Things To Do
in Anklam

Anklam is a small, historic town in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern perched along the Peene river. Its brick Gothic architecture, picturesque market square, and quiet streets invite leisurely walks and bike rides. The town serves as a gateway to the Baltic coast and nearby nature reserves, offering easy day trips to Usedom and the surrounding countryside.

In all seasons it feels intimate and charming, with friendly locals and a slower pace of life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional German pastries like 'Berliner' and fresh coffee. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Anklam, admiring the historic architecture and quaint shops. Visit the St. Mary's Church, where you can appreciate its stunning Gothic design and rich history.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, enjoy a guided tour of the Anklam Museum, which showcases the city's heritage and the famous aviator Otto Lilienthal. After the museum, have lunch at a local restaurant, indulging in regional specialties like 'Kohlrouladen' (cabbage rolls). Spend some time wandering through the picturesque old town, discovering hidden gems and local artisans.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to the banks of the Peene River for a relaxing evening walk, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. Stop at a cozy restaurant for dinner, where you can taste traditional East German dishes paired with local beers. End the night by enjoying a performance at the Anklam Theater, where you can experience local arts and culture.

day 2
Nature and Wildlife at Peene River
morning
:

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation, then prepare for an adventure along the Peene River. Rent a kayak or canoe and paddle along the serene waters, surrounded by lush landscapes and abundant wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for various bird species, including the iconic white-tailed eagle.

afternoon
:

After an exhilarating morning on the water, take a break for lunch at a riverside café, savoring fresh fish dishes caught from the river. In the afternoon, continue your exploration with a guided nature walk in the nearby nature reserve, where you can learn about the unique ecosystem and its inhabitants. Capture stunning photographs of the scenic views and diverse flora.

evening
:

Return to Anklam for a relaxing evening at a local beer garden, where you can taste regional brews and socialize with locals. Enjoy a casual dinner of hearty local fare while listening to live traditional music. Conclude your day by taking a peaceful evening stroll along the riverbank, reflecting on your day's adventures.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee$2-5
🚆Local transport day pass$6-9
🏨Budget hotel/hostel per night$40-70
🛒Groceries for a day$15-25

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Peaceful town with a well-preserved historic core
  • Easy day trips to the Baltic coast and islands
  • Quieter streets ideal for cycling and walking
  • Limited nightlife and large-city amenities
  • Smaller selection of international cuisines
  • Some attractions may have limited hours outside peak season
  • "Guten Tag" - Hello
  • "Danke schön" - Thank you
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Könnten Sie bitte langsamer sprechen?" - Could you please speak more slowly?
  • "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
  • "Ich hätte gern …" - I would like …

Places to Visit in Anklam

Visit one of these nice places.

St. Nikolai Church (Brick Gothic)

A striking brick Gothic church dating to the 13th century, featuring tall spires and intricate stonework.

Anklam Rathaus (Town Hall)

Historic brick facade and a charming market square backdrop—great for architectural shots and street scenes.

Peene River Promenade

Scenic waterfront with boats and sunset views over the river; ideal for landscape and travel photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Anklam

Mecklenburg-Vorpommern’s coastal influence gives Anklam simple, satisfying dishes focused on seafood, rye bread, potatoes, and seasonal produce. Expect fresh ingredients, straightforward preparations, and welcoming taverns that emphasize regional flavors.

Anklam Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fischsuppe aus der Peene

A hearty fish soup featuring local river fish, herbs, and seasonal vegetables; commonly found in harbor inns and markets.

Must-Try!

Steckrübeneintopf

A robust turnip and potato stew, a regional winter favorite that showcases hearty northern German comfort food.

Geräucherter Aal

Smoked eel served with rye bread and horseradish; typical in harbor taverns and fish-focused eateries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Großer Markt Anklam

Weekly market offering fresh produce, bread, and local specialties; great for a quick bite and chat with vendors.

Anklam Hafenmarkt

Harbor market area with seafood stalls and small snacks by the water.

Climate Guide

Weather

Anklam has a temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cool, damp winters. The Baltic influence brings regular precipitation year-round and moderate seasonal temperature changes.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and manners

Greet with 'Guten Tag' and a handshake; use the formal Sie unless invited to use du; be punctual for appointments.

Safety Guide

Safety

Anklam is generally safe for visitors. Practice standard safety precautions against petty theft in crowded areas, secure belongings, and be mindful near the river edges after dark.

Tipping in Anklam

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

A tip of 5-10% is customary for good service if not included; rounding up is common in casual settings.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Long daylight hours, pleasant temperatures, and outdoor events; bring sun protection and light layers.

Autumn

Mild to cool days with colorful foliage; ideal for walks and city photography with soft light.

Winter

Cold and often damp; indoor attractions shine, and cozy cafés offer warmth. Pack warm clothing and waterproof footwear.

Spring

Rising temperatures and blooming landscapes; great for hiking, cycling, and outdoor markets.

Nightlife Guide

Anklam at Night

The nightlife in Anklam is modest and family-friendly, featuring cozy pubs, riverside taverns, and occasional live music in cultural venues rather than large clubs. Expect relaxed atmospheres, with most venues closing by midnight.

Hiking in Anklam

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Peene River Trail

Scenic riverside hike with forested sections and viewpoints along the Peene.

Stolpe Forest Path

A shaded forest route on the outskirts offering wildlife viewing and a quiet stroll.

Airports

How to reach Anklam by plane.

Rostock-Laage Airport (RLG)

Regional and domestic flights; about a 2-2.5 hour drive from Anklam, with rail connections available.

Heringsdorf Airport (HDF)

Located on Usedom island; serves regional flights and is about 1.5-2 hours by road/train from Anklam.

Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER)

Major international hub; from Anklam, typically a longer journey by train or car (roughly 2.5-3.5 hours).

Getting Around

Walkability

Anklam is compact and walkable, with most sights, cafes, and the old market within easy reach on foot. Some streets are cobbled, so comfortable shoes are recommended. For longer distances or trips to the harbor, a bike or short bus ride is convenient.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

A stable, family-oriented population with local schools and community events.

Older adults

A sizeable segment enjoying the slower pace and nearby nature.

Commuters and students

People traveling to nearby cities for work or study, especially Greifswald and Neubrandenburg.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

Widely played at clubs and community fields; matches are common on weekends.

Cycling

A favored activity along flat rural lanes and waterways.

Sailing and windsurfing

Accessible on nearby coastal waters and lakes; rental services operate seasonally.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Anklam is light to moderate. Regional trains connect to Greifswald and Pasewalk; buses link surrounding villages. The town is very walkable and bike-friendly, with car access mainly for day trips. In summer, tourist traffic can increase on weekends.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Anklam.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are common in most restaurants; look for potato dishes, seasonal salads, and vegetable plates. When in doubt, ask for meat-free versions of local dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is accessible in Anklam with local general practitioners and pharmacies; for major hospitals and specialized care, residents typically travel to Greifswald or other larger towns within an hour by car or train.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide