlin by train. From the opulent palaces of Potsdam to the quaint border town of Görlitz, from the bustling streets of Hamburg to the lush green parks of Cottbus, each destination offers a unique slice of Germany’s rich history, diverse culture, and natural beauty.

These day trips take you beyond the familiar sights and sounds of Berlin and introduce you to the lesser-known, but equally fascinating, corners of this beautiful country. Each destination, being just a train ride away, offers the convenience of exploring new places without the hassle of long-distance travel. So, whether you’re a history buff, a culture vulture, a nature enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, there’s a day trip that’s just perfect for you.

Remember, every journey, no matter how short, leaves you with new experiences and memories. So, get ready to board the train, and let’s start exploring the charms of Germany, one day trip at a time! And who knows? You might just discover your new favorite spot!

Safe travels, and until next time, auf Wiedersehen!

P.S. Don’t forget to share your day trip experiences and discoveries with me. I’d love to hear your stories!

Beth is a freelance writer and creator of The Train Diaries. When she's not writing, she can usually be found petting dogs, watching horror films or creating her true crime podcast, Case Remains.

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Watch CBS News

Video of deadly fight that led to Apple River stabbing shown during opening arguments of Nicolae Miu trial

By Stephen Swanson , Jonah Kaplan , Riley Moser

Updated on: April 8, 2024 / 8:15 AM CDT / CBS Minnesota

UPDATE (11:15 a.m. on April 11)  — Nicolae Miu has been found guilty of multiple criminal charges, including homicide, in the 2022 Apple River stabbings in Wisconsin.  Read the updated story here.

HUDSON, Wis. — Investigators say video from July 2022 shows  Nicolae Miu  being pushed and hit by a group of tubers on the river before he stabbed five people, killing 17-year-old  Isaac Schuman . The victims ranged in age from 17 to 24 and were from Wisconsin and Minnesota.

The trial for a 54-year-old Prior Lake man accused of killing a teen and stabbing four others on the Apple River in Wisconsin nearly two years ago began on Monday. 

Witnesses said Miu was initially in the river with goggles and a snorkel. A group of tubers accused of him of looking at young girls underwater, but Miu told investigators he was looking for a friend's missing cellphone.

RELATED:  Man charged with stabbing tubers in Wisconsin says he's hired one of Kyle Rittenhouse's attorneys

The prosecution argues that Miu was the aggressor by stabbing five people. A knife, believed to belong to Miu, was later recovered by officers on the river bank.

Miu's defense attorneys, though, see it much differently, saying the teens taunted him, then surrounded him, and Miu was fighting for his life. 

He is charged with first-degree intentional homicide in Schuman's death, and attempted first-degree intentional homicide in the stabbings of Ryhley Mattison, A.J. Martin, Dante Carlson and Tony Carlson. He pleaded not guilty to all charges in September 2022.

If convicted, Miu could be sentenced to life in prison.

Opening statements

The prosecution

The trial began with the opening statement from state prosecutor Karl Anderson, who called the deadly attack "senseless and horrific."

"All Nicolae had to do was walk away," Anderson said. "He eventually did walk away, but not after stabbing five people."

Anderson showed several screenshots from two videos taken by one of the members of Schuman's group, identified as Jawahn C.

Anderson said a member of Miu's group named Ariel dropped his cellphone in the river. Ariel said it wasn't that big of a deal because he had insurance, but Miu insisted on trying to retrieve it.

Miu approached Schuman's group. In the first video, approximately nine seconds in length, Jawahn C. is heard yelling "(Miu) says he's looking for little girls!"  

In the second video, Miu is shown running towards Schuman's group.

A group of adult tubers, identified as the Carlson group, then came over to intervene. The Schuman group is heard cheering when they arrive.

While showing several screenshots from the second video, which is almost 3 minutes and 30 seconds long, Anderson underlined that audio in the video indicates Miu was asked more than 20 times by the Schuman and Carlson groups to go away.

In the several screenshots, Anderson noted that before the physical confrontations begin, Miu appeared to be "smirking" while holding his knife low by his side. Anderson also stated that at no point did Miu speak or tell anyone to get back, and he didn't step back or walk away from the groups.  

Anderson said the first time the confrontation turned physical was when Miu punched a member of the Carlson group named Madison. Another member of the group, Dante Carlson, then punched Miu, causing him to fall into the shallow river.

Anderson said in a 25-second span, Miu then stabbed four members of the Carlson group: A.J. Martin, Ryhley Mattison, Dante Carlson and Tony Carlson. Miu also fatally stabbed Schuman, who suffered wounds to his torso, chest and heart.

"You don't see anyone besides Nicolai with a weapon. You don't see the boys touch Nicolai until after stabbings start," Anderson said.

Anderson said no one in either group was initially aware that Miu was stabbing people until they saw Martin in the water, who had been disemboweled. Anderson also pointed out that Miu had his knife's blade pointed upwards in the attacks.  

Afterward, Anderson said Miu walked back to his tubing group and told them "they took his knife." Several members of Miu's group called 911 to say several people were hurt, but they said they didn't know what happened. His group stayed at a sandbar until law enforcement arrived. One member of his group also helped some of the victims before speaking with police.

Anderson said Jawahn C. took a screenshot of Miu from the video and gave it to law enforcement, who quickly disseminated it. Employees then spotted Miu and alerted deputies, who then took Miu — who was then clothed and wearing a hat and sunglasses — into custody. Anderson said members of Miu's group protested his arrest, saying they "had the wrong guy."

Anderson said when Miu was in the back of a squad car at the scene, he allegedly said to the sheriff, "What's going on? I hear somebody got stabbed and I fit the description." Miu was then told he was under arrest for homicide and attempted murder.  

When he was interviewed later by law enforcement, Anderson said Miu was surprised to find there was video of the attacks. He told investigators he didn't have a knife, but members of Schuman's group were armed with knives. Miu allegedly said they knocked off his goggles and snorkel and threw them in the water and they tried to pull his pants down.

"I just grabbed the kid's knife. I didn't even know if I was holding it right. I just grabbed it from him because he tried to poke me with it, so, I feared for my life," Miu said, according to a transcript shown in a slide by Anderson.  

Anderson said Miu went on to tell investigators that he didn't know where the knife was that he used to defend himself with, but later a member from Miu's group told investigators they saw him "throw something onto shore before walking back to their group."

Anderson said when investigators told him four people were hurt and one died, Miu allegedly said, "Was that because they fought each other?"

Investigators later recovered Miu's knife on a river bank, and it tested positive for DNA from some of the victims.  

The defense

Defense attorney Aaron Nelson's opening statement repeatedly hammered home that Miu stabbed the other tubers in self-defense because he feared for his life.

Nelson began his statements with biographical details on Miu, who grew up in Romania and immigrated to the U.S. as a teen. He said Miu speaks several languages and described him as an "intelligent" and "peaceful" man.

He also emphasized that Miu was an "unfit 260-pound man" who had undergone a quadruple bypass surgery two years before the deadly encounter.  

Nelson said Miu only brought his knife at the request of a friend so they could use it to cut the twine needed to connect the group's tubes before they coasted down the river. He said Miu likes to snorkel and brought his equipment, eventually using it to find his friend's phone.

Nelson described Schuman's group as "drunk teens" who were "smoking stuff." He also said Schuman's autopsy results revealed he had a blood alcohol level of .219, and his friends later told investigators Schuman was the most sober one in their group that day.

Nelson said the group began to "heckle" and "humiliate" Miu based on his appearance and loudly accused him of being a "raper" who was "looking for little girls." Nelson also pointed out that there were no "little girls" near the groups during the altercation.  

He said Miu began to run towards Schuman's group because he saw one of them hold up what he believed to be the cellphone he was searching for, and dropped his goggles and snorkel into the river in the process.

Nelson accused Schuman's group of then threatening Miu with physical harm.

