Winter means strolling through Christmas markets, with warm treats in hand and browsing through festively decorated stalls. But it also stands for peace, coziness and a little retreat. When the crowds in the city – and especially at the markets – become too much, we sometimes just want to take a deep breath and recharge our batteries. But you don’t have to lock yourself away at home to do this – you can get out into the great outdoors. Fortunately, the area around Berlin offers numerous places where a winter break is perfect: from quiet forest retreats to the Elbe Sandstone Mountains and the wide open sea. These little getaways around Berlin are quick and easy to reach.
2. tranquillity, idyll & wellness
An absolute must for anyone looking for an idyllic place in nature near Berlin: The Spreewald. It is only about an hour away from Berlin and has a special charm, especially in winter. Although the magical
Christmas market also attracts many visitors, away from it, peace and tranquillity prevail.
When the snow falls, the landscape becomes even more magical: snow-covered canals, quiet villages and winter walks provide real relaxation. There are also numerous beautiful wellness hotels in the Spreewald where you can retreat for a few days – with evenings by the fireplace and regional, warm cuisine to enjoy.
2. slow down with a dream concert in the mooring
It’s not just a stay in nature that invites you to relax and pause for a moment – music also plays a central role when it comes to consciously slowing down. And what better way to do this than with classical piano music? At the dream concert on May 3, 2026, musician Felix Räuber (formerly of Polarkreis 18) and concert pianist Justin Lehmann-Friese invite you to an unforgettable sound experience at Haus Auensee. The reclining seats that you can secure for the concert provide that special cozy factor: At one of the first reclining concerts in Germany, you can enjoy compositions inspired by Einaudi, Tiersen and Hans Zimmer in complete peace and quiet.
3. unique wind hikes
Although Saxon Switzerland is a little further away, it can still be reached in around two hours from Berlin. As the only rock national park in Germany, it impresses with over 1,000 sandstone formations and around 1,200 kilometers of hiking trails – a truly extraordinary place. Nature is redefined in the Elbe Sandstone Mountains. For hiking fans in particular, the region is an ideal destination for atmospheric winter hikes. When you pause in the middle of the impressive rocky landscape and see the mist drifting through the Elbe valley, it’s time to take a deep breath and let the moment sink in – because there is no trace of this clear, pure air in the big city!
4. the rough sea and clear air
The beloved Baltic Sea coast is probably one of the most beautiful places in Germany. In addition to well-known beaches such as Grömitz or Warnemünde, there are also some real insider tips – above all Prerow Beach, which is considered Germany’s paradise beach for good reason. In winter, you are lucky enough to have the coast almost to yourselves: just you, the rough sea and the clear, salty air. Long walks on the beach are perfect before heading to a wellness hotel afterwards – there are plenty of them on the Baltic Sea. Because it doesn’t always have to be summer to enjoy the beach. Even in winter, the sea is the best medicine for body and soul.