Escape the hustle and bustle of the big city and dive into the cool water! When wanderlust strikes but you don’t want to spend hours stuck in traffic or hop on a plane, there’s a fantastic destination right nearby. We’re talking about the island town of Ratzeburg. This small town in Schleswig-Holstein is nestled in the picturesque Lauenburg Lakes Nature Park and offers just the right mix of relaxation, culture, and maritime vibes. Ratzeburg is only an hour away from Hamburg, making it ideal for a spontaneous weekend getaway.
An Old Town in the Middle of the Lake
What makes Ratzeburg special is immediately apparent: The historic old town is situated on an island, surrounded by four lakes: Lake Ratzeburg, Lake Dom, Lake Küchen, and Little Lake Küchen. To reach the island, you must cross the three causeways connecting it to the mainland. The historic heart of the island is the impressive Ratzeburg Cathedral, one of the oldest Romanesque brick structures, which was founded in the 12th century by Henry the Lion. A stroll through the shady avenues surrounding the cathedral will definitely transport you to another era.
Cool off at a picture-perfect spot: The Schlosswiese swimming area
For hot summer days, there’s a very special spot on the island: the beach at the Schlosswiese swimming area. This spot not only offers a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear water but also a beautiful view of the surrounding landscape. At the dock, you’re sure to find a nice spot to relax and sunbathe on the spacious lawn or in the sandy area. And now for the best part: Admission to the swimming area is free!
To make your day at the lake perfect, you can rent a stand-up paddleboard, a kayak, or a pedal boat in Ratzeburg and explore the picturesque lake district on your own from the water. Boat tours are also available . After cooling off, the promenade cafés and cozy fish stands invite you to grab a bite to eat. The view of the passing sailboats and rowboats simply rounds off your summer outing perfectly.
Here’s how to get there from Hamburg
🚂 By train: From Hamburg Central Station, you can reach Ratzeburg Station in about an hour with a transfer in Büchen. From there, local buses or a short walk will take you directly to the town island (Ratzeburg Station, Demolierung).
🚗 By car: Taking the A24 and B207, it also takes only about an hour from Hamburg.
