Things To Do
in Wildau

Wildau is a small town in Brandenburg just southeast of Berlin. It is set around lakes and green spaces that invite outdoor strolls and waterside views. Home to TH Wildau, the University of Applied Sciences, the town blends academic energy with a relaxed, village-like rhythm.

With easy rail links to Berlin, Potsdam, and Königs Wusterhausen, Wildau offers a convenient escape from the city without losing connectivity.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely stroll through Wildau's historic center, where charming architecture and quaint shops line the streets. Visit the local bakery to savor fresh pastries and coffee, perfect for energizing your morning. As you explore, take time to admire the historical landmarks that tell the story of this vibrant town.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a cozy café, head to the nearby Wildau Municipal Museum to delve deeper into the local history and culture. You can engage with various exhibits that showcase the region's rich heritage and artistic expressions. Spend the afternoon wandering the picturesque streets, stopping at artisan shops for unique souvenirs.

evening
:

As the sun begins to set, find a local restaurant to enjoy traditional German cuisine, perhaps sampling some regional specialties. After dinner, take a peaceful walk along the Spree River, where the serene atmosphere is perfect for reflection. End your day at a local pub, mingling with residents and enjoying a refreshing local beer.

day 2
Nature Walks and Scenic Views
morning
:

Begin your morning with a refreshing hike through the lush green landscapes surrounding Wildau, where nature trails offer stunning views of the countryside. Bring along a packed breakfast to enjoy amidst the tranquil scenery, surrounded by the songs of birds. The fresh air and scenic beauty will invigorate your spirit for the day ahead.

afternoon
:

Continue your exploration by visiting the nearby Naturpark Dahme-Heideseen, where you can participate in guided nature walks that highlight the area's biodiversity. Take the time to relax by one of the many lakes, perhaps enjoying a picnic lunch while soaking in the serenity of your surroundings. Capture the picturesque views with your camera as you observe various flora and fauna.

evening
:

As the day winds down, return to Wildau and treat yourself to dinner at a restaurant that offers locally sourced ingredients. Experience the flavors of the region while enjoying a warm and welcoming atmosphere. After dinner, unwind at a nearby café or bar and reflect on the day’s adventures under the starry sky.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
☕️Coffee$2-4
🚆Public transport day pass$8-12
🍺Beer at a bar$4-6
🏨Budget hotel room per night$60-120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Proximity to Berlin and Potsdam
  • Calm lake and forest scenery
  • Solid rail links and university town vibe
  • Limited nightlife within Wildau itself
  • Smaller selection of dedicated tourist attractions
  • Some services may be more Berlin-centric in terms of options
  • "Guten Tag" - Hello
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Ich hätte gern..." - I would like to have...
  • "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
  • "Rechnung, bitte" - The bill, please

Places to Visit in Wildau

Visit one of these nice places.

Königs Wusterhausen Castle and Water Tower

Historic castle with a moat and lakeside views, ideal for architectural and landscape photography.

Wildau Lakeside Promenade

Sunrise or sunset shots along the tranquil lake and its reflections near TH Wildau.

Dahme River shoreline near Wildau

Natural riverside scenes with marsh grasses and ferry crossings.

TH Wildau Campus lakes and forest edges

A mix of glassy water, campus architecture, and woodlands for daytime photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Wildau

In this part of Brandenburg and the Berlin region, expect hearty, seasonal cooking with farm-fresh ingredients and classic German flavors. Local meals are often built around potatoes, cabbage, pork, and seasonal produce, with plenty of bread and dairy.

Wildau Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Brandenburger Eintopf

A rustic one-pot stew featuring potatoes, vegetables, and meat, perfect for a comforting meal after a day outdoors.

Must-Try!

Schweine Haxe mit Rotkohl

Slow-roasted pork knuckle with red cabbage and mashed potatoes—a regional classic.

Kartoffelsalat mit Würstchen

Potato salad with sausages, a common and satisfying street- and pub-plate.

Rote Grütze

A berry-based dessert often served with vanilla sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Königs Wusterhausen weekly market

A seasonal market with local produce, bread, cheeses, and ready-to-eat treats.

Berlin-area street food fairs

Seasonal food stalls offering diverse options from traditional German fare to international bites; easy to sample while exploring nearby cities.

Climate Guide

Weather

Wildau experiences a temperate maritime climate with warm summers and cold winters. Spring brings milder days with rain; summer can be hot but is often tempered by breezes from the surrounding lakes. Autumn is cool and colorful, while winter sees regular cold snaps and occasional snow.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality and greetings

Be punctual for appointments; greet with 'Guten Tag' or 'Hallo' and a handshake in formal settings.

Quiet hours and respect

Respect quiet hours at night and in residential areas; avoid loud behavior late at night.

Table manners

Keep hands visible on the table; bread is often broken by hand rather than cut with knives.

Safety Guide

Safety

Wildau is generally safe with typical city-suburban safety considerations. Stay aware in crowded areas and train stations, secure belongings, and use well-lit routes at night. In case of emergencies, dial 112 for fire or medical help; 110 for police.

Tipping in Wildau

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In Germany, round up the bill or leave about 5-10% for good service; cash or card both acceptable in many places.

Payment Methods

Most shops accept EC cards (debit), credit cards are accepted at larger outlets; many cafés prefer cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures with blooming trees; rain is possible so pack a light waterproof layer.

Summer

Long days with warm weather; ideal for outdoor dining, lake swims, and sunset photography after 9 pm.

Autumn

Colorful foliage and cooler air; bring layers and a sturdy pair of shoes for forest trails.

Winter

Cold with possible snow; days are shorter, but festive markets in nearby towns add warmth.

Nightlife Guide

Wildau at Night

Wildau has a modest nightlife scene centered on local pubs, cafés, and student-friendly venues in nearby Königs Wusterhausen and Berlin. In the surrounding cities, you can find bars, live music, and clubs, with easy train connections to Berlin for a broader nightlife experience.

Hiking in Wildau

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Dahme River and surrounding forest trails

Moderate terrain with riverside views and forested lanes suitable for day hikes.

Brandenburg forest and lake trails near Wildau

Flat to gently rolling trails through mixed woodlands with opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Airports

How to reach Wildau by plane.

Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER)

Major international airport serving Berlin and the region, about an hour from Wildau by rail or car.

Getting Around

Walkability

Walkability is good within Wildau and the lake area; for longer trips to Berlin or Königs Wusterhausen, public transport is efficient.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students and academics

Significant presence due to TH Wildau and proximity to Berlin's educational and research hubs.

Commuters and families

Many residents commute to Berlin or Potsdam while enjoying a quieter suburban lifestyle.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

Widely played and followed across Germany; local clubs and public fields are common.

Cycling and water sports

The lake and river setting encourage cycling, rowing, and paddle sports in warmer months.

Transportation

Traffic

Public transport links to Berlin and Potsdam are efficient (S-Bahn/Regional trains). Car traffic is typically light in the suburbs, but weekend trips toward Berlin can see higher demand and occasional congestion on major routes.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Wildau.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most local restaurants offer vegetarian options such as potato dishes, salads, and vegetable stews; look for Gemüsepfannen and Käsegerichte.

Vegan

Vegan options are available in larger Berlin-area cafés and some Brandenburger eateries; ask for no dairy or meat and consider neutral dishes like Kartoffelsuppe without cream.

Gluten-free

Many places can accommodate gluten-free requests in German cuisine; ask for gluten-free bread and verify sauces and gravies.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is accessible in Wildau and nearby towns with general practitioners, clinics, and hospitals in Königs Wusterhausen and Berlin; emergency services are standard, with 112 as the number for fire/medical emergencies.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide