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.

A couple with bicycles stand on a jetty on Lake Schwerin and look at Schwerin Castle in the evening light.

A stretch of land between the Baltic Sea, Elbe and Lake Plau, surprisingly close to Hamburg and Berlin and yet so pleasantly far away from everyday life.Glide along quiet waterways Kanus there.Ospreys can be spotted on the lakes, and hikes lead through nature reserves. Between enchanted gardens and gnarled trees, there is space to breathe deeply, and castles, palaces and manor houses tell of the splendor of times gone by. From to Ludwigslust – their stories come to life and invite you to dream and linger. Charming small towns and villages are waiting to be discovered, as are regional markets, courtyards and studios. Between half-timbered houses and brickwork, there is an opportunity for a relaxed chat on every corner. Here you can find your very own personal taste of English.

The vacation experts for Mecklenburg Schwerin

Travel between castles and lakes

Schwerin

Schwerin Castle sits majestically on the lake, surrounded by idyllic gardens. The historic old town enchants visitors with its lovingly preserved half-timbered houses, museums and important cultural monuments. In summer, the castle festival transforms the town into a stage full of impressive open-air performances.

Ludwigslust

Ludwigslust, the „Versailles of the North“, impresses with its baroque splendor. The palace and park are perfect for a stroll. Cultural highlights include the small festival in the large park and the baroque Advent market.

Wittenburg

The medieval ramparts bear witness to Wittenburg's importance as a trading town. The MehlWelten Museum shows flour from a new perspective. The Alpincenter Hamburg-Wittenburg offers action-packed fun in the snow with a year-round snow slope at -1°C.

Plau am See

The climatic health resort combines a historic old town with a water experience. The listed Hubbrücke and the castle tower dominate the townscape. Cafés along the promenade invite you to linger, while Lake Plau, nature trails and forests promise active recreation.

The monastery town of Rehna

The monastery town is a place to take a deep breath. The monastery garden and the Mühlenteich pond offer quiet retreats. Art exhibitions and concerts provide cultural inspiration. Pilgrimage routes lead through unspoiled nature for extensive hiking tours.

Zarrentin am Schaalsee

Zarrentin lies on the deepest lake in northern Germany and is the gateway to the Schaalsee UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The monastery complex, half-timbered houses and natural shores characterize the townscape. The Schaalsee invites you to swim, paddle and observe nature. Hiking and cycling trails lead through unspoiled forests, moors and meadows.

Sternberg lake landscape

Numerous lakes, moors and woodlands characterize the natural paradise in the heart of Mecklenburg-Schwerin. Perfect for canoe tours, hikes and swimming days. The Groäological open-air museum in Raden offers exciting insights into the life of the Slavs.

 

Castles and manor houses

in Mecklenburg-Schwerin

  1. © Herrenhaus Goldenbow

    Goldenbow Manor

    Read more: "Goldenbow Manor"
  2. © Fotostudio Kruse Neustadt-Glewe

    Neustadt-Glewe Castle

    Read more: "Neustadt-Glewe Castle"
  3. Geese in the park of Kaeselow Castle, © vollvincent

    Kaeselow Castle

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  4. Welcome to Woserin Manor House, © Gutshaus Woserin / Sabine Puschmann

    Gutshaus Woserin - Art on the lake

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  5. © Schloss Kaarz / Stefan von Stengel

    Kaarz castle with park

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  6. © TV MS / A. Vones

    Schwechower Obstbrennerei (fruit distillery)

    Read more: "Schwechower Obstbrennerei (fruit distillery)"
  7. Exterior view of Wiligrad Castle from bird's eye view, © SSGK MV / Funkhaus Creative

    Wiligrad Castle

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  8. © Resort Gut Settin

    Manor house Settin am See

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  9. © Archiv, Biosphärenreservatsamt Schaalsee-Elbe

    Gutshaus Volzrade - vacation in a historical ambience

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  10. © Gut Settin am See

    Country and vacation homes at the Settin estate on the lake

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  11. © Schlosshotel Wendorf

