Putbus Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Putbus, Germany. Plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide.


Putbus is a charming town located in the island of Rügen, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, in Germany. This picturesque town is famous for its neoclassical architecture, natural beauty, and cultural attractions. Whether you are interested in history, outdoor adventures, or exploring the local culture, there are plenty of things to see and do in Putbus. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will provide you with all the information you need to plan an unforgettable trip to Putbus.

Introduction to Putbus

Putbus is a small town located on the southeastern coast of Rügen, the largest island in Germany. The town was founded in the early 19th century by Prince Wilhelm Malte I of Putbus, who was inspired by the architecture of ancient Greece and Rome. As a result, Putbus is known for its classical-inspired buildings, beautiful parks, and lush gardens.

The town is located in a scenic area surrounded by forests, lakes, and the Baltic Sea, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The town has a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant local culture, which is reflected in its museums, galleries, festivals, and traditional cuisine.

List of Places to Visit in Putbus

Putbus is full of exciting places to visit, from historic landmarks to natural wonders. Here are some of the best places to visit in Putbus:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Putbus Palace: This stunning neoclassical palace was built in the early 19th century and is now home to the Rügen Museum and the Theatre Putbus. The palace is surrounded by beautiful gardens and parks, making it a great place to explore on a sunny day.
  • Orangerie: This beautiful building was originally used to house plants during the winter months, but now serves as an exhibition space for art and cultural events.
  • Lighthouse Putbus: This lighthouse is located on the outskirts of the town and offers stunning views of the Baltic Sea. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
  • Market Square: This is the heart of Putbus and is home to the town hall, a beautiful fountain, and several cafes and shops. There are also regular markets and festivals held here throughout the year.

Natural Attractions of Putbus: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Island of Vilm: This uninhabited island is located off the coast of Putbus and is home to a nature reserve. Visitors can explore the island on foot or by bike and enjoy the scenic views of the Baltic Sea and the surrounding islands.
  • Granitz Hunting Lodge: This historic lodge is located on the Granitz Forest and offers visitors a chance to explore the forest and enjoy stunning views of Rügen.
  • Jurassic Park Rügen: This outdoor attraction allows visitors to explore a prehistoric park with life-size models of dinosaurs that move and roar. There are also various activities for kids and families.
  • Jasmund National Park: This national park is located on the northern coast of Rügen and is famous for its stunning white chalk cliffs, dense beech forests, and lush meadows. There are several hiking trails and viewpoints in the park that offer breathtaking views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Putbus

Putbus is surrounded by beautiful forests, lakes, and beaches, making it a perfect destination for hikers and bikers. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • Rügen Coastal Trail: This trail covers 600km of the Rügen coastline and offers stunning views of the Baltic Sea and the surrounding islands. There are several access points to the trail, including Putbus.
  • Granitz Forest Trail: This trail takes visitors through the lush forests of the Granitz Forest, near the Granitz Hunting Lodge. The trail offers stunning views of Rügen and the surrounding area.
  • Jasmund National Park Trails: There are several hiking trails in Jasmund National Park, ranging from easy to difficult. The trails take visitors through dense beech forests, lush meadows, and to stunning cliff viewpoints.

Best Things to Do in Putbus: Activities and Tours

Putbus offers visitors a range of exciting activities and tours to explore the town and its surroundings. Here are some of the best things to do in Putbus:

  • Boat Tours: Visitors can take a boat tour of the Baltic Sea and explore the neighboring islands and beaches. There are several tour operators in Putbus that offer boat tours.
  • Horse Riding: Visitors can go horse riding through the forests and meadows of Rügen. There are several stables and riding schools in Putbus that offer horse riding tours and lessons.
  • Geocaching: Visitors can explore Putbus and its surroundings through geocaching, a treasure hunt game that uses GPS coordinates to locate hidden items.
  • Fishing: Visitors can go fishing in the lakes, rivers, and the Baltic Sea near Putbus. There are several fishing spots and tour operators in the area.

Week-Long Itinerary for Putbus

If you are planning to spend a week in Putbus, here is an itinerary that covers some of the best places to visit and things to do:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Putbus Palace and the surrounding parks
Day 2 Visit the Orangerie and Jasmund National Park
Day 3 Take a boat tour of the Baltic Sea and neighboring islands
Day 4 Go horse riding through the forests and meadows of Rügen
Day 5 Visit the Granitz Hunting Lodge and the Granitz Forest
Day 6 Go fishing in the lakes, rivers, and the Baltic Sea near Putbus
Day 7 Explore the local culture and cuisine of Putbus

Food and Drink Scene of Putbus

Putbus is known for its traditional cuisine, which includes fresh seafood, local meats, and hearty stews. There are several restaurants and cafes in Putbus that offer traditional dishes and local beverages. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages of Putbus:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Rügener Heringspufff: This is a traditional dish made with herring, onions, and dough. It is fried until golden brown and served with a side salad or potatoes.
  • Rügen Potato Soup: This hearty soup is made with potatoes, bacon, onions, and cream. It is a perfect dish to warm up on a cold day.
  • Rügen Zwiebackschnitte: This is a traditional dessert made with sliced bread, whipped cream, and fruits. It is a perfect dessert for any occasion.

