If you grow up and live in idyllic Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, then you’ll occasionally visit the stunningly beautiful island of Usedom. I (Bolle) have been to the island many times and therefore know many corners and a number of Usedom sights. Did you know that Usedom is one of the sunniest regions in Germany? According to the German Meteorological Service, there are an average of 1,906 hours of sunshine per year here. And that’s not all! Europe’s longest coastline, with a 42-kilometer-long sandy beach, awaits you. That’s reason enough to spend a vacation on Usedom, isn’t it? Come with us to Germany’s second largest island and be surprised by the great highlights on the island of Usedom.

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• These reports might also interest you:
• About the island of Usedom
• Usedom Sights
• 1. The Imperial Baths
• 2. The Amber Baths
• 3. Other places on the island
• 4. Activities & Highlights
• 6. Getting to Usedom
• 7. Getting around on Usedom
• 8. Attention: Tourist tax
• 9. Best time to visit Usedom
• 10. Travel reading for the island

About the island of Usedom

Germany’s second largest island is one of the top travel destinations in Germany and has gained even more importance due to the Corona crisis. Because if you can’t travel abroad, then at least you can go to the seaside within Germany. The island is home to around 76,500 residents, and another 1.2 million guests (6.2 million overnight stays) annually. There’s a lot going on here, especially in summer, and it’s also a great travel destination in spring, autumn, and winter. In the following article, we’ll introduce you to the island and show you which corners are particularly beautiful.

Usedom Sights

The sunny island of Usedom in the northeast of Germany boasts not only miles of beaches, but also a diverse range of leisure activities. Whether for adults, children, or couples, no one will get bored here quickly. We’ve marked some highlights and sights on the map for an initial overview. Have we missed an important spot? Feel free to write it in the comments.

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1. The Imperial Baths

As early as the 19th century, Berlin’s high society flocked to the coast to explore the extravagant summer destinations. These are lined up like pearls on a string and are particularly impressive due to their unique architecture and magnificent villas with towers and columns. The so-called “Imperial Baths” laid the foundation for the bathing industry and were a dream destination for holidaymakers. The motto was: “See and be seen.” The Imperial Three await you with fantastic beaches, a seemingly endless promenade, unique spa architecture, and a variety of activities.

1.1 Kaiserbad Bansin

First up is the Kaiserbad Bansin. It is the youngest and smallest of the three imperial spas and is located west of Heringsdorf and Ahlbeck. In Bansin, you can expect a long sandy beach, an extensive forest area, three beautiful lakes, and some truly charming villas. Even back then, the nobility was attracted by the exclusive quarters, such as Kaiser Wilhelm II. Bansin only received permission for open-air swimming in 1923, so guests could now enjoy the beach in their swimsuits. Because you should know: Such activities were previously only permitted in the bathing establishments. And with this permission, visitor numbers naturally rose rapidly.

Whether you’re looking for a wellness vacation in winter, a beach holiday in summer, or a break in autumn or spring – Bansin is always worth a visit. There are numerous good hotels, restaurants, cafés, shops, and leisure activities. But the Kaiserbad Bansin is particularly impressive for its 285-meter-long pier. Every year in July, the popular pier festival takes place here, with market stalls, music, and fireworks. In the surrounding area, you can hike, cycle, or simply stroll to Ahlbeck. Also worth seeing are the Gothensee, the Schloonsee, and the small Krebssee. Other sights in Bansin: Tropical Zoo, cliffs, forest church and the Seven Lakes View observation tower.

• SEETELHOTEL Kaiserstrand Beachhotel*
• Ostseehotel Villen im Park – a Rovell Hotel*
• Travel Charme Strandhotel Bansin*
• Beachhouse Bansin*
• Sonnenlauf Apartment East*

1.2 Kaiserbad Heringsdorf

The route continues along the coast to Kaiserbad Heringdorf. From Bansin, it’s only a leisurely 20-minute walk. This town is a bit more elegant than its equally beautiful neighbors. Heringsdorf could actually be called the “Nice of the Baltic Sea.” Founded in 1818 as a small fishing village, Heringsdorf began operating as a bathing resort just seven years later. It’s home to the longest pier in Western Europe, at 508 meters. Reason enough to pay the Kaiserbad a visit.

The view of the bridge is particularly enchanting in the evening, when the pyramidal structure of the bridge building is illuminated. On the bridge, you’ll find various restaurants, shops, a cinema, and the Shell Museum. In good weather, you can observe the clear sky at the nearby observatory. In summer, many events and concerts take place in the theater tent.

In summer, the long sandy beach invites you to swim and sunbathe. But the surrounding area also has a lot to offer, whether on foot, by bike, or on horseback. Take a detour to Lake Gothensee or stroll along the promenade to Ahlbeck. The Usedom spa railway takes you conveniently to the neighboring towns. Further highlights in Heringsdorf: Ostseetherme, promenade, Villa Irmgard Museum, and Heringsdorf Church.

Accommodations in Heringsdorf:

• Travel Charme Strandidyll Heringsdorf*
• Upstalsboom Hotel Ostseestrand*
• Strandvilla Aurelia*
• Steigenberger Grandhotel & Spa Heringsdorf*
• Boje 06 Heringsdorf*

1.3 Kaiserbad Ahlbeck

In the north of Usedom, not far from the Polish border, lies the Kaiserbad Ahlbeck. The fishing village was first mentioned in 1699, but Ahlbeck has only been officially a seaside resort since 1908. Along with Bansin and Heringsdorf, Ahlbeck is one of the most popular destinations on the island of Usedom. In summer, the 12-kilometer-long and up to 70-meter-wide beach attracts numerous vacationers. But even in the stormy winter, Ahlbeck and the Baltic Sea have a very special charm.

You can rent a beach chair here, play beach volleyball, or simply take a long swim. There are also sections for nudists and a dog beach. Another pier awaits you in Ahlbeck, the oldest of its kind on the European mainland. If the sun isn’t shining, you can visit the OstseeTherme spa and unwind in the sauna, steam bath, or thermal bath. By the way, the German-Polish border is only 3 km from Ahlbeck.

In good weather, you can take a leisurely stroll to Heringsdorf or take a detour to Poland. There are numerous markets with many stalls along the border. Here you can buy clothes, jewelry, watches, toys, technology, and delicious Polish specialties. Moreover, gasoline and cigarettes are still a bit cheaper there than here in Germany. Visiting Poland used to be a standard part of our itinerary whenever we were on the island. Further Ahlbeck Highlights: spa architecture (e.g., Hotel Villa Auguste Viktoria), shopping in Poland, Art Nouveau clock from 1911, concert pavilion, church & promenade.

Accommodations in Ahlbeck:

• SEETELHOTEL Ahlbecker Hof*
• The Ahlbeck Hotel & SPA*
• Holiday apartment “Die Bleibe”*
• Kaiser Karl Apartments*

2. The Amber Baths

In addition to the three sophisticated imperial spas, the island of Usedom also has the so-called Amber Baths. Why the name? Quite simple: Here, you can often find amber on the Baltic Sea beaches. These baths are located in the heart of Usedom, where the island is at its narrowest. The towns of Zempin, Koserow, Loddin, and Ückeritz are lined up here like a chain. Above all, you can expect untouched nature, typical maritime landscapes, idyllic sandy beaches, and an extensive range of recreational activities.

2.1 Bernsteinbad Zempin

The Amberbad Zempin is the smallest seaside resort on the island of Usedom. This former fishing village is located at the narrowest point of the island, between Zinnowitz and Koserow. On one side, you have the Baltic Sea, on the other, the Achterwasser. If you’re looking for peace and seclusion, Zempin is the perfect place for you. Explore nature by bike, let yourself drift, and experience the diversity in a small space.

The white sandy beach invites you to swim and sunbathe. The beautiful coastal forest connects seamlessly to it. You can reach the original part of the seaside resort towards Achterwasser. Here you’ll find a former schoolhouse and a lovingly designed grocery store in the museum, which houses beautiful furniture from 1928. Also check out the village square with its book tree, the idyllic harbor, and the dike.

