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. Experience the view of the park and the Schlosshotel Wendorf for yourself and in person // © Grand Hotel Schloss Wendorf

    Amber Castle & Amber Land Wendorf

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

    Ludwigslust Castle

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

    Kaeselow Castle

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

    Dobbertin Abbey and church

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  5. Schwerin Palace

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

    Renaissance castle Gadebusch

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  7. © TV MS / A. Vones

    Schwechower Obstbrennerei (fruit distillery)

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

    Country and vacation homes at the Settin estate on the lake

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

    Manor house Settin am See

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  10. © Tourismusverband Mecklenburg-Schwerin

    Landscape Park and Castle Raben Steinfeld

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  11. © Archiv, Biosphärenreservatsamt Schaalsee-Elbe

    Gutshaus Volzrade - vacation in a historical ambience

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  12. Außenansicht Gut Zahren // © DOMUSImages

    Good Zahren

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  13. © Jagdschloss friedrichsmoor / @sebfoto.de

    Hunting Lodge Friedrichsmoor

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

    Gutshaus Woserin - Art on the lake

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  15. Goldenbow Manor

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  16. Kaarz Castle and Park with plenty of open space // © Schloss Kaarz / Stefan von Stengel

    Kaarz castle with park

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  17. Das Hotel Schloss Basthorst Außenansicht // © Hotel Schloss Basthorst/Michael Frahm

    Hotel Schloss Basthorst

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  18. © Fotostudio Kruse Neustadt-Glewe

    Neustadt-Glewe Castle

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

    Manor house Zarchlin

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

    Dreilützow Castle

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  21. © MV-T/Gohlke

    Hotel Neustadt-Glewe Castle

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  22. Exterior view of Jagdschlösschen Schwartow // © Jagdschlösschen Schwartow / Jan Haeselich

    Schwartow hunting lodge

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  23. Vorbeck Manor // © Gut Vorbeck / Stefan von Stengel

    Vorbeck Manor

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  24. © herrenhaus Schoenhof

    Schönhof Manor House

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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.

171 results

  • Im Schloss Dreilützow treibt Schlossgeist Dieter sein Unwesen // © Schloss Dreilützow/Baerens

    Dreilützow Castle

    • Am Schlosspark, 19243 Dreilützow

    Do you have a group you want to travel with? Then come to the countryside in West Mecklenburg. We offer accommodation and catering in an almost 300-year-old manor house. You have plenty of space for your own activities in our houses and our castle park. The castle ghost comes free of charge!

    Read more: "Dreilützow Castle"
  • Actions on the outdoor area // © 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"
  • LüttenHof-Retreat // © Tanja von Heintze

    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"
  • © Touristinformation Goldberg

    Goldberg Nature Museum and Tourist Information

    • Open today
    • Müllerweg, 19399 Goldberg

    Whether on the water, on horseback or on numerous hiking and cycling routes in the Goldberg-Mildenitz region in the Mecklenburg Lake District, you have countless opportunities for active recreation. For your vacation, the tourism association offers useful information on accommodation, tours, events and much more.

    Read more: "Goldberg Nature Museum and Tourist Information"
  • Hotel de Weimar

    • Schloßstraße, 19288 Ludwigslust

    Stay overnight in historical walls and let yourself be spoiled by excellent cuisine.

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  • © MV-T/Gohlke

    Hotel Neustadt-Glewe Castle

    • Schlossfreiheit, 19306 Neustadt-Glewe

    Nestled in the charming landscape of the Thousand Lakes Mecklenburg, on the edge of the protected landscape area Lewitz, a wonderful stay awaits you in our 4-star hotel. The castle inspires with baroque splendor, 1,600 m² of lush stucco work and 32 chimneys richly decorated with rosettes, cornices and figures. With branch office of the registry office for a dream wedding in the castle.

    Read more: "Hotel Neustadt-Glewe Castle"
  • Schlafzimmer Ferienohnung 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"
  • © Remo Block

    Adventure & Water Sports

    • An der Metow, 19395 Plau am See

    Our vacation park is located directly on the water and yet in the city. In Mecklenburg the clocks go slower, they say, and to some extent time seems to stand still, so you also have more of it available on vacation.Feel the Plau summer freshness in every season, the clear sea air and the wholesome, healthy nature.

    Read more: "Adventure & Water Sports"
  • Hotel Dömitzer Hafen-Hafenpool // © Hotel Dömitzer Hafen

    Hotel Doemitz Port

    • Hafenplatz, 19303 Dömitz

    Enjoy a unique view over the Elbe floodplain from the panorama café at Hotel Dömitzer Hafen at a height of 40 meters. Relax with fresh coffee and cake and watch the shipping traffic and bird migration on the Elbe. A fresh breeze is included on request.

    Read more: "Hotel Doemitz Port"
  • 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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  • 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"
  • Pension Niehus // © Pension Niehus

    Pension Niehus

    • Hauptstraße, 19246 Zarrentin am Schaalsee

    Pension Niehaus has 5 guest rooms with WiFi and TV as well as 5 vacation apartments with separate bedrooms, living room, kitchen and terrace.

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  • © 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"
  • Das Van der Valk Landhotel Spornitz liegt direkt am Rande der Lewitz, einer sehenswerten Naturkulisse // © 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"
  • AMEDIA Plaza Schwerin // © Plaza BW Schwerin GmbH

    AMEDIA Plaza Schwerin

    • Bleicher Ufer, 19053 Schwerin

    Our hotel is located directly at the Ostorfer Lake in beautiful Schwerin.The famous Schwerin sights, such as the Schwerin Castle, the Mecklenburg State Theater and the historic Old Town are only a few minutes walk away.

    Read more: "AMEDIA Plaza Schwerin"
  • © M.Höppner

    Gretchenheim Plau am See

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

    Monument

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  • Exterior view of Jagdschlösschen Schwartow // © Jagdschlösschen Schwartow / Jan Haeselich

    Schwartow hunting lodge

    • Boizestr., 19258 Schwartow

    The hotel-restaurant is the ideal place for a relaxing day with friends, your partner or the whole family, for your vacation, as a stopover during leisure activities and for events. Especially for romantic wedding celebrations.

    Read more: "Schwartow hunting lodge"
  • Vorbeck Manor // © Gut Vorbeck / Stefan von Stengel

    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"
  • © herrenhaus Schoenhof

    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"
  • 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"
  • © Familie Patzelt

    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"

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Discover Mecklenburg-Schwerin

Inspiration to read more in the vacation magazine

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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.