There is a lot to experience near Hamburg: Northern Germany’s largest theme park is only an hour away, and also in just an hour by train you can reach a real beach pearl with plenty on offer. However, if you are looking for a real Caribbean feeling in Germany, you have to go a little further out to the Baltic Sea, off the Pomeranian coast. There is a direct IC connection to Germany’s largest island with 926 km²: the beautiful island of Rügen. There is no doubt that Sylt and Usedom also impress with their size and coastline – but nothing comes close to this Baltic Sea island!
The paradise island of Rügen
Known for its Caribbean flair, characterized by 574 km of coastline, 56 km of fine sandy beaches and 27 km of natural stretches, you almost feel like you’ve left Germany on Rügen. With a little sunshine, the Baltic Sea here shimmers in intense shades of turquoise and blue that are otherwise only seen in the Caribbean. The light, fine sandy beaches convey the feeling of endless sandbanks, while gentle dunes, bodden landscapes, lagoons and the variety of coastal shapes give the island an exotic feel. Away from the busy seaside resorts, you will discover hidden bays and idyllic landscapes that make Rügen a true island paradise.
Highlights include the imposing chalk cliffs in the Jasmund National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage Site with the famous Königsstuhl and ancient beech forests. Equally unique is Cape Arkona, the striking northern tip of the island with its cliffs, two lighthouses, the fishing village of Vitt and the historic ramparts.
Hotspots & insider tips
One of the hotspots for seaside resorts and architecture on Rügen is Binz – the largest Baltic seaside resort with magnificent spa architecture and miles of promenades. Sellin with its famous pier and nostalgic restaurant pavilion is also well worth a visit. Göhren and Baabe, on the other hand, are smaller spas with a cozier flair. Putbus, the “white town” of Rügen, impresses with its classicist buildings, castle park and rose tradition.
There are also some insider tips in the immediate vicinity: Mönchgut, a peninsula in the south-east, attracts visitors with its unspoiled nature, fishermen’s houses and quiet beaches. The car-free island of Hiddensee, which can be reached by ferry from Rügen, is also considered an artists’ island and is perfect for peace and nature experiences. Another highlight is the Granitz hunting lodge – not a crowded place, but with a spectacular spiral staircase in the tower that leads you to a breathtaking view.
With the IC from Hamburg to Rügen
From Hamburg Central Station, you can take the daily IC train directly to the Baltic Sea. The typical connection leads to Binz or Sassnitz, sometimes also to Stralsund. On the way, you will pass Lübeck and Rostock before the train crosses the Rügen Bridge at Stralsund and travels directly to the island. From there, the journey continues via Bergen auf Rügen to Binz or Sassnitz. Depending on the connection, the journey takes around 3:45 to 4:15 hours. Early bookers can secure tickets from €29.90, with a BahnCard or flex fare it is a little more expensive, but more flexible. Further information on train connections and tickets can be found directly on the Deutsche Bahn website. So: simply board the train in Hamburg, sit back and relax for four hours – and you’ll be on Germany’s largest island, which almost feels like an exotic vacation!