Things To Do
in Schönefeld
Schönefeld is a suburban locality in the Berlin-Brandenburg region situated just southeast of Berlin and adjacent to Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER). The area blends quiet residential streets with easy rail and road access to Germany's capital, making it a convenient base for travelers. It serves as a gateway to both urban Berlin attractions and the natural landscapes of Brandenburg's lakes and forests.
Expect efficient transport links, a calmer pace compared to central Berlin, and opportunities to explore regional culture and cuisine nearby.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional German pastries and coffee. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll around Schönefeld, admiring the quaint architecture and vibrant neighborhoods. Make your way to the nearby gardens for a peaceful morning immersed in nature.
In the afternoon, visit the local museum to learn about the rich history of Schönefeld and its significance in the region. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a restaurant serving authentic German cuisine, sampling local specialties. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring nearby attractions, perhaps even renting a bike to cover more ground.
As the sun sets, head to a local beer garden to experience the lively atmosphere while enjoying a cold brew and traditional snacks. Join in on local festivities or live music events if available, immersing yourself in the culture. End your day with a pleasant walk back to your accommodation, taking in the charming evening lights.
After an early breakfast, take a short train ride to Berlin, where you can start exploring iconic landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate. Spend your morning immersing yourself in the local culture, perhaps visiting a museum on Museum Island. Don't forget to grab a famous Berlin currywurst as a mid-morning snack.
Continue your exploration of Berlin in the afternoon by wandering through the historic streets of Mitte. Visit the Berlin Wall Memorial and learn about the city's tumultuous history, followed by a relaxing lunch at a café with outdoor seating. Enjoy shopping along Unter den Linden, picking up unique souvenirs to take back home.
As evening falls, find a rooftop bar with stunning views of the Berlin skyline for a drink and light dinner. Experience Berlin's vibrant nightlife by checking out a local performance or concert. End your evening strolling along the Spree River, reflecting on the day’s adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $3-6 |
| 🥪Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🚇1-day transit pass | $8-12 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $70-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent connectivity to Berlin and Brandenburg nature
- Wide range of dining options from traditional to modern
- Schönefeld area is calmer than central Berlin, with fewer nightlife options
- Airport traffic can cause some noise near BER and transport hubs
- "Guten Tag" - Hello
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "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?
Places to Visit in Schönefeld
Visit one of these nice places.
Elevated terrace overlooking the runway for dramatic aircraft shots, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Iconic red bridge with river views and city skyline, ideal for sunset photography and reflections.
Baroque palaces and formal gardens provide grand architectural and landscape compositions.
Food in Schönefeld
Schönefeld Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Berlin staple: a steamed and fried sausage topped with a curry-ketchup sauce; widely available from street stalls and casual eateries across Schönefeld and Berlin.
Must-Try!
A hearty roasted or boiled pork knuckle served with sauerkraut and potatoes; best experienced in traditional Brandenburger taverns.
Meatballs in a white caper sauce, a classic Prussian dish commonly found in regional restaurants offering heritage German fare.
Potato salad often served with schnitzel; varies by cook and season, widely available in eateries and beer gardens.
Seasonal favorite in spring with hollandaise, new potatoes, and ham; many Brandenburg farms and restaurants feature fresh asparagus dishes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local farmers market in Schönefeld center offering fresh produce, bread, dairy, and prepared foods on market days.
Markets in the wider Berlin-Brandenburg area where you can sample local snacks such as pretzels, sausages, and baked goods.
Seasonal markets around Brandenburg riverside towns where seasonal produce and regional specialties are on display.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Being on time is valued in business and social settings; plan ahead for trains and meetings.
People tend to be straightforward; politeness is important, but concise questions are appreciated.
Stand in line, wait your turn, and avoid pushing ahead in public transport or shops.
Safety
Tipping in Schönefeld
Ensure a smooth experience
In Germany, service charges are often included in the bill; if not, rounding up or leaving 5-10% as a tip is common for good service.
Cash and cards (EC/Maestro, Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted; contactless payments are common, especially in cafes and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days, outdoor events, and pleasant river and lakeside activities; expect occasional heat and crowds near popular sights; stay hydrated and use sunscreen.
Mellow light, turning foliage, and comfortable temperatures; ideal for city walks, parks, and outdoor markets.
Cold days with possible snow; shorter days; indoor museums, cafés, and Christmas markets provide warmth and atmosphere.
Fresh blooms and sometimes rainy days; great for exploring parks, gardens, and outdoor terraces as temperatures rise.
Schönefeld at Night
Hiking in Schönefeld
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails and scenic viewpoints southeast of Berlin, with moderate hikes and river views.
Water-adjacent hiking and cycling routes along the Dahme River in Brandenburg.
Airports
How to reach Schönefeld by plane.
Main international airport serving Berlin and the surrounding region, located in Schönefeld; excellent rail and road connections to central Berlin and Brandenburg.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Local families, commuters, and long-term residents of Schönefeld and nearby towns.
Visitors staying in Berlin-Brandenburg for short or extended periods.
People connected to Berlin’s universities and regional businesses.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport with local clubs and large spectator interest.
Widely enjoyed across urban parks, waterfronts, and forest trails.
A popular indoor sport with local leagues and community clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Schönefeld.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants in Berlin and Brandenburg offer vegetarian options; look for seasonal vegetables, cheese dishes, and egg-based plates, and ask for meat-free adaptations when ordering.