Things to do in Wismar – 12 tips for a charming Hanseatic city

Writer: Helena Bergström

Updated: June 2026 | Wismar is a charming Hanseatic city on the Baltic Sea in northern Germany, known for its well-preserved old town, historic churches and lively harbor. There is plenty to see and do here – from UNESCO-listed attractions to seafood restaurants, boat trips and excursions in the surrounding area.

Wismar in northern Germany

Wismar is located in the state Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, between Lübeck and Rostock, and is one of northern Germany's most interesting historical cities. During the Middle Ages, the city was an important part of the Hanseatic League, and between 1648 and 1903 Wismar belonged to Sweden. Traces of the Swedish era are still noticeable, not least through the popular Schwedenfest that is organized every year in August.

Today, Wismar attracts visitors with its beautiful old town, which, together with Stralsund, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, history, sea and culture meet in a way that makes the city a perfect destination for both day trips and longer stops in northern Germany.

12 things to do in Wismar

Wismar in Germany is a nice town with beautiful old houses, a grand market square and a nice harbor. Here we offer tips on things to see and do in Wismar.

1. Stroll around Marktplatz

The old town of Wismar is full of historic buildings, and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site, together with Stralsund, since June 27, 2002. Here you can find the Market Square and the neoclassical town hall. Other famous buildings are the Alter Schwede restaurant and the Wismarer Wasserkunst pumping station.

2. Have dinner at Alter Schwede

The Alter Schwede (Old Swede) restaurant, located on the old market square, is Wismar's oldest building. The building is impressive from the outside and inside you can see a photo of the Swedish king. Take the opportunity to have dinner in this historic setting.

3. Admire the view from St George's Church

Wismar is full of magnificent churches and St. George's Church is one of them.

Here you can take the elevator up to a viewpoint, where you have fantastic views of the city in several directions. Among other things, you get a nice view of St. Nicholas Church.

4. Discover St. Nikolai Church

St. Nikolai Church is one of Wismar's most impressive buildings and a fine example of the brick Gothic architecture that characterized the old Hanseatic cities along the Baltic Sea. The church was built in the 14th century and has an enormous nave with high vaults and beautiful details.

Even if you don't go inside, it's well worth admiring from the outside – especially since it's visible from large parts of the city.

5. See the mighty tower of the Marienkirche

Marienkirche was once one of Wismar's largest and most impressive churches, but was badly damaged during World War II. Today, the 80-meter-high church tower stands as a memorial to the city's history and is one of Wismar's most famous landmarks.

In front of the tower you can still see markings in the ground that show what the old church once looked like, which makes the place extra fascinating to visit.

6. Stroll in the old port

The old port of Wismar is one of the city's most charming places and perfect for a stroll. Fishing boats, sailing boats and historic ships lie side by side, while small restaurants and fish stalls line the quay. It's a lovely place to sit down with a fish sandwich, buy smoked fish or just enjoy the maritime atmosphere and the view of the Baltic Sea.

7. Eat fish and seafood

Wismar is by the sea, so it's not surprising that people like seafood here. Down by the harbour, there are plenty of small stalls selling fresh and smoked fish, fresh and smoked shrimp, and breaded fish sandwiches made to order.

8. Try German ”sekt”

The German equivalent of champagne is 'sekt'. We were told about the sekt cellar Hanse Sektkellerei at Turnerweg 4, 10 minutes from the main square, where you can both taste and buy. Very nice! There were 25 cartons for our part by taxi to the campsite.

9. Take a boat trip in Wismar

If you want to take a look around on the water, you can take a boat trip around Wismar with "Adler Schiffe". You will be guided on board (possibly only in German) and you can order a beer or perhaps a "Berliner wasser" - beer mixed with fruit juice.

10. Take a trip to Insel Poel

Just a short drive from Wismar is the small island of Insel Poel, which is a perfect excursion destination for those who want to combine city life with beach and nature.

Long sandy beaches, small fishing villages, cycle paths and great opportunities for swimming and walking await you here. Insel Poel is a peaceful and natural complement to Wismar's historic city environment and is perfect for a day trip.

11. Join a guided city walk

A great way to discover Wismar is to join a guided city walk. You will learn more about the city's long history as a Hanseatic city, its Swedish connections and the many historic buildings in the old town. There are both classic city walks and themed tours, and several are also offered in English.

12. Experience ”Swedish Festival”

If you want to experience Wismar's Swedish history, you should of course come here during the Schwedenfest, which is held every year over a weekend in mid/late August. This is a historical spectacle and the whole city is filled with carols, horses and gunpowder smoke.

Swedish flags fly around town, people dress up as they used to, cannons and muskets are fired. There are plenty of stalls serving food and beer, and there are also live bands and fireworks. Please read about our experiences at Schwedenfest..

Where can you stay or park your motorhome?

There are several good options for those who want to stay overnight in or near Wismar, whether you are traveling with a campervan, caravan or looking for a hotel. Many choose to stay near the city centre to be within walking distance of attractions, while others prefer to stay by the coast and combine city life with swimming and nature.

Areas to stay and explore

• Old Town (Altstadt) – Perfect for those who want to live in the middle of Wismar, close to the Marktplatz, restaurants, churches and the city's historical attractions.
• Old Port (Alter Hafen) – A good area for those who like a maritime atmosphere, fish restaurants and walks along the quay. From here you are also close to boat trips and the city center.
• Zierow – A quiet coastal town just outside Wismar with beach, nature and camping. Perfect for families with children and campervan travellers who want to combine city visits with beach life.
• Poel Island – For those who want a more natural accommodation with beaches, small fishing villages and cycle paths. Suitable for longer stays.

Campsites and pitches

• Motorhome parking space Wismar – A central parking lot for campers within walking distance of the old town and the harbor – practical for those who want to explore the city on foot.
• Camping pitches on Insel Poel – On the island there are several smaller parking lots and campsites near the beach, which makes it a nice alternative if you want to stay quieter but still close to Wismar.
• Ostsee Camping Ferienpark Zierow – A popular campsite right on the Baltic Sea, only about 8 kilometers from Wismar. There is space for motorhomes, caravans and tents, as well as a restaurant, shop and proximity to the beach.

See more in Northern Germany

There is of course much more to see and experience in northern Germany. Here are some tips on interesting places to visit in the neighbourhood:

• Hanseatic city of Lübeck is known, among other things, for its marzipan
• Timmendorfer Strand offers a long sandy beach and a nice pier
• Goods is a charming town on the great lake of Müritz.
• Stralsund is a harbour town that has also been in Swedish ownership.
• Hamburg offers boat trips, the Elbphilharmonie concert hall and the world's largest model railway.