Mecklenburg-Schwerin

Enchanted by Originality

Between the Baltic Sea, the Elbe and Lake Plauer See stretches a stretch of land whose natural diversity awakens the senses in its relaxing way, inspires the soul and is able to give the body new strength. Surprisingly close to the metropolises of Berlin and Hamburg and far away from the hustle and bustle, relaxation is waiting right outside the door.

On the way with the fisherman on the Schaalsee., © TMV/Kirchgessner

Whether nature or culture lovers, whether Lewitz, Schaalsee or Schwerin Castle – once you arrive here, you will succumb to the region's charms. Hikers can explore the pristine beauty on foot or by bike on well-signposted trails. And there is another network of trails that attracts visitors to West Mecklenburg: the waterways. Water sports enthusiasts can paddle or sail along the rivers and lakes in a particularly relaxing way. The UNESCO biosphere reserves Schaalsee and Flusslandschaft Elbe Mecklenburg-Vorpommern are home to a particularly diverse and varied flora and fauna. Beavers and otters also feel at home there and eagles circle in the sky.

The former ducal residences of Ludwigslust and Schwerin occupy a special position. In both cities, things are certainly a little classy. The state capital Schwerin has also developed into a widely appreciated shopping paradise and is worth a stroll through the lovingly restored alleyways for this reason alone. But even the smaller towns and villages offer authentic half-timbered and brick architecture for culture lovers.
 

The vacation experts for Mecklenburg Schwerin

Whether Lake Scenery or the Splendor of Castles

Schwerin

If you are visiting Mecklenburg-Schwerin, you should plan a stay in the state capital Schwerin. In addition to the famous Schwerin Castle and the surrounding Schwerin Lake and Castle Lake, culture lovers can see old half-timbered houses and a wealth of cultural monuments in the old town. We also recommend a visit to the castle festival in the Old Garden, which delights audiences every year with opulent productions.  

Ludwigslust

Ludwigslust is also a well-known vacation destination for culturally and historically interested vacationers that is unparalleled in northern Germany. As the „Versailles of the North“, the town and Ludwigslust Palace convey impressions from the time of the Baroque regency. The era that gave Ludwigslust its current appearance is also celebrated at the annual Baroque Festival in spring and with a Baroque Advent market in the run-up to Christmas.

Wittenburg

The small town of Wittenburg was an important bastion and trading center in the Middle Ages and its ramparts and fortifications have been preserved to this day and can be visited. Families and cultural vacationers in Wittenburg also have the opportunity to learn about the world's most important foodstuff from a different perspective at the MehlWelten Museum. Those who enjoy sports will find an indoor snow paradise to let off steam at the Alpincenter Hamburg-Wittenburg at -1°C all year round.

Plau am See

The climatic health resort of Plau am See is located directly on the western shore of the lake of the same name and combines a historic old town atmosphere with the enjoyment of nature. The town's landmarks are the castle tower with viewing platform and the listed lifting bridge, which offers visitors a special view of the Elde and the harbor basin. Around the promenade, small cafés invite you to linger. If you want to be more active, you can take a canoe out into the waters of the Mecklenburg Lake District or discover exciting things on the nature discovery trail. An excursion to the nearby Bärenwald forest or the surrounding woodlands is the ideal way to round off a vacation in Plau am See for families, nature lovers and anyone looking for peace and quiet.

The monastery town of Rehna

The monastery town of Rehna offers peace and relaxation, which can be found, for example, behind the walls of the former Prämonstratenserinnen monastery. The monastery garden, the monastery pond with adjoining parkland and a Kneipp pool invite you to relax, while regular art exhibitions and concerts provide cultural entertainment. The unspoiled nature around Rehna is known as a pilgrimage route and is ideal for extensive hiking tours from monastery to monastery.

Zarrentin am Schaalsee

Zarrentin am Schaalsee is picturesquely situated on the western shore of the deepest lake in northern Germany and forms the gateway to the UNESCO Schaalsee Biosphere Reserve. The state-approved resort offers a special blend of history and nature with its historic monastery complex, small half-timbered houses and the natural lakeshore. The Schaalsee invites you to swim, paddle or quietly observe nature - with a bit of luck you might spot ospreys or kingfishers. Numerous hiking and cycling trails lead through an unspoiled landscape of forests, moors and meadows. If you are looking for peace and quiet and want to experience precious nature at the same time, Zarrentin is the perfect retreat.

