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Greifswald

Greifswald, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Germany

Step Back in Time in Charming Greifswald Nestled on the Baltic coast of Germany, Greifswald is a hidden gem in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, waiting to be discovered. This picturesque university town effortlessly blends…

#Historic city#Baltic Sea coast#University town#Medieval architecture#Cultural events

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Greifswald.

Top Hotels in Greifswald

Top Flights to Greifswald

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Greifswald.

Tours

Explore Historic Greifswald

Discover the rich history of Greifswald with a tour of its historic sites, including impressive churches and ancient university buildings.

Shopping

Shopping at the Market Square

Experience the vibrant life of Greifswald's Market Square, where you can shop for local produce and crafts.

Outdoor

Biking on the Baltic Coast

Enjoy a scenic bike ride along the stunning Baltic Sea coast, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Greifswald.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

63,000

Languages

German, Low German

Average weather

Greifswald

Jan

3°-1°

Feb

4°-1°

Mar

8°1°

Apr

13°4°

May

18°8°

Jun

21°12°

Jul

23°14°

Aug

23°14°

Sep

18°11°

Oct

13°7°

Nov

7°3°

Dec

4°0°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Greifswald.

What people love

Greifswald, located in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Germany, offers several advantages for travelers:

Historical Charm: Greifswald is a picturesque town with a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. Visitors can explore its well-preserved historic buildings, including the impressive university buildings and churches.
University Town: Greifswald is home to the University of Greifswald, one of the oldest universities in Germany. This gives the town a vibrant and youthful atmosphere, with plenty of cultural events and activities to enjoy.
Baltic Coast: Greifswald is located near the Baltic Sea coast, offering visitors the opportunity to enjoy beautiful beaches, coastal landscapes, and fresh sea air. It's a great destination for those who enjoy water activities and relaxation by the sea.
Nature and Outdoor Activities: The surrounding region of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania is known for its natural beauty, with forests, lakes, and national parks to explore. Visitors can enjoy hiking, cycling, and wildlife watching in the area.
Local Cuisine: Greifswald and the region offer delicious traditional German cuisine, including fresh seafood from the Baltic Sea, local specialties, and hearty German dishes. Visitors can enjoy dining at cozy restaurants and trying regional delicacies.

Overall, Greifswald is a charming destination with a mix of history, culture, nature, and coastal attractions, making it a great choice for travelers looking for a unique and diverse experience in Germany.

What to know

Greifswald is a charming and historic city located in the beautiful region of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Germany. However, like any destination, there are some potential cons to consider when traveling to Greifswald:

Limited tourist infrastructure: Greifswald is not as heavily touristed as some other German cities, so you may find that there are fewer tourist amenities and services available compared to more popular destinations.
Limited English proficiency: While many Germans speak English, you may encounter some language barriers in Greifswald, especially in smaller shops and restaurants.
Weather: Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, like much of northern Germany, can experience cooler temperatures and more rainfall compared to other parts of the country. Be prepared for potentially unpredictable weather, especially if you are visiting during the colder months.
Limited nightlife: Greifswald is a university town, so it has a lively student scene. However, if you are looking for a vibrant nightlife with a wide variety of options, you may find Greifswald's offerings to be more limited compared to larger cities.

Overall, while Greifswald offers a unique and authentic German experience, it may not have the same level of tourist infrastructure and amenities as more popular destinations in the country. It's important to plan accordingly and be prepared for a more laid-back and perhaps less tourist-oriented travel experience.

Greifswald is a city located in the northeastern part of Germany, in the state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. It has a rich history that dates back several centuries.

Early History

Founding and Hanseatic League: Greifswald was founded in the 13th century, with its first documented mention in 1248. It became an important member of the Hanseatic League, a powerful economic and defensive alliance of merchant guilds and market towns in northwestern and central Europe.

Middle Ages

University of Greifswald: One of the key historical landmarks of the city is the University of Greifswald, which was founded in 1456, making it one of the oldest universities in Europe. The university has played a significant role in the cultural and educational development of the region.

Early Modern Period

Swedish Era: After the Thirty Years' War, in 1648, Greifswald became part of Swedish Pomerania under the Treaty of Westphalia. It remained under Swedish control until 1815.

19th Century

Prussian Control: In 1815, after the Congress of Vienna, Greifswald became part of the Kingdom of Prussia. This period saw significant development and modernization within the city.

20th Century

World War II: Unlike many German cities, Greifswald was not heavily damaged during World War II. The city was peacefully handed over to the Soviet Red Army, preventing large-scale destruction.
GDR Period: After the war, Greifswald became part of East Germany (the German Democratic Republic) until reunification in 1990.

Modern Era

Reunification and Growth: Following the reunification of Germany, Greifswald has continued to grow and develop. It has become known for its vibrant academic life, thanks to its university, and its beautiful historical architecture.

Significant Landmarks

St. Nikolai Cathedral: This Gothic-style cathedral is one of the city's architectural highlights and a symbol of Greifswald.
Market Square: The city's market square is surrounded by historical buildings and is a center of activity and cultural events.
Pomeranian State Museum: It showcases the region's history, art, and culture.
Eldena Abbey: The ruins of this former abbey are located just outside the city and are famously depicted in artworks by the Romantic painter Caspar David Friedrich, who was born in Greifswald.

Notable Figures

Caspar David Friedrich: A leading figure in the German Romantic movement in art, Friedrich was born in Greifswald in 1774. His work often features landscapes that evoke a sense of the sublime and the spiritual.

Greifswald today is a blend of historical charm and modern vitality, with its university continuing to attract students and academics from around the world. The city remains a testament to its rich Hanseatic past and its resilience through changing political landscapes.