The 24 most beautiful places in Brandenburg

Have you planned a trip to Brandenburg and would like to discover the best photo spots in the region? Then you've come to the right place. We'd like to help you find the most beautiful places in Brandenburg, so you can not only enjoy a cultural experience but above all capture unforgettable moments in great photos. Join us on an exciting journey through Brandenburg!

1. Potsdam

When it comes to Brandenburg's sights, Potsdam can't be left out. The state capital is often called the most beautiful city in the state and impresses above all with its many palaces and parks. Its location on the Havel lakes guarantees an idyllic setting.

The highlight is undoubtedly Sanssouci Palace, where Frederick the Great lived. The impressive building, which is open to visitors, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site together with its gardens. Potsdam is also known as a film city: when the Babelsberg studios opened, they were among the largest film studios in the world.

A visit to Potsdam's old town reveals plenty to discover. Three city gates, the Chinese House, the New Orangery and many other attractions invite you to enjoy an unforgettable stay.

2. Seenland Oder-Spree

The Seenland Oder-Spree lake district is a real insider tip that you shouldn't miss. Along the Oder and Spree rivers, and with Brandenburg's largest lakes, the Scharmützelsee and the Schwielochsee, you can spend a relaxing day in a vast water landscape. Together with the Märkisches Oberland, the Oder-Spree lake area forms the Seenland, which stretches for many kilometres and covers several regions.

Cool off in one of the many swimming lakes, go on cycling or hiking tours, or simply enjoy nature. A large network of cycle paths has been developed for visitors. Here you can take impressive landscape photos and visit other Brandenburg sights, such as monasteries, churches and memorials.

3. Tropical Islands

Fancy the South Seas, water and lots of fun? Then Tropical Islands is just the place for you. This water paradise is popular not only with children; adults will love it too. Not far from Berlin, you can enjoy action, water sports and relaxation.

Discover Germany's tallest water slide tower, waterfalls, white sandy beaches and lagoons. Test your skills on the surf simulator or relax in the large sauna and spa area with Thai massage. The outdoor area, Amazonia, has a lazy river and more pools. The rainforest also lets visitors immerse themselves in a world of wonder.

If one day in the water park isn't enough, you can book an overnight stay on site. Whether in a classic hotel room or an exciting safari tent, your time at Tropical Islands will be a real highlight.

4. Neuruppin

Also known as "Fontane town", as the birthplace of the poet Theodor Fontane, Neuruppin impresses with its location on a chain of lakes in northern Brandenburg. Visitors are welcomed by an idyllic and picturesque setting. The beautiful old town with its wide streets gives access to the church and the Temple Garden, while the city wall and moat form a green belt.

Visitors following in the footsteps of Theodor Fontane in particular will have plenty to discover: his birthplace on Fontaneplatz, the monument and the museum are just some of the highlights. The 17 m high stainless steel figure "Parzival am See" also makes the town one of the most beautiful places in Brandenburg.

5. Eisenhüttenstadt

Eisenhüttenstadt may not be the prettiest place in Brandenburg visually, but it's one of the most interesting. History buffs in particular will discover something new here. The planned city, built in 1950 as "Stalinstadt" for the construction of the ironworks, was meant to become the GDR's model city.

Today it's one of the largest listed urban monuments in Germany. You can see blast furnaces, the steelworks, tall buildings and lots of art. If you want to learn more about the history, you can also visit the municipal museum or the museum of everyday culture in the GDR.

Other photo spots in Brandenburg include the old fishermen's quarter and St. Nicholas Church. If you want to experience culture and history, Eisenhüttenstadt should be on your list.

6. Lychen

Located in the Uckermark lake district, surrounded by seven lakes and plenty of forest, the rafting town of Lychen is a must when you're on holiday in Brandenburg. You can discover the remaining parts of the old city wall, the town hall and St. John's Church, built over 700 years ago.

But it's not just about buildings: the entire Uckermark lake landscape invites you to a relaxing day out. Take a tour on an excursion boat to explore the surroundings, or use the many cycling and hiking trails to stay active.

7. Cottbuser Ostsee

The Cottbuser Ostsee is being created on the strip of land between the Spreewald and the Lusatian Lake District. Where lignite was once mined, Brandenburg's largest lake is taking shape and is gradually being filled with water.

The Cottbuser Ostsee isn't just for tourism; it's also a great attraction for local residents, created from the former open-cast mining area. Here you can spend a wonderful day in nature, go swimming or simply use the backdrop to take impressive photos.

The fact that it's possible to create such a large lake from natural inflow is reason enough to count it among the most beautiful places in Brandenburg.

8. Schorfheide-Chorin Biosphere Reserve

This is a real Brandenburg sight, just 50 km from Berlin. Covering 1,291 km², the biosphere reserve is one of the largest protected areas in Germany. The landscape is flat to hilly, making it ideal for hiking and cycling.

