Well-connected to the city, Spandau, the westernmost of Berlin's districts, offers top-notch destinations for your Berlin day trips. Seamlessly switch between pure nature and picturesque streets as you explore historical sites splashed around this lesser-known Berlin suburb. Learn more about military aircraft at the military museum and don't miss out on a stroll around the Modernist UNESCO Siemensstadt quarter.
Tip: Find more information about Spandau and create your own customized tours in our Going local app - the neighbourhood app for Berlin.
Tip 1: Unveiling monuments in the citadel
In a city that has seen so much change and history in the 20th century, it won't be a surprise that many monuments had to be removed from the streets over the decades. Make a fascinating visit to the graveyard dedicated to these monuments. The monuments are on display in part of the formidable Spandau Citadel complex where you get a glimpse at the architectural prowess of Berlin's mediaeval rulers.
Where: Am Juliusturm 64, Spandau
When: Friday to Wednesday 10am - 5pm, Thursday 1pm - 8pm
More about the "Unveiled - Berlin and its Monuments" exhibition
Tip 2: Start your Spandau experience at the Gothic House
The best starting point for your trip to Spandau is at the mediaeval Gothic House which is both a museum and tourist information centre. The Gothic House is the oldest surviving townhouse in the whole city and dates back to the 15th century. The tourist centre can sell you tickets for boat trips and events as well as arrange guides for your Spandau tours. This is also the best place to find souvenirs, city maps and everything else you'll need for your excursions.
Where: Breite Straße 32, Spandau
When: Monday to Saturday 10am - 6pm, Sunday 12pm - 6pm; closed on Mondays in Winter
Tip 3: Learn about 140 years of military aviation history at a former air base
The Military History Museum presents 140 years of German Air Force history with hundreds of thousands of exhibition pieces displayed in and around a former air base.
Marvel at replica fighter planes and missile systems, browse original missiles and historical documents detailing the lives of air force pilots and discover the history of the airlift which kept West Berliners alive during the Soviet blockade after WW2. Entrance is usually free, and the museum recommends that visitors should be 9 years old or upwards.
Where: Am Flugplatz Gatow 33, Gatow
When: Tuesday to Sunday 10am - 6pm
More about the Military History Museum
Tip 4: Buy crispy fresh produce at the Spandau weekly market
You can find freshness and quality on Tuesdays and Fridays in winter at the Spandau weekly market, right in front of the town hall. Let yourself be tempted by crunchy vegetables, juicy fruit and winter cabbages and then warm up with a hearty snack at one of the market's snack stalls.
When: Wednesday and Saturday from 9 am
Where: Town hall forecourt, Carl-Schurz-Str. 2/6, Spandau
More about the Spandau weekly market
Tip 5: Experience Spandau's coffee-house culture at its best at Konditorei Fester
You simply can't leave Spandau without sampling some of the incredible sugar-loaded treats on hand at this traditional cafe.
Since 1926, Konditorei Fester has been serving up breakfasts and lunches as well as their signature selection of famous cakes, pastries and sweets.
Where: Markt 4, Spandau
When: Monday to Saturday 9am - 6pm, Sunday 12pm - 6pm
Tip 6: Search for lost treasures at Spandau's unique antique flea market
With over 5,000 square metres of antiques and object d'art, the Spandau antique flea market gives you the chance to find some lost treasures hidden among the many items you'll find on offer.
Flea markets are some of the only shopping opportunities on Sundays in Germany, and this treasure trove is no exception. Browse over paintings, ornaments, records, jewellery and ceramics on sale throughout the hall. Pick up interesting souvenirs or maybe just a bit of old Europe to remember your own trip at this antique market.
Where: Am Juliusturm 55, Spandau
When: Wednesday 2pm - 6pm, Saturday and Sunday 8am - 4pm
More about the Antique Flea Market
Tip 7: Take a romantic stroll through the mediaeval Kolk quarter
With its mediaeval layout replete with the original city walls, the Kolkviertel is a real authentic historic gem in Berlin. With much of the mediaeval part of the city destroyed in the Second World War, Spandaus' old town is a romantic wonderland. Feel and see the history of old Berlin as you stroll through the narrow streets and lanes with their perfectly refurbished houses and buildings.
Where: Kolk, Spandau
When: 24/7
Tip 8: Meander around the unique UNESCO World Heritage estate
The Großsiedlung Siemensstadt was originally planned for the employees at the world's biggest engineering firm Siemens. The whole area was meticulously planned, and the architects were carefully selected to give the workers a then futuristic place to live that would cater for all their needs and look good too. As you stroll around the 1,379 houses built between 1929 and 1934, you'll witness the short-lived pre-war modernist style that has only survived in isolated pockets in postwar Europe, hence the UNESCO accolades.
Where: Siemensstadt, Spandau
When: 24/7
More about the Siemensstadt Housing Estate
Tip 9: Coffees and cake at Bismark's mum's old palace
Watch over the calming waters of the Havel River as you enjoy traditional specialities and delicious cake at Gutshaus Neukladow.
Once home to the Iron Chancellor Bismark's mother, the beautifully restored stately home now hosts a café and restaurant with a riverside garden that caters to all tastes and appetites. This is the perfect place for weary legs after a day's excursions.
Where: Neukladower Allee 9-12, Neu Kladow
When: Daily from 12pm - 5pm
More about the Neukladow Manor House
Tip 10: Savour craft beer and local cuisine in this former barracks
Brauhaus Spandau promises a new type of beer each and every month, so you'll never be bored at this local centre of brewing and culinary excellence. Enjoy the huge selection of in-house craft beers as well as the delectable variation of regional dishes that will turn your brewery visit into an unforgettable experience.
Housed in a former army barracks beside the formidable Spandau Citadel, Brauhaus Spandau offers tours and other events surrounding its brewery and the tasty beverages it produces. If you feel like making a trip of it, check out the hotel at the same location where you can dine and rest while looking over the Citadel and the meandering Havel River from your window.
Where: Neuendorfer Straße 1, Spandau
When: Sunday to Thursday 11am - 12am, Friday and Saturday 11am - 1am; opens at 10am in Summer
Tip 11: Tune out in the tranquillity of the Spandau Forest
You can find peace and quiet in Berlin's largest forest area at any time of year. Whether it's an icy winter hike or cycling and forest bathing in summer. There is plenty to discover in the depths of Spandauer Forst. For example, a wild animal enclosure as well as water and nature reserves with a rich diversity of species. With patience and a bit of luck, you can spot kingfishers, hawks and beavers here. If you venture out as far as the Brandenburg border, you will come across part of the Berlin Wall Trail.
When: Around the clock
Where: Schönwalder Allee 50
