Photo: Christian Wolf (www.c-w-design.de), Holstentor in Lübeck Frontseite - Zuschnitt, CC BY-SA 3.0 de

Schleswig-Holstein at a glance

Find all the top tips for your trip at Schleswig-Holstein

Last revision: 2025-03-23

Hello and welcome to my website. My name is Thorsten. I'm a software engineer living in Germany and I love to travel. So I created a site for anyone starting to plan a trip.

What this site is about

✔ Would you like to organize a trip to Schleswig-Holstein yourself, but don't know exactly how and where to start planning? Then you've come to the right place. This website offers you exactly the information you need to start planning your trip.

✔ Here you can find out what the best places to stay are and where the best sights are. Here you will find information on the best starting point for your trip, the best time to travel and much more.

✔ When the trip becomes a little more concrete, you can go to the planning site in the next step and create your individual travel plan.

From Lübeck's Gothic Charm to Sylt's Nightlife: There is Something for Everyone

Nature The diverse landscapes of Schleswig-Holstein, from the rolling hills and lakes of Holsteinische Schweiz to the breathtaking cliffs of the Baltic Sea coast, offer nature lovers endless exploration opportunities. The region's national parks and nature reserves are perfect for bird watching, hiking, and experiencing the unique flora and fauna.

Leisure Schleswig-Holstein's beaches, especially along the Baltic Sea coast, are renowned for their vibrant beach bars and lively party scenes during the summer months. Sylt and Timmendorfer Strand are hotspots for those looking to enjoy sun-soaked days followed by unforgettable nights.

Cities Lübeck, with its iconic Holsten Gate and stunning Brick Gothic architecture, is a must-visit city that tells the tale of the Hanseatic League's rich history. Kiel, on the other hand, offers a vibrant blend of maritime heritage, modern shopping districts, and a lively cultural scene.

Culture Schleswig-Holstein is home to the mesmerizing Wadden Sea, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a unique cultural landscape shaped by millennia of human interaction with nature. The region's rich history is also embodied in its ancient Viking and medieval sites scattered across the countryside.

Food & Drinks The culinary landscape of Schleswig-Holstein is marked by its delicious seafood, including freshly caught fish and shrimp, complemented by the unique taste of Holsteiner Tilsiter cheese. Don't miss out on the traditional rum-based grog or a refreshing Flensburger Pilsener to experience the local flavors.

Get an overview of the top attractions

Show the sights on the map

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By displaying the sights in the map, you can recognise where it is worth staying overnight. Click on a pin on the map to see the description of the sight.

Best places to stay overnight

1 Lübeck: Because it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich Hanseatic history and stunning architecture. Attractions: Holstentor, Lübeck Cathedral, Old Town Want more details about Lübeck? Here you can find all the information you need for a great stay in Lübeck.

2 Sylt: For its exclusive resorts, beautiful beaches, and unique dune landscapes. Attractions: Westerland Beach, Kampen, Morsum-Kliff Want more details about Sylt? Here you can find all the information you need for a great stay in Sylt.

3 Fehmarn: Because of its bird reserves and the famous Fehmarn Belt, offering great opportunities for bird watching and sailing. Attractions: Burg auf Fehmarn, Fehmarn Belt, Wallnau Waterbird Reserve Want more details about Fehmarn? Here you can find all the information you need for a great stay in Fehmarn.

4 Kiel: For its maritime atmosphere, the Kiel Canal, and the annual Kiel Week sailing event. Attractions: Kiel Canal, Maritime Museum, Kiel Week Want more details about Kiel? Here you can find all the information you need for a great stay in Kiel.

5 Husum: Known as the 'grey city by the sea', it offers a unique charm with its harbor and the Theodor Storm House. Attractions: Husum Castle, Theodor Storm House, Husum Harbour Want more details about Husum? Here you can find all the information you need for a great stay in Husum.

6 Schleswig: For its historical significance, including the Viking Museum Haithabu and the Schleswig Cathedral. Attractions: Viking Museum Haithabu, Schleswig Cathedral, Gottorf Castle Want more details about Schleswig? Here you can find all the information you need for a great stay in Schleswig.

7 St. Peter-Ording: For its vast beaches, impressive sand dunes, and the iconic stilt houses. Attractions: Beach, Sand Dunes, Stilt Houses Want more details about St. Peter-Ording? Here you can find all the information you need for a great stay in St. Peter-Ording.

