Things To Do
in Grimmen

Grimmen is a small historic town in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Germany, located near the Baltic coast and the Recknitz river. It features a compact, walkable center with timber-framed houses, a historic market square, and rural scenery just beyond the town gates. It serves as a quiet base for exploring rural northern Germany, with easy day trips to nearby coastlines and nature reserves.

Visitors find a relaxed pace, friendly locals, and a charming blend of heritage and countryside.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Grimmen's Historic Town Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the picturesque town center of Grimmen, where you can admire the stunning architecture that dates back to the Middle Ages. Stop by the local bakery to enjoy fresh pastries and coffee while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Don't forget to visit the charming market square, surrounded by quaint shops and historical buildings.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, head towards the St. Mary's Church, a striking landmark with remarkable stained-glass windows and a rich history. After exploring the church, treat yourself to a savory lunch at a traditional German restaurant, savoring local dishes. Spend the rest of the day wandering through the nearby parks and gardens, taking in the lush greenery and serene surroundings.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a relaxed dinner at a cozy eatery, indulging in authentic German cuisine with a modern twist. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the streets, where you can appreciate the charming night lights illuminating the historic buildings. Wind down your evening at a local pub, enjoying a refreshing beer while mingling with the friendly locals.

day 2
Visit the Grimmen Museum
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Grimmen Museum, where you can learn about the town's fascinating history and cultural heritage. The museum showcases a variety of exhibits that include artifacts, art, and displays that tell the story of Grimmen through the centuries. Engage with knowledgeable staff who can provide insights and anecdotes about the town's past.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon exploring the museum's interpretation of daily life in historical Grimmen, followed by a visit to a nearby café for lunch. This is a great opportunity to chat with locals and other travelers while enjoying local specialties. Afterward, take a scenic walk around the ultra-modern housing projects that contrast the historic parts of Grimmen, showcasing the town's blend of old and new.

evening
:

In the evening, find a picturesque spot in a nearby park to have a picnic dinner as you reflect on your day. As twilight descends, consider catching a performance at a local theatre if available, where you can immerse yourself in German culture. Finish the night by enjoying a stroll through the town, taking in the peaceful ambiance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
🥖Bakery item$2-4
Coffee in cafe$3-6
🍽️Three-course meal for two$30-60
🚆Public transport day pass$6-9

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming small-town atmosphere with historic architecture
  • Proximity to the Baltic coast and nature trails
  • Affordability and relaxed pace for travelers
  • Good for cycling and outdoor activities
  • Friendly locals and easy accessibility from major cities
  • Limited nightlife and few nightlife venues in town
  • Fewer big-city amenities; some services require travel
  • Seasonal tourist crowds in peak months
  • Weather can be changeable; pack for rain and wind
  • Public transport less frequent than in larger cities
  • "Guten Tag" - Hello / Good day
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Können Sie Englisch sprechen?" - Can you speak English?
  • "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
  • "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me / Sorry
  • "Ich verstehe nicht" - I don’t understand

Places to Visit in Grimmen

Visit one of these nice places.

Grimmen Market Square

A picturesque square framed by timber-framed houses and the historic town hall, ideal for morning light.

Recknitz River Promenade

Waterfront views with boats and wetlands, especially good at golden hour.

Old Windmill on the Town Edge

A traditional rural windmill setting, great for rural textures and silhouettes.

Baltic Coastline Viewpoints (nearby towns)

Coastal dunes and sea horizons within a short drive, offering expansive seascapes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Grimmen

Mecklenburg-Vorpommern’s cuisine emphasizes fresh Baltic seafood, hearty regional dishes, and simple farm-to-table ingredients. Expect fish, breads, dairy, mushrooms, and seasonal produce, often prepared in comforting, unfussy styles.

Grimmen Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fischsuppe (Fish Soup)

A comforting seafood soup featuring Baltic fish, potatoes, and herbs. Often served with crusty bread in coastal towns.

Must-Try!

Fischfilet mit Gemüse

Pan-seared local fish filet with seasonal vegetables, a staple in coastal eateries.

Plook

A hearty meat-and-potatoes dish common in rural Mecklenburg, perfect for a filling lunch.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Grimmen Wochenmarkt (Market)

Weekly market in Grimmen offering fresh produce, bread, dairy, and regional specialties.

Baltic Street Treats (Seasonal)

Seasonal stalls with local pastries and simple street bites near the town center.

Climate Guide

Weather

Grimmen experiences a temperate maritime climate with moderate summers and cold winters. Prevailing winds from the Baltic keep temperatures mild in summer (typically 18-23°C during the day) and cool in winter (often near freezing). Rain is common year-round, so pack layers and a waterproof jacket. Humidity is relatively high, and the landscape remains green through much of the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality and Greetings

Be punctual for appointments; greet with a polite 'Guten Tag' in shops and restaurants; maintain a respectful, quiet demeanor in public spaces.

Recycling and Cleanliness

Germany emphasizes recycling; separate waste and use bins where provided.

Church Etiquette

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; speak softly and remove hats where appropriate.

Safety Guide

Safety

Grimmen is generally very safe for travelers with low crime rates. Standard precautions apply: keep valuables secure, especially in crowded areas; watch traffic when on bikes or walking along rural roads; check weather and sea conditions if heading to the coast. In emergencies, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance; carry a map or offline navigation when exploring rural routes.

Tipping in Grimmen

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In Germany, tipping is polite but not obligatory. Round up the bill or add about 5-10% for good service.

Payment Methods

Cash and cards are widely accepted; many places also accept contactless payments and mobile wallets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Long daylight hours, comfortable temperatures around 20-24°C, occasional showers; ideal for outdoor markets, walks, and coastal day trips.

Autumn

Mild to cool days with colorful foliage; harvest flavors appear in menus; light rain is common.

Winter

Cold temperatures, potential snowfall; quieter streets, seasonal markets in nearby towns; dress warmly and be prepared for wind off the Baltic.

Spring

Warming weather, blooming countryside, and fresh produce; rain is typical, so pack a light rain jacket.

Nightlife Guide

Grimmen at Night

Grimmen has a modest nightlife scene with a few bars and pubs in the town center. For more variety, nearby Stralsund and Greifswald offer larger selections of cafés, live music venues, and clubs. Expect a relaxed, conversation-friendly atmosphere rather than late-night partying. Seasonal festivals and open-air concerts can provide extra evening entertainment.

Hiking in Grimmen

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Recknitz River Valley Trail

A scenic route along the Recknitz with woodlands and wetlands; suitable for half-day hikes.

Trebel River Path

Trail along the Trebel river offering rural landscapes and birdlife.

Baltic Coastline and Dune Walks

Coastal paths within a short drive with sea views and sandy shores.

Airports

How to reach Grimmen by plane.

Rostock-Laage Airport (RLG)

Major regional airport with flights to Germany and some international connections; about a few hours drive from Grimmen.

Hamburg Airport (HAM)

Larger international airport within a couple of hours’ drive; frequent connections across Europe.

Lübeck Airport (LBC)

Small regional airport offering seasonal and domestic flights; closer by road but fewer services.

Getting Around

Walkability

Grimmen’s town center is compact and walkable; most sights, cafes, and shops are reachable on foot. For longer trips or day trips to the coast, a bicycle or short car ride is convenient. Parking is usually available around the market square, and public transit connections to nearby cities supplement walking.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

Mostly German families and retirees, with a growing interest from visitors and seasonal workers during the tourist season.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Popular both in clubs and informal play; local leagues and facilities are widely available.

Cycling

Flat and gently rolling countryside makes cycling a common pastime.

Sailing and water sports

Close proximity to the Baltic coast supports sailing and water recreation in nearby towns.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Grimmen is usually light, with most visitors moving by car or bike. Regional trains connect Grimmen to Stralsund, Greifswald, and larger hubs, but services can be infrequent on Sundays. Roads are well-maintained, with scenic rural routes that are popular with cyclists; always share the road with care.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Grimmen.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian soups, salads, and veggie plates; ask for fish-free options and dairy-free preparations.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic medical services are available in Grimmen with local doctors and pharmacies. For more extensive care, residents rely on hospitals in Stralsund or Greifswald, both reachable by car or regional train. Travel insurance and a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) are recommended for visitors from EU countries.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide