Things To Do
in Bestensee
Bestensee is a small rural municipality in the Potsdam-Mittelmark district of Brandenburg, just south of Berlin. It sits among lakes, forests, and farmland, offering a tranquil base for exploring the Berlin region. Despite its quiet size, the area provides easy access to culture, history and outdoor activities.
Visitors can enjoy peaceful landscapes, warm Brandenburg hospitality, and convenient day trips to the city or nearby towns.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a stroll through the quaint streets of Bestensee, taking in the charming architecture of the local buildings. Stop by the bakery to enjoy a fresh pretzel and a cup of coffee while people-watching at the town square. Don't forget to visit the ornate St. Mary's Church, a beautiful representation of local history and culture.
After lunch at a cozy bistro, head to the nearby Bestensee Lake for a leisurely walk along the waterfront. You can rent a paddleboat or kayak to explore the serene waters and appreciate the lush greenery surrounding the lake. As the sun shines down, relax on the grassy banks or enjoy a picnic with local delicacies.
As the sun sets, make your way to a traditional German restaurant to indulge in hearty local cuisine. Try the famous schnitzel paired with a local beer while enjoying the warm atmosphere and friendly service. Conclude your day with a peaceful walk back to your accommodation, soaking in the ambiance of the quiet town.
Start your morning with a guided nature walk at the nearby nature reserve, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the local flora and fauna. Bring your binoculars for some bird watching, as the area is home to a variety of species. The fresh morning air and serene surroundings will rejuvenate your spirit.
After the walk, have a packed lunch in the reserve while listening to the soothing sounds of nature. Spend the afternoon exploring the trails, taking photographs, and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. You may also encounter other wildlife, so keep your camera ready for unexpected sightings.
Return to Bestensee and unwind at a local café, where you can sip on a hot chocolate or herbal tea. Spend some time reflecting on your day and sharing stories with fellow travelers. As night falls, take a leisurely stroll through the town, admiring the stars and the calmness of the evening.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥖Loaf of bread | $2-3 |
| 🚆One-way public transport ticket | $3-4 |
| 🧺Groceries (basic groceries) | $40-60/week |
| 🏨Hotel per night (mid-range) | $90-140 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Berlin with easy access to city culture
- Peaceful rural setting and scenic lakes
- Good value for money in a quiet region
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options in the village
- Longer travel times to larger cities for formal sightseeing
- Fewer high-end dining options directly in Bestensee
- "Guten Tag" - Hello / Good day
- "Bitte" - Please / You’re welcome
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Könnten Sie das bitte wiederholen?" - Could you please repeat that?
Places to Visit in Bestensee
Visit one of these nice places.
A tranquil lake framed by reeds and willows, ideal for sunrise or golden-hour reflections.
A historic church with a simple rural setting, perfect for architectural shots and quiet interiors.
Scenic river views and boat activity under soft light; great for landscape shots.
Rolling farmland and distant wind turbines provide classic Brandenburg landscapes.
Food in Bestensee
Bestensee Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Brandenburg dish of pears, beans, and bacon; a hearty, rustic combination often served with potatoes.
Must-Try!
A thick one-pot stew with vegetables, potatoes, and sometimes sausage or meat.
Fish from nearby waterways paired with traditional sauerkraut and potatoes.
German-style cheesecake, a popular dessert in cafes around the lake region.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh vegetables, bread, cheeses, and regional specialties; great for picnic supplies.
Street food stalls and small bites during market days; sample regional sausages and pretzels.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Guten Tag' or 'Hallo' when entering shops; address people formally as 'Sie' until invited to use 'du'.
Being on time is valued; avoid keeping others waiting for appointments or meetings.
Quiet, respectful behavior in public spaces; avoid loud conversations in public transport.
Safety
Tipping in Bestensee
Ensure a smooth experience
Rounding up bills or leaving 5-10% at restaurants and cafes is common if service is good; not obligatory but appreciated.
Cash widely accepted, cards common in larger establishments; contactless payments increasing; occasionally mobile payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mists over lakes, fresh leaves; pleasant for outdoor walks and birdlife watching.
Warm days, longer evenings; ideal for lake swims, picnics, and outdoor dining.
Golden forests and harvest markets; great for photography and scenic drives.
Cold with occasional snow; cozy cafés, quiet landscapes, and festive lights in nearby towns.
Bestensee at Night
Hiking in Bestensee
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gentle circular trail around the lake; flat, scenic, suitable for all ages.
Shaded forest paths along the Dahme; good for longer hikes and wildlife spotting.
Forest trails near Königs Wusterhausen with varied terrain and viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Bestensee by plane.
Main international airport serving Berlin; about 35-50 km from Bestensee, depending on route; train or drive to reach.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in Bestensee and nearby communities, drawn by the quiet area and access to nature.
People travel to Berlin or Potsdam for work, making use of regional trains and local roads.
A portion of the population comprises retirees enjoying the tranquil setting and local amenities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and schools actively participate; weekends feature local matches.
Pleasant routes around lakes and through Brandenburg countryside; popular with locals and visitors.
Water sports on nearby lakes and rivers; accessible from lakeside towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bestensee.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places offer vegetarian options such as fried vegetables, cheese plates, salads or potato-based dishes; politely request a vegetarian Eintopf if needed.