Northern Germany may not be quite as popular as the south of the country, but it is packed with picturesque towns and cities that are well worth a visit. One of my favourites is perched right on the Baltic Sea, with medieval buildings, a lively harbor and plenty of lovely shops and attractions to explore.
While it has great historical importance, Wismar is not usually high on tourists’ hit lists. However, that’s all part of its charm! In this post, I’m going to let you in on all the best things to do in Wismar plus my tips on where to eat, drink and sleep in this unique port city. Let’s go!
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A brief history of Wismar
Located in the German state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern (also known as Mecklenburg–Western Pomerania), the Hanseatic city of Wismar was founded in 1226. Under Swedish rule from 1648 until 1803, there is a lingering Scandinavian influence over the city, though it has stayed part of Germany ever since. The armory, the Swedish commander’s house and the landmark Swedish heads still bear witness to the Swedish affiliation.
During WWII, much of the city was destroyed. However, after German reunification in 1990, churches and all historic buildings in the city’s town center were restored. In 2002, the old town of Wismar was named a UNESCO world heritage site thanks to its largely unchanged medieval layout with street network, district and parcel structure. Because of this, Wismar still represents the ideal developed Hanseatic city during the heyday of the federation of cities back in the 14th century.
Things to do in Wismar
I’ve been to Wismar a few times now, and there are a few activities that, for me, never get old. Here are my top tips for things to do.
Shop for antiques
I could spend hours scouring vintage and antique shops for unique finds, and while there are only a handful in Wismar they are definitely worth a visit. On one end of the spectrum you have Wunderbar, a small shop filled to the brim with antique curiosities (arranged with no particular rhyme or reason!). I can never resist a visit and rarely leave empty handed. One of my favourite finds is an original GDR-era photo of Warnemünde’s famous Neptune Hotel.
For a shopping experience that’s a little more civilised you have Brausekontor, an artfully arranged vintage and antique shop that’s always worth a rummage. Even if you’re just window shopping, it’s a lot of fun to wander round.
Check out the city’s sacred architecture
Wismar’s three brick churches are signifcant historical sites in the city. Once considered one of the most beautiful churches in Northern Germany, St. Mary’s Church (St. Marien Church) served as an orientation sign for ships in the middle ages. Severely damaged during World War II, it was eventually all but demolished in 1960, leaving just the 80-metre tower behind.
St. Nicholas’s (St. Nikolai) construction was completed in the 15th century and is is the only one of these three churches to have survived the Second World War intact. A remarkable example of Gothic architecture, you don’t need to be a history buff to admire this intricate and rather imposing building.
Finally, St. Georges’ (St. Georgen) boasts a striking red brick exterior that has been extensively reconstructed. Inside is mostly empty, though it does offer an observation deck at around 35 metres where you can enjoy a fabulous view over the city.
Get a fish roll from the Alter Hafen
You can’t leave a coastal German city without chowing down on a Fischbrötchen, and you’ll find plenty of those down at the old harbor. Served straight from a boat, fish rolls are as simple as they sound – a choice of fish served up on a crusty roll, with a generous helping of remoulade (think along the lines of tartar sauce) if you so desire.
There’s normally a pretty big selection of fish on offer, but if you’re not sure what to go with I would opt for backfish, a breaded white fish fillet that most people can get on board with. There are a few benches scattered around the harbour where you can sit and enjoy your lunchtime roll as you look out onto the sea. However, just a note here to avoid any uncomfortable situations, Germans do not like when you feed the birds, no matter how persistent or adorable they are being, so try and keep your crumbs to yourself.
Amble around the market square
One of the largest medieval town squares in northern Germany, at the centre you’ll find the striking Wasserkunst. This twelve-sided fountain was built in 1602 and supplied the city with water until the 19th century. Today, it serves as a city landmark as well as a meeting point for locals.
On the north side of the market square you’ll find the town hall, with neoclassical features and a permanent exhibition in its cellar dedicated to Wismar’s history. There, you can also experience the Gothic remains of the original town hall building, that partly collapsed in 1807.
