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. © Archiv, Biosphärenreservatsamt Schaalsee-Elbe

    Gutshaus Volzrade - vacation in a historical ambience

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  2. Gänse im Park von Schloss Kaeselow // © vollvincent

    Kaeselow Castle

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  3. Gutshaus Woserin - Art on the lake

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  4. Parkansicht Herrenhaus Goldenbow // © Herrenhaus Goldenbow

    Goldenbow Manor

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  5. © Tourismusverband Mecklenburg-Schwerin

    Landscape Park and Castle Raben Steinfeld

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  6. © Fotostudio Kruse Neustadt-Glewe

    Neustadt-Glewe Castle

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  7. Hotel Schloss Basthorst

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  8. Amber Castle & Amber Land Wendorf

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  9. Der Innenhof des Schlosses Gadebusch bei einer Veranstaltung. // © Tourismusverband Mecklenburg-Schwerin e.V.

    Renaissance castle Gadebusch

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  10. Vorbeck Manor

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  11. Exterior view of Settin manor house // © Resort Gut Settin

    Manor house Settin am See

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  12. Schlicht und schön: Gutshaus Zarchlin // © Krüger

    Manor house Zarchlin

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  13. Im Schloss Dreilützow treibt Schlossgeist Dieter sein Unwesen // © Schloss Dreilützow/Baerens

    Dreilützow Castle

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  14. © MV-T/Gohlke

    Hotel Neustadt-Glewe Castle

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  15. Schloss Ludwigslust mit Spiegelung im Karauschenteich // © SSGK MV / Jörn Lehmann

    Ludwigslust Castle

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  16. Traumhafte Lage: Schloss Scherin auf einer kleinen Insel im Schweriner See // © SSGK MV / Timm Allrich

    Schwerin Palace

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  17. © TV MS / A. Vones

    Schwechower Obstbrennerei (fruit distillery)

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  18. Schönhof Manor House

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  19. Schwartow hunting lodge

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  20. Arrival at our estate // © Gut Settin am See

    Country and vacation homes at the Settin estate on the lake

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  21. Außenansicht Gut Zahren // © DOMUSImages

    Good Zahren

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  22. Dobbertin Monastery with the monastery church // © TV Mecklenburg-Schwerin e.V.

    Dobbertin Abbey and church

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  23. © Jagdschloss friedrichsmoor / @sebfoto.de

    Hunting Lodge Friedrichsmoor

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  24. Kaarz castle with park

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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.

173 results

  • Alte Synagoge // © Jörn Lehmann

    Old Synagogue Hagenow

    • Closed today
    • Hagenstraße, 19230 Hagenow

    The Old Synagogue was built in 1828. Today the restored buildings belong to Hagenow museum now. There are exhibitions taking place in the buildings as well as concerts or lectures.

    Read more: "Old Synagogue Hagenow"
  • © Tourismusverband Mecklenburg-Schwerin e. V. / Uwe Nölke

    VIELANKER Brewery

    • Lindenplatz, 19303 Vielank

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

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  • Open-air museum Schwerin-Mueß

    • Open today
    • Alte Crivitzer Landstraße, 19063 Schwerin

    Immerse yourself in a bygone world - the world of the Mueß villagers. Here - in this place - farmers, shepherds, cottagers and craftsmen once lived with their families. Several generations under one roof together with the animals.

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  • © 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.

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  • © Landhotel Lewitz-Mühle

    Vacation Hotel Lewitz Mühle

    • An der Lewitz Mühle, 19079 Banzkow

    Quiet 3-star superior hotel at the gates of Schwerin, restaurant in historic windmill from 1874, large park with playground, beer garden and 2 log cabin saunas to relax, function rooms for up to 200 people.

    Read more: "Vacation Hotel Lewitz Mühle"
  • City wall with mill gate Sternberg

    • Freely accessible at any time
    • Mühlenstraße, 19406 Sternberg

    The city wall with the mill gate in Sternberg enclosed the old town of Sternberg in the Middle Ages.

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  • Das Wolfsrudel streift durch das Unterholz und stimmt zum großen Heulkonzert an // © Wildpark-MV

    MV Wildlife Park

    • Primerburg, 18273 Güstrow

    Welcome to the wild animal adventure in Güstrow: Experience wolf, bear & Co. wilder than in the zoo! The 200 hectare wildlife and landscape park invites the whole family to an unforgettable experience. The local flora and fauna can be discovered in spacious enclosures, some of which can be walked on.

