Things To Do
in Bad Schwartau

Bad Schwartau is a charming spa town located in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, known for its soothing thermal baths and picturesque parks. Nestled near the Baltic Sea, it boasts a rich history with beautiful architecture and serene landscapes. The town is an ideal destination for relaxation, wellness, and outdoor activities.

Visitors can explore local culture while enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the surrounding nature.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Bad Schwartau
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the historic town center, where you can admire the beautiful half-timbered houses and the St. Mary's Church.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local café and then head to the Schwartaupark for a leisurely stroll through its gardens and a visit to the spa facilities.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with dinner at a traditional German restaurant, followed by a relaxing evening walk along the Schwartau River.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a hearty breakfast, then take a short trip to the nearby Travemünde beach for sunbathing or beach sports.

afternoon
:

Visit the Lübeck, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to explore its medieval architecture and enjoy lunch in the historic Old Town.

evening
:

Return to Bad Schwartau for a cozy dinner, and finish the night at a local bar enjoying live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15-$25
Coffee$3-$5
🍺Local beer$4-$6
🚍Public transport ticket$2-$3
🛒Groceries (weekly)$50-$70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings and parks.
  • Rich cultural experiences and history.
  • Relaxing spa facilities and wellness options.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may be infrequent at times.
  • Fewer international dining options.
  • "Guten Morgen" - Good morning
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Haben Sie eine Speisekarte auf Englisch?" - Do you have a menu in English?

Places to Visit in Bad Schwartau

Visit one of these nice places.

Schwartaupark

A beautiful park featuring manicured gardens, serene ponds, and stunning views, perfect for nature photography.

St. Mary's Church

This historic church offers impressive architecture and lovely surroundings that make for great photographs.

Travemünde Beach

Capture the scenic beauty of the Baltic Sea, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bad Schwartau

Bad Schwartau offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects the region's rich heritage and local flavors. Visitors can indulge in a variety of traditional dishes and enjoy the local food markets.

Bad Schwartau Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Labskaus

A traditional sailor's dish made from corned beef, potatoes, and onions, often served with herring and a fried egg.

Must-Try!

Fischbrötchen

A popular street food consisting of a bun filled with fresh fish, typically herring or mackerel, garnished with onions and pickles.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Bad Schwartau Weekly Market

Held every Thursday, offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal bread.

Street Food Festival

Occasionally held in the town center, featuring various food stalls with regional specialties.

Climate Guide

Weather

Bad Schwartau experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild winters and cool summers. Average temperatures range from 1°C (34°F) in January to 23°C (73°F) in July. Rainfall is spread throughout the year, but late spring and summer are generally wetter. Visitors should be prepared for sudden weather changes, especially in spring and fall.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Germans value punctuality; arriving on time for appointments and gatherings is crucial.

Greeting

A firm handshake is the standard greeting; it's polite to greet everyone individually.

Quiet Hours

Respect quiet hours in residential areas, typically from 10 PM to 6 AM.

Safety Guide

Safety

Bad Schwartau is considered a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings in crowded places. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Bad Schwartau

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to round up the bill or leave a tip of about 5-10% in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller shops and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Temperatures are mild, and flowers bloom, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring parks.

Summer

Warm weather attracts visitors to the beaches, with plenty of events and festivals occurring in the town.

Autumn

Fall foliage creates stunning landscapes, and the weather is still pleasant for hiking and exploring.

Winter

Cold temperatures may lead to snowfall, perfect for cozying up in cafes and enjoying winter festivities.

Nightlife Guide

Bad Schwartau at Night

Bad Schwartau has a laid-back nightlife scene with a few local bars and pubs where visitors can enjoy drinks and live music. While it may not be as vibrant as larger cities, the atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploring. Many locals gather at bars to socialize, especially on weekends, and occasional events or live performances add to the entertainment.

Hiking in Bad Schwartau

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Lübecker Bucht Coastal Trail

A scenic coastal trail offering stunning views of the Baltic Sea and opportunities for birdwatching.

Holstein Switzerland Nature Park

Surrounded by rolling hills and lakes, this park features various hiking trails suitable for all levels.

Airports

How to reach Bad Schwartau by plane.

Hamburg Airport (HAM)

Located approximately 70 km from Bad Schwartau, Hamburg Airport is the nearest major airport, offering a wide range of international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Bad Schwartau is a walkable town, with most attractions, shops, and restaurants within easy walking distance. The town center is pedestrian-friendly, making it pleasant to explore on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and there are designated walking paths in parks and along the river.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The town is home to a mix of families, retirees, and young professionals, contributing to a diverse community.

Tourists

During peak seasons, visitors from Germany and neighboring countries flock to Bad Schwartau for its spa facilities and scenic beauty.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer (Football)

Soccer is a popular sport in the region, with local teams and leagues attracting enthusiastic support.

Volleyball

Beach volleyball and indoor volleyball are common activities, especially during summer months.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Bad Schwartau is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation options include buses that connect to nearby towns and cities. Cycling is a popular mode of transport, with dedicated bike lanes available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bad Schwartau.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check menus in advance.

Gluten-Free Choices

Some establishments provide gluten-free options; however, it's best to inquire when ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Bad Schwartau is reliable, with local clinics and a hospital providing medical services. Pharmacies are also readily available for over-the-counter medications. Emergency medical services can be reached by calling 112, and most healthcare providers speak basic English.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide