Things To Do
in Barth
Barth is a historic Baltic Sea town in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern known for its harbor and well-preserved old town. It sits at the edge of the Bodden waters and serves as a gateway to the Darß peninsula with easy access to beaches and nature reserves. The town blends maritime heritage with a relaxed, pedestrian-friendly center filled with cafés, small shops, and markets.
Nearby Bodden and coastlines invite boat trips, birdwatching, and scenic strolls along the quay.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Barth and settle into your accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets to absorb the town's atmosphere. Stop by a local bakery for a traditional German breakfast of fresh bread and pastries.
Visit the St. Marien Church, where you can admire its beautiful architecture and rich history. Explore the nearby historic buildings in the town center, each telling its unique story. Consider renting a bike to cycle around the scenic harbor.
Dine at a local restaurant that serves fresh fish, caught daily from the Baltic Sea. Enjoy the cozy ambiance and perhaps strike up a conversation with the locals. Wrap up your night with a leisurely walk along the waterfront, taking in the sunset.
Begin your day with a visit to the Barther Hafen, where you can enjoy views of historic ships and the bustling activity of the port. Grab breakfast at a café that overlooks the harbor. Afterward, take a guided tour to learn about the town's rich maritime history.
Visit the local museum to dive deeper into Barth’s fascinating past. The exhibits provide insights into the town’s transformation over the centuries. Spend some time shopping for locally crafted souvenirs in the quaint shops.
Experience a traditional German evening by attending a cultural performance or concert at a local venue. Savor dinner at a restaurant offering regional dishes paired with fine local wines. Conclude your day with a nightcap at a nearby pub with a rustic atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in café | $3-5 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $70-140 |
| 🛍️Souvenirs and small goods | $5-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable town with easy access to natural areas
- Fresh Baltic seafood and regional specialties
- Charming harbor atmosphere and historic architecture
- Strong gateway to Darß peninsula and Bodden landscapes
- Limited nightlife and large-scale entertainment
- Smaller town amenities compared to bigger cities
- Seasonal crowds can peak in summer at the harbor areas
- "Guten Tag" - Hello / Good day
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Ich hätte gern..." - I would like to have...
- "Tisch für zwei bitte" - Table for two, please
- "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Danke" - Thank you
Places to Visit in Barth
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft morning light over boats and colorful houses creates reflections and warm tones along the quay.
Narrow lanes and gabled facades provide classic maritime townscapes perfect for composition and detail shots.
Mudflats and shallow waters reveal textures and silhouettes of creeks and birds during low tide.
Elevated spot offering panoramic views of the town, harbor, and Bodden waters.
Food in Barth
Barth Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fresh fish sandwich with cod or herring on a crusty roll, typically with onions and pickles.
Must-Try!
Pan-fried plaice with onions and bacon, a coastal favorite.
A salted beef and mashed potato hash with pickled beetroot and a fried egg, a northern German staple.
Herring salad with potatoes, apples, and a light sour cream dressing.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market near the harbor selling fresh seafood, regional produce, and baked goods.
Seasonal street food stalls along the waterfront offering grilled fish, fries, and local pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly Hallo or Guten Tag; punctuality is appreciated for appointments and tours.
Respect quiet hours in residential areas, especially in the evenings and on Sundays.
Keep nature and beaches clean; dispose of waste properly and avoid feeding wildlife.
Safety
Tipping in Barth
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafés, rounding up or leaving about 5-10% for good service is customary.
Cash and cards (EC/kreditkarte) are widely accepted; contactless payments are common in shops and eateries.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blossoming trees; shoulder-season crowds, great for walking and cycling.
Warm days and long evenings; beach access nearby and busy harbor activity; expect markets and outdoor seating.
Crisp air and rich colors; good for wildlife watching and quieter streets.
Cool to cold, with festive markets in nearby towns; shorter days but atmospheric coastal scenery.
Barth at Night
Hiking in Barth
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive network of forest paths on the Darß peninsula with birdwatching and scenic viewpoints.
Coastal routes along the Bodden with broad horizons, wetlands, and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Popular linear hikes along the shoreline offering dramatic sea views and dune scenery.
Airports
How to reach Barth by plane.
Regional airport serving northern MV with connections to several German cities; about a 1.5–2.5 hour drive to Barth depending on route.
Smaller regional airport offering seasonal and charter flights; typically used for connections to larger hubs.
Major international airport about a few hours by car or train from Barth; good option for wider international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of long-time locals and seasonal workers; an aging population is common in rural MV communities.
Visiting families and nature lovers, especially in warm months, drawn to the Bodden landscapes and Darß region.
Historically rooted in the harbor and local economy, contributing to the town’s maritime character.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Coastal towns along the Baltic are known for sailing and traditional fishing culture.
Flat coastal routes and forest trails make cycling popular for visitors and locals.
Common at local clubs and community centers, especially among families and youth.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Barth.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in most places; look for salads, grilled vegetables, cheese plates, and hearty soups. Inform staff about any dairy or egg restrictions.