Eberswalde
Experience the 10 Best Sights in Eberswalde!

Eberswalde, Brandenburg's forest town, surprises visitors with an impressive variety of attractions. The sights of Eberswalde range from historic buildings and fascinating museums to unique natural experiences. Whether you're planning a day trip or want to spend several days in the region, this town has something to suit every taste. Join us as we discover the 10 most beautiful sights in Eberswalde and find out why this town ranks among Brandenburg's hidden gems.
Sights in Eberswalde: The famous Zoological Garden
Eberswalde Zoo is undoubtedly one of the best-known sights in Eberswalde. Since 1958, it has delighted visitors of all ages with its impressive animal world. Across 15 hectares, more than 1,500 animals from 150 different species live here.
Highlights at Eberswalde Zoo
- Lion enclosure with spacious outdoor areas
- Monkey house with rare primate species
- Petting zoo for families with children
- Aquarium with native fish species
- Bird aviaries with exotic species
The zoo is particularly proud of its successful breeding programmes. The lion pride and monkey families attract hundreds of visitors every day. The zoo is actively involved in species conservation and regularly offers guided tours.
💡 Tip: Visit the zoo early in the morning – the animals are especially active then, and you can watch the feedings up close.
The Finowkanal Museum as a historic attraction
Among the most fascinating sights in Eberswalde is the Finowkanal Museum. It tells the story of Germany's oldest artificial waterway. The Finow Canal opened as early as 1620 and revolutionised transport in the region.
Experiences at the Finowkanal Museum
The museum offers interactive exhibitions on the history of shipping. Visitors learn how the canal shaped Eberswalde's economic life. Original preserved locks showcase the engineering achievements of past centuries.
- Historic ship models and navigation instruments
- Multimedia presentations on the canal's history
- A walk-through lock chamber from the 17th century
- Outdoor grounds with restored sections of the canal
💡 Tip: Combine your museum visit with a walk along the canal – the towpath runs right past the museum.
Sights in Eberswalde: The impressive town wall
The medieval town wall is one of the most impressive sights in Eberswalde. Large sections of the original fortifications still survive today. It dates back to the 13th century and once enclosed the entire old town.
Special features of the town wall
- Preserved watchtowers with viewing platforms
- Original preserved battlements
- Historic town gates such as the Angermünder Tor
- Wall park with sculptures and quiet areas
- Information boards on the town's history
A walk along the town wall takes you through different eras of Eberswalde's history. The wall tells of medieval sieges, peaceful times, and the town's transformation. At sunset, the old stones are bathed in a particularly magical light.
Town wall walking route
The full circuit takes about an hour. The starting point is the Angermünder Tor. From here, the route passes the most important sections of the fortifications.
The Familiengarten grounds as a green oasis
Familiengarten Eberswalde is one of the most popular sights in Eberswalde for those seeking relaxation. This 15-hectare park offers peace and quiet right in the middle of town. Originally laid out as the site of a state garden show, it now serves as a public park.
Attractions in the Familiengarten
The park is divided into various themed areas. Each area has its own character and offers different experiences.
- Water garden with ponds and streams
- Rose garden with over 200 rose varieties
- Herb garden with native medicinal plants
- Playgrounds for different age groups
- Barbecue areas for family gatherings
- Outdoor fitness equipment for sports enthusiasts
Events at the Familiengarten
Cultural events take place here regularly. Concerts, markets and festivals bring the park to life. The annual garden festival, in particular, draws thousands of visitors.
💡 Tip: The park is open all year round and free to enter. In autumn, it offers spectacular autumn colours.
The historic Adler-Apotheke as a cultural monument
Among the sights in Eberswalde, the Adler-Apotheke holds a special place. The 18th-century building now houses a museum dedicated to the history of pharmacy. The original preserved fittings show how medicine was practised 200 years ago.
Highlights of the Adler-Apotheke
- Baroque pharmacy cabinets made of oak
- Historic medicine bottles and scales
- Herb chamber with dried medicinal plants
- Alchemist's laboratory in the cellar
- Rare medical books and recipe collections
The pharmacy operated as a regular chemist's until 1990. It was then lovingly restored and opened to the public. Guided tours explain the development of the healing arts.
Visitor information
The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday. Guided tours take place every Saturday at 2pm. Admission is modest, and families receive discounts.
Sights in Eberswalde: Weidendamm as a natural paradise
Weidendamm is one of the hidden sights in Eberswalde. This nature reserve stretches along the Finow and provides a habitat for rare plants and animals. Over 150 bird species have already been recorded here.
Flora and fauna at Weidendamm
The area is characterised by its wet meadows and floodplain forests. Rare orchids bloom here in spring. Storks, herons and kingfishers are regular visitors.