The best-known lakes include the Werbellinsee and the Grimnitzsee. If you like, you can discover a wide variety of animals in their natural habitat. Beavers and otters, and even the rare European pond turtle, call the biosphere reserve home, and many bird species also add to its character.

The clear water invites you to linger, so in Schorfheide-Chorin you can forget about time and devote yourself entirely to nature.

9. Filmpark Babelsberg

Have you ever wondered how a film is made? As a photographer, you're surely keen to find out what happens behind the camera. Filmpark Babelsberg in Potsdam is like a theme park. As one of the oldest film parks in Germany, it lets you take a look behind the scenes and discover how a series or film is made.

Original sets, props, costume and make-up artists, scenic painters and much more await visitors, who will be amazed. Check out the set of the German soap "Gute Zeiten, schlechte Zeiten" or see how a car chase is filmed at a show. The stunt show rounds off the experience, and the 4D cinema is lots of fun too.

For younger guests there's a water playground, slides and a high ropes course, so there's something for everyone. Use the film park to take some great photos at this Brandenburg photo spot.

10. Sanssouci Palace

Perhaps the best-known sight in Brandenburg is Sanssouci Palace, located on the "Wüster Berg" in Potsdam. Built in 1747 by the architect Knobelsdorff, its appearance largely matched the ideas of Frederick the Great, who used the palace as his summer residence. Built in Rococo style, it's often called the "Prussian Versailles".

The rooms still have their original furnishings, giving you an insight into the life of the king. A magnificent garden, an imposing staircase and stylish luxury reflected the wishes of Frederick the Great. The palace is connected to an impressive palace garden.

An ornamental and kitchen garden with fountains and temples, as well as a small windmill, complete the picture. Buildings not to miss include the Chinese Tea House, the Orangery and Charlottenhof Palace. Because of its uniqueness, Sanssouci Palace and its gardens were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

11. El Dorado in Templin

Immerse yourself in the world of the Wild West and feel like a cowboy riding through the streets on horseback. A visit to the saloon is a must, and attractions such as a shoot-out and a covered wagon ride make you feel as if you've arrived in the Wild West.

The western town has everything you'd imagine about cowboys. 70 km from Berlin, you can witness a classic bank robbery or take part in a high-noon scene yourself. Various games, such as horseshoe throwing, gold panning and pony riding, offer perfect variety.

You can visit El Dorado not only during the day; overnight accommodation is also available. Be prepared for surprises in the western town.

12. Babelsberg Palace

Babelsberg Palace, built in English neo-Gothic style, is one of the most beautiful places in Brandenburg. It was built in the 19th century as the summer residence of Prince Wilhelm, later Emperor Wilhelm I, and his wife. Located in Babelsberg Park, it has direct access to the banks of the Havel. The palace has undergone a major transformation: at first it was no bigger than a small house.

Over the years, various elements such as towers and oriel windows were added, and some window shapes were only added later. A restoration in 2016 made the palace shine with new splendour. The palace garden was designed by two well-known landscape architects. Spring fountains, a waterfall, a stream and many fountains and flowers make the park unique.

A special feature of the palace garden is its historic monuments, including the steam engine house, the court arbour and the stables.

13. Chorin Monastery

When you look at the great cathedrals, the building technique stands out. Chorin Monastery played a pioneering role in it, so it's no surprise that this Brandenburg sight is called a "key work of North German brick Gothic".

The Cistercian monastery was built in 1273 and impresses with its idyllic natural setting and delicate ornamentation. After the monastery was closed and used for various purposes for many years, it has since been opened to the public.

Today you can visit all the buildings, attend exhibitions and take part in spiritual gatherings. If you're interested in the origins of old building techniques, this Brandenburg sight is well worth a visit.

14. Stechlinsee

Near Neuglobsow/Dagow, in unspoilt natural surroundings, lies the Stechlinsee. In the middle it reaches a depth of almost 70 m, and it's known as one of the clearest lakes in Germany. A 17 km cycling and hiking trail along the shore invites you to explore the area and enjoy the sun reflecting in the clear water.

You can also see the half-timbered houses of the glassmakers and visit a museum. If you're interested in fish, visit the small fishery or take a look at the underwater world at the diving centre. For those who like to feel the gentle rocking of the water, rowing boats and canoes are available.

Spend an unforgettable day at one of the most beautiful places in Brandenburg and experience the combination of dense beech forests and crystal-clear water.

15. Niederfinow boat lift

The Niederfinow boat lift opened on 21 March 1934. It's not only an engineering masterpiece but also one of the oldest boat lifts still in operation in Germany. In 2007 it was named a "Historic Landmark of Civil Engineering in Germany".

The lift transports ships between the Oder-Havel Canal and the Oder. The technology is comparable to an elevator, overcoming a height difference of 36 m in just 5 minutes. Because ships kept getting bigger, a new lift has since been built right next to it.

If you'd like a closer look at this highlight, it's worth visiting the visitor gallery. You can also join a boat tour to admire the structure up close while learning more about its history and how it works.

16. Uckermark Lakes

The Uckermark Lakes nature park lies north of Berlin. Impressive nature, sparse settlement and many lakes mean there's the right experience for everyone. If you're looking for peace and quiet, you'll surely find a quiet spot to hike or even swim.

Take a canoe across the lakes or get active on the cycling and hiking trails. A special experience is a ride in a horse-drawn wagon or on a rail bike, starting in Templin or Fürstenberg. Keen hikers will love the Märkischer Landweg, a 187 km trail. The Naturtherme Templin also invites visitors to relax extensively.

17. Eberswalde Zoo

What could be better than a visit to the zoo? Eberswalde Zoo is ideal for families and offers numerous photo spots. Try to capture the free-roaming monkeys moving from tree to tree, or head to the Ice Age glacier landscape, home to impressive tigers.

Besides bears and wolves, there's a jungle house with tropical residents. In total you can discover 1,500 animals of 150 species. All 5 continents are represented, ensuring great biodiversity. Set in a beautiful forest landscape, it never gets boring.

A petting zoo and themed playgrounds let children really let off steam, and the zoo school is another great leisure activity. The zoo is open all year round and delights its visitors every day.

18. Senftenberger See

The Senftenberger See was created from the former Niemtsch open-cast mine and is part of the Lusatian Lake District. Today it attracts many tourists for a relaxing beach holiday. Whether you stay in the beach hotel, a holiday resort or at a luxury campsite, this lake – one of the most beautiful places in Brandenburg – has something for everyone.

On a holiday at the Senftenberger See, you can not only hike and cycle, but also relax in the water or go fishing. If you want more action, try surfing or diving. Of course, you can also rent a boat to explore the lake landscape.

The Senftenberger See is geared towards tourists, so you can expect a wide range of activities. If that's not enough, there's a zoo and other attractions nearby.

19. Wittenberge

Wittenberge lies in north-west Brandenburg and is the largest town in the Prignitz region. Located on the Elbe, the "town by the water" offers plenty to suit different interests. Take a city tour and discover churches and monasteries, technical and architectural monuments and works of art. Of course, you can also visit various museums.

Particularly interesting is the Singer clock tower, which can be seen from afar and guides visitors to the largest town in the region. Located in the UNESCO "River Landscape Elbe" biosphere reserve, you can not only visit historic buildings, including the "Alte Ölmühle", but also enjoy the beautiful landscape along the Elbe on cycling and hiking trails.

Whatever kind of holiday you have in mind, Wittenberge offers various accommodation options, culinary experiences and attractions, so it certainly won't get boring.

20. Liepnitzsee

The Liepnitzsee is one of the Wandlitz lakes, just 8 km from Berlin's city limits. Not only its proximity attracts many Berliners and tourists; it's also known as one of the cleanest lakes in Brandenburg.

The lake, idyllically set in a forest landscape, is fed by a spring and lies on the watershed between the Baltic Sea and the North Sea: part of its water flows towards the Baltic, another part towards the North Sea.

The most popular lido is on the western shore. Some visitors, however, prefer to stay on the island of Großer Werder, which has a campsite. Boat rental, kayaks, canoes, pedal boats and rowing boats offer lots of fun and the chance to explore the lake and its surroundings.

21. Cottbus

Cottbus is the second-largest city in Brandenburg and lies on the south-eastern edge of the Spreewald. Thanks to its history, this Brandenburg sight is popular with tourists and an absolute must when you're on holiday in the state.

The medieval city wall, numerous parks and baroque townhouses are waiting to be explored. A visit to the Art Nouveau state theatre is also worthwhile. Even though you're in a big city, the 5 parks offer variety and the chance to enjoy nature.

In the city centre you can relax and recharge in numerous bars and cafés before continuing your sightseeing tour. If you want to find great photo spots in Brandenburg, Cottbus is an excellent destination with several viewpoints.

22. Döberitzer Heide

The Döberitzer Heide is a nature reserve, part of which was bought by the Heinz Sielmann Foundation in 2004. The area covers 3,600 hectares of forests, hills and heathland. It's divided into a wilderness core zone that's closed to visitors and a nature experience ring.

The wilderness core zone provides a habitat for endangered species, including European bison and Przewalski's horses. The nature experience ring is a hiking route with 55 km of paths for visitors to enjoy nature and get to know the area. Rest areas are perfect for a break, and a 15 m high observation tower offers a wonderful view over the region.

23. Schorfheide

If you're in the city and long for peace and nature, the Schorfheide is just the place. Located in northern Brandenburg, only about an hour's drive from Berlin, this continuous forest area lets you breathe in fresh air and enjoy the silence.

