This lakeside city is home to a grand 19th-century palace, now the state parliament. Visitors can explore its ornate interiors and gardens, or enjoy swimming and paddle-boarding on Schwerin See.
Schwerin, the capital of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, is a city with a rich history and beautiful landscapes. This small German city is home to the impressive Schwerin Castle, the Gothic Schwerin Cathedral, and seven calm lakes. As you walk through its cobblestone streets, you'll see grand ducal buildings and well-preserved half-timbered houses. Schwerin offers visitors a chance to explore opulent palace rooms, admire art collections, and enjoy peaceful lakeside views.
Exploring Schwerin Castle
Schwerin Castle sits on an island in Lake Schwerin and is the city's most recognizable landmark. This 19th-century palace, built in Neo-Renaissance style, contains 653 rooms and has golden domes and numerous towers. You can tour the castle's lavish interiors, including the Throne Room with its Carrara marble columns and gilded cast-iron doors. The castle also serves as the seat of the state parliament.
Wandering Through the Old Town
Schwerin's Old Town maintains much of its historical character. As you walk along the cobblestone streets, you'll see well-preserved half-timbered houses and grand ducal buildings. The Alter Garten square is surrounded by significant structures such as the 18th-century Altes Palais and the neoclassical State Museum. The Schwerin Cathedral, a brick Gothic masterpiece completed in 1416, has a 117-meter tower that provides panoramic views of the city and its lakes.
Discovering Schwerin's Museums
At the Staatliches Museum Schwerin, you can admire works by Dutch and Flemish masters from the 16th to 18th centuries, including paintings by Rembrandt and Rubens. The museum also displays German art from medieval times to the present day. For an insight into rural life in the 19th century, visit the Schwerin-Mueß Open Air Museum, where you can explore old farmhouses and herb gardens.
Enjoying Schwerin's Lakes
Seven lakes surround Schwerin, giving it the nickname "City of Seven Lakes." Lake Schwerin, the second-largest in the Mecklenburg Lake District, offers various recreational activities. You can take a boat tour to see the city's skyline from the water, or enjoy a walk along the lakeside promenades. The smaller Pfaffenteich lake in the city center is a calm spot for a stroll or a picnic.
Savoring Local Cuisine
Schwerin's culinary scene reflects its proximity to both land and water. Try local specialties like Mecklenburger Rippenbraten (pork roast) or freshwater fish dishes. For a sweet treat, visit one of the city's many cafés and try a piece of cake with a dollop of cream – a local tradition. Rösterei Fuchs serves coffee and light meals, while KostBar offers good food at reasonable prices.
Getting Around Schwerin
Schwerin is a compact city, making it easy to explore on foot. Most attractions in the Old Town are within walking distance of each other. For longer distances, the city has an efficient public transportation system with buses and trams. If you're arriving by train, the main station is just a 10-minute walk from the city center.
Experiencing Schwerin's Festivals
Throughout the year, Schwerin hosts various events that highlight its cultural scene. The Schlossfestspiele, an opera festival held at the castle, is a major cultural event. Other significant events include the Old Town Festival and the Dragon Boat Festival on the Pfaffenteich lake. During winter, the 'Mäkelborg' Christmas market fills the city with festive atmosphere.
