Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania between the Hanseatic League, coast and nature
Accommodation in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania
Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania can be explored through a wide range of travel experiences: historic centers shaped by Hanseatic history, coastal landscapes, and long routes through the countryside. When planning, you can first consider whether urban history, nature, or outdoor activities should be the focus. The places and routes below show how these different interests find their place across the state.
Hanseatic history and Brick Gothic architecture
The historic centers of Stralsund and Wismar represent the Hanseatic League’s trading history and the development of Brick Gothic architecture in the Baltic region. In Wismar, the medieval harbor basin has been preserved in the historic center. Stralsund’s Old Town has remained unchanged on an island since the 13th century; outstanding examples of Brick Gothic architecture continue to define its skyline. Visitors interested in historic cityscapes will find two different perspectives on the Hanseatic League and brick architecture here: Wismar’s preserved harbor basin and Stralsund’s island setting and Gothic skyline.
Schwerin and its residential ensemble
Since 2024, the Schwerin Residential Ensemble has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and stands as a testament to the history and culture of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. Schwerin Palace is located on an island in a picturesque landscape of lakes and parks. Its magnificent rooms include the Throne Room and the Ancestral Gallery. A visit focused on culture in Schwerin therefore centers both on the palace’s setting and its historic interiors.
Coastal landscapes along different circular routes
The Usedom Circular Route is 160 kilometers long and consists of three stages. Its landscapes include a 42-kilometer stretch of white sandy beach and a green hinterland with thatched-roof houses and unspoiled nature. The Fischland-DarĂź-Zingst Circular Route covers 201 kilometers and four stages. Beaches, steep banks, bays, spits, and the Western Pomerania Lagoon Area National Park shape this route. The Fischland-DarĂź-Zingst Circular Route is 41 kilometers longer and has one more stage than the Usedom Circular Route; the landscapes described for each route offer different highlights.
The Fischland-DarĂź-Zingst peninsula also offers a variety of coastal landscapes: low and steep shores, coastal lakes, bays, and dunes are all part of its scenery. It is strictly protected as part of the Western Pomerania Lagoon Area National Park. Another coastal route is the RĂĽgen Circular Route, which leads to Jasmund National Park. There, the chalk cliffs are nestled amid the lush green beech forests of the Stubbenkammer. Before setting off, check the conditions and access information for the route you plan to take.
Cycling and hiking routes through the countryside
The MĂĽritz Circular Route is 83 kilometers long and runs from Waren (MĂĽritz) via the town harbor directly into MĂĽritz National Park. Its shorter stated distance sets it apart from the long coastal circular routes. Cyclists can also explore the Western Brick Circular Route, which focuses on architecture: over 370 kilometers and seven stages, it highlights historic brick churches, town gates, farm cottages, and townhouses. The Eastern Brick Circular Route is 303 kilometers long and consists of five stages; its listed sights include medieval brick churches in Rostock, Stralsund, and Greifswald. The two routes therefore differ both in length and in the buildings they highlight.
The Nature Park Trail begins in the Schaalsee Biosphere Reserve. Its first section leads through glacial hills to the state capital, Schwerin, and its imposing palace. The southern route runs for almost 700 kilometers through the countryside, from the Schaalsee Biosphere Reserve to the island of Usedom, and is designated as European Long-Distance Hiking Trail E9a as far as Altwarp. The trail’s signage is being updated; check the current route before setting out.
Art, nature, and regional cuisine
In Ahrenshoop, Schwaan, and on the island of Hiddensee, artists’ colonies showcase works by influential regional artists alongside contemporary pieces. The OZEANEUM Stralsund combines exhibitions with the “Sea for Children” experience area and 50 aquariums offering an underwater journey through the northern seas. Those who prefer to experience nature from the water can go canoeing on the Peene and watch beavers building their lodges.
Small farm shops and farm cafés invite visitors to enjoy a regional culinary journey in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, with offerings that range from traditional to modern. Check individual businesses’ opening hours before visiting. The state also has a dense network of bicycle rental stations, offering touring bikes, children’s bikes, and e-bikes. As locations and availability may vary, it is worth checking in advance.
Getting here and planning your cycling trip
Many regions of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania can be reached by train. Bicycles can be taken on most regional trains, subject to capacity and possible reservation requirements. If you are planning a cycling trip, check these conditions before traveling, and consider train bike carriage separately from the availability of a rental bike. This helps you plan your journey and cycling arrangements based on your specific route and chosen mode of transport.
More destinations
Discover more destinations: Rostock, Nordvorpommern, Nordwestmecklenburg, MĂĽritz, Wismar, Schwerin, Mecklenburg Lake District, Ludwigslust-Parchim, Vorpommern-Greifswald, Vorpommern-RĂĽgen.
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