Things To Do
in Malente

Malente is a picturesque spa town located in the heart of Schleswig-Holstein, Germany. Nestled between the beautiful Großer Plöner See and the serene Dieksee, it offers a tranquil retreat for nature lovers and wellness seekers alike. The town is renowned for its stunning landscapes, lush parks, and charming half-timbered houses, making it a delightful destination for a peaceful getaway.

With a variety of outdoor activities and cultural experiences, Malente is perfect for both relaxation and adventure.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Malente
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely stroll around the Dieksee, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful scenery. Grab breakfast at a local café, sampling fresh pastries and coffee.

afternoon
:

Visit the Malente Museum to learn about the town's history and cultural heritage. Afterwards, take a bike ride through the surrounding forests, exploring the scenic trails.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant, enjoying traditional German cuisine, followed by a relaxing evening walk along the lakeside.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation, then head to the nearby Großer Plöner See for a morning of kayaking or paddleboarding.

afternoon
:

After lunch, indulge in a wellness session at a local spa, taking advantage of the therapeutic treatments offered.

evening
:

Conclude your trip with a casual dinner at a pub, where you can interact with locals and try some regional beers.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍺Local beer$4
🚆Public transport ticket$2
🏨Hotel per night$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and lakes
  • Peaceful and relaxing atmosphere
  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Fewer international dining choices
  • Public transport may be infrequent
  • "Guten Morgen" - Good morning
  • "Bitte" - Please
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ich hätte gerne..." - I would like...

Places to Visit in Malente

Visit one of these nice places.

Dieksee

The picturesque Dieksee is perfect for capturing stunning sunsets and serene lake views, surrounded by lush greenery.

Malente Museum

The charming exterior of the museum and its surrounding gardens provide great opportunities for capturing local architecture.

Parks and Gardens

The beautifully landscaped parks in Malente, such as the Kurpark, offer vibrant flower beds and tranquil pathways ideal for photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Malente

Malente offers a delightful culinary scene featuring traditional German dishes and local specialties that reflect the region's agricultural heritage.

Malente Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Labskaus

A hearty sailor's dish made from corned beef, potatoes, and onions, often served with pickled beetroot and herring.

Must-Try!

Rinderroulade

Beef roulade filled with mustard, bacon, and onions, slow-cooked and served with gravy, potatoes, and red cabbage.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Malente Weekly Market

A vibrant market held every Saturday, featuring local produce, cheeses, meats, and homemade goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Malente experiences a temperate oceanic climate, with mild summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures average around 20-25°C (68-77°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around -5°C (23°F). Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, with slightly wetter months in late summer and early autumn. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Germans value punctuality highly, so always arrive on time for appointments and social gatherings.

Greeting Customs

A firm handshake is a common greeting; maintain eye contact and smile when introducing yourself.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin your meal, and keep your hands on the table but elbows off.

Safety Guide

Safety

Malente is generally a safe town with low crime rates. However, it’s always wise to take the usual precautions, such as securing your belongings and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Malente

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Rounding up the bill or leaving a 5-10% tip is customary in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but having some cash on hand is advisable for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather as flowers bloom and nature awakens. It’s a great time for outdoor activities and exploring local parks.

Summer

Warm temperatures make it ideal for swimming and water sports at the lakes. Festivals and events are common during this season.

Autumn

Enjoy the stunning fall foliage with vibrant colors. It's a peaceful time to hike and take in the beauty of the changing leaves.

Winter

Cold weather brings a serene atmosphere, perfect for cozy indoor activities. Look for seasonal markets and winter sports opportunities nearby.

Nightlife Guide

Malente at Night

Malente's nightlife is relatively low-key, focusing on cozy pubs and bars rather than clubs. You can find a few local bars that offer a relaxed atmosphere for socializing, often featuring live music or trivia nights. The emphasis is more on enjoying good conversation and local beers rather than vibrant party scenes, making it perfect for those looking for a laid-back evening.

Hiking in Malente

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Plön Castle Trail

A scenic trail that leads to the historic Plön Castle, offering stunning views of the landscape and the Plöner See.

Buchenweg Trail

This easy hiking trail winds through beautiful beech forests, perfect for families and nature enthusiasts.

Airports

How to reach Malente by plane.

Lübeck Airport

Located approximately 50 km away, Lübeck Airport is the closest major airport, offering flights to various European destinations. It is easily accessible via public transport or car.

Getting Around

Walkability

Malente is a highly walkable town, with most attractions and amenities easily accessible on foot. The town center is compact, allowing visitors to explore local shops, cafes, and parks without the need for a vehicle. Well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly paths make it safe and enjoyable for walking.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of residents are German, with a strong sense of community and local traditions influencing daily life.

Tourists

Malente attracts tourists seeking relaxation and nature, particularly during the summer months, contributing to the local economy.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a popular sport in Malente, with local clubs and community involvement in matches and events.

Cycling

Due to the picturesque landscape, cycling is a favored activity, with many trails catering to both casual riders and enthusiasts.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Malente is generally light, making it easy to navigate the town by car or bicycle. Public transportation options include buses that connect to nearby towns and cities, though service may be limited during off-peak hours. Overall, the town is bicycle-friendly, and many residents prefer cycling as their primary mode of transport.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Malente.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Malente offer vegetarian meals, but it's advisable to check with staff for specific dietary needs.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free dishes are available at select restaurants, but informing the staff in advance is recommended.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Malente is accessible with several medical facilities and a hospital available for residents and visitors. Emergency services are prompt, and pharmacies are located throughout the town. It is recommended for travelers to have health insurance that covers medical expenses during their stay.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide