Things To Do
in Cuxhaven

Cuxhaven is a picturesque coastal town located at the mouth of the Elbe River in northern Germany. Known for its charming seaside promenade and sandy beaches, it serves as a gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Wadden Sea. The town boasts a rich maritime history, vibrant fishing culture, and is a popular destination for both relaxation and outdoor activities.

Visitors can enjoy a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and delicious seafood cuisine.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Coast
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing walk along the Cuxhaven beach promenade, soaking in the sea air and beautiful views of the North Sea.

afternoon
:

Visit the Alte Liebe, a historic pier where you can watch the ferries to Helgoland and enjoy lunch at a nearby seafood restaurant.

evening
:

End your day with a sunset stroll on the beach followed by dinner at a local restaurant, savoring fresh fish dishes.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the Wadden Sea Visitor Center to learn about the unique ecosystem of the area and its significance.

afternoon
:

Explore the nearby Duhner Heide nature reserve, taking time for a peaceful hike through its scenic landscapes.

evening
:

Visit the local brewery for a tasting session, followed by dinner at a traditional German restaurant in the town center.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15-25
Coffee$3-5
🍺Local beer$4-6
🏨Hotel night$70-150
🚍Public transport ticket$2-3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful coastal scenery and beach access
  • Rich maritime history and culture
  • Delicious seafood cuisine
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Can be crowded during peak summer months
  • Weather can be unpredictable
  • "Guten Morgen" - Good morning
  • "Danke schön" - Thank you very much
  • "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ich hätte gerne..." - I would like...
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Cuxhaven

Visit one of these nice places.

Alte Liebe

This historic pier offers stunning views of the harbor and is perfect for capturing the essence of Cuxhaven's maritime culture.

Wadden Sea

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Wadden Sea is ideal for capturing breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife.

Cuxhaven Beach

The sandy beaches of Cuxhaven provide a picturesque backdrop for sunset photography, with the North Sea waves lapping at the shore.

Culinary Guide

Food in Cuxhaven

Cuxhaven is a seafood lover's paradise, offering an array of fresh dishes that showcase the bounty of the North Sea.

Cuxhaven Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Krebs

A traditional dish featuring local crab, often served with a light sauce or in salads.

Must-Try!

Fischbrötchen

A popular street food item, this is a fish sandwich typically made with fried fish fillets and served in a bun.

Matjes

This pickled herring dish is a local delicacy, usually served with onions and bread.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Cuxhaven Fish Market

An open-air market where visitors can taste and buy a variety of fresh seafood and local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Cuxhaven experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures range from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F). Rain is common throughout the year, with the wettest months being July and August.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is highly valued in German culture, so make sure to arrive promptly for meetings or social gatherings.

Greetings

A firm handshake and eye contact are common when greeting someone, reflecting respect and openness.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for everyone to be served before starting your meal, and it’s polite to keep your hands on the table (but not elbows).

Safety Guide

Safety

Cuxhaven is generally a safe destination for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to remain vigilant in crowded areas and keep personal belongings secure. Additionally, be cautious near the coastline and follow local guidelines when exploring the Wadden Sea.

Tipping in Cuxhaven

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 5-10% in restaurants if you are satisfied with the service.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring in Cuxhaven brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it perfect for outdoor activities and beach walks.

Summer

Summer is peak tourist season with warm weather, vibrant beach life, and various festivals, but be prepared for crowds.

Autumn

Autumn offers cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage, ideal for quiet walks and photography.

Winter

Winter can be cold and windy, but the coastal scenery is beautiful, and there are fewer tourists, allowing for a peaceful retreat.

Nightlife Guide

Cuxhaven at Night

Cuxhaven's nightlife is relatively laid-back, focusing on cozy bars and pubs rather than clubs. You can find local breweries and bars that serve a selection of beers and spirits. Live music events and seasonal festivals also contribute to an enjoyable evening atmosphere.

Hiking in Cuxhaven

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Duhner Heide

A scenic nature reserve featuring a network of trails that wind through heathland and coastal forests, offering stunning views of the landscape.

Wadden Sea Trails

These trails provide access to the unique Wadden Sea ecosystem, allowing hikers to explore the mudflats and observe wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Cuxhaven by plane.

Bremen Airport (BRE)

Located approximately 90 km from Cuxhaven, Bremen Airport offers domestic and international flights, making it the nearest major airport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Cuxhaven is a very walkable town, especially along the beach promenade and in the town center where most attractions are located. Sidewalks are well-maintained and pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The local population consists largely of families and retirees who enjoy the coastal lifestyle.

Tourists

Cuxhaven attracts many visitors, especially during the summer months, with tourists coming from all over Germany and abroad.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is wildly popular in Germany, and Cuxhaven has several local teams that compete in regional leagues.

Beach Volleyball

With its sandy beaches, beach volleyball is a favored pastime during the summer months, attracting both locals and tourists.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Cuxhaven is typically light, with easy access to main roads and public transport options. The town has a reliable bus system, and cycling is also a popular way to get around.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Cuxhaven.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While Cuxhaven is famous for seafood, many restaurants offer vegetarian alternatives like salads and pasta dishes.

Gluten-Free

Some eateries provide gluten-free options, but it's advisable to inquire about specific dishes when ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Cuxhaven are accessible, with local hospitals and clinics providing a range of medical services. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and many healthcare providers speak English.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide