Discover Schwerin: A Guide to the City's Top Attractions

Schwerin, the capital of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern in Germany, is celebrated for its picturesque lakes, particularly the expansive Lake Schwerin. This area is a haven for water sports aficionados, offering sailing, kayaking, fishing, and swimming. Visitors can also enjoy the scenic lakeside trails on foot or by bike.

The city boasts a wealth of historic architecture, largely from the 18th and 19th centuries, thanks to the designs of court architect G.A. Demmler. To uncover the best sights and activities in Schwerin, continue reading.

See also: Where to Stay in Schwerin

1. Schwerin Castle

Schwerin Castle, a 19th-century Romantic-style edifice, sits majestically on Palace Island in Lake Schwerin. The castle, reminiscent of France's Chambord, now houses the state parliament but was once a noble residence. Its Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque features are a visual delight, while the interior boasts silk wallpapers and gilded ornaments. Notable rooms include the Throne Room, Ancestral Portrait Gallery, and Smoking Room, alongside collections of art, silver, porcelain, and weaponry. The palace chapel and a summer café in the Orangery are also worth visiting.

Address: Lennéstraße 1, D-19053 Schwerin

2. Schwerin Castle Gardens (Schlossgarten)

The Schlossgarten, a Baroque pleasure garden, surrounds Schwerin Castle with ponds, lakes, sculptures, and diverse garden styles. The Orangery, a cast iron and glass marvel, is a highlight, doubling as a café in summer.

Address: Lennéstraße 1, D-19053 Schwerin

Tours in Schwerin

3. Mecklenburg State Theater

Near Schwerin Castle, the Neo-Renaissance Mecklenburg State Theater offers a rich program of plays, operas, musicals, and ballets. The theater also hosts the Castle Opera Festival and features a bust of Conrad Ekhof, a pioneer in German dramatic arts.

Address: Alter Garten 2, 19055 Schwerin

4. State Museum Schwerin

The State Museum Schwerin showcases a significant collection of Old and New Masters, Flemish and Dutch art, modern pieces, and ancient artifacts. The Neustädt Altarpiece is a standout exhibit.

Address: Alter Garten 3, 19055 Schwerin

Official site: www.museum-schwerin.de/en/

5. Schwerin Cathedral

Schwerin Cathedral, a Gothic brick structure, is the city's oldest building. Its interior houses a Gothic altar, memorial brasses, a font, and the Ladegast organ. Visitors can climb the tower for panoramic views.

Address: Am Dom 4, 19055 Schwerin

6. Lake Schwerin

Lake Schwerin, part of the Mecklenburg Lake District, offers numerous outdoor activities and boat services to recreational areas like Zippendorf and Kaninchenwerder.

7. Güstrow Palace

Güstrow Palace, a Renaissance structure east of Schwerin, features Italian and French influences, a banquet hall, and a collection of Flemish paintings.

Address: Franz-Parr-Platz 1, 18273 Güstrow

8. Ludwigslust Palace

Ludwigslust Palace, south of Schwerin, is known for its courtly art collection and the Golden Hall. The palace grounds feature a cascade and statues.

Address: Schlossfreiheit 1, 19288 Ludwigslust

9. Mecklenburg Railway and Technology Museum

This museum offers a glimpse into historic trains and technology, with some engines still operational for special events.

Address: Zum Bahnhof 13, 19053 Schwerin

10. Schwerin Zoo

Schwerin Zoo is home to a diverse range of animals and offers feeding experiences and play areas for family fun.

Address: An der Crivitzer Chaussee 1, 19061 Schwerin

11. Open Air Museum of Ethnography Schwerin Museum

This museum features 19th-century buildings and hosts various events, including markets and educational programs.

Address: Alte Crivitzer Landstraße 13, 19063 Schwerin

Where to Stay in Schwerin for Sightseeing

For a luxurious stay, consider Weinhaus Uhle, Hotel Speicher am Ziegelsee, or Hotel Niederländischer Hof. Mid-range options include Zur Traube Hotel-Gasthaus-Sommergarten and Biohotel Amadeus. Budget travelers can look to Hotel am Hauptbahnhof, Hotel am Schloss, and Pension Karina.

Day Trips from Schwerin

Historic Rostock

Rostock, a former Hanseatic town, is known for its seafood, shipbuilding, and the picturesque Warnemünde harbor. The Neuer Markt in Rostock's old town and the Marienkirche are highlights.

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Explore other German cities like Munich, Augsburg, and Cologne, each with their own iconic cathedrals. For maritime history, visit Hamburg and Bremen. Nature lovers can enjoy the Black Forest and Garmisch-Partenkirchen, while the Rhine Valley offers stunning river cruises.