Plön Travel Guide

Explore the cultural, natural, food, and drink scene of Plön, Germany, with this ultimate travel guide. Discover the best activities, tours, and accommodations and plan your perfect trip to Central Europe.


Introduction to Plön

Located in Schleswig-Holstein, in the heart of Central Europe, Plön is a picturesque town sitting on the shores of Großer Plöner See. The town boasts a rich cultural, natural, and culinary heritage and is a perfect destination for history buffs, outdoor enthusiasts, and food lovers.

List of Places to Visit in Plön

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Plön Castle: This stunning 17th-century castle surrounded by beautiful parkland and gardens is a must-visit attraction in Plön. The castle houses a museum that showcases the history of the town.
  • Museumsbahnhof: This historic train station has been turned into a museum showcasing the history of railways in the region.
  • St. Nicolai-Kirche: This impressive Gothic church dating back to the 13th century houses a unique altar from the 16th century.

Natural Attractions of Plön: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Großer Plöner See: This largest lake in Schleswig-Holstein is perfect for swimming, fishing, and watersports. The surrounding area offers numerous hiking and cycling routes.
  • Plöner See Naturfreibad: This natural outdoor swimming pool is a perfect place for a refreshing swim in the summer.
  • Die Prinzeninsel: Located in the middle of Großer Plöner See, this tiny island is accessible only by boat and offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Plön

  • Kellersee Loop Trail: This 25.6 km trail around Kellersee lake offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding forests.
  • Plöner See Tour: This 49.4 km trail around Großer Plöner See is perfect for cycling enthusiasts.
  • Bismarck Tower Trail: A 11.6 km hike up to the Bismarck Tower, offering stunning views of Plön Castle and the surrounding area.

Best Things to Do in Plön: Activities and Tours

  • Boat Tours: Take a boat tour on Großer Plöner See and explore the lake’s hidden gems and stunning landscapes.
  • Segway Tours: Explore the town and its surroundings on a Segway tour.
  • Plön Castle Ghost Tour: Join the ghost tour at Plön Castle and explore the castle’s spooky history.

Week-Long Itinerary for Plön

Day Activity
1 Explore Plön Castle and its museum, take a boat tour on Großer Plöner See
2 Hike or cycle around Kellersee, visit the Museumsbahnhof
3 Visit St. Nicolai-Kirche, swimming at Plöner See Naturfreibad
4 Take a Segway tour around the town, explore the local cuisine
5 Visit the Bismarck Tower and enjoy the scenic views, sunset boat tour on Großer Plöner See
6 Spend the day at Die Prinzeninsel, enjoy swimming and picnic
7 Souvenir shopping and departure

Food and Drink Scene of Plön

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pannfisch: A traditional dish made from pan-fried fish and potatoes.
  • Holsteiner Aalsuppe: A soup made from eel, potatoes, and vegetables.
  • Grünkohlessen: A winter dish made from kale, smoked pork, and sausage.

Local Beverages

  • Flensburger Pilsener: A locally brewed pilsner beer.
  • Eiergrog: A traditional hot drink made from egg yolks, sugar, and rum.
  • Alsterwasser: A refreshing mix of beer and lemonade.

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

  • Hotel SeeSchloss am Großen Plöner See: A stunning hotel located in Plön Castle.
  • Hotel Ploen Stadtpark: A cozy hotel located in the heart of the town.
  • Jugendherberge Plön: A budget-friendly hostel located near Großer Plöner See.

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

  • Holsteinischer Katen: Locally produced cheese and dairy products.
  • Plöner Trouvailles: A variety of locally made handicrafts and gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of Plön

  • Plön is proud of its traditional customs and costumes. Visitors can experience these by attending the annual Plön Markttage, a traditional market fair held in August.
  • People in Plön are known for their friendliness and hospitality, so take time to interact with the locals and experience their culture firsthand.

Best Time to Visit Plön

The best time to visit Plön is in the summer months (June, July, and August) when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. The town comes alive during summer with numerous festivals and events, including the traditional Plön Markttage.

Do’s and Don’ts of Plön

Do:

  • Take time to explore the town on foot or bicycle. It’s the best way to experience the town’s unique charm.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages, especially the traditional dishes.
  • Interact with the locals and experience their culture and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t leave without visiting Plön Castle and its museum. It’s one of the town’s most iconic attractions and shouldn’t be missed.
  • Don’t forget to pack comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and insect repellent if you plan to spend time outdoors.

Safety and Health

Safety in Plön

Plön is a relatively safe place to visit. However, visitors should exercise common sense and take the necessary precautions for their safety, such as keeping an eye on their valuables and avoiding isolated areas at night.

Health in Plön

Visitors to Plön need not worry about health concerns. However, it’s essential to have travel insurance and be aware of the location of nearby medical facilities.

Getting to Plön: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Plön

The nearest airports to Plön are Hamburg Airport, located 70 km to the south, and Kiel Airport, located 30 km to the north.

Bus Stations Near Plön

Plön is well-connected by bus to Hamburg, Kiel, and other nearby towns. The closest bus station is located near Plön Castle.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Plön by train, with frequent connections to Hamburg, Kiel, and other nearby towns.

How to Get Around in Plön

The best way to get around Plön is on foot or bicycle. The town is small and compact, making it easy to explore. Taxis and car rentals are also available for those who prefer these modes of transportation.

Where to Go Next from Plön: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Kiel: A vibrant university town located 30 km to the north of Plön. Famous for its maritime history and sailing regattas.
  • Lübeck: A historic town located 56 km to the east of Plön, famous for its Gothic architecture and marzipan.

Conclusion

Plön is a hidden gem in Central Europe, offering its visitors a unique blend of culture, nature, and cuisine. With its stunning castle, beautiful lake, and scenic hiking trails, Plön is a perfect destination for those seeking an authentic German experience. So pack your bags and come and explore Plön, you won’t be disappointed.

Plön Castle Plön Castle