The area was once the hunting ground of the Prussian kings. Part of it belongs to the Schorfheide-Chorin UNESCO biosphere reserve. The Schorfheide is the perfect place for anyone who loves hiking or simply wants to spend a few hours in nature. You can also take wonderful photos here, as there's hardly anything to disturb the view.

24. Westhavelland Nature Park

When it comes to the most beautiful places in Brandenburg, Westhavelland Nature Park can't be left out. The flat, wide landscape attracts cyclists and hikers in particular. It's mainly made up of meadows and forests, but lakes such as the Beetzsee and the Hohenauener See also invite you to various activities, from water sports to canoe trips.

There's also plenty to discover at the Gülper See and in the Havelländisches Luch. Numerous bird species stop here on their journey south, so you can spot impressive migratory birds from one of the observation towers built especially for birdwatching.

This Brandenburg sight has another special feature: Germany's first dark sky reserve. Because there's hardly any light pollution, you can observe the stars on clear nights like almost nowhere else. With a bit of luck, you can even see the Milky Way in detail.

The right camera equipment for cities and natural landscapes

As you've surely noticed, many of the places described are excellent photo spots, so you should prepare accordingly. After all, every photo should convey the right mood and details.

If you don't want to just take ordinary pictures with your phone and compromise on quality, you're in the right place, because Kamera Express has the perfect equipment for you. Both hobby and professional photographers can find what they need here.

DSLR cameras

The basis of good photography is the right camera, and DSLRs are particularly recommended. The camera gets its name from a built-in mirror that reflects the image from the lens into the optical viewfinder. This allows high-quality shots and good image quality.

Above all, DSLRs can be combined with numerous lenses, allowing lots of settings. This type of camera is suitable for anyone who wants to enjoy creative freedom. Thanks to the many settings, the camera can be used for different purposes. When photographing Brandenburg's sights, for example, you need to be prepared for both city and nature photography.

Kamera Express has a large selection of DSLRs, including top brands Canon, Pentax and Nikon, in different price ranges, so everyone can find the right camera.

Telephoto and wide-angle lenses

Wide-angle lenses have a short focal length and a wide angle of view, so they can capture a lot in one image. This makes them particularly suitable for landscapes, city panoramas and street photography.

With a wide-angle lens you can get close to your subject, which gives the viewer the feeling of being drawn into the picture. Subjects further away appear smaller. Wide-angle lenses are less suitable for portraits, but all the better for city and landscape shots. Telephoto lenses do the opposite: they bring distant subjects, such as animals, closer.

At Kamera Express you'll find the right lens for your camera, from well-known brands such as Canon, Tamron and Nikon. Choose the right one to add colour and depth to your photography and fit more information into a single image.

Binoculars

The most beautiful places in Brandenburg are not only about the variety of the surroundings, but above all about the details. Unique flora and fauna and impressive landscapes are waiting to be discovered. To make sure you see even the smallest detail, Kamera Express offers the best binoculars.

When choosing binoculars, consider several factors, including magnification and brightness. In principle, any pair of binoculars will do, although there are differences between models. If you mainly want to look at landscapes, choose a magnification of 7x.

In Brandenburg this magnification can be worthwhile, as there are many scenic highlights and watching animals, such as birds, is an important part of the experience.

Sling bags and backpacks

If you're out with a camera, you need to carry it properly. Practicality comes first, but protecting your camera is also important, especially if you're carrying accessories.

Sling bags have just one strap and can be quickly swung to the front or worn directly on your stomach when needed. Whether with a zip, Velcro or buckle, you'll have your camera in your hand in no time. Various models, including from Crumpler and Lowepro, offer the right size and design.

Backpacks are also suitable for carrying your gear. Especially if you carry a lot of equipment or go on long tours, you'll benefit from their high level of comfort. Water-repellent backpacks also look great.

Tripods

Whether monopod, tripod, photo mast or a simple selfie stick, tripods help you set the shooting angle precisely, adjust the distance to your subject and give your camera stability. This lets you optimise image quality and get an amazing result.

When choosing a tripod, consider your camera model and be clear about what you'll use it for. That way you can be sure the load capacity, height and features are right.

Why a trip to Brandenburg with your camera is worth it

Brandenburg wasn't on your list of must-visit holiday destinations yet? Then maybe you're now convinced and already starting to plan your trip to the most beautiful places in Brandenburg. In hardly any other federal state can you experience such variety and combine city and nature.

At the same time, there are technical and historical highlights you shouldn't miss. Anyone interested in photography will be delighted by the many photo spots in Brandenburg. And you're not alone with your photography, because Kamera Express has the perfect equipment ready for you to put together as you need.

Have an unforgettable time, discover the most beautiful sights in Brandenburg and capture every moment with your camera!