Things To Do
in Greifswald
Greifswald sits on the Baltic coast in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, anchored by a renowned university. Its old town features timber-framed houses, a grand market square, and the impressive St. Mary's Church. The city uses its river delta and waterfront for walks, cafés, and Baltic views.
It serves as a gateway to Usedom and Rügen with a blend of history, culture, and seaside flavor.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café in Greifswald's historic center, savoring traditional German pastries and fresh coffee. After breakfast, take a stroll through the charming streets, admiring the well-preserved Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Visit the iconic St. Nicholas Cathedral to marvel at its stunning stained glass windows and intricate woodwork.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the weekly market at the market square, where you can sample local delicacies and buy handmade crafts. Continue your exploration by visiting the Pomeranian State Museum to learn about the region's rich history and culture. As the sun sets, enjoy a peaceful walk along the Ryck River, taking in the picturesque views of the surrounding landscapes.
For dinner, choose a cozy restaurant in the historic center that serves regional specialties, such as fresh fish from the nearby Baltic Sea. After your meal, catch a performance at the Greifswald Theater, where you can enjoy a variety of shows ranging from drama to music. End your evening with a nightcap at a nearby bar, soaking in the local nightlife.
Begin your day with a visit to the University of Greifswald, one of the oldest universities in Germany, where you can explore its historic buildings and learn about its academic significance. Afterward, head to the university's botanical garden, where a tranquil atmosphere and a diverse collection of plants await you. Take a leisurely walk through the garden, appreciating the various themed sections and the beautiful landscaping.
Spend your afternoon enjoying a picnic in the botanical garden, surrounded by nature and the sounds of chirping birds. Afterward, dive into the world of science at the University of Greifswald's museum, where fascinating exhibitions showcase the university's contributions to various fields. Wrap up your visit with a coffee at a nearby café, discussing your favorite exhibits and soaking in the academic ambiance.
In the evening, treat yourself to dinner at a traditional German restaurant, where you can indulge in hearty meals and local brews. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the university campus, enjoying the beautifully lit buildings and vibrant student life. If you’re in the mood for some entertainment, check out a local pub for live music or trivia night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-50 |
| 🏨Hotel nightly rate (mid-range) | $80-150 |
| 🚆Public transit ticket (one-way) | $3-5 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a week | $40-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- University atmosphere with cultural activities
- Compact and walkable old town
- Access to Baltic coast and nearby islands
- Limited large-scale nightlife
- Touristy areas can be crowded in summer
- "Guten Tag" - Hello / Good day
- "Bitte" - Please
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
Places to Visit in Greifswald
Visit one of these nice places.
Gothic brick church with a tall spire and a central square; great for architectural photos and skyline shots.
Historic market square framed by timber-framed houses and the town hall; best golden hour shots.
Waterfront with fishing boats and seascapes; ideal for sunset photography.
Historic university buildings and courtyards offering academic atmosphere.
Food in Greifswald
Greifswald Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Baltic Sea fish sandwich sold at harbor stalls and fish bars around Greifswald.
Must-Try!
Kale with a traditional sausage, a hearty winter specialty that many restaurants serve seasonally.
Dense rye loaves served with local smoked fish as a light meal or snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Central market square with seasonal stalls, baked goods, and produce near the town hall.
On the waterfront you’ll find fish stalls offering fresh Fischbrötchen and smoked fish.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Guten Tag' or 'Hallo'; address adults with 'Sie' in formal settings unless invited to 'du'.
Safety
Tipping in Greifswald
Ensure a smooth experience
In Germany, rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common; you can tip in cash or add to the bill.
Cash and cards (debit/credit) are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; some smaller cafes may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days, average highs around 20-25°C, lively street life, outdoor cafes and harbor events.
Mild to cool with colorful foliage, harvest markets, and fewer crowds.
Cold and often cloudy with occasional snow; festive markets and cozy pubs.
Cool to mild with blooming trees, rain showers, and early outdoor activity.
Greifswald at Night
Hiking in Greifswald
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic riverside route near Greifswald with birdlife and easy terrain.
Coastal hiking on Usedom Island with beaches and dunes.
Day trip to Rügen island for chalk cliffs and forest trails.
Airports
How to reach Greifswald by plane.
Major regional airport about 150 km away with connections to Germany and some international destinations.
Located on Usedom Island, around 60-90 minutes by road from Greifswald; good for summer holiday travel.
Smaller regional airport about 150-180 km away with several domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large share due to the university, influencing town life, nightlife, and cultural events.
Long-term residents with ties to the region’s maritime and university heritage.
Visitors drawn to the Baltic coast, museums, and historic architecture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular local sport, with matches often played by university teams and clubs.
Due to Baltic coast proximity, sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking are common.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Greifswald.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in Greifswald; look for salads, veggie curries, cheese plates, and vegetable sides; many places can adapt dishes.