Binz

Travel Guide

Ostseebad Binz, literally “Baltic Sea Spa,” has been a beloved tourist destination since the 19th century, when the local craze for swimming in the sea began. Once a sleepy fishing village, the town quickly transformed into a hub for Germany’s smart set, who began building its now-renowned resort architecture. Appreciate today’s relaxed atmosphere. Experience the old glamor at famed resorts such as the art nouveau Kurhaus.

Stroll leisurely along the sand of Binz Beach or rent a wicker chair to sit and watch the water glittering in the sun. Amble along the boardwalk observing stately white Victorian-era resort architecture.

Sit beside the bay or the sea for the afternoon with a fish sandwich and a book.

In the Museum Ostseebad Binz inside the tourism information center view old photographs and swimsuits from Binz’s early days.

Explore Binz on the Raging Roland, a famous narrow-gauge railway that takes visitors between beaches. Cycle through the nearby national park. Visit the Granitz Hunting Lodge, a former royal retreat whose central tower has a high vantage point.

Outside town, explore recent history in the massive Prora complex, once the headquarters of the People’s Police. Look at decorative objects and artifacts from the former German Democratic Republic in the NVA Museum and admire the enormous collection of vintage cars and steam engines at the Railway and Technical Museum.

Watch the sunset from Binz’s 400-yard (370-meter) pier, with panoramic views of the town and natural surroundings. Join a boat here for a tour of the chalk cliffs that stand bright white against the sea.

Drive to Ostseebad Binz from the closest international airport in Hamburg in 4 hours or take the train from Rostock in 2 hours. Rostock offers rail connections to other German and Baltic locations. Alternatively, take a car ferry from Malmö, Sweden in 5 hours.

Binz may be cold outside in summer but is often sunnier than other parts of Northern Europe.