Rheinsberg mit Schloss Rheinsberg

About 90 minutes north of Berlin, on the shores of Lake Grienericksee in the Ruppiner Lakeland, Rheinsberg awaits with one of Northern Germany's most beautiful Rococo castles. This small town in Brandenburg combines Prussian history, Kurt Tucholsky's romanticism, and the Brandenburg lake landscape into a weekend trip that is far more than just a castle visit.

Rheinsberg Castle: Prussian Rococo by the Lake

No place stands as much for Rheinsberg as the famous Rheinsberg Castle. It is considered one of the most beautiful Rococo castles in Northern Germany and was once the residence of Crown Prince Frederick, later Frederick the Great, and his brother Henry of Prussia. Frederick II lived here from 1736 to 1740 and spent the happiest time of his life there: newly married, still unburdened by governmental duties, he could determine his daily routine himself.

From magnificent halls to the Hall of Mirrors and faithfully reconstructed living quarters, every detail tells a story. Particularly impressive is the castle’s Shell Hall, restored since 2015, which shines in its old splendor. The Kurt Tucholsky Literary Museum in the castle is dedicated to the life and work of the writer who immortalized the castle in literature. Personal items, letters, autographs, photos, and books, as well as his desk and the poet’s death mask, convey authentic impressions. The Kurt Tucholsky Literary Museum has also been included in the federal government’s “Blue Book” as a “Cultural Memorial Site of National Importance.”

Trip to Rheinsberg: Nature, Water, and Old Town

Directly behind the castle begins the extensive castle park, designed by Georg Wenzeslaus von Knobelsdorff, the architect who also designed Sanssouci in Potsdam. The park is an artful blend of baroque rigor and landscape freedom. It’s wonderful to stroll among old trees, small pavilions, obelisks, and the orangery.

Many visitors also treat themselves to a boat tour or take one of the excursion boats across the lakes, of which there are dozens in the area. The state-recognized resort is located in the middle of the Stechlin-Ruppiner Land Nature Park, with the Mecklenburg Lake District to the north and the Fürstenberg Lake District to the east. If you have time after visiting the castle: The ceramic production in Friedrichszentrum street is a real insider tip. Since 1763, fine tableware, decorative vases, and jugs have been manufactured in the town. This means a weekend trip to Rheinsberg is actually always too short.