Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Cottbus. Cottbus-Drewitz Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 60 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Three things to verify before you walk out of CBU:
- Can you legally enter Germany? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 60-minute journey each way by Local Bus (e.g., Line 21), you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Get Into Cottbus
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Bus (e.g., Line 21) | ~60 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~80 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Local Bus (e.g., Line 21) is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
How to Spend Your Time in Cottbus
Two recommendations for your time in Cottbus:
Start with Branitzer Park and Schloss Branitz. Great for a short stroll — bring a coffee and take it easy. Then, if time allows, make your way to Cottbus Altmarkt (Old Market Square). The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside CBU, you can spend time at Aircraft Observation Area or try Stroll around Airfield Perimeter. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Eat
- In the city: Louvi Cotta and MoschMosch Cottbus are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Cottbus.
- At the airport: Bistro am Flugplatz Cottbus and Airfield Snack Bar will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Cottbus:
Transport to the city and back runs about $9 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $17 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $36 USD total.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Luggage storage options at CBU can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Cottbus for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and CBU is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Cottbus and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Resting at the Airport
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at CBU, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Cottbus doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 60 minutes from CBU, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.