- Observation hides for bird lovers
- Nature trail with information boards
- Rare plants such as wild iris and marsh marigold
- Amphibian spawning waters for frogs and toads
- Rest areas with panoramic views
Walking trails at Weidendamm
Several walking trails criss-cross the area. The main path is also suitable for wheelchair users. Smaller paths lead to hidden observation spots.
💡 Tip: Bring a pair of binoculars – it makes observing the wildlife much easier. Early morning offers the best sightings.
Eberswalde Town Hall as an architectural gem
The neo-Gothic town hall is one of the most beautiful sights in Eberswalde. Inaugurated in 1911, the building impresses with its magnificent façade and striking tower. The architect was the famous Ludwig Hoffmann.
Architectural highlights
The town hall combines various neo-Gothic stylistic elements. Red bricks, ornate decorations and large windows define its appearance.
- 45-metre-high town hall tower with viewing platform
- Magnificent council chamber with historic murals
- Art Nouveau elements in the interior décor
- Historic clock with a carillon
- Coats of arms and sculptures on the façade
Guided tours and events
Guided tours of the town hall take place regularly. Visitors can view the council chamber and the tower. The viewing platform offers a magnificent view over the town.
The Messingwerksiedlung as industrial heritage
The Messingwerksiedlung represents an important chapter in industrial history and is one of the more unusual sights in Eberswalde. This workers' settlement was built around 1900 for the employees of the brass works.
Architecture of the settlement
- Typical workers' houses in the reform style
- Communal facilities such as a bakery and cooperative shop
- Preserved works housing with original furnishings
- Historic cobbled streets
- Green spaces between the residential blocks
Today, the settlement is a listed heritage site. Many houses have been lovingly restored. A walk through the area shows how industrial workers lived 100 years ago.
Museum of the Messingwerksiedlung
A small museum documents life in the settlement. Original furnishings and tools illustrate the everyday life of its residents.
The Finow as the town's lifeline
The Finow has shaped Eberswalde for centuries, and its banks are among the most charming sights in Eberswalde. The river winds its way through the entire town and offers a wide range of leisure opportunities.
Activities on the Finow
The river invites various activities. Water sports enthusiasts appreciate its calm waters. Walkers follow the well-developed riverside paths.
- Canoeing through the town centre
- Fishing at designated spots
- Cycling along the Finow Canal cycle path
- Walks along the promenade
- Picnics in the riverside parks
Bridges and structures
Several historic bridges span the Finow. Each has its own character and history. The 19th-century railway bridge is especially photogenic.
💡 Tip: The Finow Promenade is especially romantic in the evening – numerous lamps bathe the river in warm light.
📍 Discover more: Explore further recommendations for Eberswalde on our city page.
Conclusion: The sights of Eberswalde offer unforgettable experiences
The sights of Eberswalde surprise visitors with their variety and quality. From historic buildings and natural experiences to cultural highlights, this town has something to offer every visitor. Its compact size makes it possible to explore several attractions in a single day.
The key takeaways at a glance:
- Eberswalde Zoo: Perfect for families, with over 1,500 animals
- Finowkanal Museum: A unique history of shipping to experience
- Town wall: Medieval atmosphere right in the middle of town
- Familiengarten: A green oasis for rest and relaxation
- Nature reserves: Spot rare animals and plants
Plan at least two days for your visit so you can take your time discovering the most beautiful sights in Eberswalde. The town makes an excellent base for further exploration of Brandenburg. Also check out nearby destinations such as the Lower Oder Valley National Park or Chorin Abbey.
Frequently Asked Questions about sights in Eberswalde
Which sights in Eberswalde are free to visit? Many attractions are free: the Familiengarten, the town wall, Weidendamm and the Finow Promenade. Walking through the historic old town is also free of charge.
How much time do I need for the main sights in Eberswalde? You should allow at least two days for the top attractions. The zoo alone requires half a day, and the Finowkanal Museum takes about 2 hours.
Which sights in Eberswalde are suitable for families with children? The zoo, the Familiengarten with its playgrounds, and the Finowkanal Museum with its interactive exhibitions are all particularly family-friendly. Canoeing on the Finow is also a hit with children.
Are there guided tours of the sights in Eberswalde? Yes, the tourist information office offers town tours. There are also special themed tours covering the town wall, the town hall and industrial history. Booking in advance is recommended.
Which sights in Eberswalde can I visit in bad weather? In rainy weather, the Finowkanal Museum, the Adler-Apotheke, the town hall and covered areas of the zoo are good options. The Messingwerksiedlung can also be explored with an umbrella.
Daniel Hofmann