Things To Do
in Preetz
Preetz is a tranquil town in Schleswig-Holstein, just south of Kiel, tucked beside the scenic Preetzer See. It blends a compact historic center with easy access to lakes, forests, and gentle countryside trails. The town serves as a convenient base for exploring the Holstein Switzerland region and the Baltic coast within a short drive.
Visitors are greeted by friendly locals, well-preserved architecture, and a relaxed pace of life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional German pastries and coffee. Afterward, take a stroll through the historic center of Preetz, admiring the charming half-timbered houses and the beautiful St. Nicholas Church. Visit the Preetz Town Museum to learn about the fascinating history of the town and its significance in the region.
Indulge in a hearty lunch at a nearby restaurant specializing in regional cuisine, perhaps trying some local fish dishes. Spend your afternoon wandering through the picturesque streets and visiting local shops for unique souvenirs and handmade crafts. Don't miss the opportunity to relax by the banks of the Schwentine River, enjoying the serene natural beauty around you.
As dusk approaches, head to a cozy bistro for dinner, where you can sample seasonal dishes paired with local wines. After your meal, take a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, soaking in the ambiance of the town at night. Conclude your day with a nightcap at a traditional German beer garden, enjoying the sounds of laughter and conversation.
Begin your day with a refreshing breakfast at your accommodation, then prepare for a scenic hike in the Schwentine Valley. The morning is perfect for exploring the lush landscapes, surrounded by the sounds of chirping birds and flowing water. Take your time to appreciate the diverse flora and fauna along the well-marked trails.
After your hike, enjoy a packed lunch at one of the picturesque spots along the riverbanks, where you can unwind and take in the peaceful surroundings. Continue your exploration by visiting nearby nature reserves, immersing yourself in the tranquility of untouched wilderness. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including deer and various bird species.
As the sun sets, return to Preetz and treat yourself to a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, featuring farm-to-table options. Spend your evening at a local park, perhaps catching an outdoor concert or event if available. Wind down with a stroll back to your accommodation, reflecting on the beauty of the natural landscapes you experienced.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥖Bread or bakery item | $2-3 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🎟️Museum or local attraction entry | $6-12 |
| 🥗Lunch in mid-range restaurant | $12-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable town with easy access to lakes and forests
- Friendly locals and regional cuisine with strong market culture
- Good base for day trips to Kiel, Lübeck, and Holstein Switzerland
- Varied outdoor activities and scenic photography opportunities
- Limited nightlife and larger-city entertainment nearby
- Smaller selection of high-end dining and international options
- Seasonal tourist crowds can affect parking and queues in peak periods
- Public transport options are good but less frequent than in bigger cities
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Danke schön" - Thank you very much
- "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Ich hätte gern ..." - I would like to have ...
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Sprechen Sie Deutsch?" - Do you speak German?
Places to Visit in Preetz
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful Fachwerk houses and the stately Rathaus provide classic architectural photography, especially at dawn or blue hour.
Historic cloister grounds with greenery, archways, and tranquil courtyards—great for quiet, reflective shots.
Calm waters, boats, and sunset silhouettes create serene lakeside images.
Forest trails and vantage points in the Holstein Switzerland area offer expansive views and seasonal color.
Food in Preetz
Preetz Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic northern German kale dish cooked with sausage (Pinkel) and potatoes; widely enjoyed in traditional pubs, especially in winter.
Must-Try!
Smoked sprats from the Kieler Bucht, often served on dark rye bread with butter or in simple salads.
Pear, beans, and bacon—a comforting regional dish typically served with potatoes.
A berry-based dessert common in northern Germany, usually served with vanilla sauce or ice cream.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh regional produce, bread, dairy and seasonal specialties on market days in the town center.
For a broader selection of fish, regional specialties, and street food; great to sample Sprotten and other coastal bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be punctual for appointments; use appropriate formal address (Sie) with surname until invited to use the informal you (du).
Greet with a handshake; keep voices moderate in indoor public spaces and respect personal space on public transport.
Germany has a detailed recycling system; sort waste and use designated containers where provided.
Safety
Tipping in Preetz
Ensure a smooth experience
In Germany, a tip of about 5-10% is customary for good service. You can round up the bill or leave a few euros with cash at the table; many places also accept card tips. Service charges are usually not included by default.
Cash and debit/credit cards are widely accepted. Contactless payments and mobile pay are common in shops and eateries; some smaller places may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours; ideal for lake activities, outdoor markets, and strolls along the shore. Bring light layers, sun protection, and a reusable water bottle.
Fresh greens and wildflowers; pleasant for biking and walking. Expect milder days with occasional showers; pack a light rain layer.
Vibrant foliage around lakes and forests; great for photography and scenic hikes. Temperatures cool; bring layers and sturdy footwear.
Cold days, possible frost, and cozy indoor cafés. If snow arrives, expect quiet scenery and festive markets closer to Weihnachten.
Preetz at Night
Hiking in Preetz
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails leading to Schleswig-Holstein's highest point with panoramic views on clear days.
Lakeside circular routes around the Preetzer See with modest elevation and varied scenery.
A network of trails through rolling hills and lakes around nearby Malente and Plön for day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Preetz by plane.
Major international gateway serving northern Germany; about 100-120 km north of Preetz; reachable by train or car with transfers via Kiel or Lübeck.
Smaller regional airport offering limited European service; roughly 60-70 km northeast of Preetz; convenient for quick trips.
Larger regional airport further away, offering additional flight options; drive or train connections to the Kiel region available via major highways.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Preetz draws families with its safe, walkable center, parks, and nearby lakes.
Proximity to Kiel and affordable living make it a practical base for students and early-career residents.
A relaxed pace, scenic surroundings, and ample outdoor opportunities appeal to retirees.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Sailing, windsurfing, and other water sports are popular along the Baltic coast and nearby lakes when conditions permit.
Football (soccer) and handball are commonly played and followed in local clubs.
Flat and gently rolling terrain makes it a favorite for cyclists exploring the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Preetz.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetarian options. Look for dishes labeled vegetarisch or ask to swap meat stock and sausage for vegetables, cheese, or eggs. Many places can adapt traditional dishes to a meat-free version.