Things To Do
in Hennigsdorf

Hennigsdorf is a small town in Brandenburg just northwest of Berlin, set along the Havel River. It blends a quiet, residential atmosphere with echoes of its industrial heritage and leafy parks. The town serves as an easy base for day trips into Berlin and the surrounding countryside thanks to a direct S-Bahn connection.

Visitors will find affordable cafes, riverside strolls, and nature trails that invite relaxed exploration.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Hennigsdorf, where you can admire the beautiful architecture of historic buildings. Visit the local bakery to savor fresh pastries and coffee, immersing yourself in the morning bustle of the town. Don’t forget to take pictures of the picturesque town square as it comes alive with locals going about their morning routines.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, explore the vibrant cultural scene by visiting the local museums, including the Hennigsdorf History Museum, where you can learn about the town's rich past. Afterward, head to the nearby park for a relaxing picnic, surrounded by nature and the sounds of birds chirping. You might even bump into local artists showcasing their work in the park, making for a delightful afternoon experience.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a traditional German dinner at a cozy restaurant, sampling dishes like schnitzel or bratwurst. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the banks of the Havel River, soaking in the serene atmosphere as the evening light reflects off the water. Conclude your day with a nightcap at a local pub, mingling with residents and other travelers alike.

day 2
Nature and Hiking Trails
morning
:

Begin your day with an invigorating hike through the scenic forests surrounding Hennigsdorf, where the crisp morning air awakens your senses. The trails offer stunning views and an opportunity to spot local wildlife, making it an ideal escape for nature lovers. Stop for a moment to breathe in the fresh forest scent and enjoy the tranquility of the countryside.

afternoon
:

After your hike, head to the nearby Tegeler See for a relaxing afternoon by the water. You can rent a paddle boat or simply enjoy a picnic on the shore, relishing the sunshine and the gentle lapping of the waves. Take some time to explore the nature reserve surrounding the lake, where you can discover diverse plant and bird species.

evening
:

As evening approaches, find a quaint lakeside restaurant to enjoy a delicious meal featuring fresh local ingredients. The views of the sunset over Tegeler See provide a perfect backdrop for your dining experience. Afterward, take a peaceful stroll along the lakeshore, where the sounds of nature create a soothing ambiance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
🥤Coffee$2-4
🏨Mid-range hotel per night$60-120
🚆Public transit day pass$8-10
🛒Groceries (weekly)$40-70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Excellent proximity to Berlin with easy rail connections.
  • Lush riverside landscapes and access to outdoor activities.
  • Generally affordable accommodation and meals.
  • Compact town center with walkable streets and markets.
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options within the town itself.
  • Public transport is convenient to Berlin, but some services run less frequently on weekends.
  • Smaller selection of high-end dining compared with Berlin.
  • "Guten Tag" - Hello
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Bitte" - Please / You're welcome
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
  • "Ich hätte gern..." - I would like...
  • "Können Sie mir helfen?" - Can you help me?
  • "Die Rechnung, bitte" - The check, please
  • "Vegetarische Optionen?" - Vegetarian options?

Places to Visit in Hennigsdorf

Visit one of these nice places.

Havelufer and Riverbank

Wide river views and reflections during golden hour with boats drifting by.

Rathausplatz and Town Hall

Historic square with the town hall and daily life elements like markets and pedestrians.

Hennigsdorfer See shore

Calm lake scenery, reeds, and distant woodlands ideal for tranquil landscape shots.

Historic railway bridge over the Havel

Industrial-chic motif with water reflections, great for urban-rail photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Hennigsdorf

Brandenburg’s cuisine blends hearty German classics with river-fresh fish and seasonal produce. In Hennigsdorf you’ll find traditional dishes in cozy eateries as well as a growing selection of international options.

Hennigsdorf Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Brandenburgischer Sauerbraten

Slow-marinated beef served with red cabbage and dumplings—an iconic centerpiece of Brandenburg cooking.

Must-Try!

Forelle aus der Havel

Frisch gefangene Forelle aus der Havel, gegrillt oder gebraten, oft serviert mit Zitrone, Dill und Kartoffeln.

Eintopf aus regionalen Zutaten

Ein herzhaftes Gericht aus Kartoffeln, Gemüse und Fleisch, besonders an kalten Tagen verbreitet.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Rathausplatz Wochenmarkt

Wöchentlicher Markt mit frischem Gemüse, Brot, Käse und regionalen Spezialitäten.

Lakeside Summer Food Stands

Saisonale Stände am Wasser mit schnellen Snacks wie Brezeln, Würstchen und Fischspezialitäten.

Lokaler Bauernmarkt am Wochenende

Saisonale Obst- und Gemüseauswahl, Honig und andere regionale Produkte – ideal für Picknicks.

Climate Guide

Weather

The area experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons: warm summers, cold winters, and transitional springs and autumns. Expect moderate rainfall throughout the year and occasional heat waves in summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

Greet with 'Guten Tag' or 'Hallo'; a handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time.

Punctuality

Be on time for appointments and trains; lateness is considered impolite.

Quiet hours and respect

Respect residential quiet hours; keep noise modest in the evenings and on Sundays.

Safety Guide

Safety

Generally safe for visitors. Common-sense precautions apply: stay aware of your belongings in crowded areas, especially near transit hubs and markets, and use official taxis or rideshares at night if needed.

Tipping in Hennigsdorf

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In Germany, tipping is customary but not mandatory; rounding up or leaving about 5-10% for good service is common. Cash or card is fine; you can say 'Stimmt so' when handing the change.

Payment Methods

Most places accept cash and debit/credit cards; contactless payments (e.g., Apple Pay) are widely used in shops and transit.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Long days, plenty of outdoor markets, lake activities, and outdoor cafés. Bring sun protection and a light layer for cooler evenings near the water.

Autumn

Mild days with colorful foliage; great for scenic walks along the Havel and around lakes. Pack a light rain jacket.

Winter

Cold temperatures with a chance of snow; many outdoor spaces are quieter. Indoor attractions and cafés become refuges.

Spring

Rising temperatures and blossoming trees; ideal for riverside strolls and photography of fresh greenery.

Nightlife Guide

Hennigsdorf at Night

Hennigsdorf has a modest nightlife scene centered on local bars and cafés. For a wider selection of clubs, pubs, and live music, many visitors head to Berlin, which is easily reachable by S-Bahn in about 30–40 minutes.

Hiking in Hennigsdorf

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Havel-Radweg (Havel River Trail)

Scenic cycling and walking route along the Havel, suitable for day trips from Hennigsdorf.

Hennigsdorfer See Rundweg

Short circular path around the local lake offering tranquil water views and wildlife opportunities.

Airports

How to reach Hennigsdorf by plane.

Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER)

Major international gateway approximately 40–60 minutes by rail or road from Hennigsdorf, with frequent connections to Berlin and the surrounding area.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and walkable, with most sights, markets, and cafés within a short stroll. Some outlying lakes and nature trails are best reached by bike or short bus rides.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many residents are families seeking a quieter base near Berlin.

Commuters to Berlin

A significant portion of residents travel to Berlin for work, supported by the S-Bahn network.

Students and retirees

A stable mix of students and older residents with a community-focused vibe.

Diverse communities

A visible mix of migrants and long-established residents contributing to local culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Among the most popular team sports in the region with local clubs and youth programs.

Cycling

Well-supported by nearby river and lakeside routes; scenic and accessible for all levels.

Rowing and Watersports

Active on the Havel and lake areas, especially in summer months.

Transportation

Traffic

Public transportation (S-Bahn and buses) provides easy access to Berlin and surrounding towns. Road traffic is manageable most of the year, with typical peak times during weekday mornings and late afternoons. Parking is available around the town center but can be limited during market days.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Hennigsdorf.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Brandenburg offers plenty of vegetarian options: seasonal vegetables, potato dishes, grain salads. In restaurants, ask for 'Vegetarische Speisen' or 'ohne Fleisch'. Local markets are excellent for fresh produce.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Local healthcare includes general practitioners, dental clinics, and pharmacies. For major hospitals and specialized care, Berlin institutions are readily accessible by S-Bahn within about 20-40 minutes.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide