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. Castle ghost Dieter is up to mischief in Dreilützow Castle // © Schloss Dreilützow/Baerens

    Dreilützow Castle

    Read more: "Dreilützow Castle"
  2. Gut Vorbeck // © Gut Vorbeck / Stefan von Stengel

    Vorbeck Manor

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

    Manor house Settin am See

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  4. Schwerin Palace

    Read more: "Schwerin Palace"
  5. Schloss und Park Kaarz mit viel Freiraum // © Schloss Kaarz / Stefan von Stengel

    Kaarz castle with park

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  6. © Archiv, Biosphärenreservatsamt Schaalsee-Elbe

    Gutshaus Volzrade - vacation in a historical ambience

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  7. © Tourismusverband Mecklenburg-Schwerin

    Landscape Park and Castle Raben Steinfeld

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  8. Schwartow hunting lodge

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  9. Schwechower Obstbrennerei (fruit distillery)

    Read more: "Schwechower Obstbrennerei (fruit distillery)"
  10. Gänse im Park von Schloss Kaeselow // © vollvincent

    Kaeselow Castle

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  11. Willkommen im Gutshaus Woserin // © Gutshaus Woserin / Sabine Puschmann

    Gutshaus Woserin - Art on the lake

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  12. Schönhof Manor House

    Read more: "Schönhof Manor House"
  13. Hunting Lodge Friedrichsmoor

    Read more: "Hunting Lodge Friedrichsmoor"
  14. Goldenbow Manor

    Read more: "Goldenbow Manor"
  15. Simple and beautiful: Zarchlin manor house // © Krüger

    Manor house Zarchlin

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  16. Renaissance castle Gadebusch

    Read more: "Renaissance castle Gadebusch"
  17. Das Hotel Schloss Basthorst Außenansicht // © Hotel Schloss Basthorst/Michael Frahm

    Hotel Schloss Basthorst

    Read more: "Hotel Schloss Basthorst"
  18. Schloss Ludwigslust mit Spiegelung im Karauschenteich // © SSGK MV / Jörn Lehmann

    Ludwigslust Castle

    Read more: "Ludwigslust Castle"
  19. Das Kloster Dobbertin mit der Klosterkirche // © TV Mecklenburg-Schwerin e.V.

    Dobbertin Abbey and church

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

    Country and vacation homes at the Settin estate on the lake

    Read more: "Country and vacation homes at the Settin estate on the lake"
  21. Amber Castle & Amber Land Wendorf

    Read more: "Amber Castle & Amber Land Wendorf"
  22. © MV-T/Gohlke

    Hotel Neustadt-Glewe Castle

    Read more: "Hotel Neustadt-Glewe Castle"
  23. Good Zahren

    Read more: "Good Zahren"
  24. © Fotostudio K3 Kruse GmbH Neustadt-Glewe

    Neustadt-Glewe Castle

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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.

167 results

  • Hotel & Restaurant "Zum Fährhaus

    • Fähre, 19370 Slate

    Our family-run hotel is located directly on the Müritz-Elde waterway.

    Read more: "Hotel & Restaurant "Zum Fährhaus"
  • Blick in den Thronsaal des Großherzogs in den Wohn- und Prunkappartements des Museum Schloss Schwerin // © Lothar Steiner © Staatliches Museum Schwerin

    Schwerin Castle Museum

    • Open today
    • Lennéstraße, 19053 Schwerin

    A variety of towers are reaching into the sky, on top of them golden domes and sparkling pinnacles. The museum shows the splendor of ducal times with beautiful rooms, weapons, fine china and silver. It is open to visitors.

    Read more: "Schwerin Castle Museum"
  • © Ferienwohnung Thien

    Vacation apartment Thien

    • Mestlinerstraße, 19374 Groß Niendorf

    In the 230-souls place Groß Niendorf is our comfortably furnished vacation apartment. The apartment is ideally located to reach the important points of the surroundings. At the same time you will find the necessary peace and quiet to recover from the experiences and stresses of the day.

    Read more: "Vacation apartment Thien"
  • © Jonas Kurverwaltung

    Playground Burghof Plau am See

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

    The Burghof Plau am See playground is located in the historic old town. The facility has swings, a climbing tower, slide, suspension bridge, swing and wine press scaffolding,

    Read more: "Playground Burghof Plau am See"
  • © Zoo Schwerin

    Schwerin Zoological Garden

    • Closed 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"
  • © Mecklenburgisches Kutschenmuseum

    Kobrow Carriage Museum

    • Am Dorfteich, 19406 Kobrow II

    With more than 200 coaches, wagons and sledges, the collection in Kobrow is one of the richest and most important in Germany. The elegant victorias, coupes, wagonettes, landaus, phaetons and hunting carriages show the great variety of designs. There is also a museum café.

    Read more: "Kobrow Carriage Museum"
  • 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)"
  • Das heutige Rathaus war ursprünglich eine Carton-Fabrique und das Gerichtshaus. // © Gabriele Skorupski

    City Hall Ludwigslust

    • Schloßstraße, 19288 Ludwigslust

    Ludwigsluster Schlossstraße is the site of today's town hall. However, the two-story brick building was not always the seat of the city administration. It was built in 1780 by Johann Joachim Busch and initially served as a court house, the upper floor of which housed the Carton-Fabrique.

    Read more: "City Hall Ludwigslust"
  • Bedroom vacation apartment Wiesentraum Gut Alt Necheln // © Stefan von Stengel

    Manor house Alt Necheln

    • An der Warnow, 19412 Alt Necheln

    Gut Alt Necheln is nestled in the wild and romantic landscape of Mecklenburg and offers three vacation apartments of different sizes for groups of 2 to 24 people.

    Read more: "Manor house Alt Necheln"
  • Gänse im Park von Schloss Kaeselow // © 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"
  • © Welterbeverein Schwerin

    Grand ducal stable for sick horses

    • Großer Moor, 19053 Schwerin

    The former Grand Ducal Stables were built around 1850 as a separate utility building from the Marstall opposite, which was completed in 1842. In addition to the care areas for the horses, the building also housed apartments for the vets and animal keepers. With its simple, late classicist façade, it adjoins the stable building.

    Read more: "Grand ducal stable for sick horses"
  • Relaxing hours in the guest room of the inn "Zum Fäßchen // © Gasthof & Pension "Zum Fäßchen" / Wilken

    Gasthof & Pension "Zum Fäßchen

    • Consrader Strasse, 19086 Plate Ortsteil Consrade

    Our guesthouse and pension is surrounded by lakes and forests in the middle of the beautiful Lewitz. Here you can enjoy the countryside and are still not far from the State capital Schwerin, where many excursion opportunities await you. Especially popular are our bicycle, hiking and boat tours.

    Read more: "Gasthof & Pension "Zum Fäßchen"
  • 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"
  • Elefanten anfassen und füttern. // © 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"
  • Old paper factory Neu Kaliß

    • Straße des Friedens, 19294 Neu Kaliß

    When the two entrepreneurs Felix Schöller and Theodor Bausch came to Neu Kaliß in 1871, they already had ambitious plans. They wanted to reform the paper mill, which was already producing high-quality writing paper at that time. A modern paper mill was to be built on the banks of the New Elde River.

    Read more: "Old paper factory Neu Kaliß"
  • Staatliches Museum Schwerin // © Ullrich Pfeuffer

    State Museum Schwerin

    • Open today
    • 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"
  • Willkommen im Gutshaus Woserin // © 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"
  • Mecklenburg Forest Glass Museum

    • Hauptstraße, 19067 Langen-Brütz

    Who knows that glass is made of sand? A small museum in Langen Brütz deals with the subject of glass and its production.

    Read more: "Mecklenburg Forest Glass Museum"
  • 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"
  • © Stadt Parchim / Steffen Struck

    CULTURE MILL PARCHIM

    • Fischerdamm, 19370 Parchim

    Theater-Museum - A place of diversity, culture and youth, all under one roof.

    Read more: "CULTURE MILL PARCHIM"
  • 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"
  • Studio "JuGeLy

    • Boraustraße, 19374 Domsühl

    In the studio "JuGeLy" a certified painting teacher for the Bob Ross® and Jenkins painting technique awaits you. You can paint landscapes, flowers and animals. Course participants will be shown step by step how to successfully paint an oil painting in one day. A vacation apartment is available for a painting weekend or week.

