Happy TravellerWelcome to Schwerin, the picturesque capital of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern in northeastern Germany. With a rich history dating back to the 11th century, Schwerin is a city that has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re interested in exploring its many lakes, visiting its historic landmarks, or simply enjoying its local cuisine, Schwerin is sure to captivate you. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this city such a special destination.
Schwerin is known for its stunning lakes, with Lake Schwerin being the largest. The city is surrounded by a total of 12 lakes, which offer a range of activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming. In addition to its lakes, Schwerin is also home to several islands, including Castle Island, which is home to the breathtaking Schwerin Palace. This historic palace was once the residence of the dukes and grand dukes of Mecklenburg-Schwerin and now houses the state parliament of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern.
For those interested in history, Schwerin has plenty to offer. The city was first mentioned in 1018 as Zuarina and was granted city rights in 1160 by Henry the Lion, making it the oldest city in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. It has been the capital of various states throughout history, including the Duchy of Mecklenburg-Schwerin from 1379 to 1815 and the State of Mecklenburg from 1934 to 1952.
The Schwerin Cathedral, built in 1260–1416 in Brick Gothic style, is another must-see landmark. Other notable churches in the city include St Paul’s Church and St Nicholas Church. The Alter Garten (Old Garden) square is also worth a visit, with its beautiful buildings such as the 18th-century Altes Palais (Old Palace) and the neoclassical Staatliches Museum Schwerin.
Schwerin’s local cuisine is another highlight of any visit. The city is known for its fresh fish dishes, such as pike-perch fillet and smoked eel, as well as its hearty meat dishes such as pork roast with gravy and potatoes. For those with a sweet tooth, Schwerin’s famous Marzipan cake is a must-try.
Getting around Schwerin is easy, with city buses and trams run by NVS (Nahverkehr Schwerin). Schwerin Hauptbahnhof (central station) is also well-connected by rail to Berlin, Hamburg, and Rostock.
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply enjoying the local cuisine, Schwerin has something to offer everyone. We hope this guide has inspired you to plan your next trip to this enchanting city and explore all that it has to offer.