Local Beverages

  • Rügener Insel-Brauerei Beer: This local beer is brewed on Rügen Island and is known for its unique flavor and quality.
  • Rügen Küstenwald Honey: This local honey is produced in the forests of Rügen and is known for its sweet and floral taste.
  • **Rügener Bodden: ** This is a local brand of vodka made with potatoes from Rügen. It is a perfect drink to enjoy on a night out in Putbus.

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

Putbus offers a range of accommodation options for visitors, from luxury hotels to budget hostels. Here are some of the best places to stay in Putbus:

  • Hotel Nobelhof: This charming hotel is located in the heart of Putbus and offers comfortable rooms and beautiful gardens.
  • Ferienwohnungen in der Orangerie Putbus: These apartments are located in the historic Orangerie building and offer stunning views of the surrounding gardens and parks.
  • DJH Jugendherberge Putbus: This hostel is located on the outskirts of Putbus and offers budget accommodation for travelers.

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

Putbus offers a range of souvenirs and local products that are perfect for bringing home as a reminder of your trip. Here are some of the best things to buy in Putbus:

  • Amber Jewelry: Amber is a popular local gemstone that is often used in jewelry. There are several shops in Putbus that sell amber jewelry.
  • Local Honey: Rügen Küstenwald honey is a perfect souvenir for food lovers. It is available in several shops and markets in Putbus.
  • Traditional Crafts: There are several shops in Putbus that sell traditional crafts, such as pottery, glassware, and textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of Putbus

Putbus has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its art, music, and cuisine. The town has several museums, galleries, and festivals that showcase its local culture. Visitors should respect the local customs and traditions of Putbus and be mindful of their behavior in public places.

Best Time to Visit Putbus

The best time to visit Putbus is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the town is buzzing with tourists and events. However, the town is also charming during the off-season months, when it is less crowded and more peaceful. Visitors should check the weather conditions and events calendar before planning their trip to Putbus.

Do’s and Don’ts of Putbus

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions of Putbus.
  • Explore the natural beauty and scenic views of Putbus and its surroundings.
  • Try the traditional cuisine and local beverages of Putbus.
  • Participate in local festivals and events.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment of Putbus.
  • Disrespect the local culture or traditions of Putbus.
  • Be loud or disruptive in public places.
  • Ignore safety precautions while participating in outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Putbus

Putbus is a relatively safe town to visit, with low crime rates and a friendly local population. Visitors should be mindful of their belongings and avoid carrying large sums of money or valuable items in public places. It is also essential to follow safety precautions while participating in outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and water sports.

Health in Putbus

Putbus has a range of medical facilities and pharmacies. Visitors should ensure that they have adequate health insurance before traveling to Putbus and carry a first-aid kit with them while participating in outdoor activities. It is also essential to follow health guidelines and precautions, such as wearing sunscreen and staying hydrated during the hot summer months.

Getting to Putbus: Transportation Options and Logistics

Putbus is well-connected to the rest of Germany and Europe, with several transportation options available.

Airports Near Putbus

The nearest airport to Putbus is Rostock-Laage Airport, which is located approximately 110km away. It is a regional airport with flights to several major European cities.

Bus and Train Stations Near Putbus

Putbus can be easily reached by train or bus. The nearest train station is in Bergen, which is located approximately 8km away. There are regular bus services between Putbus and nearby towns and cities, such as Rostock, Berlin, and Hamburg.

Other Options

Visitors can also drive to Putbus, as the town is well-connected to the German highway system. There are several car rental companies available in Rügen.

How to Get Around in Putbus

Putbus is a small town that can be easily explored on foot or by bike. There are several bike rental shops available in the town. Visitors can also use public transport or taxis to get around the town and its surroundings.

Where to Go Next from Putbus: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Putbus is located in a scenic area surrounded by several other beautiful towns, villages, and natural reserves. Here are some of the best nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Binz: This popular seaside resort is located approximately 15km away from Putbus and is known for its beautiful beaches and historic architecture.
  • Sassnitz: This charming town is located approximately 30km away from Putbus and is famous for its old harbor and the stunning chalk cliffs of the Jasmund National Park.
  • Stralsund: This historic city is located approximately 50km away from Putbus and is known for its charming old town and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Stralsund Old Market Square.

Conclusion

Putbus is a hidden gem in the heart of Rügen, offering visitors a chance to explore a charming town with a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. Whether you are interested in history, outdoor adventures, or local culture, Putbus has something for everyone. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has provided you with all the information you need to plan an unforgettable trip to Putbus, Germany.