Reinickendorf and Spandau Travel Guide

Explore the best of Reinickendorf and Spandau with our comprehensive travel guide, featuring top attractions, outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and more.


Introduction to Reinickendorf and Spandau

Reinickendorf and Spandau are two districts in Berlin, Germany’s capital city, that offer a mix of old-world charm and modern amenities. Located in the western part of Berlin, these neighborhoods are known for their historical landmarks, scenic parks, and array of cultural attractions. With plenty of museums, cafes, restaurants, and shopping options, Reinickendorf and Spandau offer something for every type of traveler. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a look at the best things to see and do in Reinickendorf and Spandau, along with tips on where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around.

List of Places to Visit in Reinickendorf and Spandau

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Berlin-Spandau Citadel: This 16th-century fortress is one of the most significant landmarks of Spandau, offering guided tours and interactive exhibits for visitors.
  • Museum Reinickendorf: This local history museum showcases the rich heritage of Reinickendorf, with exhibits ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary art.
  • The Ruhleben Internment Camp Memorial: A former World War II internment camp is now a historical site with a museum dedicated to its history.
  • Baroque Castle Charlottenburg. This impressive palace features spectacular gardens, ornate architecture, and historic artwork.

Natural Attractions of Reinickendorf and Spandau: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Tegeler Forest: This massive forest offers miles of hiking and biking trails and is home to several lake and river systems, perfect for a boat ride.
  • Lake Tegel: This is the second largest lake in Berlin, featuring a beach for swimming, windsurfing, and kiting.
  • Spandau Forest: Another vast green space with hiking and biking trails, picnic areas with the occasional sighting of deer and other wildlife.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Reinickendorf and Spandau

  • Tegeler See Circular Route: This 12 km loop around Lake Tegel is perfect for biking or hiking and offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding forests.
  • Tegeler Fliess Valley: This valley offers various terrains and wildlife and is the perfect spot for nature lovers.
  • Spandau Green Belt: A network of hiking trails passing through the lush woodlands, providing visitors with an escape from the bustling city.

Best Things to Do in Reinickendorf and Spandau: Activities and Tours

  • Boat Tours: Take a boat tour and explore the lakes and rivers of Reinickendorf and Spandau, offering the perfect blend of history and nature.
  • Segway Tours: Get an adrenaline rush with Segway tours, exploring the hidden treasures of these unique districts.
  • Bike Rentals: Rent a bike and explore the city on two wheels with the wind in your hair, enjoying the scenic bike routes.
  • Beer Tasting: Visit local breweries and pubs and sample some of the finest German beers.

Week-Long Itinerary for Reinickendorf and Spandau

Day 1-2: Explore the Spandau Citadel, take a leisurely stroll in the Old Town and enjoy local cuisine in one of the many restaurants and cafes. Day 3-4: Hike or bike the Tegeler Fliess Valley and Tegeler See Circular Route, rent a boat and explore the lake. Day 5-6: Visit Museum Reinickendorf, take a Segway tour, and attend an evening concert at one of the local venues. Day 7: Relax and rejuvenate at one of the local spas or take a day trip to nearby Berlin attractions.

Food and Drink Scene of Reinickendorf and Spandau

Must-Try Dishes

  • Currywurst: a grilled sausage dish slathered in spicy curry ketchup.
  • Kartoffelpuffer: German potato pancakes served with a range of toppings, including apple sauce, sour cream, and smoked salmon.
  • Berliner Weiße: A refreshing sour beer with a fruity aroma, usually served with a shot of raspberry or woodruff syrup.

Local Beverages

  • Apfelschorle: Apple juice mixed with sparkling water, a refreshing non-alcoholic option.
  • Berliner Kindl: A popular pilsner beer made and bottled in Berlin.
  • Berliner Weisse: A sour beer often flavored with raspberry or woodruff syrup.

