Wilhelmshaven Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Wilhelmshaven with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover top attractions, best places to eat and drink, where to stay, and much more.


Introduction to Wilhelmshaven

Located in East Frisia, in Lower Saxony, Wilhelmshaven is a small but charming coastal city situated on the Jade Bight, a bay in the North Sea. With a population of approximately 76,000, it is one of the largest cities in the region. Wilhelmshaven is a popular tourist destination thanks to its beautiful beaches, fascinating museums, and historic landmarks.

List of Places to Visit in Wilhelmshaven

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • German Naval Museum - This museum chronicles the history of the German Navy, from its founding in 1848 to its role in World War II. Visitors can see historic ships, submarines, and displays of naval weapons and uniforms.
  • Jade Weser Port Info Center - The biggest deep-water container port in Germany is worth a visit. Take a guided tour to see where the big ships from all over the world arrive and depart to.
  • Weser Tunnel and Kaiser-Wilhelm Bridge - This historic bridge and tunnel was built in the early 20th century and provides stunning views of Wilhelmshaven and the surrounding countryside.
  • St. Nikolai Church - This beautiful church was constructed in the late 19th century and is known for its intricate architecture and stunning stained glass windows.

Natural Attractions of Wilhelmshaven: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • South Beach - This stunning, wide-open beach is perfect for a swim on a hot summer day. Located in the southern part of the city, it is also a popular spot for kite surfing and windsurfing.
  • Wilhelmshaven Aquarium - Nestled on the northern tip of the city, the aquarium features dozens of marine life species native to the coast of Lower Saxony, including seals, sharks, and jellyfish.
  • Escaping the North Sea to the East Frisian Islands - Take a boat to the East Frisian Islands and explore the beaches and dunes of these natural protected areas. Be active with a bike to explore Island’s secrets.
  • Botanischer Garten der Stadt Wilhelmshaven - The Botanical Garden of the City of Wilhelmshaven is home to a large number of rare plants and flowers from all over the world.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Wilhelmshaven

Wilhelmshaven and the surrounding region are ideal for hiking and biking enthusiasts. The many trails and paths feature stunning views of the countryside and perfect for physical exercise.

  • Jadebusen-Leuchtturm-Loop - This 7.5 km loop takes you along the beautiful beach and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Around Stollhamm Lake - This easy 9 km hike takes you around the beautiful Stollhamm Lake and through the picturesque countryside.
  • Through the Rüstersieler Groden - This scenic 8 km hike takes you through the marshland of the Rüstersieler Groden and provides beautiful views of the surrounding dunes.

Best Things to Do in Wilhelmshaven: Activities and Tours

  • Wilhelmshaven Harbour Tour - Discover the biggest naval base in Germany and the heart of the city, the Jade Bight. Explore the impressive container port, the Helicopter airbase, and the German Navy ships and submarines.
  • Walking Through the “Kiez” - This guided tour will take you through the heart of Wilhelmshaven and offers visitors a unique glimpse into the city’s rich history, culture, and architecture.
  • Jade-Weser-Port Forklift Tour - Take a forklift ride through the largest cargo hub of Northern Europe. Discover the automated harbour and the incredible logistic processing handled by massive ships and perfect coordination.

Week-Long Itinerary for Wilhelmshaven

Here’s a suggested itinerary for visitors who are planning to spend a week in Wilhelmshaven.

Day 1: Visit the German Naval Museum and the Jademond cafe on the Harbor promenade

Day 2: Explore the Rüstersieler Groden and the St. Nikolai Church

Day 3: Take a trip to the East Frisian islands, enjoy the beaches, and hike on dunes.

Day 4: Discover the Botanical Garden and the Jade Weser Port Info Center

Day 5: Enjoy South Beach, windsurf or kitesurf, and relax in a beach bistro.

Day 6: Go hiking or biking along the Jadebusen-Leuchtturm-Loop

Day 7: End the week with a tour of the harbor and the Wilhelmshaven Aquarium.

