This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Fürstenberg.
Fürstenberg (previously known as Tornow/Tarnow) is a city in the Oberhavel district in northern Brandenburg state, Germany. It comprises three islands along the Havel River and is surrounded by three lakes, namely Röblinsee, Baalensee, and Schwedtsee, deeming it Germany’s only “water city” (Wasser Stadt).
Travelers can access the town easily by car (via road B96) and train. Adventurers can arrive by bike on the Berlin-Kopenhagen Radweg trail. Berlin is conveniently located just 50 miles (80 kilometers) to the south.
Upon arrival, tourists can find a variety of economical accommodations in town. A hostel, or Jugendherberge, is one cost-effective option. The best bet is to look for a hostel in Fürstenberg along the Berlin-Kopenhagen bike trail. Nearby cities offer hostels as well. Guests can expect friendly hosts, clean grounds, free parking, and complimentary breakfast.
Fürstenberg also has countless vacation rentals available throughout the year. If traveling as part of a group of three or more to share the expense of a holiday rental, an individual can end up paying the same as or less than the cost of a hostel bed. Nature lovers, on the other hand, can take advantage of the numerous camp grounds; although it is important to make sure the camp site will be open at the time of year of the visit.
Tourists to the town come primarily for the opportunity to bike, horseback ride, canoe, sail, and hike as they explore the “water city.” Yet there is more to explore than just the natural elements. As you bike along the Berlin-Kopenhagen trail, you will come across the Ravensbrück Memorial. Built in 1939, it served until 1945 as the country’s largest concentration camp for women and girls. By 1959, the world had learned its lesson from the gruesome Nazi terror and opened the site as a memorial. Audio guides are available to help visitors understand the grim past of the camp.
As you walk around the city, you might come across the impressive Schloss Fürstenberg (Fürstenberg Palace). Designed by architect Christoph Julius Löwe and built between 1741 and 1752, it has worn many hats throughout its existence. It served as a hospital for soldiers during both world wars, as a school, as a state hospital as well as a nursing home. Since 2006, the new owners are planning to turn this Baroque style palace into a hotel called Schlosshotel Fürstenberg.
Written by local enthusiast for Fürstenberg hostels
Jakob Lombardi
