Sometimes you just need a little break from the hustle and bustle of the big city, without having to travel for ages. The perfect dose of relaxation awaits southwest of Hamburg, nestled in the idyllic countryside of the Altes Land: Welcome to the historic old town of Stade!
Anyone who has only heard of Stade through the grapevine will be surprised by just how much charm and historic beauty this Hanseatic city has to offer. The heart of the city is the picturesque Hanseatic harbor at the fish market. Surrounded by lovingly restored half-timbered houses and merchants’ homes, you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported back to a bygone century.
A stroll through the enchanting Old Town
Anyone strolling through the cobblestone alleys of the Old Town can discover something new around every corner. Here you’ll find countless boutiques, arts-and-crafts shops, and cozy cafés. Stade was largely rebuilt after a major fire in 1659, which is why the cityscape is still characterized today by a unique blend of Swedish Baroque and North German half-timbered architecture.
An absolute must-see is the Schwedenspeicher, an imposing brick building right on the harbor that now houses a museum . If you want to enjoy the best view over the Old Town’s characteristic tiled roofs, climb the steps of St. Cosmae Church. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic view that, on a clear day, stretches far into the Alte Land region.
A maritime idyll on the water
After exploring on foot, a ride on a canal boat along the historic moat is well worth it. From the water, the city’s green fortification belt shows itself at its best. If you’d rather take the helm yourself, you can simply rent a canoe or stand-up paddleboard and explore the city on your own from the water. Back on land, the best way to wind down the day is at one of the restaurants around the harbor basin —perhaps with regional specialties and a cool drink in the evening sun.