Sternberg lake landscape

In the heart of Mecklenburg-Schwerin lies the Sternberg Lake District - a region made for anyone looking for peace, nature and authenticity. Numerous smaller and larger lakes, including the Great Sternberg Lake and the Luckow Lake, characterize this unique cultural landscape. Whether it's relaxing paddling on quiet waterways, swimming on natural shores or on extensive hiking and cycling tours through the Sternberger Seenland Nature Park - here you can experience Mecklenburg-Vorpommern from its original side. Cultural highlights await you in the charming small town of Sternberg with its historic town church and in the Groäological open-air museum in Raden, which offers exciting insights into the life of the Slavs. A real insider tip for anyone who wants to enjoy unspoiled nature, discover regional culture and simply take a deep breath.

 

Activities

on water, on land and on horseback

Boating tours and water fun on Lake Plau

If you like action, you will love Lake Plau. Sailing boats, excursion boats, motorboats and yachts come and go, surfers do their laps – Lake Plau is a true swimming and water sports paradise. Water sports enthusiasts who want to explore the 38-square-kilometre lake and its surrounding waters at their leisure can paddle across the lake on several canoe tours.

Biking and hiking tours

The hilly landscape of Mecklenburg-Schwerin is ideal for extensive cycling and hiking tours. The 63-kilometre "Round Eight" cycle path around Lake Schwerin invites you to explore the area by bike. Those who want to plan more than one day will find a vast landscape of forests, lakes and fields, home to cranes and white-tailed eagles, on the five-day hiking tour Klosterdreieck between Schaalsee, Ratzeburg and Zarrentin.

Hiking

Horse lovers are in good hands on vacation in Mecklenburg-Schwerin: riding and carriage paths such as the 170-kilometre Gestütsweg lead from Redefin through idyllic villages and tranquil landscapes. The traditional state stud farm Redefin provides insights into its successful breeding history on tours of the facility and presents the most beautiful animals at the annual stallion parade in the fall.

163 Ergebnisse
  • Dobbertin Monastery with the monastery church, © TV Mecklenburg-Schwerin e.V.

    Dobbertin Abbey and church

    • Am Kloster, 19399 Dobbertin

    The abbey of Dobbertin, on the eastern shore of the lake of the same name, is one of the most beautiful surviving monasteries in northern Germany. It was founded by Benedictine monks in 1220. Today, the abbey is managed by the Diakoniewerk, which looks after and supports people with mental and emotional disabilities. The workshop sells, among other things, candles and wooden articles.

    Read more: "Dobbertin Abbey and church"
  • Tractor exhibition in the open air, © Frank Burger

    District Agricultural Museum Dorf Mecklenburg

    • Rambower Weg, 23972 Dorf Mecklenburg

    The County Agricultural Museum in Dorf Mecklenburg offers many opportunities to engage directly with the West Mecklenburg region. The permanent exhibition, which was completely redesigned in 2011, takes up the recent history of rural development.

    Read more: "District Agricultural Museum Dorf Mecklenburg"
  • © Tourismusverband Mecklenburg-Schwerin

    Schwerin Cathedral St. Marien and St. Johannis

    • Open today
    • Am Dom, 19055 Schwerin

    The proverbial highlight of the churches in Mecklenburg: Schwerin Cathedral. This imposing masterpiece of brick Gothic is the oldest building in the city of Schwerin, has the highest church tower in Mecklenburg at 117.5 meters and is the only true cathedral in the state. The cathedral is open daily. Those who climb the 220 steps of the tower are greeted by a breathtaking view over Schwerin's lake landscape.

    Read more: "Schwerin Cathedral St. Marien and St. Johannis"
  • © Hotel

    InterCity Hotel Schwerin

    • Grunthalplatz, 19053 Schwerin

    Schwerin is not only the State capital of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, but also the oldest city in the state and a pearl with its beautiful landmark, the Schwerin Castle. Explore Schwerin and the Mecklenburg Lake District from the hotel and enjoy your stay.