8 Flensburg: Because of its picturesque harbor, historic merchant houses, and proximity to the Danish border. Attractions: Flensburg Harbour, Nordermarkt, Naval Academy Mürwik Want more details about Flensburg? Here you can find all the information you need for a great stay in Flensburg.

9 Ratzeburg: For the Ratzeburg Lake, surrounded by beautiful nature, offering great opportunities for water sports and hiking. Attractions: Ratzeburg Cathedral, Ratzeburg Lake, Ernst Barlach Museum Want more details about Ratzeburg? Here you can find all the information you need for a great stay in Ratzeburg.

All sights sorted by popularity in Schleswig-Holstein

1 Lübeck's Old Town, UNESCO World Heritage: ⭐ ⭐ A UNESCO World Heritage site, Lübeck's Old Town is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the iconic Holstentor gate.

2 Schleswig Cathedral: ⭐ ⭐ This stunning cathedral is a masterpiece of Brick Gothic architecture and houses an impressive organ and the famous Brüggemann Altar.

3 Wadden Sea National Park, UNESCO World Heritage: ⭐ ⭐ A UNESCO World Heritage site, this national park is one of the largest tidal flats in the world, offering unique landscapes and a sanctuary for numerous bird species.

4 Holstentor Museum: ⭐ ⭐ Located in the iconic Holstentor gate, this museum offers insights into Lübeck's Hanseatic past and the city's maritime history.

5 Kiel Canal: ⭐ ⭐ One of the world's busiest artificial waterways, the Kiel Canal connects the North Sea with the Baltic Sea and offers picturesque views and boat tours.

6 Laboe Naval Memorial: ⭐ ⭐ Overlooking the Kiel Fjord, this towering memorial is dedicated to sailors of all nationalities lost at sea and offers panoramic views from its observation deck.

7 Plön Castle: ⭐ ⭐ Nestled amidst the lakes of the Holsteinische Schweiz, Plön Castle is a historic Renaissance castle offering guided tours and stunning views.

8 Gottorf Castle: ⭐ ⭐ Home to the Schleswig-Holstein State Museums, Gottorf Castle showcases extensive art collections and the famous Gottorf Globe, in a beautiful Renaissance castle setting.

9 Fehmarn Island: ⭐ Known for its sunny climate and beautiful beaches, Fehmarn Island offers a variety of outdoor activities including bird watching, surfing, and cycling.

10 Hedeby and the Danevirke: ⭐ An important archaeological site, Hedeby was once a thriving Viking trading settlement, and the Danevirke is a historic defensive earthwork.

Car or public transport: how you can get around

Exploring Schleswig-Holstein by Rental Car

Renting a car is one of the most flexible ways to explore Schleswig-Holstein. With a rental car, you can easily visit remote villages and scenic countryside at your own pace. Major rental companies are available at airports and city centers, providing a wide range of vehicle options. The roads in Schleswig-Holstein are well-maintained, making driving a pleasant experience. Remember to check for parking options in cities and popular tourist spots.

Discover the Region by Train

Trains are a convenient and efficient way to travel across Schleswig-Holstein. The region is well-connected by Deutsche Bahn, offering frequent services between major cities and towns. Traveling by train allows you to enjoy the picturesque landscapes without the hassle of driving. Consider purchasing a regional pass for unlimited travel within Schleswig-Holstein. Stations are usually centrally located, making it easy to access local attractions.

Navigating Schleswig-Holstein by Bus

Buses provide an affordable option for getting around Schleswig-Holstein. Regional buses connect smaller towns and rural areas that might not be accessible by train. The bus network is extensive and schedules are generally reliable. Tickets can be purchased online or directly from the driver. Be sure to check the timetable in advance, especially for less frequent rural routes.

Flying into Schleswig-Holstein

While Schleswig-Holstein does not have a major international airport, it is easily accessible via nearby airports such as Hamburg or Lübeck. From these airports, you can rent a car or take public transport to reach your destination in Schleswig-Holstein. Domestic flights within Germany can also be an option for reaching the region quickly. Consider flying if you are coming from a distant part of the country or abroad. Always check for the most convenient airport based on your travel itinerary.

Cycling Through the Countryside

Schleswig-Holstein is a paradise for cyclists, with numerous bike paths crisscrossing the region. Cycling allows you to experience the natural beauty and charm of the countryside at a leisurely pace. Many towns offer bike rentals, and some hotels provide bicycles for guests. Popular routes include the Baltic Sea Cycle Route and the North Sea Cycle Route. Always wear a helmet and follow local cycling regulations for a safe journey.

Taking the Ferry to Explore Coastal Areas

Ferries are an excellent way to explore the coastal areas and islands of Schleswig-Holstein. Regular ferry services operate between the mainland and islands such as Sylt, Föhr, and Amrum. Traveling by ferry offers stunning views of the coastline and a unique travel experience. Tickets can be purchased online or at ferry terminals. Check the schedule in advance, as services may vary depending on the season.

Sailing Along the Coastline

For a unique perspective of Schleswig-Holstein, consider sailing along its beautiful coastline. Several marinas offer boat rentals and sailing tours for both beginners and experienced sailors. The Baltic and North Sea coasts provide excellent conditions for sailing, with plenty of harbors to explore. Sailing offers a peaceful way to experience the region's maritime heritage. Be sure to check weather conditions and safety regulations before setting sail.

Where to start your trip

A great starting point for your trip to Schleswig-Holstein would be the city of Hamburg. Although not within Schleswig-Holstein itself, Hamburg is directly adjacent and serves as a major transportation hub with an international airport, making it easily accessible from various locations. It offers excellent rail and road connections into Schleswig-Holstein, allowing you to explore the region's diverse attractions efficiently. Starting from Hamburg gives you the flexibility to travel throughout Schleswig-Holstein easily, whether you're heading to the North Sea, the Baltic Sea, or inland.

Local Food and Drinks: What You Must Try

Savor the Delight of Labskaus

Labskaus is a traditional dish in Schleswig-Holstein that every visitor should try. It consists of corned beef, potatoes, and onions, often served with pickled beetroot and a fried egg on top. This hearty meal has its roots in maritime history, being a staple for sailors. The unique combination of flavors makes it a must-try for those wanting a taste of local cuisine. Pair it with a cold beer for an authentic experience.

Indulge in Holstein Schnitzel

Holstein Schnitzel is a variation of the classic schnitzel, topped with a fried egg, capers, and anchovies. This dish is a perfect representation of the region's culinary flair, combining rich flavors with a touch of the sea. It is typically served with potatoes or a fresh salad. The dish is named after Friedrich von Holstein, a 19th-century German statesman. A visit to Schleswig-Holstein wouldn't be complete without tasting this iconic meal.

Experience the Sweetness of Rote Grütze

Rote Grütze is a beloved dessert in Schleswig-Holstein, made from red berries and served with vanilla sauce or cream. This refreshing treat is perfect after a hearty meal, offering a burst of fruity flavors. It is traditionally made with red currants, raspberries, and cherries. The dessert is not only delicious but also visually appealing with its vibrant red color. Be sure to enjoy it in a local café for an authentic experience.

Quench Your Thirst with Flensburger Pilsener

Flensburger Pilsener is a popular beer from the region, known for its crisp and refreshing taste. Brewed in the town of Flensburg, this pilsner has a distinctive swing-top bottle. It's a favorite among locals and tourists alike, perfect for enjoying on a sunny day. The brewery offers tours where you can learn about the brewing process and sample their beers. Don't miss the chance to taste this iconic beverage during your visit.

Delight in the Unique Flavor of Kieler Sprotten

Kieler Sprotten are small smoked fish that are a specialty of the Kiel area in Schleswig-Holstein. These fish are typically eaten whole, including the bones, offering a unique culinary experience. They are often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer, accompanied by bread and butter. The smoking process gives them a distinct flavor that is both savory and slightly salty. Trying Kieler Sprotten is a must for seafood lovers visiting the region.

Best time to travel

The best months to visit Schleswig-Holstein are from May to September. During these months, the weather is most pleasant, with warmer temperatures and longer days, making it ideal for exploring the outdoors, enjoying the beaches along the North Sea and Baltic Sea, and participating in local festivals. This period is also great for sailing, hiking, and visiting the region's historic sites and natural parks.
However, these months also coincide with the peak tourist season, so expect more crowds and higher prices. For those interested in quieter visits, late spring (May) and early autumn (September) can be optimal, offering a good balance of pleasant weather and fewer tourists. Winter months, from November to March, might not be as appealing for outdoor activities due to colder temperatures and shorter days, but could be ideal for those interested in Christmas markets and experiencing the region's winter landscapes.