Camping Guide | Berlin

Berlin, the capital of Germany, is located in the northeast of the country and forms its own federal state. The city is surrounded by Brandenburg and embedded in a landscape rich in lakes. Arriving in Berlin is very easy, no matter which direction you are coming from. By car, you can reach Berlin via various motorways. Coming from the south, take the A9, which leads you directly into the city. Those arriving from the west use the A2. From the north, Berlin is easily accessible via the A24. The motorways around Berlin are generally well-developed, but traffic delays can occur during peak times. No toll fee is charged in Germany, however, there are environmental zones in the city center that you should observe with your vehicle. For rail travelers, Berlin is an important hub in the German rail network. Berlin Central Station is one of the largest and most modern stations in Europe. From here, there are numerous direct connections to all parts of Germany and other European countries. For example, you can reach Berlin from Munich in about 6 hours by ICE. From Frankfurt, the travel time is around 4 hours, and from Hamburg, it is about 2 hours. Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) is the city's international airport. It is served by numerous airlines from all over the world. From the airport, you can easily reach the city center by S-Bahn (lines S9 and S45) or the Airport Express (FEX). Alternatively, taxis and rental cars are available. Within Berlin, the best way to get around is by public transport. The network of S-Bahn, U-Bahn, buses, and trams is very well-developed and will reliably take you to your destination. For campers who want to explore the surroundings, cycling is a great option. Berlin is a bike-friendly city with many cycle paths. Renting a car is also an option to flexibly explore the region. However, you should note the parking situation in the city center, which is often strained. From Munich, you can reach Berlin in about 6 hours via the A9. Those starting from Frankfurt take the A5 and then the A4 and A9, requiring about 5 hours. Coming from Hamburg, you drive via the A24 and are in the capital in around 3 hours. Those traveling from Vienna should expect a travel time of about 8-9 hours via the A9. From Zurich, the travel time is approx. 9-10 hours via the A81 and A9.

Berlin can be roughly divided into different sub-regions, each with its own charm and character. Each of these zones offers unique experiences for campers and vacationers. The center of Berlin, Mitte, is the historical and cultural heart of the city. Numerous sights such as the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag, and Museum Island are located here. Life pulsates in Mitte, with countless restaurants, cafes, and bars. For campers, Mitte is ideal for exploring the city and enjoying the urban flair. However, there are no direct campsites here, so you have to use sites on the outskirts. In the east of Berlin is Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg, a trendy neighborhood with an alternative and creative touch. Here you will find numerous street art works, flea markets, and a lively club scene. Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg is ideal for young campers and everyone who wants to experience unconventional Berlin. There are no direct campsites here either, but the connection to the city center is very good. The west of Berlin, Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf, is known for its elegant boulevards, noble shops, and Charlottenburg Palace. Things are a bit more sophisticated here than in the eastern parts of the city. Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf is ideal for campers who prefer a quieter atmosphere and yet seek proximity to the city. In this region, there are some campsites with good connections to the city center. In the north of Berlin lies Pankow, a district with many green spaces, parks, and lakes. Pankow is ideal for families and nature lovers. There are numerous opportunities for hiking, cycling, and relaxing here. In Pankow, there are also some campsites that are particularly suitable for families with children. The south of Berlin, Steglitz-Zehlendorf, is characterized by villa districts, lakes, and forests. Here you will also find the Wannsee, a popular destination for swimmers and water sports enthusiasts. Steglitz-Zehlendorf is ideal for campers who enjoy nature and at the same time seek proximity to the city. In this region, there are some campsites directly on the lake. Those interested in history should take a trip to Potsdam, which directly borders Berlin. Potsdam is known for its palaces and gardens, which are part of the UNESCO World Heritage. A visit to Sanssouci Palace is an absolute must. From Berlin, Potsdam is easily accessible by S-Bahn. For families with children, a visit to the Berlin Zoological Garden is recommended, which is one of the largest and most species-rich zoos in the world. There are animals from all continents to marvel at here. The Tierpark Berlin, located in the east of the city, is also worth a visit. Both zoos are easy to reach by public transport.

The camping landscape around Berlin is diverse and offers the right choice for every taste and budget. There are both large resort sites with extensive facilities and smaller, nature-oriented sites that are ideal for those seeking peace and quiet. Most campsites are located on the outskirts or in the immediate vicinity of Berlin, often by one of the numerous lakes. The large resort sites usually have an extensive infrastructure with pools, restaurants, supermarkets, and entertainment programs. These sites are ideal for families with children who value comfort and entertainment. The smaller, nature-oriented sites, on the other hand, offer a quieter atmosphere and are often located directly on the lake. Here you can enjoy nature and relax. Agriturismo/farm camping is also occasionally possible in the vicinity of Berlin. Many campsites offer special pitches for motorhomes, which have an electricity connection and a fresh water supply. The size of the typical pitches varies depending on the site, but is usually between 80 and 120 square meters. Most sites offer both sunny and shady pitches. The prices for a pitch vary depending on the season, facilities, and location of the site. In the high season (July/August), you should expect prices between 30 and 50 euros per night. In the low season (May/June and September/October), prices are often significantly lower and range between 20 and 35 euros per night. Many campsites also offer package deals for longer stays. The sanitary standard on the campsites around Berlin is generally good. Most sites have modern sanitary facilities with showers, toilets, and sinks. Washing machines and dryers are also often available. The Wi-Fi quality varies depending on the site, but is sufficient on most sites for emails and simple internet research. The power supply is usually 6 or 16 amps. It is recommended to reserve your pitch in good time, especially if you are traveling in the high season. Many campsites offer the possibility to book online. Last-minute chances do occur, but you should not rely on them, especially if you prefer a specific site. In addition to the classic campsites, there are also some motorhome stopovers in the vicinity of Berlin, which are often cheaper and offer simpler facilities. These pitches are ideal for campers who are self-sufficient and do not need extensive infrastructure.

For a relaxed camping holiday in Berlin and the surrounding area, it is important to observe some practical information. Here you will find everything worth knowing about toll fees, gas stations, shopping, gas supply, disposal, mobile communications, medical care, and camping rules. Toll fees are not charged on motorways in Germany, so you can drive to and around Berlin without additional costs. However, there is an environmental zone in the city center of Berlin that you should observe with your vehicle. Find out in advance whether your vehicle meets the required criteria or whether you need an environmental sticker. Diesel prices in Germany are generally slightly higher than in other European countries. Gas stations are usually open from early morning until late evening, some even around the clock. Along the motorways, there are numerous gas stations with a shop and restaurant. Shopping opportunities are plentiful in Berlin and the surrounding area. You will find all common supermarket chains such as Lidl, Aldi, Edeka, and Rewe here. Supermarkets are generally open from Monday to Saturday, some also on Sunday. In tourist centers, there are often small supermarkets open on Sundays. For bulk shopping, a visit to one of the large supermarkets on the outskirts is recommended. Gas supply can sometimes be a challenge for campers. It is not always possible to exchange German gas cylinders abroad. In Germany, however, there are numerous dealers who sell or refill gas cylinders. Find out in advance where you can exchange or refill your gas cylinder. You may need an adapter for your gas appliance. Disposal stations for camping toilets and grey water are available at many campsites. Some service areas along the motorways also offer disposal facilities. Find out in advance where the nearest disposal station is located. Mobile network coverage in Berlin and the surrounding area is generally very good. You can easily make calls and surf the internet with your smartphone. Roaming charges do not apply within the EU. However, in some rural areas, network coverage may be slightly worse. Medical care in Berlin is excellent. There are numerous hospitals, doctor's offices, and pharmacies. In an emergency, dial the emergency number 112. Pharmacies are generally open from Monday to Saturday. Outside of opening hours, there is an emergency pharmacy service. Wild camping is fundamentally prohibited in Germany. You should therefore definitely stay at official campsites or pitches. In some nature reserves, special rules apply that you should observe. Find out about the applicable regulations in advance.

In addition to the well-known sights and campsites, there are also some secret tips and insider knowledge around Berlin that can make your camping holiday a special experience. Here are some tips you won't find in any travel guide. The low season (May/June and September/October) is ideal for a relaxed camping holiday in Berlin. The temperatures are pleasant, the campsites are less crowded, and prices are often cheaper. You also have more time to explore the city and the surrounding area in peace. Off the beaten path, there are numerous less well-known places and beaches worth a visit. The Müggelsee, Berlin's largest lake, offers numerous swimming spots and campsites. It is particularly beautiful on the eastern shore of the lake, where you will find many quiet spots. You can reach the eastern shore via the Alt-Müggelheim road. Local markets and direct sales are a great way to get to know and enjoy regional products. The weekly market at Kollwitzplatz in Prenzlauer Berg is one of Berlin's largest and most popular markets. Here you will find everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to cheese, sausage, and handicrafts. A visit to one of the numerous farm shops in Brandenburg is also worthwhile. In Berlin and the surrounding area, there are numerous festivals and events throughout the year. The Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale) in February is one of the largest film festivals in the world. In summer, numerous open-air concerts and festivals take place. A special highlight is the Pyronale, a fireworks competition that takes place every year in September. Culinary-wise, Berlin has more to offer than Currywurst and Döner. Be sure to try the Berliner Bulette, a type of meatball, or the Berliner Weisse mit Schuss, a mixed beer drink. In the city's numerous restaurants and cafes, you will find a diverse selection of international dishes. A visit to one of the traditional Berlin inns is also worthwhile. A day trip to the Spreewald is an absolute must. The Spreewald is a unique river landscape with numerous canals that you can explore by punt. The travel time from Berlin is about 1 hour. A visit to the city of Brandenburg an der Havel is also worthwhile. Here you can visit the historic old town and take a boat trip on the Havel. A secret tip for nature lovers is the Barnim Nature Park, which extends north of Berlin. Here you can hike, cycle, and enjoy nature. It is particularly beautiful in spring when the rapeseed fields are in bloom. You can reach the Barnim Nature Park via the A11. For campers seeking peace and relaxation, a visit to Chorin Abbey, located about 70 km northeast of Berlin, is recommended. The abbey is an impressive example of Brick Gothic architecture and is situated in the middle of a magnificent landscape. You can reach the abbey via the A11.