Between the North Sea and the Baltic Sea, Schleswig-Holstein showcases its diversity especially along its coasts: sandy beaches, grassy beaches, pebble beaches, steep coastlines and the Wadden Sea shape its varied stretches. The Wadden Sea along the North Sea coast is a UNESCO World Heritage natural site and one of the largest ecosystems in the world. It is considered Europe’s last large-scale wilderness area and is of global importance as a resting ground for migratory birds. Fehmarn is Schleswig-Holstein’s only Baltic Sea island; families and water sports enthusiasts enjoy relaxing holiday days there. Historic cityscapes and museums also offer further perspectives on Schleswig-Holstein’s history.
Cityscape and history
The medieval town centre of the Hanseatic city of LĂĽbeck was recognised as a World Heritage site in 1987. Key features included the distinctive city skyline with seven towers and the largely intact pre-industrial building fabric.
Near Schleswig in the north of the state, Haithabu was an important Viking Age maritime trading centre at a historic bottleneck between the Baltic Sea inlet of the Schlei and the lowlands of the North Sea. The Danevirke was a border fortification there. Haithabu and the Danevirke have been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since July 2018. Together, they illustrate two different functions at this historic bottleneck: maritime trade and border fortification.
The Haithabu Viking Museum is one of Germany’s most important archaeological museums. Gottorf Castle houses two museums that showcase evidence of 120,000 years of human history. The Archaeological State Museum displays finds ranging from Neanderthals to the Middle Ages, including the Iron Age Nydam boat and famous bog bodies.
Experience the Wadden Sea and discover local traditions
On a guided mudflat hike, you walk on the seabed without diving equipment; certified national park guides ensure professional standards and safety. The Schleswig-Holstein Wadden Sea National Park Authority also offers mudflat hikes, bird-watching excursions and cycling tours with a ranger. Check the latest dates for visitor programmes before your trip.
The traditional Biike burning takes place on the west coast in February; local programmes vary.
Cycling route and inland lakes
The 165-kilometre Eider-Treene-Sorge Cycle Route runs through Schleswig-Holstein’s largest lowland area. Rivers, meadows, forests, moors and canals shape the landscape. The cycle route is fully signposted; numerous information boards along the way provide details about the cycling region, the river landscape, and local flora and fauna. Route improvements may slightly change the stated distance.
In Holstein Switzerland Nature Park, you can explore around 200 small and large lakes on foot or by bicycle.
Farm shops and getting there
Most farm shops offer a taste as a sample or small sip. Products include seasonal fruit and vegetables, cheese, homemade bread, juices, jams and home-distilled liqueurs. What any individual farm shop offers may vary.
You can reach Schleswig-Holstein by car and train; if travelling by air, you can fly via Hamburg Airport. As transport connections may change, check the latest timetables before your trip.
Discover more destinations: Föhr, Amrum, Sylt, Dithmarschen, North Frisia, Segeberg, Ostholstein, Plön, Schleswig-Flensburg, Duchy of Lauenburg, Pinneberg, Stormarn, Rendsburg-Eckernförde, Kiel, Steinburg, Neumünster, Lübeck, Flensburg.
Go to the main travel overview: Germany.