Accommodations in Zempin:

• Bernsteinkieker*
• Inselhof Vineta*
• Zempin Ostseepark*
• Ferienhaus Inselliebe*

2.2 Bernsteinbad Koserow

Next up is the idyllic Bernsteinbad Koserow, located between Loddin and Zempin. The white sandy beaches, as well as the green meadows and forests, invite you to relax. From the “Streckelbsgerg” hill, you have a fantastic view of the sea and can let your gaze wander into the distance. In the town itself, you can discover charming accommodations, several restaurants, relaxing spa treatments, as well as shopping and entertainment options (e.g., Karls Erlebnis-Dorf).

Rent a bike and explore the amber spa town of Koserow. Visit the pretty village church, the 260-meter-long pier, the Koserow saltworks, the 60-meter-high Streckelsberg mountain, or take a detour to Zinnowitz, Ückeritz, or the other imperial and amber spa towns. By the way, every year in winter (January/February) the so-called “Winterbaden” (winter bathing) takes place, with plenty of entertainment for spectators.

Accommodations in Koserow:

• Nautic Usedom Hotel & Spa*
• Strandhotel Seerose*
• Küstenhaus Koserow*
• Haus Usedom Appartement Meeresluft*

2.3 Bernsteinbad Loddin

The Bernsteinbad Loddin is still considered an insider tip; only around 970 people live here. The town consists of the three districts of Loddin, Kölpinsee, and Stubbenfelde. A long promenade, sandy beach, hiking trails, a hidden orchid meadow on the shore of Kölpinsee, and plenty of sunshine await you. Loddin is the perfect vacation destination if you want to sit back and relax. Stroll along the beach promenade, treat yourself to a freshly brewed coffee, and indulge in a delicious fish sandwich.

In summer, you can also rent a rowboat and explore the lake or hike around it (3.5 km). The best place to admire the sunset is from the Loddiner Höft, overlooking the Achterwasser. Very romantic! Be sure to bring a bottle of wine and some snacks. Speaking of wine, did you know that Loddin is home to Germany’s northernmost vineyard? In 1999, wine cultivation began here on the southern slope. The vineyard was painstakingly created, and the first grapes were harvested in 2002.

Accommodation in Loddin:

• Strandhotel Seerose*
• Das Inselhaus 3*
• Ferienhaus BAYSIDE Schneckenhus Loddin*
• Kleiner Wagen – Stubbenfelde*

2.4 Bernsteinbad Ückeritz

Now we come to the last amber spa, namely the Baltic Sea resort of Ückeritz. Away from the impressive imperial spas with their unique spa architecture, this small artists’ town, once a fishing and farming village, presents itself with a very authentic feel. The colors, the expanse, and the sea are particularly beautiful in Ückeritz. Many renowned artists have found their creative retreat and plenty of inspiration here in Ückeritz. Many picturesque views of the sea and the cliffs await you.

Naturally, vacationers spend most of their time on the beach, whether in spring, summer, fall, or winter. In town, you’ll find a kitesurfing and surfing school (Windsport Usedom) for plenty of action on the water. The climbing forest in Neu Pudagla is also worth a visit. Grab a bike and explore the flat and cliff coast, the forests and meadows, and the two harbors on the Achterwasser. The Museum of Illusions is also popular, with its many astonishing works of art (don’t forget your camera).

• Dünenhäuser Nautic*
• Ferienhaus Sturmmöwe*
• Pension Café Knatter*
• Hotel Garni Nussbaumhof*

3. Other places on the island

In addition to these amber and imperial spas, the diverse island of Usedom has several other beautiful places to offer. For example, the Baltic Seaside resort of Zinnowitz with its beautiful pier and diving gondola is recommended. You’ll also find a great beach promenade, a few shops, restaurants, cafés, and the quaint Club Kino. More about this here: Holidays in Zinnowitz. The Baltic Sea resort of Karlshagen is also very idyllic, with a beach up to 80 meters wide, warmer water temperatures than anywhere else on the Baltic Sea, and a maritime marina. So how about a leisurely boat trip on the Achterwasser or building sandcastles on the white sandy beach?

High up in the north of the island of Usedom lies Peenemünde. This former fishing village awaits you with a very eventful history. Did you know that the world’s first large rocket was launched into space from Peenemünde in 1942? Or that Europe’s largest military research center was once located here? If you want to learn more about this and the events of World War II, you should definitely take a trip to the Historical-Technical Museum. Also recommended: the Juliett submarine at the main harbor, Phänomenta, the Toy Museum, a ferry ride on the Peenestrom, and a walk along the main harbor.

4. Activities & Highlights

There are other Usedom highlights and plenty of excursion destinations. If you don’t just want to lie on the beach, the following list might be of interest to you. Whether on foot, by bike, boat, or car – there are numerous sights spread across the island. And even when the weather is bad, you can experience an incredible amount on the island of Usedom.

• The world is turned upside down (bizarre and crazy | cool photos)
• Windmill in Benz
• Butterfly farm in Trassenheide
• Tropical zoo in Bansin
• Mellentin Castle & Botanical Garden
• XXL beach chair in Heringsdorf
• Zinnowitz diving gondola
• Usedom Sand Sculpture Festival in Heringsdorf
• Stolpe Castle (historic manor house)
• Mühlenbake
• Karnin drawbridge
• Swinoujscie Fortress in Poland (West Battery)
• Wolgast Castle Island
• Krummin natural harbor
• Water sports between Trassenheide and Zempin
• Pomeranian Bed Museum in Karlshagen

6. Getting to Usedom

By car: If you’re coming from western Germany, you should take the A11 – A20 motorways. Take the Gützkow exit (27) to Wolgast and thus the island (B111, B110 & B109). If you’re coming from the south, also use the A11 – A20 motorways. Then take the Pasewalk-Süd exit (26) to Anklam and finally the Zecheriner Bridge (note the bridge’s opening times!).

By train: You can also easily reach the island of Usedom by train. ICE and IC trains, as well as RE trains, run from almost all parts of Germany via Hamburg and Berlin to Züssow. There, you can change trains and continue on to the island with the Usedomer Bäderbahn (Usedomer Bäderbahn) via Wolgast. With the Deutsche Bahn Cross-Country Ticket, you can travel to Usedom affordably with up to 5 people.

By bus:You can also travel to the island affordably with buses from companies such as Flixbus. There are stops in Bansin, Ahlbeck, Heringsdorf, and Usedom. The UBB long-distance bus line also travels from German cities to Usedom. Tickets start at just €19 each way.

7. Mobility on Usedom

Usedom has a well-developed rail network. The Usedom Seaside Railway (and buses) runs between Świnoujście (Poland) and Peenemünde, among other destinations. This makes it easy to explore other parts of the island by train. A trip to Albeck/Heringsdorf takes just under 44 minutes. From Zinnowitz, Peenemünde is only a 14-minute train ride away. A trip to Poland is also just a shortcut.

We also recommend the “UsedomRad” app, which makes it easy to rent bikes. You can find these bikes in the island’s largest towns and can be recognized by their yellow color. One hour costs €3, and a day only €9. The longer you rent, the cheaper it becomes.

8. Attention: Tourist Tax

If you visit the island of Usedom, you should also be aware that you have to pay a daily contribution in the form of the tourist tax. This is levied in the various seaside resorts along the Baltic Sea coast. Depending on the season, you pay between €1 and €3 per day. You might be wondering what all this is for? It keeps the beaches and promenade clean and maintained. Given the high number of visitors, this is necessary.

If you stay in a hotel or guesthouse, you usually pay your tourist tax there. However, if you are only coming to the island for a day trip, for example, you have to pay your tourist tax at the machines. These are usually located at the main entrances to the beaches. It is important that you always carry your tourist card with you in case you are checked.

9. Best time to travel to Usedom

When is the best time to travel to Usedom? There’s no easy answer, as it depends on your needs and preferences. The sunny island of Usedom is, of course, one of Germany’s most popular travel destinations, especially in summer. The summer months of July and August are ideal for a beach holiday. However, in August, daily highs can reach up to 35°C. If you prefer to travel outside of school holidays, you should choose the months of May, June, September, or October. Then you can still expect a mild climate with plenty of sunshine and little rain.

10. Travel Reading for the Island

Would you like to have the perfect travel guide in your pocket while you’re there? We recommend the travel guide from DuMont Verlag*. Over 290 pages, you’ll learn everything about the towns, beaches, highlights, excursions, and much more. The book “52 Small & Large Escapades in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania on the Baltic Sea*” is also very good. With this book, you’ll be well prepared and learn even more about Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania.