Things To Do
in Bad Schwartau
Bad Schwartau is a quiet spa town in Schleswig-Holstein, just east of Lübeck. It blends wellness traditions with easy access to the Baltic coast and forested landscapes. The town centers on healing springs and Kurparks, offering a calm base for day trips.
Its proximity to Lübeck's UNESCO-listed Old Town makes it an ideal base for culture, cuisine, and waterfront walks.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Bad Schwartau and check into your cozy accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll through the town to acclimate and enjoy the charming architecture. Enjoy a fresh breakfast at a local café to fuel your day.
Visit the renowned spa facilities and indulge in rejuvenating treatments or relax in the thermal waters. Take a walk to the nearby parks and gardens to appreciate the lush greenery and scenic views. Stop by a quaint shop to pick up local crafts and souvenirs.
Dine at a traditional German restaurant, relishing delicious local dishes. Enjoy a nice glass of wine or beer while you soak in the cozy atmosphere. Conclude your evening with a walk along the illuminated streets, breathing in the serenity of the town.
Start your day with an invigorating hike in the nearby Holstein Switzerland Nature Park. Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the stunning views of rolling hills and serene lakes. Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic spots along the trail.
Continue your outdoor adventures with cycling along designated paths that wind through the countryside. Explore hidden gems and enjoy the beautiful landscapes while keeping an eye out for local wildlife. Stop for a light lunch at a picturesque café along the route.
Return to Bad Schwartau and unwind with a visit to a local beer garden. Taste some of the region's craft beers while mingling with locals. End your day with a relaxed stroll, soaking in the tranquil evening ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two | $40-70 |
| 🥤Domestic beer (0.5L) | $3-6 |
| 🚆One-way ticket (local transit) | $2-3 |
| 🏨Hotel room (mid-range, per night) | $70-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm spa-town atmosphere with easy access to Lübeck and the Baltic coast
- Strong mix of nature, culture, and good food
- Limited nightlife in Bad Schwartau itself
- Often fewer big-city attractions; best for day trips and relaxed pacing
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Ich hätte gern ..." - I would like to have ...
- "Die Rechnung, bitte." - The check, please.
- "Danke schön." - Thank you.
Places to Visit in Bad Schwartau
Visit one of these nice places.
A classic spa park with winding paths, ponds, and benches—great for golden-hour photography.
A tranquil lakeside spot with reflections of trees and sky—perfect for calm morning shots.
Medieval silhouettes and canal views around the Holstentor, St. Mary's Church, and brick Gothic buildings.
Waterfront scenes with boats and historic architecture along Lübeck’s river edge.
Food in Bad Schwartau
Bad Schwartau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty beef hash with onions and potatoes, often served with pickled gherkins and a fried egg; a Northern German favorite found in Lübeck taverns.
Must-Try!
Kale slow-cooked with sausages (Pinkel) and potatoes; a traditional winter staple popular in Lübeck and surrounding areas.
Fresh fish sandwich (often herring, salmon, or cod) on a crusty roll; a staple along Lübeck’s harbor and coastal markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market square with seasonal produce, fish stalls, and regional specialties when market days are held.
Occasional weekly markets offering fresh bread, cheeses, fruit, and locally produced goods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be on time for appointments, trains, and reservations.
A firm handshake is common; greet with 'Guten Tag' or 'Hallo'.
Observe Ruhezeiten in residential areas, particularly evenings and Sundays.
Safety
Tipping in Bad Schwartau
Ensure a smooth experience
In Germany, rounding up or adding 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants.
Cash and cards (EC/debit, and many credit cards) are widely accepted; some small shops prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with sea breezes and long daylight hours; occasional showers; great for outdoor dining and lake walks.
Cool, breezy days with autumn colors; fewer crowds; ideal for city strolls and forest trails.
Cold with possible frost or light snow; Christmas markets in Lübeck showcase festive lights and warmth.
Mild, gradually warming weather; parks bloom and riverside paths reopen for longer walks.
Bad Schwartau at Night
Hiking in Bad Schwartau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Riverside and forest trails with birdwatching; easy to moderate.
Scenic lakes, rolling hills, and forests; a classic day hike in the Holstein region.
Airports
How to reach Bad Schwartau by plane.
Major international hub about 60-90 minutes away by train or car.
Smaller regional airport near Bad Schwartau; convenient for regional travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, professionals, retirees, and cross-border visitors from Denmark and southern Sweden.
Lübeck's universities and tourist flow bring younger visitors to the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely participated in clubs and schools; local league action and events.
Active along the Baltic coast and local lakes with seasonal rentals.
Extensive routes for leisure and day trips across the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bad Schwartau.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes such as salads, potato-based meals, and pasta; ask for Gemusgerichte or seasonal vegetables. In tourist areas, vegan options are increasingly available.