    Read more: "InterCity Hotel Schwerin"
  • Sternberg Local History Museum, © Stadt Sternberg

    Museum of local history Sternberg

    • Closed today
    • Mühlenstraße, 19406 Sternberg

    The museum of local history is located in the oldest house in the town of Sternberg. In a total of 14 exhibition rooms, the prehistory and early history of the town is presented here, among other things.

    Read more: "Museum of local history Sternberg"
  • © Welterbeverein Schwerin

    Old artillery barracks

    • Johannes Stelling Straße, 19053 Schwerin

    The artillery barracks in Schwerin, built between 1856 and 1861, represent the style of medieval fortress buildings and are a striking example of 19th century military architecture. Its exposed location on Ostorfer Berg and the architectural design underline the political stability of the monarchy at a time of social upheaval.

    Read more: "Old artillery barracks"
  • © Stadt Plau am See

    Ackerbürgerhaus Plau am See

    • Freely accessible at any time
    • Große Burgstraße, 19395 Plau am See

    Ackerbürgerhaus Plau am See

    Read more: "Ackerbürgerhaus Plau am See"
  • Passow Castle

    • Am Schloß, 19386 Passow

    A special castle in the lake district for culture and with free space. 13 guest rooms are available for groups or events.

    Read more: "Passow Castle"
  • The open-air museum Groß Raden, © Landesamt für Kultur und Denkmalpflege Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Landesarchäologie

    Open Air Archaeological Museum Groß Raden

    • Kastanienallee, 19406 Groß Raden

    Located on a peninsula in Lake Groß Raden, the open-air museum provides insights into the life of the Northwest Slavic tribes a thousand years ago with faithful replicas of dwellings and craft workshops as well as a temple.

    Read more: "Open Air Archaeological Museum Groß Raden"
  • © TMV/Gohlke

    Bekow Protected Landscape Area

    • 19230 Hagenow

    For over 100 years, the Hagenower Bekow with its bogs, ponds, forest and field has been a popular recreation area for the people of Hagenow. The protected landscape area with many special habitats can be explored on a circular trail during a walk. In summer, visitors can also refresh themselves in Hagenow's forest pool. For those who want to delve deeper into the flora and fauna, there is a free audio guide for their own smartphone.

    Read more: "Bekow Protected Landscape Area"
  • © Gutshaus Woserin / Sabine Puschmann

    Gutshaus Woserin - Art on the lake

    • Am See, 19406 Woserin

    Academy of Art Culture and Recreation - a creative magical place to work creatively. Workshops, courses and events in various fields are offered.

    Read more: "Gutshaus Woserin - Art on the lake"
  • © Stadt Parchim

    Parchim ramparts

    • Am Wallhotel, 19370 Parchim

    The park-like Parchim ramparts are a garden and archaeological monument worth seeing. Covering an area of 4.4 hectares, they enclose the northeastern side of Parchim's old town and run along the former medieval town fortifications. While walking through the gardens, visitors also learn about Parchim's eventful history.

    Read more: "Parchim ramparts"
  • © Sönke Gill

    Schönhof Manor House

    • Schloßstraße, 23936 Testorf-Steinfort OT Schönhof

    Experience history: Our old manor house and the idyllic park enchant from the very first moment. In summer, we host events with guided tours of the house, our courtyard café in the park and trade fairs. The house is currently being converted into a wedding venue, with vacation apartments to follow - a place for special experiences.

    Read more: "Schönhof Manor House"
  • © Stadtgeschichts- und Museumsverein Schwerin e.V.; Dr. Holger Martens

    Museum Grinding Mill Schwerin

    • Schleifmühlenweg, 19061 Schwerin

    From magnificent floors to fine walking stick knobs, works of art made of stone and precious stones were produced for the ducal court in the Schwerin Grinding Mill. The mill is located on the edge of the stately palace grounds and is in working order and used as a museum. Visitors can learn about stone cutting and stone grinding and get to the bottom of the living conditions of the day laborers and grinding millers. The museum is open all year round.

    Read more: "Museum Grinding Mill Schwerin"
  • © Gut Settin am See

    Country and vacation homes at the Settin estate on the lake

    • Crivitzer Straße, 19089 Settin

    Gut Settin by the lake - simply different. Out of the city? Enjoy peace and nature? Then you are exactly right here. The country houses and log cabins are top equipped and have an exclusive exclusive location on the estate Settin am See.

    Read more: "Country and vacation homes at the Settin estate on the lake"
  • © Resort Gut Settin

    Manor house Settin am See

    • Crivitzer Strasse, 19089 Tramm OT Settin

    The Gut Settin resort is situated in a secluded location by the lake. The manor house with its stylish ambience, including the 10 double rooms, is exclusively available to guests. Under the motto "There is strength in tranquillity", it allows you to relax and concentrate on efficient work (workation, offsites...).

    Read more: "Manor house Settin am See"
  • © Tourismusverband Mecklenburg-Schwerin

    Pfaffenteich

    • Freely accessible at any time
    • 19055 Schwerin

    In the 19th century, the people of Schwerin turned a former mill pond into a gem with a promenade surrounded by linden trees and a sun terrace in the middle of the city. On the Pfaffenteich the passenger ferry Petermännchen shuttles during the season.

    Read more: "Pfaffenteich"
  • © TMV/Tiemann

    Wangelin garden

    • Closed today
    • Nachtkoppelweg, 19395 Wangelin

    Observe - grasp - marvel - enjoy in the largest medicinal herb garden in Mecklenburg. In addition to medicinal herbs, you will also find aromatic, magical and dyeing plants, as well as a butterfly garden and a typical North German farm garden. The garden's harvest can be tasted in the garden café and children can let off steam in the playscape.

    Read more: "Wangelin garden"
  • Schwechower Obstbrennerei (fruit distillery)

    • Open today
    • Am Park, 19230 Schwechow

    Gut Schwechow is about 40 km southwest of Schwerin, in the scenic Biosphere Reserve Flusslandschaft Elbe, surrounded by large apple orchards. Schwechow fruit brandy is distilled only from the finest, most aromatic fruits.

    Read more: "Schwechower Obstbrennerei (fruit distillery)"
  • © Welterbeverein Schwerin

    New Town Palace

    • Puschkin Str., 19055 Schwerin

    The Neustädtische Palais served as the Grand Duke's temporary residence during the palace renovations and is located in the historic Puschkinstraße. With its style, characterized by French Renaissance and Baroque elements, it reflects the signature of the master builders Johann Joachim Busch and Hermann Willebrand. From a widow's residence to a grand ducal residence, it changed over the centuries and became state property in 1920.

    Read more: "New Town Palace"
  • © Tourismusverband Mecklenburg-Schwerin

    Schweizerhaus in Ludwigslust Castle Park

    • Schlossgarten, 19288 Ludwigslust

    The bright, thatched half-timbered house in the palace park was built as the summer residence of Duchess Luise at the end of the 18th century in Ludwigslust Palace Park.

    Read more: "Schweizerhaus in Ludwigslust Castle Park"
  • Kaeselow Castle

    • Temporarily closed
    • Kaeselow, 19209 Lützow

    The historic manor house "Schloss Kaeselow" is located 20 km west of Schwerin, nestled in a large property with park and garden.

    Read more: "Kaeselow Castle"
  • © Elefantenhof Platschow

    Elephant farm Platschow

    • Am Dorfplatz, 19372 Platschow

    Touching elephants, feeding them or even riding them - this is what the Elefantenhof Platschow in the Mecklenburg-Schwerin region offers its guests.

    Read more: "Elephant farm Platschow"
  • © Tourismusverband Mecklenburg-Schwerin

    Landscape Park and Castle Raben Steinfeld

    • Temporarily closed
    • Forststraße, 19065 Raben Steinfeld

    The landscape park was originally designed by court gardener Theodor Klett and belonged to a grand ducal estate. The English-style park on a steep bank above Lake Schwerin incorporates existing trees and opened up to the landscape and the village of Raben Steinfeld with picturesque view axes.

    Read more: "Landscape Park and Castle Raben Steinfeld"
  • The State Museum Schwerin is also an experience for blind and visually impaired people, © Foto: G. Bröcker, Staatliches Museum Schwerin

    State Museum Schwerin

    • Temporarily closed
    • Alter Garten, 19055 Schwerin

    In a prominent location on Schwerin Lake, visitors will find a top collection of Dutch paintings, as well as paintings from the 16th to the 21st century and works of handicrafts and graphic art.

