Schwerin: What You Need to Know

Schwerin is the capital and second-largest city of the German state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. Located in the northeast of Germany, it’s a popular holiday spot for Germans and visitors from other countries alike. From interesting sights and activities to fun nightlife and good food – there’s lots to do in Schwerin. Here’s what you need to know about Schwerin.

History of Schwerin

Schwerin was first mentioned in 973 AD when it was a compact Slavic settlement. Initially, it was part of the area now known as the Prignitz, between Berlin and the Baltic Sea. The city underwent many changes over the next centuries, variously becoming part of the state of Mecklenburg and later the Great Duchy of Mecklenburg-Schwerin. It became the capital of Mecklenburg-Schwerin in 1719, officially becoming a city in 1845. In 1945, Schwerin was occupied by the Soviet Union, and in 1952 it became part of the German Democratic Republic. After German reunification, it was reincorporated into the Federal Republic of Germany and has since grown in population and become a vibrant city.

Things to Do in Schwerin

Thanks to its picturesque location on seven lakes and the natural beauty of its surroundings, Schwerin has much to offer. Here are some of the things you won’t want to miss during your visit:

• Schweriner Schloss, also known as Schwerin Castle, is a beautifully preserved 19th-century castle located on an island in Schweriner See lake.
• Schweriner Dom, the impressive Cathedral of Schwerin, is an 11th-century Romanesque building with Gothic elements.
• Museumshafen Oevelgönne, located on the banks of the river Lake Schweriner See, is a museum dedicated to local maritime history.
• Museumspark, situated between Schweriner Schloss and the city centre, provides a wonderful green space and lakefront views.
• For a unique experience, take a tour of the seven lakes, which will show you the best spots around Schwerin.

In addition to sightseeing, there are many activities to enjoy in Schwerin such as watersports, skiing, golfing and horseback riding. For some retail therapy, there are plenty of shopping opportunities around the city, as well as a bustling nightlife when the sun goes down.

Food in Schwerin

If you’re visiting Schwerin, you’ll have plenty of culinary options to choose from. There are some great restaurants offering traditional meals such as Fischbrötchen (fish sandwiches), Kartoffelsalat (potato salad), and Rote Grütze (red berry pudding). Or why not try some typical Mecklenburg-Vorpommern dishes like Kohlrouladen (stuffed cabbage) or Haesekoelle (a type of smoked herring)? To sample some local craft beer brewed in Schwerin, head to one of the city’s beer gardens – check out Krämerbräu or Fiedler’s Biergarten for an authentic experience.

Conclusion

Schwerin is an amazing city located in one of Germany’s most beautiful regions. With its wealth of history and culture, it makes for a great holiday destination with plenty to see and do. Whether you’re interested in taking in the sights or enjoying some delicious food, you won’t be disappointed with a visit to Schwerin.

Schwerin: An Insider’s Guide

Schwerin is the capital city of the Mecklenburg-Vorpommern region in Germany that lies on the shores of Lake Schwerin. It is an old city with historical significance and offers various attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, and local history, making it an ideal tourist destination. In this insider’s guide, we have compiled a list of places to visit, things to do, and experiences to have in Schwerin.

Attractions

Schwerin boasts a myriad of tourist attractions that offer an insight into the city’s history, and visitors shouldn’t leave without visiting some of these remarkable landmarks, including:

• Schwerin Castle: The Castle is one of the most popular attractions. It is an excellent example of the neo-Renaissance style and boasts several magnificent halls adorned with period furniture.
• State Museum Schwerin: The Museum is situated in a castle and features art collections from the 17th to the 20th century with high points in Dutch and German paintings.
• Observatory and Planetarium: The Observatory of Schwerin offers guided tours and the opportunity to observe the sun through telescopes and other celestial phenomena. It is perfect for both adults and kids.
• Zoo Schwerin: The perfectly manicured zoo situated at the castle gardens is home to various wildlife species, including red pandas, Sumatran tigers, penguins, and others.

Dining Spots

Schwerin has several restaurants that serve both local and international cuisine. Here are some of our top picks when it comes to dining in Schwerin:

• Weinhaus Wöhler: This restaurant is renowned for its excellent wine and local German food. Every dish has a wine suggestion on the menu, making it perfect for wine enthusiasts.
• Ratsherrenstuben: This restaurant is set in a beautiful historical building, and it serves traditional German cuisine with seasonal ingredients.
• Moped Restaurant: This restaurant features an exceptional ambiance with vintage scooters incorporated in the decor. They have a creative menu with delicious dishes and a beautiful selection of salads and homemade pasta.

Cultural Experiences

Schwerin offers various cultural experiences that allow visitors to learn about the region’s history and traditions. Here are some of our top picks:

• Mecklenburg State Theatre: This theater is extremely popular for its cultural performances, including operas, ballets, concerts, and plays, all year round.
• Museum Schwerin: Apart from displaying art collections, the Museum has an excellent architecture exhibition displaying the region’s architectural styles and traditions over the years.
• Galerie Severina: This art gallery features contemporary artworks from established and emerging artists. They also showcase different artistic styles and mediums.

Local History

Schwerin is a city steeped in history, and taking a historical tour is an excellent way to learn about this vibrant city’s past. Here are some of our top picks for historical spots to visit:

• Mecklenburg State Museum: The History and Archaeology Exhibition at this museum tells the story of Mecklenburg’s fascinating history via over 1500 exhibits.
• Old Town Hall: This Town Hall was destroyed several times in different wars and rebuilt several times. Its current restoration dates back to the early 1900s.
• Friedhof der Obotriten: The Cemetery of the Obotriten is located in the heart of the city. It is the final resting place of the indigenous Slavic Obotrite tribe. It features various unique monuments and graves.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Schwerin offers plenty of hidden corners and spots that are off the beaten path. Here are some unique experiences to have in Schwerin:

• Kletterwald Schwerin: This rope climbing park has routes resembling different levels of difficulty. It is excellent for those who love climbing and adventure.
• The Old Brewery: This brewery was founded in 1878 and has been restored into a cultural center for the community. They host various music events, theatre events, and room rentals for private events.
• Das Rad – The Bike Cafe: This Cafe is a bike rental point with an attached cafe and offers bicycle tours and an excellent menu with healthy options.

Conclusion

Schwerin is an ideal tourist destination that boasts rich history, culture, and exceptional dining options with numerous attractions. It is a city worth visiting to explore its magnificent landmarks, cultural events, and hidden spots. We hope our insider’s guide to Schwerin will help tourists plan a memorable trip to this charming city.