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  • Plau am See post office

    • Freely accessible at any time
    • 19395 Plau

    Old post office

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  • © M.Höppner

    Gretchenheim Plau am See

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

    Monument

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  • © Kurverwaltung Plau am See

    Fackelgarten Hotel & Restaurant

    • Dammstraße, 19395 Plau am See

    The Fackelgarten with its excellent location, on the one hand in the heart of Plau am See and on the other hand in the middle of nature - romantically by the river. From here you can reach all the important sights of Plau am See on foot or watch the boat traffic on our sunny terrace.

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  • © MV-T/Gohlke

    Old town hall in Parchim

    • Schuhmarkt, 19370 Parchim

    The impressive Parchim town hall with a unique town hall cellar dates back to the 14th century with its core substance.

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  • Hotel Schloss Basthorst

    • Schlossstraße, 19089 Basthorst

    We welcome you warmly in our unique 4-star hotel in Basthorst, situated in the stunningly beautiful Mecklenburg landscape, far from the hustle and bustle of urban life. We believe in creating a special ambience. Whether it's in the room furnishings, the culinary range or our service – you will notice the special character of our hotel estate.

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  • © TV Mecklenburg-Schwerin

    Zarrentin Monastery

    • Kirchplatz, 19246 Zarrentin

    The former Cistercian nunnery "Himmelspforte" is located on the southern shore of the Schaalsee. The monastery complex, which is well worth seeing, can be visited. There is an exhibition on the history, as well as guided tours and audio guides.

    Read more: "Zarrentin Monastery"
  • Ansicht des Thomas Hof in Wendisch Waren // © Thomas Hof und Pferdehof Kusch/ Schmidt

    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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  • Blick auf das Inselhotel direkt am Dobbertiner See // © Inselhotel Dobbertin/Kapitän Müller

    Island Hotel & Holiday Homes Dobbertin

    • An der Mühle, 19399 Dobbertin

    New vacation island with hotel & restaurant and cottages

    Read more: "Island Hotel & Holiday Homes Dobbertin"
  • Das Fischhaus am Schaalsee liegt in einer ruhigen, ländlichen Atmosphäre // © Fischhaus am Schaalsee

    Fish house at the Schaalsee

    • Amtsstraße, 19246 Zarrentin am Schaalsee

    Welcome to our idyllically situated Fischhaus Hotel at the Schaalsee! The Fischhaus is located directly on the south shore of the Schaalsee. Let us spoil you in our restaurant and enjoy the view of the water. In summer the lake terrace invites you to relax and enjoy. A hall for 100 guests offers space for your celebration!

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  • Mit viel Gastfreundschaft wartet in Domsühl die Gaststätte und Pension "Zum Eichenkrug" auf Ihren Besuch // © Gaststätte und Pension "Zum Eichenkrug" / Schulz

    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.

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  • Planetarium and Observatory Schwerin

    • Closed today
    • Weinbergstraße, 19061 Schwerin

    Every Wednesday and Sunday afternoon, the public presentations explain the planetary motions, the most beautiful constellations and the starry sky in general. This is done with the help of a projection on the seven-meter-high dome ceiling. Or on Fridays, in good weather, live with the telescope. Demonstrations Summer season Wed + Sun 2.30 p.m., Fri 8 p.m. Winter season Wed + Sun 2.30 p.m., Fri 7 p.m.

    Read more: "Planetarium and Observatory Schwerin"
  • Commandant's house

    • Arsenalstraße, 19053 Schwerin

    The Commander's House on the south bank of the Pfaffenteich in Schwerin is an elegant example of neoclassical architecture and served as the official residence of the commander of the Grenadier Guards Battalion. Built between 1836 and 1837, it is a symbol of the reform and modernization of the Mecklenburg military under Grand Duke Paul Friedrich.

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  • The Van der Valk Landhotel Spornitz is located directly on the edge of the Lewitz, a natural scenery worth seeing // © Van der Valk Landhotel Spornitz

    Van der Valk Landhotel Spornitz

    • Am Alten Dütschower Weg, 19372 Spornitz

    Against the backdrop of a beautiful natural setting and with many sports and leisure opportunities, the Landhotel Spornitz is located in MV, directly on the edge of the nature reserve "Lewitz".

    Read more: "Van der Valk Landhotel Spornitz"
  • Amber Castle & Amber Land Wendorf

    • Schlossallee, 19412 Wendorf

    Unique castle suites, double rooms in the residence as well as modern holiday homes, flats & chalets nestled in the beautiful nature of the Schwerin Lakeland - maximum comfort for an unforgettable holiday. Experiences on site: sauna, wellness, swimming lake, horse riding, cycling, SUP and canoeing.