"'You got 10 seconds,' that's what that group of drunk teenagers says to that old man," Nelson said.

He said Miu then began to walk towards the Carlson group to appeal to them, but the group was immediately hostile. Nelson said an older member of the Carlson group, Quentin Carlson, later told investigators that he sent his sons Tony and Dante over to Miu and the Schuman group because he worried "the old guy" was going to get hurt.  

Nelson said Carlson's group was swayed by the Schuman group's claims that Miu was a "predator" looking for "little girls," and Miu was then soon surrounded.

"They got a crowd. They told lies to make the crowd angry," Nelson said. "Nick Miu standing in the river with 13 strangers. Thirteen drunk, angry strangers. Thirteen against one. They yelled and they screamed in order to attract a crowd."

Nelson said there were inconsistencies between the parties involved in their respective interviews over whether Miu punched, slapped or pushed a member of Carlson's party named Madison, which led to Miu being knocked into the river by Dante Carlson.  

"When he tries to get up out of the water, they attack him in the front, smack him across the front of the face while somebody comes from behind and starts pushing him down. And that moment he feared for his life and he responded with self-defense," Nelson said.

He said Miu then began to make "quick, short jab motions" with his knife towards the mob.

"When people attacked Miu, he responded," Nelson said.

Nelson then showed three images of what appeared to be Schuman strangling Miu, which he said caused Miu to fall backward and fatally stab Schuman by accident.

"I'm sure (Schuman) was a wonderful man, wonderful human being. We're going to hear a lot about him, but in this moment, on this day, on that river, when he was drunk, he tried to strangle Nick Miu," Nelson said.

Nelson said after the stabbings, Miu tossed the knife because he was "suffering from shock and trauma."

The first witness

Ryan Nelson was the first witness called by the prosecution.

Nelson said he was positive that Miu started the fight when he hit Madison.

"It looked like he struck her definitively with his right hand," Nelson said.

During an intense cross-examination, defense attorneys challenged Nelson's memory of events. 

The trial continues on Tuesday at St. Croix County Courthouse in Hudson, Wisconsin.

• Deadly Stabbing

Stephen Swanson is a web producer at WCCO. A 20-year station veteran, Stephen was a floor director for a decade before moving to the newsroom, where he focuses on general assignment reporting.

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Your last-minute guide to Monday's total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , offering millions a rare opportunity to see afternoon skies temporarily darken as the moon blocks the face of the sun.

Tune into NBC News NOW as Lester Holt hosts a two-hour special at 2 p.m. ET Monday from Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The eclipse's path fortuitously cuts across Mexico, 15 U.S. states and a small part of eastern Canada. In all other states in the continental U.S., viewers will be treated to a partial solar eclipse, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun and obscuring part of its light.

Here’s everything you need to know about the rare celestial event.

What is a solar eclipse?

Solar eclipses occur when the sun, moon and Earth align. The moon passes between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light and casting a shadow on Earth.

A total solar eclipse is when the moon fully obscures the sun, whereas a partial solar eclipse means it blocks just a portion of the sun’s face.

Solar eclipses occur only with the new moon. Because the moon’s orbit around Earth is tilted, the three bodies don’t always line up in a way that creates an eclipse.

“Imagine if the moon’s orbit were in the plane of Earth’s orbit around the sun — if that were the case, then every new moon, you’d have a total solar eclipse and every full moon, you’d have a lunar eclipse,” Neil DeGrasse Tyson, director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, told NBC News. “So, because things don’t always align, it lends to the rarity of the event and the specialness of the event.”

Where and when will the eclipse be visible?

This year’s eclipse will follow a slightly wider path over more populated areas of the continental U.S. than other total solar eclipses have in the recent past.

NASA estimates that 31.6 million people live within what’s known as the path of totality, where the total solar eclipse will be visible. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path, according to the agency.

The path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Tiny parts of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

After the eclipse crosses into Canada, it will pass over southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

Those outside the path of totality can still take part in the astronomical event by viewing a partial solar eclipse — visible throughout all 48 states of the contiguous U.S. — or a NASA livestream.