    Read more: "Studio "JuGeLy"
  • © Welterbeverein Schwerin

    Court gardener's establishment

    • Schlossgartenallee, 19061 Schwerin

    In connection with the expansion and redesign of the palace gardens in the 19th century, the new "Hofgaertner-Etablissement" was built in 1856/57 to a design by architect Hermann Willebrand. The building served as the court gardener's residence and service building and was therefore located in the immediate vicinity of this garden area.

    Read more: "Court gardener's establishment"
  • Ein Spaziergang im gemütlichen Esel- Tempo kann ein tolles Erlebnis für die ganze Familie sein. Esel sind besonnene und feinfühlige Tiere, die gerne mit menschlicher Begleitung auf Wanderschaft gehen. // © Andrea Hauser

    Our little Burderei

    • Gartenstraße, 19075 Mühlenbeck

    "Unsere kleine Burderei" is a privately run farm that is home to numerous animals (donkeys, goats, dogs and chickens, many of them from animal welfare organisations). The offer includes various projects as well as donkey and goat walks for individuals, small groups and families.

    Read more: "Our little Burderei"
  • © Mercure Hotel Schwerin Altstadt

    BOULEVARD Hotel Old Town Schwerin

    • Klosterstraße, 19053 Schwerin

    The BOULEVARD Hotel Schwerin Altstadt is located in a central yet quiet city center location. In just a few minutes walk you can reach the Schwerin Castle, theaters and museums, state parliament, cathedral, as well as the business and shopping centers.

    Read more: "BOULEVARD Hotel Old Town Schwerin"
  • 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"
  • Rocks of various sizes are found in the Warnow breakthrough valley // © MV-T

    Erratic blocks in the Warnow breakthrough valley near Groß Görnow

    • Freely accessible at any time
    • 19406 Groß Görnow

    The glacial nature reserve Durchbruchstal der Warnow und Mildenitz impresses with its varied and unspoiled beauty. This also includes erratic blocks and smaller bedloads.

    Read more: "Erratic blocks in the Warnow breakthrough valley near Groß Görnow"
  • Robber Vieting Cave

    • 19370 Parchim

    In today's Sonnenberg nature reserve, robber Vieting once caused fear and terror. His cave and other traces from that time can still be visited today.

    Read more: "Robber Vieting Cave"
  • Hunting Lodge Friedrichsmoor

    • Schlossallee, 19306 Friedrichsmoor

    The hunting lodge Friedrichsmoor is located in the middle of the protected landscape area Lewitz (Slavic: area rich in game). Here you can relax directly in nature, between meadows, forests and rivers. Biking and hiking trails as well as the adventure trail "Legendary Lewitz" invite you to explore.

    Read more: "Hunting Lodge Friedrichsmoor"
  • © 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"

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Discover Mecklenburg-Schwerin

Inspiration to read more in the vacation magazine

  1. Schwerin: UNESCO World Heritage Site

    Read more: "Schwerin: UNESCO World Heritage Site"
  2. Guided tour of Schwerin Castle

    Read more: "Guided tour of Schwerin Castle"
  3. Wiligrad Castle: A park awakens from its slumber

    Read more: "Wiligrad Castle: A park awakens from its slumber"
  4. Picnic in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern

    Read more: "Picnic in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern"
  5. Culture in Schwerin: Mecklenburg State Theater

    Read more: "Culture in Schwerin: Mecklenburg State Theater"
  6. River of fun

    Read more: "River of fun"
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    Tiny Houses in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern

    Read more: "Tiny Houses in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern"
  8. The adventure gardens in Mecklenburg-Schwerin

    Read more: "The adventure gardens in Mecklenburg-Schwerin"
  9. The Nature Park Trail

    Read more: "The Nature Park Trail"
  10. Top

    5

    Excursion destinations in fall with children

    Read more: "Excursion destinations in fall with children"
  11. Top

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    Seven unique filming locations in MV

    Read more: "Seven unique filming locations in MV"
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    5

    Special animal tours in the nature experience centers

    Read more: "Special animal tours in the nature experience centers"
  13. Organized cycle tours between the Baltic Sea and lakes

    Read more: "Organized cycle tours between the Baltic Sea and lakes"
  14. From castle to castle with pleasure

    Read more: "From castle to castle with pleasure"
  15. Outdoor adventures in spring

    Read more: "Outdoor adventures in spring"
  16. Top

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    Country holiday tips for the fall

    Read more: "Country holiday tips for the fall"
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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.