    Read more: "State Museum Schwerin"
  • © Welterbeverein Schwerin

    Grand ducal linen and bed chamber

    • Großer Moor, 19055 Schwerin

    On behalf of the Grand Duke, architect Hermann Willebrand created the designs for a linen room. In 1878, after the demolition of the previous building, this was supplemented by the construction of a "bed chamber". Willebrand unified both components with a uniform design and a simple classical plaster façade.

    Read more: "Grand ducal linen and bed chamber"
  • © Jonas Kurverwaltung

    Castle tower Plau am See

    • Open today
    • Burgplatz, 19395 Plau am See

    The castle tower in Plau was built in 1448/49 and is still completely preserved. The 3 m thick walls and the 11 m deep dungeon, as well as the tower ascent, amaze locals and guests alike when they visit.

    Read more: "Castle tower Plau am See"
  • Restaurant and boarding house "Zum Eichenkrug

    • Hauptstraße, 19374 Domsühl

    Our restaurant captivates with its rural ambience and its "good home cooking". In the pension with its cozy interior, the guest can relax and feel comfortable.

    Read more: "Restaurant and boarding house "Zum Eichenkrug"
  • © Tourismusverband Mecklenburg-Schwerin

    Schwerin Castle - Gardens

    • 19053 Schwerin

    Though the Palace outshines almost everything around it, there is one more attraction on that island which you shouldn’t miss. To the left of the main entrance, walking through the castle garden, you will find the charming orangery. It is a delicate construction made of cast iron and glass, a unique example of 19th century architecture and one of a kind in Germany. With its parkways, arcades, flower beds, sculptures, and the cross channel the baroque-style castle garden knows how to impress. The garden is public and open to visitors.

    Read more: "Schwerin Castle - Gardens"
  • Marina North / Aparthotel at Lake Heidensee

    • Buchenweg, 19055 Schwerin

    Idyllically located on Lake Heidensee is the Aparthotel and Marina Nord with marina and sailing school.

    Read more: "Marina North / Aparthotel at Lake Heidensee"

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Perfectly prepared for your vacation in Mecklenburg-Schwerin

What makes the Mecklenburg-Schwerin region particularly worth a visit?

The region impresses with its unique blend of gentle nature, tranquil lakes and rich culture - from historic half-timbered towns and baroque castles to picturesque castles. Perfect for a relaxing break away from the main tourist routes.

Is the Residence Ensemble in Schwerin a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

Yes! In July 2024, the entire ensemble of residences, including the palace, cathedral, gardens and historic villas, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A milestone for the cultural heritage of the region.

Which other historical buildings are worth a visit?

In addition to the castle, you should visit Schwerin Cathedral with its 117.5 m high tower - the most beautiful brick Gothic in Mecklenburg. It is also worth taking a stroll through the railway station and the Fürstenzimmer in the historic station.

How big is the lake district in and around Schwerin?

In Schwerin itself, you'll find twelve large lakes. At around 62 km, Lake Schwerin is the third largest inland lake in Germany - ideal for boat trips, swimming and romantic moments on the shore.

Is it easy to explore the region by bike?

Absolutely! For example, the Elbe & ndash; Baltic Sea cycle path leads to Schwerin. You can cycle 135 km from Dömitz along picturesque landscapes and lakes - pure nature!

Which highlight in Schwerin should not be missed during the trip?

S Schwerin Castle on the castle island is the heart of the region. With its towers, neo-Renaissance style and golden dome, it is a true fairytale castle - often referred to as the "Neuschwanstein of the North".

Which gardens in Schwerin are worth a visit?

The baroque Schwerin Palace Gardens (33 ha) with cross canal, sculptures, grotto and cascades is a living work of art – restored since the Buga 2009 and very popular with walkers.

How do you get to Mecklenburg-Schwerin?

Schwerin is well connected: With the ICE and regional trains, buses and long-distance cycle paths. Sustainable travel is easy! Travel + long-distance cycle paths characterize the region.

What can you experience in Schwerin apart from the castles?

Discover the charming old town with its historic half-timbered houses, the diverse cultural offerings, listen to the bells in the cathedral or relax on Zippendorf beach – city & nature hand in hand.

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