Baltic Sea holiday region

Fine sandy beaches, elegant resort architecture and a stiff breeze: Germany’s Baltic coast is the country’s favourite beach destination – from Flensburg to Usedom.

At a glance: Best time to visit: May–September · Summer water temperature 17–20 °C · Ideal for families, cyclists and rest-seekers · Attractive in winter too (spas, empty beaches).

Why the Baltic Sea?

Unlike the North Sea, the Baltic has almost no tides – the beach is always there and the water deepens gently. That makes this coast especially family-friendly. Add the famous seaside resorts with their white spa architecture, more than 2,000 km of Baltic Coast Cycle Route and islands like Rügen, Usedom and Fehmarn, each worth a trip in its own right.

Best time to visit

PeriodRecommendation
June – AugustSwimming season, peak season – secure accommodation early
May & SeptemberMild, much cheaper, ideal for cycling
October – AprilStormy beach walks, wellness, low-season prices

The most beautiful spots

Rügen

Germany’s largest island with the chalk cliffs of Jasmund National Park, the resort of Binz and miles of beaches. Best planned with 4–7 nights.

Usedom

The “sunny island” with the imperial resorts of Ahlbeck, Heringsdorf and Bansin. Statistically Germany’s sunniest spot.

Bay of Lübeck

Timmendorfer Strand, Scharbeutz and Grömitz – quick to reach from Hamburg, very good infrastructure, ideal for short breaks.

Fischland-Darss-Zingst

Unspoilt western beach, the artists’ village of Ahrenshoop, cranes in autumn. The quieter alternative to Rügen.

Where to stay

On the Baltic, holiday apartments are the first choice – especially for families. Beachfront places for the summer holidays are often booked out a year ahead; if you’re flexible, May and September offer great deals.

See hotels on the Baltic coast* Find holiday rentals*

Activities & tours

Popular: boat tours to the chalk cliffs, the Ozeaneum in Stralsund, bike hire for the coastal cycle route and amber-hunting walks. Museum and boat tickets are often cheaper online.

See tours & tickets*

*Affiliate link: if you book through it, we earn a small commission. The price stays the same for you.