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
| Period | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| June – August | Swimming season, peak season – secure accommodation early |
| May & September | Mild, much cheaper, ideal for cycling |
| October – April | Stormy 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.
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