Schleswig-Holstein Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, local culture, safety and health, transportation options and logistics, and nearby destinations in Schleswig-Holstein with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Schleswig-Holstein

Schleswig-Holstein is a state in Germany known for its long coastline, beaches, picturesque lakes, rolling hills, and historic cities. Located in Central Europe, it shares borders with Denmark to the north, the Baltic Sea to the east, and Lower Saxony, Hamburg, and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania to the south and west. The region has a rich history and culture, with several centuries-old towns and museums preserving its heritage. Schleswig-Holstein is also a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous hiking and biking trails, water sports, and natural attractions to explore.

List of Places to Visit in Schleswig-Holstein

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Holstentor - One of the most iconic landmarks in Lubeck, the Holstentor is a 15th-century city gate and one of the few remaining examples of Gothic brick architecture in the region.
  • Viking Museum Haithabu - This UNESCO World Heritage Site in Busdorf near Schleswig provides an insight into the Viking way of life through its archaeological finds and reconstructed buildings.
  • Gottorf Castle - The former residence of the Dukes of Schleswig-Holstein-Gottorf, the castle in Schleswig now houses several museums and art collections.
  • Lubeck Cathedral - This Gothic cathedral in Lubeck dates back to the 12th century and features impressive stain glass windows, altarpieces, and sculptures.
  • Museum Tuch und Technik - This museum in Neumunster showcases the history of textile production and the industrial revolution in the region.

Natural Attractions of Schleswig-Holstein: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sylt Island - This popular island in the North Sea boasts sandy beaches, dunes, heathlands, and quaint villages to explore.
  • Kiel Fjord - The Kiel Fjord is a scenic waterway that runs through the city and offers opportunities for boating, sailing, and swimming.
  • Holstein Switzerland - This hilly region in eastern Schleswig-Holstein features several glacial lakes, wooded hills, and charming villages.
  • Wadden Sea National Park - This UNESCO World Heritage Site covers the mudflats and islands along the coast of Schleswig-Holstein and provides a unique habitat for numerous bird species and marine life.
  • Lauenburg Lakes Nature Park - This nature park near Lubeck comprises numerous picturesque lakes, marshlands, forests, and bike trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Schleswig-Holstein

Schleswig-Holstein offers several impressive hiking and biking trails that traverse its varied landscapes, including the Baltic Coast Cycle Route, Eider-Treene-Sorge Cycle Route, and Ostseekusten-Wanderweg. Other popular routes include the Holsteinische Schweiz Nature Park Trail, a 180-kilometer tour that winds through lakes, forests, and meadows and the Himmelmoor Loop Trail, a 10-kilometer path that takes hikers through a unique raised bog ecosystem near Hamburg.

Best Things to Do in Schleswig-Holstein: Activities and Tours

  • Visit the beaches on Sylt Island - Sylt is known for its sandy beaches, which are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball.
  • Explore the Hanseatic City Lubeck - Lubeck’s historic center is a UNESCO-listed attraction, renowned for its Gothic architecture, including the famous Holstentor gate.
  • Take a boat tour of Kiel Fjord - A relaxing way to explore Kiel Fjord, boat tours offer panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.
  • Visit Kiel Week - This annual sailing regatta is held in June and brings together sailors and visitors from around the world for a week of races, concerts, and cultural events.
  • Try the regional seafood - Schleswig-Holstein is renowned for its fresh seafood, including smoked eel, shrimp, and herring.

Week-Long Itinerary for Schleswig-Holstein

  • Day 1: Arrive in Lubeck and explore the historic center
  • Day 2: Visit the Viking Museum Haithabu and Gottorf Castle in Schleswig
  • Day 3: Spend the day at Sylt Island
  • Day 4: Take a boat tour of Kiel Fjord
  • Day 5: Hike or bike the Holsteinische Schweiz Nature Park Trail
  • Day 6: Visit Wadden Sea National Park and Lauenburg Lakes Nature Park
  • Day 7: Depart from Hamburg Airport or continue to nearby destinations

Food and Drink Scene of Schleswig-Holstein

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pannfisch - A traditional dish made with pan-fried fish, potatoes, and onions
  • Labskaus - A hearty meat stew made with corned beef, potatoes, and beets
  • Rote Grutze - A dessert made with a berry compote and served with vanilla cream

Local Beverages

  • Beer - Schleswig-Holstein is home to several local breweries, including Flensburger Brauerei and Ratsherren Brauerei, which produce a range of lagers and ales.
  • Schnapps - This distilled spirit is a popular local drink, with several regional varieties available.

Where to Stay in Schleswig-Holstein: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Schleswig-Holstein has several accommodation options for all budgets and preferences, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Popular options include:

  • Atlantic Hotel Lubeck - This luxury hotel in Lubeck features elegant rooms and suites and is located in the heart of the historic center.
  • Ferienwohnungen Strandkorb & Meer - These cozy apartments on Sylt Island offer stunning sea views and are just steps away from the beach.
  • Gasthaus zur Bahn - This family-owned guesthouse in Kiel offers comfortable rooms and a cozy restaurant serving local specialties.

What to Buy in Schleswig-Holstein: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Schleswig-Holstein is known for its handicrafts, including ceramics, glassware, and jewelry. Many towns boast markets and shops where visitors can buy locally made products. Popular souvenirs include:

  • Amber jewelry - Amber is found along the coast of Schleswig-Holstein and is often made into attractive jewelry pieces.
  • Holstentor replica - A miniature replica of the famous Holstentor gate in Lubeck is a popular souvenir.
  • Local wine - Schleswig-Holstein’s wine industry is small but growing, with several local wineries producing unique vintages.

Local Culture and Customs of Schleswig-Holstein

Schleswig-Holstein has a rich cultural heritage, with various festivals and events throughout the year, including:

  • Kiel Week - This annual sailing regatta held in June attracts sailors and visitors from around the world for a week of races, concerts, and cultural events.
  • Schleswig-Holstein Music Festival - This classical music festival held in July and August features concerts in various venues across the state.
  • Lubeck Christmas Market - The Christmas market in Lubeck features festive stalls selling crafts, gifts, and traditional treats.

Best Time to Visit Schleswig-Holstein

Schleswig-Holstein can be visited year-round, but the best time is during the summer months, from June to August when the weather is warm and sunny. The beach resorts and outdoor activities are popular during this time, and several festivals and events take place. Spring and autumn can also be pleasant, with fewer crowds and lower prices, but the weather can be variable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Schleswig-Holstein

Do:

  • Try the fresh seafood and regional specialties
  • Visit the historic cities and museums
  • Explore the natural attractions and outdoor activities

Don’t:

  • Forget to bring appropriate clothing for different weather conditions
  • Ignore local rules and regulations, particularly when it comes to environmental protection
  • Leave garbage behind when hiking or cycling

Safety and Health

Safety in Schleswig-Holstein

Schleswig-Holstein is a safe region for travelers, with low crime rates and a well-maintained infrastructure. Visitors should be aware of potential road hazards and the proper use of bike lanes and hiking trails.

Health in Schleswig-Holstein

Schleswig-Holstein has a high standard of healthcare services, with several hospitals and clinics in the region. European Union citizens can obtain medical treatment with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

Getting to Schleswig-Holstein: Transportation Options and Logistics

Schleswig-Holstein is easily accessible by several transportation options, including:

Airports Near Schleswig-Holstein

  • Hamburg Airport (HAM) - The largest airport in the region, located about 70 kilometers south of Kiel.
  • Lubeck Airport (LBC) - A smaller airport located about 10 kilometers south of Lubeck.

Bus Stations Near Schleswig-Holstein

  • Kiel Bus Station - The main bus station in Kiel, offering connections to various destinations in the region and beyond.
  • Lubeck Bus Station - The central bus station in Lubeck, with connections to major cities in Germany and neighboring countries.

Other Options

  • Train - Schleswig-Holstein is well-connected to the German and European train network, with several major stations in the region, including Kiel, Lubeck, and Flensburg.
  • Car - Schleswig-Holstein can be easily reached by car, with several highways and national roads running through the region.

How to Get Around in Schleswig-Holstein

Schleswig-Holstein has a well-developed public transport network, including buses, trains, and ferries. A car rental is also a convenient option for exploring the region, particularly for those who want to visit the natural attractions and rural areas.

Where to Go Next from Schleswig-Holstein: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Schleswig-Holstein is located at the crossroads of northern Europe and offers several exciting destinations and excursions nearby, including:

  • Copenhagen, Denmark - The capital of Denmark is just a short train or ferry ride away from Schleswig-Holstein and boasts numerous cultural attractions and a vibrant culinary scene.
  • Hamburg, Germany - The second-largest city in Germany, Hamburg is known for its music, theater, architecture, and nightlife.
  • Luneburg Heath, Germany - This natural area in Lower Saxony, Germany, features heathlands, forests, and hiking trails and is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Schleswig-Holstein is a great destination for travelers who want to enjoy the natural beauty and cultural heritage of northern Germany. With its scenic landscapes, historic towns, and outdoor activities, Schleswig-Holstein has something for everyone. Whether you want to hike through the hills, relax on the beach, or explore the museums and galleries, this comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your next adventure.

Sylt Sylt The harbour of Puttgarden The harbour of Puttgarden The Kiel Canal connecting the North Sea and the Baltic Sea The Kiel Canal connecting the North Sea and the Baltic Sea Flensburger Pils, perhaps the best known beer from this corner of Germany Flensburger Pils, perhaps the best known beer from this corner of Germany


    East Holstein
    Kiel Bay
    North Sea Coast
    South Holstein