Schwerin Castle is one of the most beautiful castles I’ve ever seen! It’s a stunning neo-Renaissance masterpiece nestled on the shores of Lake Schwerin, The castle is a must-see for any visitor to the region, and it’s surprisingly affordable and easy to get tickets to.
The castle is a fairytale come to life, with its turrets, towers, and beautiful gardens. I spent hours exploring the castle and taking in the stunning views of the lake. It’s a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a peaceful day out.
Just a short train ride from Hamburg, this historic gem naturally earns its place on any list of must-see castles in Germany! But Schwerin isn’t just about the castle. Get ready to explore the charming Old Town with its colorful timber-framed buildings and soak up the beauty of the Mecklenburg-Vorpommern capital.
I highly recommend adding Schwerin Castle to your Germany travel itinerary! It’s a truly magical place that will leave you with lasting memories.
Schwerin Castle Travel Blog:
How to get to Schwerin Castle Germany:
I made Hamburg my cozy little base for a few days and took day trips to explore the surrounding area!
Where is Schwerin castle? Schloss Schwerin sits right in the heart of Schwerin, the capital of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. You can easily reach this magical place by train, bus, or car from Hamburg.
Train to Schwerin:
- The closest train stations, Schwerin Mitte and Schwerin Central Station, are both a 20-minute walk from the castle. A bus line also operates to Schwerin Central Station.
- Travelers can easily do a day trip from Hamburg by train
- Take a direct train from Hamburg Hauptbahnhof (central station) to Schwerin Hauptbahnhof and enjoy the scenic ride through Northern Germany
- The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Use the DB Navigator app/website to find the train times
- For longer stays in Germany I’d recommend the monthly The Deutschland-Ticket to save money and gives you great flexibility for regional trips!
Unveiling the Fairytale: History & Enchantment at Schwerin Castle
Imagine a castle straight out of a dream – that’s Schwerin Castle in Northern Germany. Perched on an island, this magical place is a blend of history and fairy tale. Towering turrets pierce the sky, while intricate details whisper stories of a bygone era.
But Schwerin Castle isn’t just about looks – it’s a living, breathing place! Explore its magnificent public areas on guided tours, embarking on a journey through time. Let the stories of the castle’s fascinating past come alive as you delve into its rich history.
Schwerin Castle Ticket Prices:
Insider Tip: Tickets to explore Schwerin Castle’s magic are super affordable. For just €8.50, you can step into a fairytale. And if you’re on a budget, don’t worry – the castle’s outside is just as dreamy, with free access to the courtyard and gardens. Click here for more info!
A Journey Through Time:
Schwerin Castle isn’t just a building; it’s a living storybook! For over a thousand years, it’s seen empires rise and fall. From a simple Slavic fort to a grand ducal palace, this castle has witnessed it all.
Imagine: The 10th century, a Slavic Obotrites tribe fort stands where the island castle now gleams. Fast forward to the 12th century, Henry the Lion conquers the area, laying the foundation for the grand stone castle. By the 14th century, the transformation into a ducal residence begins.
The Grand Makeover: The fairytale icon we see today is largely thanks to Grand Duke Friedrich Franz II in the mid-19th century. Inspired by Romanticism, he envisioned a castle fit for a storybook. Renowned architects brought his vision to life, resulting in a neorenaissance masterpiece. Towers, gables, and intricate details transport you to a world of enchantment.
A Glimpse Inside Schwerin Castle:
Step inside Schwerin Castle and prepare to be wowed! Walk through rooms decked out with fancy tapestries, sparkling floors, and carvings that look like they’re straight out of a dream. The Throne Room is like something out of a movie, with its Carrara marble columns and gold doors.
You can even see portraits of all the castle’s past rulers in the Ancestral Portrait Gallery. The Round Tower Room offers breathtaking panoramic lake views that feels like a secret garden. With 635 rooms, Schwerin Castle even has its own resident ghost!
The Ghost of Schwerin Castle:
Rumor has it that Schwerin Castle has its own tiny guardian! Meet Petermännchen, or Little Peter, a sweet little ghost dressed like a 17th-century gentleman. They say he floats around carrying keys, watching over the castle, and maybe even playing a playful prank or two!
Lake Schwerin: Where Fairytale Castles Meet Sparkling Waters
Escape the ordinary and discover the serenity of Lake Schwerin. This picturesque lake, known for its crystal-clear waters and charming shoreline, offers a haven for relaxation and outdoor adventure.
Embrace Tranquility:
- Stroll along the scenic lakeside promenade, breathing in the fresh air and soaking up the natural beauty.
- Glide across the calm waters on a rented paddleboat or rowboat, enjoying peaceful reflection in the mirrored castle image.
- Unwind on the shore, letting the stress melt away as you admire the breathtaking panorama.
Schwerin isn’t just a lake – it’s a water wonderland. Boasting twelve lakes within the city limits, Schwerin offers endless opportunities for aquatic adventures. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing are popular choices, while the recent surge in dragon boat racing adds a touch of excitement. Every year, international teams compete in thrilling races on Schwerin’s waters.
Explore Schwerin’s Oasis: Schwerin Palace Gardens (Schlossgarten)
Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Schwerin Palace Gardens. These meticulously landscaped gardens boast lush greenery, manicured lawns, and serene pathways, creating a haven for nature lovers.
Discovering Schwerin Old Town:
Schwerin’s fairytale doesn’t end at the castle walls. The historic Old Town, nestled along the shores of Lake Schwerin, is a delightful maze of cobblestone streets, and architectural gems waiting to be discovered.
A must-see is the magnificent Schwerin Cathedral, a stunning example of Brick Gothic architecture dating back to the 13th century. Towering over the town square (Markt), its intricate facade and stained-glass windows are a testament to the city’s rich history. Step inside and prepare to be amazed by the soaring ceilings, intricate details and the impressive organ.
Want a bird’s-eye view of the city? Climb the cathedral tower for just €2. The view from the top is insane! You’ll see the whole city, including the castle and the beautiful lake. It’s totally worth it!
Imagine escaping the hustle and bustle for a peaceful retreat. Pfaffenteich, a stunning horseshoe-shaped lake, is Schwerin’s hidden gem. Connected to the larger Schwerin Lake, this tranquil oasis is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a fun-filled adventure.
Rent a swan paddle boat and glide across the water, soaking up the sun and admiring the majestic castle and cathedral. The surrounding area is dotted with charming cafes, perfect for a coffee break and people-watching. And if you’re feeling energetic, explore the scenic walking path that winds its way around the lake, keeping an eye out for playful ducks and graceful swans.
Schwerin’s Old Town is a delightful blend of history, charm, and natural beauty. So, lace up your walking shoes, grab your camera, and get ready to lose yourself in its captivating atmosphere!
Where to Stay in Schwerin
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If you’re planning an extended stay in Schwerin, there are plenty of options to suit your needs! Here are a few recommendations:
- Pension Am Pfaffensee: This charming guesthouse provides cozy rooms and a peaceful setting, perfect for those on a budget who appreciate a touch of local character.
- Gasthof Zur guten Quelle: Offering a traditional German experience, Gasthof Zur guten Quelle provides simple yet comfortable accommodations at an affordable price. Enjoy hearty meals in the on-site restaurant and soak up the local atmosphere.
- Hotel Speicher am Ziegelsee: Enjoy a peaceful lakeside retreat at Hotel Speicher am Ziegelsee. This modern hotel offers comfortable rooms, delicious food, and easy access to nature.
Cash vs. Card in Schwerin Germany: Navigating Payment Habits
While Schwerin is all about the fairytale magic, there’s a bit of a reality check when it comes to payments. Germany still loves its cash, so make sure to have some euros on hand. You don’t want to miss out on a castle souvenir because you forgot to hit the ATM!
Here’s a quick guide to navigating payments in Schwerin:
- Cash is King: Think of those cute little shops and cafes tucked away – they often prefer cash. ATMs are your knight in shining armor here, and you’ll find them scattered throughout the city, especially near popular spots.
- Bonus tip: Look for actual bank ATMs – they tend to have better fees than the third-party ones that are dominant in the cities
- Card Comfort in Certain Spots: Malls, big-name stores, and some tourist-friendly shops are more likely to accept your plastic pal (credit card). But remember, cash is still your best friend.
- In Schwerin, there are two major malls near the train station with quick-service restaurants that accept cards – perfect for a bite on the go!
- Train Stations are Tech-Savvy: Train stations and the businesses inside are usually more tech-friendly, with card readers ready to help you out. They know travelers might not always have euros on hand!
The Perfect Day Trip From Hamburg
Whether you’re a history buff, a fairytale fanatic, or simply someone who appreciates a good dose of beauty, Schwerin has something to offer everyone. So, after a day filled with exploring the castle, wandering the Old Town, and soaking up the lakeside scenery, you’ll head back to Hamburg with memories that will last a lifetime. Schwerin Castle awaits – happily ever after is just a train ride away!
Ready to explore more of Northern Germany? Schwerin is just one of the many enchanting destinations you can explore from Hamburg. For more day trip ideas, check out our guides on:
