Rent a Motorhome in Cottbus: Your Gateway to the Spreewald
Start your German adventure right here. When you rent a motorhome in Cottbus, you're on the doorstep of the magical Spreewald forest and countless other destinations. We offer a wide range of campers, including 4x4 models, for your perfect road trip. Discover why to rent a camper in Cottbus with us and begin your journey.
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Your Adventure Begins in Cottbus: A City of History and Nature
Welcome to Cottbus, a city where history and modernity blend seamlessly, creating the perfect launchpad for your unforgettable camper adventure. When you decide to rent a motorhome Cottbus, you're not just hiring a vehicle; you're unlocking a world of exploration, with the enchanting Spreewald forest and the fascinating region of Lusatia right at your fingertips. The decision to rent a camper Cottbus is the first step towards a journey filled with freedom and discovery.
Geographical Gateway
Cottbus is strategically located in the federal state of Brandenburg in eastern Germany, nestled on the banks of the Spree River. With a population of just under 100,000, it's a city that feels both vibrant and welcoming. Its most significant geographical advantage is its position as the gateway to the Spreewald, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This unique landscape of wetlands, canals, and dense forests is a paradise for nature lovers. The flat terrain surrounding Cottbus makes driving your rental camper a breeze, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery. This is a key reason why so many people choose to rent a motorhome Cottbus for their German holiday. The city's infrastructure is well-suited for travelers, making it easy to stock up on supplies before you head out.
A Tapestry of History
The history of Cottbus is rich and complex, dating back to the 10th century with its Sorbian/Wendish roots, which are still visible in the bilingual street signs today. Over the centuries, it grew from a medieval trading town, known for its cloth and linen, into an industrial hub, particularly during the 19th and 20th centuries with the rise of textile manufacturing and coal mining. This history is etched into the city's architecture, from the medieval Altmarkt (Old Market Square) to the industrial-era buildings that now house cultural centers. Exploring this past is one of the great joys after you rent a camper Cottbus. During the GDR era, Cottbus was a significant administrative and industrial center, and its transformation since German reunification in 1990 has been remarkable. It has reinvented itself as a center for science and technology, centered around the Brandenburg University of Technology (BTU). When you choose to rent a motorhome Cottbus, you are starting your trip in a city that embodies resilience and change. For those seeking a bit more adventure, you can even rent a 4x4 camper Cottbus to explore the rugged, reclaimed landscapes of former open-cast mines in the Lusatian Lake District.
Culture, Climate, and When to Visit
Cottbus is not just a starting point but a destination in its own right. It boasts the magnificent Staatstheater (State Theatre), an art nouveau masterpiece, and the impressive Branitz Park, a landscape garden created by the eccentric Prince Hermann von Pückler-Muskau. These cultural highlights are easily accessible and provide a wonderful start or end to your trip. The choice to rent a camper Cottbus gives you the flexibility to explore these sites at your own pace.
The region has a continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters. The best time to visit and rent a motorhome Cottbus is from late spring to early autumn, typically from May through September. During these months, you can expect pleasant temperatures perfect for cruising through the countryside, punting on the Spreewald canals, or enjoying an evening barbecue at your campsite. Summer temperatures average around 23°C (73°F), creating ideal conditions for your road trip. Choosing to rent a camper Cottbus in this period ensures you get the most out of the region's natural beauty. For the ultimate off-road freedom, remember you can also rent a 4x4 camper Cottbus, allowing you to venture where others can't. In summary, Cottbus provides the perfect blend of accessibility, history, and natural beauty, making it the premier choice for starting your campervan journey in eastern Germany. Your adventure awaits!
Top Sights & Activities In and Around Cottbus
Once you rent a motorhome Cottbus, you have the freedom to explore a city and region packed with fascinating sights and activities. Park your camper for the day and dive into the cultural and natural wonders that await you.
Branitz Park and Palace (Fürst-Pückler-Park Branitz)
This is an absolute must-see. Created by the legendary landscape architect Prince Hermann von Pückler-Muskau, this English-style landscape garden is a masterpiece. Walk through rolling hills, ancient trees, and discover the unique pyramids – one of which, in the middle of a lake, serves as the prince's final resting place. The palace itself houses a museum dedicated to his life and travels.
Staatstheater Cottbus (State Theatre)
Even if you don't catch a performance, the theatre building is a sight to behold. It is a stunning example of Art Nouveau architecture, with an opulent interior. It's a symbol of the city's cultural pride and a beautiful spot for photos. A great cultural stop after you rent a camper Cottbus.
Altmarkt (Old Market Square)
The heart of the old town, the Altmarkt is lined with beautifully restored Baroque burgher houses. It's the perfect place to grab a coffee, watch the world go by, and admire the blend of historic architecture. The square hosts markets and events throughout the year.
Spremberger Turm (Spremberg Tower)
For the best views of the city, climb the 13th-century Spremberger Turm. This former city gate tower offers a panoramic perspective of the old town, the modern city, and the surrounding landscape. It's a great way to get your bearings before you head out on your campervan tour.
Tierpark Cottbus (Cottbus Zoo)
Situated right on the Spree River, the Cottbus Zoo is home to over 1,200 animals from around the world. It's a wonderfully green and spacious zoo, making it a relaxing and enjoyable activity for families and animal lovers alike. The decision to rent a motorhome Cottbus gives you the flexibility for such family-friendly day trips.
Spreewald Forest Exploration
Of course, the main attraction for many is the Spreewald. From Cottbus, you're just a short drive away from Lübbenau or Burg, the heart of the Spreewald. Here you can take a traditional punt boat tour (Kahnfahrt) through the maze of canals, rent a kayak, or cycle along the well-marked paths. The freedom you get when you rent a camper Cottbus is ideal for exploring this unique biosphere reserve.