The timing, including how long totality lasts, depends on the location, but some spots will see the moon fully cover the sun for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds.

Below is a list of timings for some cities along the path of totality, as  provided by NASA . A number of other resources, including NationalEclipse.com  and  TimeandDate.com , can also help people plan.

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.

How to safely view a solar eclipse

It is never safe to gaze directly at the sun, even when it is partly or mostly covered by the moon. Special eclipse glasses or  pinhole projectors  are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent eye damage. Failing to take the proper precautions can result in severe eye injury,  according to NASA .

Eclipse glasses are thousands of times darker than normal sunglasses and specially made to enable wearers to look at the sun during these kinds of celestial events.

Sky-watchers should also never view any part of the sun through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses unless they have specific solar filters attached. Eclipse glasses should not be used with these devices, as they will not provide adequate protection.

However, during the few minutes of totality, when the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to look with the naked eye.

Beware of fake eclipse glasses. On legitimate pairs, the lenses should have a silver appearance on the front and be black on the inside. The manufacturer’s name and address should be clearly labeled, and they should not be torn or punctured. Check, as well, for the ISO logo and the code “IS 12312-2” printed on the inside.

If you don’t have eclipse glasses, you can make a homemade pinhole projector, which lets sunlight in through a small hole, focuses it and projects it onto a piece of paper, wall or other surface to create an image of the sun that is safe to look at. 

All you need is two pieces of white cardboard or plain white paper, aluminum foil and a pin or thumbtack. Cut a 1- to 2-inch square or rectangle out of the center of a piece of white paper or cardboard. Tape aluminum foil over that cut-out shape, then use a pin or thumbtack to poke a tiny hole in the foil.

During the eclipse, place a second piece of white paper or cardboard on the ground as a screen and hold the projector with the foil facing up and your back to the sun. Adjusting how far you hold the projector from the second piece of paper will alter the size of the image on the makeshift screen.

What to look for while viewing the total solar eclipse

For people along the path of totality, there are some fun milestones to keep track of as the total solar eclipse unfolds.

As the eclipse progresses and the sun gets thinner in the sky, it will start to get eerily dark, according to Tyson.

When the last beams of sunlight are about to become obscured, look out for the “diamond ring effect”: The sun’s atmosphere will appear as an illuminated halo, and the last light still visible will look like the diamond of a giant ring.

As the sunlight decreases even further, an effect known as Baily’s beads will be created by the moon’s rugged terrain. Tiny “beads” of light will be visible for only a few seconds around the dark moon, as the last bits of sunlight peer through the moon’s mountains and valleys.

When the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to remove eclipse glasses and look at the total solar eclipse with the naked eye.

Some lucky sky-watchers may even catch a glimpse of a comet .

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks — nicknamed the “ devil comet ” because an eruption last year left it with two distinct trails of gas and ice in the shape of devil horns — is currently visible from the Northern Hemisphere as it swings through the inner solar system.

The comet can be seen in the early evenings by gazing toward the west-northwest horizon. During the eclipse, when skies darken during totality, it may be possible to see the comet near Jupiter, but its visibility will depend on whether it’s in the middle of an outburst and thus brighter than normal.

Most likely, all eyes will be on the alignment of the moon and sun.

“Most people won’t even notice,” Tyson said. “But if you know to look, it’s there.”

When is the next solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse will be in 2026, but it will mostly pass over the Arctic Ocean, with some visibility in Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and northern Spain. In 2027, a total solar eclipse will be visible in Spain and a swath of northern Africa.

The next total solar eclipse visible from North America will be in 2033, but only over Alaska. Then in 2044, a total solar eclipse will cross Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, parts of Canada and Greenland.

The next total solar eclipse to cross the continental U.S. coast-to-coast in will occur in 2045. The path of totality for that eclipse will cut through California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Florida.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Lucas Thompson is a content producer for the NBC News Climate Unit.

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