Track down the laughing pigs
In Wismar’s old town, near St. Nicholas’s Church, you’ll find a street named Schweinsbrücke (Pig Bridge!). On this street, a bridge leads over the Grube stream, where pigs were once transported into the city for market. Atop the railing posts of the bridge you’ll find four bronze pig figurines.
They may not be large, but these cute little pigs make for an excellent photo opportunity. By the bridge you’ll also find a unique concept store, Wismarer Glücksschwein, selling miniature pigs to bring you good luck.
Where to eat in Wismar
For a proper meal, my number one choice is Wismar has to be Alter Schwede (Old Swede). You can’t miss the incredible facade of this Gothic style building, first built in 1380. Right on the town square, what was once a commercial space for a wealthy merchant is now a traditional restaurant serving up Northern German classics with a twist.
Old-school without feeling stuffy, it’s a great spot to soak in the history of the city and have a delicious meal while you’re at it. At Alter Schwede, specialities include Mecklenburg duck stuffed with prunes, apples and raisins, and Neptune’s Cornucopia – salmon, cod and plaice fillets with three different sauces on a bed of buttery potatoes. Heaven!
Though I haven’t eaten there yet, next on my list for dinner in Wismar is the American restaurant at Hotel New Orleans. German cuisine can get a little boring after a couple of days, so it’s nice to have another option. Since fish is till on the menu for me, I’ve got my eye on the seafood gumbo, or maybe even the whole lobster if I’m feeling extravagant. I’ll let you know if it lives up to expectations!
Where to drink in Wismar
I stumbled across Kai Barcafé by accident after finding my first choice for a post-dinner cocktail was a little too busy. It is almost impossible to notice from the other side of the harbour (or at least, it was the night I was visiting) but after finding it on Google maps I figured it was worth a try.
Once inside I found an extensive drinks menu and a cool vibe that isn’t always easy to find in this part of the country. There aren’t many tables inside, but they play great music, make delicious drinks and offer swift, friendly service. The perfect way to round off an evening.
Coffee lovers can’t miss the tiny but charming fika. This Scandinavian-style cafe is a small, woman-owned business serving up speciality roasts and delicious pastries. It’s just the place to start your day or pop in for an afternoon pick me up. You can even purchase some of their ground coffee to enjoy at home.
Lastly, if you’re partial to a beer or two, don’t miss a drink at Brahaus am Lohberg zu Wismar, who have been brewing their own since 1452. Beer was once big business in Wismar, with an incredible 183 breweries dotted across the city. Today, Brahaus am Lohberg zu Wismar is the last one standing, and with its rustic, lively atmosphere is well worth a visit.
Is Wismar worth visiting?
Absolutely! In my opinion, Wismar is one of the hidden gems in Europe, and a great addition to any North Germany trip. However, it’s not exactly a big city and likely won’t keep you entertained for more than a couple of days, Luckily, there are lots of wonderful destinations to visit nearby! Here are some ideas for other locations to combine with your trip to Wismar:
- Lübeck
- Hamburg
- Rostock
- Schwerin
- Warnemunde
- Insel Poel
Things to do in Wismar: Tips for your visit
- You don’t need to plan for any kind of public transport in the city centre, as it’s pretty small and easily walkable. For those who do have any leg or back trouble, just be aware that there are lots of cobblestones and so comfortable, sturdy shoes are a must.
- When travelling by train, be sure to plan your arrival and departure ahead of time. Wismar train station is small and departures are not as frequent as other cities.
- While not a well-known destination for those outside Germany, Wismar is very popular with German tourists in the summer. To have the best choice of accommodation try to book at least a few months in advance. For a central location and modern interior, you can’t go too far wrong with the ‘Ohlerich Speicher’ apartments.
- If you’d like to visit Tierpark Wismar (which is fairly small but makes for a great afternoon out!) just be aware that it is not in the city centre. Though it can be reached by bus, I would probably get a taxi for the sake of convenience. It is only a 10 minute drive and shouldn’t set you back too much.
- If you are travelling by car, I would avoid trying to park right in the city centre. Instead, go for a day ticket at Parkplatz Turmstraße. There are always spaces and it’s just a few minutes walk into town.
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