Greifswald Travel Guide

Plan your perfect trip to Greifswald with our comprehensive travel guide. Find out all about the best things to do, where to stay, and what to eat in Greifswald.


Introduction to Greifswald

Greifswald is a beautiful town located in the northeastern region of Germany, in the state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. As one of the oldest towns in the region, Greifswald is a cultural hub, combining stunning architecture, rich history, and a vibrant modern lifestyle.

With a population of just under 60,000, Greifswald has a small-town atmosphere with plenty to see and do. The town’s historic center is small enough to explore on foot, yet rich enough to keep you occupied for days.

List of Places to Visit in Greifswald

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Pommersches Landesmuseum: This museum houses a comprehensive collection of artifacts relating to the history of the Pomerania region. The exhibits include everything from medieval art to modern-day crafts.

  2. St. Nikolai Cathedral: This impressive landmark is located in the heart of Greifswald. The cathedral features a stunning 14th-century organ, as well as impressive stained-glass windows.

  3. Wieck: This charming fishing village is located just outside of Greifswald and is known for its historic architecture and picturesque sea views.

Natural Attractions of Greifswald: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Eldena Abbey: This 12th-century monastery is located just outside of Greifswald in the Eldena nature reserve. The ruins of the abbey are beautifully preserved and make for a great day trip.

  2. Greifswalder Oie: This small island is located off the coast of Greifswald and is home to a variety of wildlife including seabirds and seals. You can take a boat tour from Greifswald to the island.

  3. Jakobikirche: This 14th-century church is located in the heart of Greifswald. The church’s bell tower is one of the tallest in the region, offering stunning views of the town.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Greifswald

  1. Greifswald-Heringsdorf Bike Trail: This 70-kilometer bike trail follows the coast from Greifswald to Heringsdorf. Along the way, you’ll pass through small towns and scenic nature reserves.

  2. Nature reserve Ritzerower Grashaus: This nature reserve is located just outside of Greifswald and offers several hiking and biking trails through eery moors and dense forests.

Best Things to Do in Greifswald: Activities and Tours

  1. Greifswald Segway Tour: Take a tour of the town on your own personal Segway for a unique and exciting experience.

  2. Greifswald Walking Tour: This tour will take you through the heart of Greifswald, exploring the history of the town while seeing its most popular attractions.

Week-Long Itinerary for Greifswald

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the historic center of Greifswald
Day 2 Visit the Pommersches Landesmuseum and St. Nikolai Cathedral
Day 3 Take a bike tour along the coast
Day 4 Visit Eldena Abbey
Day 5 Take a boat tour to Greifswalder Oie
Day 6 Hike in the Ritzerower Grashaus nature reserve
Day 7 Experience the food and drink scene in Greifswald

Food and Drink Scene of Greifswald

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Fricke’s: This traditional restaurant serves up classic German dishes like schnitzel and hearty stews. Be sure to try the local fish specialties as well.

  2. Fischerstube Wieck: Located just outside of Greifswald, this restaurant offers fresh seafood dishes. Make sure to try the fried herring!

Local Beverages

  1. Störtebeker Bier: This local brew is a must-try for beer enthusiasts. The company brews a range of beers, from a light Pilsener to a rich, dark beer.

  2. Roter Oktober: This local distillery produces a variety of flavored vodkas and liquors. Be sure to try the raspberry and the hazelnut flavors.

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

  1. Hotel Kronprinz: This elegant hotel is located in the heart of Greifswald and combines modern amenities with classic architecture.

  2. DJH Youth Hostel: Located just outside of Greifswald, this youth hostel offers affordable accommodations for backpackers and young travelers.

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

  1. Amber jewelry: Amber is a popular local product in the Pomerania region. You can find a variety of amber jewelry and decorations in Greifswald.

  2. Local honey: Greifswald is home to several honey farmers. Be sure to pick up a jar of local honey to take home as a souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Greifswald

The people of Greifswald are known for their hospitality and friendliness. It’s common to greet people with a smile and a handshake. The town is also known for its rich cultural traditions, including music, art, and literature.

Best Time to Visit Greifswald

The best time to visit Greifswald is in the summer, when the weather is mild and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Spring and fall are also great times to visit, as the town is less crowded.

Do’s and Don’ts of Greifswald

Do:

  1. Try the local seafood dishes and beer.

  2. Explore the town’s historic center on foot.

Don’t:

  1. Leave without trying the local honey and amber products.

  2. Forget to bring a raincoat, as the weather can be unpredictable.

Safety and Health

Safety in Greifswald

Greifswald is a very safe town with low levels of crime. However, as with all travel destinations, it’s important to take precautions to ensure your safety, such as avoiding unpopulated areas after dark.

Health in Greifswald

Germany has a high standard of healthcare, and there are several hospitals and medical centers located in Greifswald.

Getting to Greifswald: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Greifswald

The nearest international airport is the Berlin Tegel Airport, which is about 2.5 hours away by car.

Bus Stations Near Greifswald

Greifswald has a main bus station located in the town center, with connections to nearby towns and cities.

Other Options

The town is easily accessible by car through Germany’s highway network. The nearest train station is Greifswald Hauptbahnhof.

How to Get Around in Greifswald

The best way to get around Greifswald is by foot or bike, as the town’s historic center is small and easy to explore. Taxis and buses are also available for longer trips.

Where to Go Next from Greifswald: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several nearby destinations worth visiting from Greifswald, including:

  1. Rügen Island: This popular vacation destination is located just off the coast of Greifswald and offers beautiful beaches and stunning natural scenery.

  2. Stralsund: This historic town is located just to the south of Greifswald and is known for its beautiful architecture and cultural attractions.

Conclusion

Greifswald is a unique and charming town that combines rich history and modern vibrancy. With plenty of outdoor activities, cultural attractions and traditional foods to experience, there’s something for everyone in Greifswald. With our comprehensive guide, you’ll be able to plan the perfect trip to this hidden gem of Germany.

The market place The market place Map of Greifswald town centre Map of Greifswald town centre Dorfstraße in Wieck Dorfstraße in Wieck