Neubrandenburg is a town of about 65,000 on the shore of the Tollensesee, a lake in northeastern Germany. It was first established in the mid-13th century and retains a distinctive old-world charm. It’s known as “The City of Four Gates” for the stunning entranceways in the medieval city walls. There are rows of quaint old houses, traditional restaurants and some great little museums.
Wander around the old city walls and admire the picturesque architecture. You’ll notice black-and-white dwellings known as Wiek houses embedded in the walls and stumble upon the city’s 14th- and 15th-century gates. It’ll take about an hour to stroll the 1.4-mile (2.3-kilometer) wall, but it’s worth setting aside some extra time to visit the Regional Museum inside the spectacular Treptow Gate. Exhibits trace the history of Neubrandenburg and the surrounding area.
For a taste of local art, visit the Kunstsammlung. The 18th-century building houses the city art collection, which includes a range of sculptures, paintings and drawings. Music lovers will want to get hold of tickets to a performance in Konzertkirche St. Marien, a 13th-century church that now functions as the city concert hall.
If you need a breath of fresh air, spend a few hours at Tollensesee. The lake is crystal clear and is surrounded by walking and cycling trails. In the summer you can swim in the water and paddle about in a kayak or simply lie back and relax amidst the countless varieties of flowers along its shores.
Neubrandenburg is a pretty city with a fascinating history and some great old architecture. Visitors will find a good range of attractions and activities, but are likely to find the relaxed atmosphere and friendly locals its most charming assets.
