Spreewald Day Trip from Berlin
Escape Berlin for a day and drift into the fairy-tale forests of the Spreewald — a UNESCO biosphere with a maze of quiet canals, wooden bridges, and traditional villages.
Plan around 7–9 hours door-to-door. Go by guided tour with transport included or travel independently by regional train + boat. For exact timings and seasonal changes, check current schedules before you go.
How to plan your Spreewald day
- Core experience: 1.5–2 h canal boat ride (traditional punts) from Lübbenau.
- Don’t miss: Lehde village — open-air museum, footbridges, postcard views.
- When to go: Best Apr–Oct; spring greenery and late-summer light are magical.
- Food stop: Try local fish & the famous Spreewald gherkins.
- Logistics: Book your boat slot on busy weekends or choose a guided tour.
Tour Overview — Step by Step
From Berlin to the Spreewald and back: a full-day plan in six detailed stages.
1) Departure from Berlin
You meet in the heart of Berlin at Spandauer Str. 9. The modern coach is ready, and within minutes you leave the city traffic behind. The transfer takes about 90 minutes, giving you a chance to relax while your guide introduces the Spreewald and its traditions.
2) Arrival in Lübbenau
Once in Lübbenau, the group walks together to the small harbor. Here your guide or an audio system provides background on the biosphere reserve: its history, canals, and the Sorbian minority that has shaped this region for centuries.
3) Canal Boat Ride (≈ 2 hours)
The highlight begins: a two-hour punt ride on narrow canals. The flat wooden boats glide silently through tunnels of trees. Reflections on the water, dragonflies, and the absence of engines make this part unforgettable.
4) Stop in Lehde Village
You disembark in Lehde, a village often called the “Lagoon of the North.” Wooden houses stand on stilts, connected by small bridges. You may visit the open-air museum, which shows traditional Sorbian tools, crafts, and daily life on the water.
5) Lunch & Local Flavors
Back in Lübbenau there is free time. You can sit down in a rustic tavern, order freshwater fish or the famous Spreewald gherkins, and enjoy the slower rhythm of life. It’s a good moment to walk around the old town, too.
6) Return to Berlin
In the afternoon the coach departs again. After another 90 minutes you arrive in Berlin with new impressions: forest, water, and a culture that feels worlds away yet is so close to the capital.
Spreewald – Interactive Map
See the route from Berlin (meeting point) to Lübbenau and Lehde. Click the markers for quick info or use the zoom buttons below.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes. The tour is often sold out in peak season, especially weekends and holidays.
Is food included?
Meals are not included, but you’ll have free time in Lübbenau for lunch in a tavern or café.
How long is the boat ride?
About 2 hours on traditional wooden punts through the canals.
Can I bring kids?
Yes. The boat ride is family-friendly; keep an eye on small children near the water.
Are audio guides available in other languages?
Often available in German, Spanish, French and Portuguese (check your specific date).