    Amber Castle & Amber Land Wendorf

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  12. Passow Castle

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  13. © Tourismusverband Mecklenburg-Schwerin

    Landscape Park and Castle Raben Steinfeld

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  14. Schönhof Manor House

    Read more: "Schönhof Manor House"
  15. © Schloss Dreilützow/Baerens

    Dreilützow Castle

    Read more: "Dreilützow Castle"
  16. © Jagdschlösschen Schwartow / Jan Haeselich

    Schwartow hunting lodge

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  17. Schwerin Palace

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  18. © TMV/Gohlke

    Hotel Neustadt-Glewe Castle

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  19. Vorbeck Manor

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  20. Manor house Zarchlin

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  21. Ludwigslust Castle with reflection in the pond "Karauschen", © SSGK MV / Jörn Lehmann

    Ludwigslust Castle

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  22. © TV Mecklenburg-Schwerin e.V.

    Dobbertin Abbey and church

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  23. Hotel Schloss Basthorst

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  24. Renaissance castle Gadebusch

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  25. © DOMUSImages

    Good Zahren

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Activities

Out and about by bike, on foot or on the water

Bike tours

&p>The diverse network of cycle paths is a relaxed way to explore Mecklenburg-Schwerin. The  combines magnificent castles with culinary stops in Schwerin and the Sternberg Lake District. In addition, the Blue Eight around Lake Schwerin, the VeloLust in Ludwigslust, the DiscoveryRoutes and the Elbe Cycle Path with tales of Enni, the water droplet,

.

Hiking trails 

Mecklenburg-Schwerin offers a variety of hiking trails through forests, lake landscapes and protected natural areas. A highlight for families are the Pilzy‘s nature experience trails in Hagenow, Brüel and Goldberg, which make it possible to experience nature in a playful way. In addition, guided tours through the Schaalsee Biosphere Reserve and the Star Park  to special nature experiences.

Lakes & rivers

The extensive water network with its countless lakes makes Mecklenburg-Schwerin a paradise for activities on and around the water. A Houseboat vacation on the Müritz-Elde-Wasserstraße is the most relaxed way to experience the region from the water. Those who like it more active will find happiness sailing, surfing and diving on Lake Plau, SUP on Lake Schwerin or on a canoe tour on the Warnow.

Culinary & Art

Mecklenburg-Schwerin is a place for connoisseurs and creatives. Lovely finds are created in manufactories and studios, while courtyards and regional markets offer culinary delights. A mixture of enjoyment and inspiration unfolds between rivers and lakes. Our tip: Für  at Pentecost ömany artists open their doors and allow guests to immerse themselves in their creative world.

169 results

  • Hotel exterior view, © Martina Lux-Grella

    Hotel & Restaurant Niederländischer Hof

    • Alexandrinenstraße, 19055 Schwerin

    Schwerin traditional hotel in the heart of the city of Schwerin directly on the Pfaffenteich. Experience art, culture and nature.

    Read more: "Hotel & Restaurant Niederländischer Hof"
  • © Waldhotel Boizenburg

    Waldhotel Boizenburg

    • Waldweg, 19258 Boizenburg/Elbe Ot Schwartow

    The Waldhotel Boizenburg is idyllically situated in Schwartow, directly on the Elbe cycle path, and combines relaxation close to nature with good service. It is aimed at vacation guests, business travelers and groups looking for a suitable setting for events.

    Read more: "Waldhotel Boizenburg"
  • © Welterbeverein Schwerin

    Arsenal

    • Alexandrinenstraße, 19055 Schwerin

    The Grand Ducal Arsenal on the south-western bank of the Pfaffenteich in Schwerin, built between 1840 and 1844, is an impressive example of Tudor Gothic architecture. Today it serves as the seat of the state's Ministry of the Interior and combines historical architecture with a central location on the waterfront.

    Read more: "Arsenal"
  • © Club Zenit

    Club Zenit Schwerin

    • Pappelgrund, 19055 Schwerin

    The Zenit Schwerin, a former heating plant, has been converted into a cultural stage in the heart of the State capital Schwerin.

    Read more: "Club Zenit Schwerin"
  • © TMV/Tiemann

    Open-air museum for folklore Schwerin-Mueß

    • Alte Crivitzer Landstraße, 19063 Schwerin

    In the historic village ensemble directly on Schwerin Lake, visitors stroll between old farmhouses, fruit trees, herb beds and through the restored garden of a village teacher. The museum-like buildings show village life in the 19th century. Markets, events with traditional music, Low German theater performances, seminars and children's holiday programs take place during the season.

    Read more: "Open-air museum for folklore Schwerin-Mueß"
  • © Steffen Tepasse

    Dat Waldhus - Holiday with dogs

    • Philosophenweg, 19395 Plau am See

    When they spend their vacation at Waldhus, they are among like-minded people. Here they will probably always meet more paws than feet.

    Read more: "Dat Waldhus - Holiday with dogs"
  • Parish Church of St. Mary Plau am See

    • Kirchplatz, 19395 Plau am See

    The parish church St. Marien Plau am See was built in the 12th century as a three-nave and three-bay hall church.

    Read more: "Parish Church of St. Mary Plau am See"
  • © Herrenhaus Goldenbow

    Goldenbow Manor

    • Zum Wasserturm, 19260 Goldenbow

    The Goldenbow manor house is one of the oldest manor houses in Mecklenburg. However, the building, which has been in ruins since 1984, was saved and has been under reconstruction since 2009. Today, the manor house can be experienced at various events. Those who would like to stay longer can get to know the house and its dedicated owners through the "Landvergnügen" campaign with their own caravan.

    Read more: "Goldenbow Manor"
  • Wooden bridge over the Warnow, © TMV/outdoor-visions.com

    Warnow wooden bridge near Groß Görnow

    • Freely accessible at any time
    • 19406 Groß Görnow

    On the wooden bridge you cross the Warnow on this round trip through the Warnow breakthrough valley.

    Read more: "Warnow wooden bridge near Groß Görnow"
  • © Tourismusverband Mecklenburg-Schwerin

    Crivitz town church

    • Kirchenstraße, 19089 Crivitz

    Protestant town church Crivitz

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  • © Bauspielplatz Schwerin e.V.

    School hostel Raben Steinfeld

    • Am See, 19065 Raben Steinfeld

    Our two guest houses are located on a beautiful 15,000m² natural area in the immediate vicinity of Lake Schwerin. We are easy to reach by car as well as by the Schwerin public transport. For groups up to 40 people we offer accommodation, full board and varied programs.

    Read more: "School hostel Raben Steinfeld"
  • © Fotostudio Kruse Neustadt-Glewe

    Neustadt-Glewe Castle

    • Alte Burg, 19306 Neustadt-Glewe

    The oldest preserved fortress in Mecklenburg stands in Neustadt-Glewe. It is one of the best preserved castles in Mecklenburg and can be visited. At the castle, there is a museum that is well worth seeing, as well as a restaurant and a tourist information office.

    Read more: "Neustadt-Glewe Castle"
  • © Tourismusverband Mecklenburg-Schwerin

    Birkenkamp farm

    • Plüter, 19230 Bresegard bei Picher

    Guided hikes with alpacas, workshops and seminars, a mini farm store and overnight stays in a teepee - the Birkenkamp farm has so much to offer!

    Read more: "Birkenkamp farm"
  • Schwerin Cathedral St. Marien and St. Johannis

    • 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"
  • © Welterbeverein Schwerin

    Old court gardener's house

    • Schlossgartenallee, 19061 Schwerin

    The Old Court Gardener's House was built for court gardener Christian Daniel Friedrich Klett. He received the property as a gift from the Grand Duke. It is an essential part of the former palace nursery with its preserved buildings.

    Read more: "Old court gardener's house"
  • © Welterbeverein Schwerin

    Grand Ducal property management

    • Schloßstraße, 19053 Schwerin

    The Grand Ducal House Administration in Schwerin, built between 1883 and 1884 under architect Rudolf Zöllner, is located on the corner of Schloßstraße and Ritterstraße. Originally used as the court marshal's office, the building also served as a savings institution for a time and was connected to the Hotel du Nord in 1920. The architectural highlight features a rusticated base, an ornate central risalit and a slate-covered plateau roof in the Baroque style. Inside, a magnificent hall with a flat vault and filigree tracery is impressive.

    Read more: "Grand Ducal property management"
  • Greenhouse with cavalier house

    • Lennéstraße, 19061 Schwerin

    The Greenhouse and the Kavaliershaus opposite it in Schwerin Palace Gardens form an impressive architectural ensemble designed by Peter Joseph Lenné and Georg Adolph Demmler. Embedded in an extensive landscaped park, they served as a summer residence and symbolize the hospitality of the grand ducal family.

    Read more: "Greenhouse with cavalier house"
  • Thomas - yard

    • Ziegeleiweg, 19399 Wendisch Waren

    The Thomas Hof - your vacation home.Welcome to the idyllic Wendisch Waren in the beautiful Mecklenburg-Vorpommern.

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  • © Stadtmarketing Gesellschaft Schwerin

    Chick Foundation

    • Friedrichsstraße, 19055 Schwerin

    The representative classicist building on the south bank of the Pfaffenteich was built at the end of the 1860s. Composer Friedrich-Wilhelm Kücken established the foundation that gave the building its name, which supported destitute musicians until 1939. Today, the building houses a restaurant, as well as the state studio of the ZDF.

    Read more: "Chick Foundation"
  • © M.Höppner

    Gretchenheim Plau am See

    • Freely accessible at any time
    • Rahmwallstraße, 19395 Plau am See

    Monument

    Read more: "Gretchenheim Plau am See"
  • © Silke Winkler

    Mecklenburg State Theater

    • Alter Garten, 19055 Schwerin

    The Mecklenburg State Theater in the beautiful state capital Schwerin has a lot to offer: a talented acting ensemble, a versatile musical theater, the third oldest orchestra in Germany, an international ballet ensemble, the Young State Theater Parchim and the traditional Fritz Reuter Stage - up Platt, as well as the highlight of the season every summer, the Schwerin Castle Festival with a diverse program.

    Read more: "Mecklenburg State Theater"
  • Geese in the park of Kaeselow Castle, © vollvincent

    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"
  • © VIELANKER Brauhaus GmbH & Co.KG, Vielank

    VIELANKER Brewery

    • Lindenplatz, 19303 Vielank

    brewery * hotel * restaurant * beer garden * vaulted cellar * distillery * banqueting hall * winter garden * brewery tours * aurochs safari

    Read more: "VIELANKER Brewery"
  • © Ferienanlage Zum See Plau am See

    Vacation resort Zum See

    • Quetziner Straße, 19395 Plau am See

    Our vacation resort "Zum See" is located directly on the northern shore of Lake Plau in the beautiful and quiet district of Heidenholz. Embedded in meadows, surrounded by almost untouched nature, you will find an idyllic place to relax and unwind.

    Read more: "Vacation resort Zum See"
  • © Kurverwaltung Plau am See

    Hotel Haus Sajons

    • Große Burgstraße, 19395 Plau am See

    Set in a listed building, this centrally located hotel offers bright rooms with a flat-screen TV. Lake Plau is just a 10-minute walk away.

    Read more: "Hotel Haus Sajons"
  • 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"
  • © Gut Bernstorff

    Vacation home Bernstorff

    • Dorfstr., 19246 Bernstorff

    Idyllically situated and quiet vacation home with personal charm in the middle of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Schaalsee.

    Read more: "Vacation home Bernstorff"
  • Welcome to Woserin Manor House, © 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"
  • © Stiftung Tiernothilfe

    Land of the animals

    • Am Lehmberg, 19260 Banzin

    Open sanctuary for former farm animals with educational facility. In the summer half-year there are guided tours of the animals every Sunday. Encounter days "animal and man" incl. introduction to vegan cuisine, as well as environmental, animal and conservation days for youth groups are offered.

    Read more: "Land of the animals"
  • LüttenHof Retreat

    • Leussower Straße, 19294 Grebs-Niendorf

    Withdrawing in order to move forward: Silence, nature, space and time just for yourself. Nobody disturbs you. Let go. Relax. Concentrate on the essentials - in a peaceful environment without frills.

    Read more: "LüttenHof Retreat"

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Discover Mecklenburg-Schwerin

Inspiration to read more in the vacation magazine

  1. From castle to castle with pleasure

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  2. The Nature Park Trail

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    Country holiday tips for the fall

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  4. River of fun

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  5. Switch off and recharge your batteries?

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  6. Puppet theater at Schwerin Castle: a family trip into the past

    Read more: "Puppet theater at Schwerin Castle: a family trip into the past"
  7. The adventure gardens in Mecklenburg-Schwerin

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  8. Schwerin: UNESCO World Heritage Site

    Read more: "Schwerin: UNESCO World Heritage Site"
  9. Organized cycle tours between the Baltic Sea and lakes

    Read more: "Organized cycle tours between the Baltic Sea and lakes"
  10. Culture in Schwerin: Mecklenburg State Theater

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  11. Top

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    Tiny Houses in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern

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  12. Picnic in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern

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    Seven unique filming locations in MV

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  14. Top

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    Excursion destinations in fall with children

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  15. Top

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    Special animal tours in the nature experience centers

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  16. Guided tour of Schwerin Castle

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  17. Outdoor adventures in spring

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  18. Wiligrad Castle: A park awakens from its slumber

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Perfectly prepared for your vacation in Mecklenburg-Schwerin

Where is Mecklenburg-Schwerin located?

In the west of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern – between the Elbe, Schaalsee, Plauer See and Schweriner See. The region includes the state capital Schwerin as well as the districts of Ludwigslust-Parchim and parts of Northwest Mecklenburg.

What makes Mecklenburg-Schwerin special as a travel destination?

The diversity: magnificent canyons, tranquil lakes, dense forests and quaint villages are all close together here. Ideal for anyone who enjoys culture and nature and is looking for peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle.

Is the Schwerin Residence Ensemble a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

Yes! Since July 2024, the residential ensemble with the palace, cathedral and neoclassical villas has officially been a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Which castles and historical sites are worth seeing?

In addition to Schwerin Palace, Ludwigslust Palace, the „Versailles of the North“, is well worth a visit. The monasteries in Rehna and Zarrentin, the medieval castle in Neustadt-Glewe and the Slavic village in Groß Raden near Sternberg are also worth a detour.

Which parks and gardens should you have seen?

The palace gardens in Schwerin, Ludwigslust, Wiligrad and Kaarz impress with their stately splendor. If you prefer something a little more rural, the monastery garden in Rehna, the Pingelhof Alt Damerow in the Lewitz region or the ecological Wangeliner Garten near Plau am See are perfect for you.

How many lakes are there in the region?

Many! From Lake Schaalsee to Lake Schwerin and Lake Plau, countless bathing spots, canoe routes and lakeside paths invite you to relax. Many places can also be discovered by boat via waterways such as the Müritz-Elde-Wasserstraße, the Störkanal or the Warnow - a paradise for nature lovers.

Is the region suitable for cycling?

In any case! Tours such as the Schloss & Genuss-Erlebnisradtour combine imposing castles and manor houses with courtyards, cafés and manufactories. Interactive augmented reality stations make the experiences along the way even more tangible – an exciting mix of culture, culinary delights and technology.

Which excursions are suitable for families with children?

Whether it's the Bärenwald forest, Alpine center, swimming lakes or museums, Mecklenburg-Schwerin offers many destinations for families. One highlight is the interactive nature trails in Hagenow, Brüel and Goldberg – where „Pilzy“, a talking mushroom, accompanies children and parents through nature in a playful way, with rock climbing, art and hands-on stations.

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.

How do you get to Mecklenburg-Schwerin?

Located between Hamburg and Berlin, Mecklenburg-Schwerin is easily accessible via the A24. There are ICE train stops in Schwerin and Ludwigslust, and other towns are well connected by regional train. Within the region, buses and the on-call bus service also connect smaller towns – ideal for anyone who wants to travel flexibly and sustainably.