Where to Stay in Reinickendorf and Spandau: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel am Tegeler See: This modern hotel offers panoramic views of Lake Tegel and some of the best in luxurious accommodations couples could ask for.
  • Hotel Lindenufer: Located on the banks of the River Spree, this hotel offers a tranquil environment and is perfect for budget-conscious travelers.
  • Jugendherberge Berlin-Spandau: A classic hostel with clean and comfy dorms, located just a few steps away from the Spandau Citadel.

What to Buy in Reinickendorf and Spandau: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Rausch Chocolate: This local chocolate craftsmanship has been awarded many awards including “the best dark chocolate in the world”.
  • Ampelmann products: a quirky souvenir, representing the traffic signal figures created by a “East German designer” with a backstory.
  • Handmade jewelry: Head over to one of the local shops to find unique and handmade jewellery by local artists.

Local Culture and Customs of Reinickendorf and Spandau

Germans are quite punctual, so it’s important to be on time for meetings and appointments. Smoking is banned in most restaurants and public spaces and is strictly prohibited in the hotel rooms. The German culture is straightforward and expect tourists to have some level of proficiency in their language.

Best Time to Visit Reinickendorf and Spandau

The best time to visit Reinickendorf and Spandau is from May to September when the weather is mild and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities. December is also a great time to visit, the air is cooler and the Christmas market seems to emphasise the traditional German culture.

Do’s and Don’ts of Reinickendorf and Spandau

Do:

  • Learn some basic German phrases, to show respect to the locals and to make communication easier.
  • Follow the local laws and regulations
  • Tip your servers at restaurants, the suggested amount being 10-15%

Don’t:

  • Speak in a loud voice, as Germans value silence and peace.
  • Cross the street when the ‘Ampelmann’ is red
  • Forget to validate your ticket when using public transportation.

Safety and Health

Safety in Reinickendorf and Spandau

Reinickendorf and Spandau are generally safe areas, but like any travel destination, tourists should always be aware of their surroundings. In some parks, areas often tend to be dark by evening, so it’s best to avoid walking alone in these areas after dusk.

Health in Reinickendorf and Spandau

Reinickendorf and Spandau offer modern medical facilities and hospitals, so tourists shouldn’t have a problem in case of an emergency or need for medical care. Make sure to bring sufficient supplies of your medicine; in case you run out, you could always purchase a refill from any pharmacist or druggist nearby.

Getting to Reinickendorf and Spandau: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Reinickendorf and Spandau

The Berlin-Tegel Airport is only 20 minutes away from Reinickendorf and Spandau, with regular bus and train services. The cost of a taxi from the airport to Reinickendorf and Spandau usually ranges from 25-30 Euros.

Bus Stations Near Reinickendorf and Spandau

Reinickendorfer Strasse and U-Bahn-Spandau are the closest bus stations and provide easy access to the districts. Buses run regularly from other parts of Berlin, too, making it easy for tourists to get around.

Other Options

Berlin also has a reliable train and subway system, making getting around from district to district easy and straightforward.

How to Get Around in Reinickendorf and Spandau

The districts’ public transportation system is efficient and reliable, with buses and trains connecting these areas to other parts of Berlin. Tourists can also rent bikes and explore the area on two wheels or take a leisurely stroll around the district.

Where to Go Next from Reinickendorf and Spandau: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Potsdam: Known for its historical landmarks, stunning architecture, and royal gardens, this gem is worth the 45-minute train ride from Spandau.
  • Berlin City: explore the cosmopolitan and vibrant nature of Berlin.
  • Teufelsberg: Explore the abandoned NSA station and its surrounding forests, located about 30 minutes from Reinickendorf.

Conclusion

Reinickendorf and Spandau offers abundant options for travelers seeking to experience the traditional and modern-day vibe of Berlin. From lush green spaces and outdoor activities to various cultural landmarks and museums, these districts offer an authentic representation of the German culture. Planning your next trip to Reinickendorf and Spandau has never been easier, with our comprehensive guide providing some of the best options and activities to make your visit memorable. Remember to pack your swimming suit, walking shoes, and maybe learn a little German before visiting. Welcome to Reinickendorf and Spandau!

Train station Berlin-Spandau with ICE Train station Berlin-Spandau with ICE