Unforgettable Road Trips Starting from Cottbus
When you rent a motorhome Cottbus, you have the perfect base for incredible road trips. Here are a few tour ideas to inspire your journey:
🛶 The Spreewald Serenity Tour (3-4 Days)
This tour is all about immersing yourself in the unique nature of the Spreewald. It's a short, relaxing trip perfect for unwinding.
Tag 1: Cottbus to Burg (Spreewald)
Pick up your camper and drive the short distance to Burg, one of the main villages in the Spreewald. Find a campsite along one of the many canals and settle in. Spend the afternoon exploring the village by bike or on foot.
Tag 2: Waterways and Traditions in Lübbenau
Drive to Lübbenau, the unofficial capital of the Spreewald. Leave your camper at a designated parking area and take a traditional guided punt boat tour (Kahnfahrt) for a few hours. Afterwards, visit the open-air museum in Lehde to learn about historic Sorbian life.
Tag 3: Active Day and Return
Rent kayaks for a more personal exploration of the smaller, quieter canals. Paddle at your own pace, stopping at waterside cafes for a famous Spreewald gherkin. In the late afternoon, make the easy drive back to Cottbus.
🏰 The Saxon Switzerland & Dresden Dream (4-5 Days)
Combine breathtaking nature with world-class art and history. A rent a 4x4 camper Cottbus might give you extra confidence on some of the smaller mountain roads.
Tag 1: Cottbus to Bastei Bridge
Head south towards Saxon Switzerland National Park. Your destination is the iconic Bastei Bridge. Park your motorhome and walk across the stunning sandstone bridge, taking in the dramatic views of the Elbe River valley. Find a campsite near the park for the night.
Tag 2: Hiking in Saxon Switzerland
Spend the day hiking. There are trails for all fitness levels, from easy walks to challenging climbs like the one up to the Schrammsteine viewpoints. The landscape is truly unique and unforgettable.
Tag 3: The Florence on the Elbe - Dresden
Drive to the historic city of Dresden. Find a city-proximate campsite and use public transport to explore the rebuilt Frauenkirche, the grand Zwinger Palace, and the Semperoper. The city's resilience and beauty are awe-inspiring.
Tag 4: Dresden's Culture and Return
Spend the morning visiting one of the world-class museums, like the Green Vault. Enjoy a final Saxon coffee and cake before making the comfortable two-hour drive back towards Cottbus.
🏞️ The Lusatian Lake District Discovery (3 Days)
Explore a landscape in transformation, where former open-cast coal mines have been turned into a stunning lake district. This is a great tour if you choose to rent a camper Cottbus for a unique experience.
Tag 1: Cottbus to Senftenberger See
Drive south to the Senftenberger See, one of the largest and most developed lakes in the region. Check into a modern campsite right by the water. Spend the day swimming, sailing, or cycling the 18km path around the lake.
Tag 2: Industrial Culture and Observation Towers
Visit the IBA Terraces in Großräschen for a fascinating look at the ongoing landscape transformation. Then, drive to the 'Rostiger Nagel' (Rusty Nail), a striking observation tower offering panoramic views over the lakes and post-mining landscape.
Tag 3: Partwitzer See and Return
Explore the Partwitzer See, which is connected to other lakes by navigable canals. You can even take a boat tour through the canals. Enjoy one last lakeside lunch before heading back to Cottbus.
Returning Your Camper Clean: Washing Stations in Cottbus
After an amazing trip, it's time to return your camper. Most rental agreements, including ours, require you to return the vehicle with a clean interior and exterior. Finding a washing station that can accommodate a tall motorhome can be tricky, as standard car washes are often too low.
To make your life easier, we've identified a few suitable truck and large vehicle washing facilities in and around Cottbus. These stations have the height clearance and equipment needed to clean your motorhome properly before you hand it back. We recommend calling ahead to confirm opening hours.
Here are a few options:
1. SVG Autohof Cottbus / Klettwitz
While technically closer to the A13 motorway, this is a professional truck stop with excellent washing facilities designed for large vehicles. It's a reliable option if you're returning from the direction of Dresden or Berlin.
Address: A 13, 01998 Klettwitz
2. LKW-Waschanlage Logistik-Centrum-Cottbus
This truck washing facility is located in a commercial area and is well-equipped to handle large campers and motorhomes. Their high-pressure wands and platforms are ideal for reaching the roof.
Address: Am Gleis 11, 03042 Cottbus
3. Cleanpark Cottbus (Self-Service)
Some larger self-service wash parks have one or two bays with extra height for vans and small trucks. These can be a good option for a quick rinse-off, but check the height clearance carefully before entering. Look for the designated 'Transporter' or 'LKW' bay.
Address: Madlower Hauptstraße 77, 03050 Cottbus
Your Journey to Cottbus From Abroad
Your journey to rent a motorhome Cottbus begins with getting to the city itself. For our international guests from the UK, Ireland, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, the process is quite straightforward.
Flying into Germany
The most convenient major international airport is Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER). It is one of Germany's largest hubs and is well-connected globally.
From the Airport to Cottbus
Once you land at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER), you're very close to your destination. You have two excellent options:
By Train: This is often the easiest way. There is a direct regional express train (RE2) that runs from the train station directly beneath the airport terminal to Cottbus Hauptbahnhof (main station). The journey is comfortable and scenic, taking approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. From the Cottbus station, our depot is just a short taxi ride away.
By Car: If you prefer to drive, the journey from BER to Cottbus is about 110 km (68 miles) and takes just over an hour via the A13 and A15 motorways. This is a simple and direct route, giving you your first taste of the German Autobahn before you even pick up your camper!