Things To Do
in Stralsund
Stralsund is a Hanseatic city on the Baltic coast famous for its brick Gothic architecture and UNESCO listed Old Town. Its position at the Strelasund waterway creates a maritime atmosphere with scenic harbors and sea views. The city serves as a gateway to the island of Rügen and the Baltic coast while offering world class museums such as the Ozeaneum.
Wander the cobbled lanes, sample fresh Baltic seafood, and step back in time among red brick churches and medieval townhouses.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional German pastries and coffee. Afterward, embark on a guided walking tour of Stralsund's UNESCO-listed Old Town, where you can marvel at the stunning brick Gothic architecture. Don't forget to visit the iconic St. Mary's Church, known for its impressive vaulted ceilings and historical significance.
Continue your exploration with a visit to the German Oceanographic Museum, where you can learn about marine life and the history of seafaring in the region. Enjoy lunch at a waterfront restaurant, indulging in fresh seafood while overlooking the harbor. Afterward, stroll along the picturesque streets, discovering charming shops and local artisans.
As the sun sets, head to the Stralsund harbor for a relaxing evening walk, enjoying the beautiful views of the water. Take a break at a cozy bar to sample local craft beers or a glass of wine. For dinner, treat yourself to a meal at a traditional restaurant, where you can experience regional specialties like fish dishes and hearty stews.
Kick off your day with breakfast at your hotel before making your way to the Ozeaneum, an impressive aquarium dedicated to the marine environments of the North Sea and Baltic Sea. Spend the morning exploring the various exhibits, including interactive displays and the fascinating underwater tunnels. Be sure to watch one of the scheduled feeding sessions for a memorable experience.
After your visit, enjoy lunch at the museum café, which offers a variety of light meals and snacks. Post-lunch, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and views of the harbor. Consider visiting the nearby Maritime Museum to deepen your understanding of Stralsund's rich maritime history.
In the evening, enjoy a sunset cruise around the harbor, soaking in the beautiful scenery as the sky changes colors. Upon returning, select a local restaurant for dinner, focusing on regional delicacies such as smoked herring or pickled fish. Cap off the night by visiting a local pub for a taste of Stralsund's vibrant nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🚎Local transit day pass | $6-8 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel night | $90-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich UNESCO heritage in a compact, walkable city
- Excellent seafood and Baltic coastal access
- Gateway to Rügen and easy day trips to nearby islands
- High quality museums and cultural events
- Smaller nightlife scene compared with big cities
- Seasonal crowds around summer weekends can be busy
- Some services and facilities in the Old Town can be pricey
- "Guten Tag" - Hello / Good day
- "Danke schön" - Thank you
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Könnten Sie mir helfen?" - Could you help me?
Places to Visit in Stralsund
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic brick Gothic facades and reflections in the surrounding canals make for striking daytime and twilight shots.
A tall brick church with a commanding tower and panoramic city views from the upper levels.
Ornate brickwork and interior details that capture the medieval character of Stralsund.
A modern glass building alongside historic structures, great for contrast photography.
Waterfront views with boats and sea mists, especially atmospheric at sunrise or sunset.
Food in Stralsund
Stralsund Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh cod prepared as a fillet, often served with potatoes and a light dill sauce.
Must-Try!
Pan fried plaice with butter, parsley and a side of potatoes.
A hearty mix of corned beef, potatoes and onions, typically accompanied by pickled beetroot.
Pears with beans and bacon, a regional comfort dish.
Assorted smoked Baltic fish such as herring, cod or eel, best enjoyed with rye bread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal stalls offering fresh smoked fish and seaside snacks right by the water.
Seasonal market with regional produce, sandwiches and local specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a polite hello and a handshake; use titles and surnames in formal settings.
Be on time for appointments; respect queues and maintain quiet hours in residential areas.
Wait to be seated in restaurants; say please and thank you and observe table manners.
Safety
Tipping in Stralsund
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving about 5-10% is common if service is not included; small tips for taxi drivers or hotel staff are appreciated but not mandatory.
Cash and EC/debit cards are widely accepted; many places also take credit cards, though some smaller venues may be cash only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days, mild to warm temperatures, and lively waterfront events; carry sunscreen and a light jacket for cooler evenings.
Quieter streets with colorful foliage along the water; expect more frequent showers and crisp mornings.
Cold temperatures with possible snow; Christmas markets, warm drinks, and cozy pubs provide warmth.
Milder weather, blooming trees and flowers; ideal for outdoor cycling and harbor walks.
Stralsund at Night
Hiking in Stralsund
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short to moderate trails along chalk cliffs and pine forests with coastal viewpoints; a must for nature lovers near Stralsund.
Forest trails with viewpoints including the Granitz Hunting Lodge near Binz on Rügen.
Scenic coast path with sea views, beaches and rugged shorelines suitable for day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Stralsund by plane.
Major international and domestic connections; about a 1.5- to 2-hour drive from Stralsund.
Extensive international connections; typically longer drive but frequent services to northern Germany.
Smaller regional airport with seasonal and domestic routes; convenient for regional travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of long-time Stralsund families, students from the local university of applied sciences, and a steady stream of tourists.
The Fachhochschule Stralsund attracts students from the region and beyond.
A steady influx of visitors from across Europe, with English commonly spoken in tourist areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A natural fit for Baltic Sea waters, with local clubs and lessons available.
Local clubs and matches contribute to community sports culture.
Accessible routes along the coast and into surrounding countryside.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Stralsund.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Meat free options are common; look for salads, cheeses, mushroom dishes and veggie versions of local specialties.