    Read more: "Amber Castle & Amber Land Wendorf"
  • © Zoo Schwerin

    Schwerin Zoological Garden

    • Open today
    • Waldschulweg, 19061 Schwerin

    A green oasis lies in the centre of Schwerin, which is characterised by a 3 ha large bird meadow as well as semi-natural animal enclosures, which are a second home to the 650 animals from 120 species. Schwerin zoo is one of the most beautiful in Germany.

    Read more: "Schwerin Zoological Garden"
  • Der Innenhof des Schlosses Gadebusch bei einer Veranstaltung. // © Tourismusverband Mecklenburg-Schwerin e.V.

    Renaissance castle Gadebusch

    • Johann-Stelling-Straße, 19205 Gadebusch

    The Renaissance castle from 1573 is especially known for the detailed terracotta decorations on the facade. Currently, the 16th century building is undergoing extensive renovation. The castle can be visited on guided tours during events such as the Open Monument Day.

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  • Hausansicht: Westgiebel // © Landhaus Osten/Von Osten

    Country house east

    • Hakendorfer Weg, 19246 Lassahn

    Our country house (built in 2000) with old orchard is located close to nature in the Schaalsee village Lassahn in the middle of the UNESCO biosphere reserve. Two bright two-room apartments with small south-facing balconies (46sqm) are nicely furnished for one to three people each. The region is ideal for enjoying nature, (bike) hiking in picturesque scenery, swimming in idyllic bays, regional cuisine and culture.

    Read more: "Country house east"
  • Vorbeck Manor

    • An der Warnow, 19065 Vorbeck

    At the gates of the State capital Schwerin, surrounded by a natural landscape, lies GUT VORBECK with its golf hotel, café HerzensGUT and riding stable directly on the Warnow River. With its 20 rooms and suites located directly on course 13 of the WINSTONlink, the estate's golf hotel offers everything for a perfect vacation in the middle of Mecklenburg's unspoiled nature.

    Read more: "Vorbeck Manor"
  • 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"
  • © Thorsten Falk, Seehotel Plau am See

    Seehotel Plau am See

    • Hermann-Niemann-Str., 19395 Plau am See

    Make friends out of guests - Leave everyday life behind and immerse yourself in the hospitable atmosphere of our beautifully situated lakeside hotel. The idyllic 4-star hotel, located directly on Lake Plauer See, awaits you in its family atmosphere. Discover the wonderful area around Lake Plauer See.

    Read more: "Seehotel Plau am See"
  • © Cenci Goepel and Jens Warnecke

    Beaver "Jesse" Tours - Youth Hotel

    • Schlossstraße, 19249 Lübtheen OT Jessenitz

    Located in the middle of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve River Landscape Elbe, you can experience this unique nature combined with great adventures with Beaver "Jesse" Tours.

    Read more: "Beaver "Jesse" Tours - Youth Hotel"
  • © MV-T/Foto@Andreas-Duerst.de

    Viewpoint Dütschower Bridge

    • Freely accessible at any time
    • Aussichtspunkt Dütschower Brücke, Am Eldekanal, 19372 Dütschow

    The lookout tower at the Dütschower bridge offers a unique view over the fish ponds and the Müritz-Elde waterway.

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  • Grand ducal office building

    • Alexandrinensraße, 19055 Schwerin

    The monumental administration building is located to the northwest of the old town, directly on the Pfaffenteich lake. The building was erected when the Grand Ducal administration moved from Ludwigslust to Schwerin between 1842 and 1845.

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Discover Mecklenburg-Schwerin

Inspiration to read more in the vacation magazine

  1. River of fun

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  2. Culture in Schwerin: Mecklenburg State Theater

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  3. Schwerin: UNESCO World Heritage Site

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  4. The Nature Park Trail

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  5. Outdoor adventures in spring

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    5

    Special animal tours in the nature experience centers

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  7. The adventure gardens in Mecklenburg-Schwerin

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    7

    Tiny Houses in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern

    Read more: "Tiny Houses in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern"
  9. Wiligrad Castle: A park awakens from its slumber

    Read more: "Wiligrad Castle: A park awakens from its slumber"
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    5

    Excursion destinations in fall with children

    Read more: "Excursion destinations in fall with children"
  11. Picnic in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern

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    7

    Seven unique filming locations in MV

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  13. Top

    5

    Country holiday tips for the fall

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  14. Guided tour of Schwerin Castle

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  15. A Special Bicycle Tour

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  16. Organized cycle tours between the Baltic Sea and lakes

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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.