Food and Drink Scene of Wilhelmshaven

Must-Try Dishes

  • Finkenwerder Heringsalat - A traditional dish made with herring and onions.

  • Labskaus - A delicious mashed potato dish topped with beef and onions.

  • Bintjebier - A local beer brewed with malt and hops grown in the region.

Local Beverages

  • Teetied- Freshly brewed tea and local patisseries are served at tea ceremonies in antique porcelain.

  • Kelle-Beer - A fruity, refreshing beer made locally in the region.

Where to Stay in Wilhelmshaven: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • PHW BOLD Hotel Wilhelmshaven - A chic design hotel located close to the city center and the harbor. It offers modern rooms and stylish interiors.

  • Hotel am Stadtpark - Located near the city center, this charming hotel features cozy rooms and a peaceful garden.

  • Pension am Oberen Jadebusen - This lovely pension is situated near the coast and offers visitors cozy, family-run guestrooms.

What to Buy in Wilhelmshaven: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Helgoland Island Amber - Amber is found in Northern Germany and sold in Wilhelmshaven. Amber is a German-Scandinavian gem fossilized resin found only in a few places globally.

  • East Frisia Tea - A tea blend made with a mixture of black teas, including Indian Assam and Sri Lankan Ceylon.

  • Tymmeland Honey - A local honey brand harvested from bees in the region and known for its unique flavor.

Local Culture and Customs of Wilhelmshaven

Wilhelmshaven is a city steeped in history and tradition. The region is best known for its maritime heritage, and many of the local customs and foods are linked to the sea. Visitors are advised to respect the local culture and traditions and immerse themselves in the city’s unique offerings.

Best Time to Visit Wilhelmshaven

While Wilhelmshaven is a beautiful city to visit year-round, the best time to visit is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is warm and sunny.

Do’s and Don’ts of Wilhelmshaven

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs

  • Try the local dishes and drinks

  • Explore the countryside and enjoy the natural beauty

Don’t:

  • Leave your trash on the beach or anywhere outside of trash cans

  • Ignore safety precautions in the sea

  • Disrespect historic and cultural landmarks

Safety and Health

Safety in Wilhelmshaven

Wilhelmshaven is generally a safe city for travelers. However, as with any destination, visitors should always take precautions and be mindful of their surroundings. It is advisable to leave valuable possessions such as jewelry and laptops at the hotel or accommodation while exploring the city.

Health in Wilhelmshaven

Germany has a high standard of healthcare. Wilhelmshaven has several hospitals, and visitors should purchase travel insurance before embarking on their trip.

Getting to Wilhelmshaven: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Wilhelmshaven

The nearest airport to Wilhelmshaven is Bremen International Airport, which is 120 kilometers away. Visitors can take a train or rental car from the airport.

Bus Stations Near Wilhelmshaven

The central bus station in Wilhelmshaven is located near the city center and offers bus connections to other cities in Germany and Europe.

Other Options

Visitors can also opt to rent a car to explore Wilhelmshaven and the surrounding region.

How to Get Around in Wilhelmshaven

Wilhelmshaven has an efficient public transportation system that includes buses and trains. Visitors can purchase day passes to use the public transportation system.

Where to Go Next from Wilhelmshaven: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Bremen - This thriving city is known for its charming medieval old town, museums, and bustling riverfront. Just 1 hour away from Wilhelmshaven by car or train.

  • Oldenburg - A charming university town, Oldenburg, is known for its picturesque architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Only 50 minutes away by car or train.

  • Bremerhaven - A city of the sea and culture, Bremerhaven, is a bustling port stretching along the Weser river banks and home to Germany’s biggest fishery and Arctic exploration destination. Only 1 hour away from Wilhelmshaven.

Conclusion

Wilhelmshaven, Germany is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With its beautiful beaches, fascinating museums, and historic landmarks, there is something for everyone in this charming coastal city. Visitors are advised to plan their trip in advance, take precautions and respect the local culture and traditions. Plan your trip today and experience the best that Wilhelmshaven has to offer.