Things to do in Wismar

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Wismar must see attractions

1. Wismar Market Square

Wismar was built around its Market Square, which was set out on a 2.5-acre (1-hectare) lot at the time of its construction. Imposing in size and surrounded by both civic buildings and patrician townhouses, it hosts all sorts of civic events and festivities, including the city’s annual Swedish Festival and a triweekly farmers market. Visit Market Square today for the perfect place to get acquainted with Wismar and its people.
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Wilsmer Market Square featuring heritage elements

2. Holy Spirit Church

Built in the 13th century soon after the founding of the city, Holy Spirit Church served as both hospital and church, with beds for the ill and poor set up in the nave itself. Its distinctive flat ceiling was installed in the 17th century after a gunpowder explosion tore off its formerly gabled roof. Visit it now to see many of the works of art that were saved from grander houses of worship that were destroyed during World War II.
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Holy Spirit Church which includes a church or cathedral and heritage architecture

3. St. Nicolai Church

Built as a church for sailors and fishermen, the St-Nikolai-Kirche is irrevocably tied to the maritime legacy of Wismar and the Baltic Coast. Founded in the 14th century and still in use as an Evangelical Lutheran church, it has one of the tallest naves of any church in Germany and is awe-inspiring for every visitor. This example of the magnificent brick gothic style defines religious architecture in Wismar and throughout the Baltic. Note its interior that was redone in a Baroque style during the height of Wismar’s power as part of the Hanseatic League.
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St-Nikolai-Kirche showing interior views

4. Wasserkunst

Built in response to Golden Age Wismar’s need for municipal water, the Wasserkunst is a wonder of both engineering and design from the famous Utrecht architect Philipp Brandin. Construction was delayed for over 20 years as the builder and the city quibbled over money. When it was finally built in 1602, it was instantly recognized as a marvel, supplying 220 homes and 16 public fountains with a continuous flow of water. Continuously renovated over the years, it was finally retired at the end of the 19th century. See it today as an important landmark of Wismar’s Old Town.
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Wasserkunst featuring a city, a sunset and heritage elements

5. St. George's Church

Formerly Wismar’s largest and youngest major church, with origins in the 13th century, St. George’s now serves as a cultural space. Come here for panoramic views of the Mecklenburg countryside. After suffering extensive damage during World War II, the church was deemed dangerous and unusable until a group of local activists lobbied for its restoration. Today, it is a beloved part of the community and offers a rare wheelchair-accessible observation platform in Wismar.
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St. George\'s Church which includes tranquil scenes, a small town or village and heritage elements

6. Alte Wasserturm

Gaze at this structure standing proudly at the edge of Wismar’s Old Town. The Alte Wasserturm (Old Water Tower) epitomizes the many creative adaptations to war that have defined Germany’s Baltic region.
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Alte Wasserturm showing heritage elements

What to do in Wismar

 

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Discover the most popular places to visit in Wismar

Wilsmer Market Square featuring heritage elements

Wismar Market Square

4/5(1 review)

Find Wismar’s most splendid architecture as well as shops, restaurants and markets in and around this plaza, one of the biggest in northern Germany.

Wismar Market Square
Holy Spirit Church which includes a church or cathedral and heritage architecture

Holy Spirit Church

Appreciate distinctive Baltic religious art and treasures from throughout Wismar’s history in this small but beautiful long-lived place of worship.

Holy Spirit Church
St-Nikolai-Kirche showing interior views

St. Nicolai Church

Let the massive size and intricate craftsmanship of this brick Gothic house of worship from the 1300s impress and inspire you.

St. Nicolai Church
Wasserkunst featuring a city, a sunset and heritage elements

Wasserkunst

Located in Wismar’s Market Square, this 17th-century building supplied the town with water and is an excellent example of Baroque civic design.

Wasserkunst
St. George\'s Church which includes tranquil scenes, a small town or village and heritage elements

St. George's Church

Panoramic views, contemporary art and performances await visitors to this reconstructed church in the western part of Wismar’s Old Town.

St. George's Church
Alte Wasserturm showing heritage elements

Alte Wasserturm

Impressive engineering and military history come together sublimely at this Gothic structural marvel, once a part of Wismar’s city wall.

Alte Wasserturm

Wonnemar Wismar

3/5(1 review)

Bring your family to Wonnemar Wismar and have a fun-filled day at this amusement park in Wismar. Amble around the area's waterfront or visit its churches.

Wonnemar Wismar

University of Wismar

Explore the campus of University of Wismar, during your travels in Wismar. Stroll along the waterfront or visit the churches while you're in the area.

University of Wismar

Tierpark Wismar

Why not see the exotic and native animals who call Tierpark Wismar home during your travels in Wismar? Stroll along the waterfront or visit the churches while you're in the area.

Tierpark Wismar

 

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Popular day trips from Wismar

Photo "Dorf Mecklenburg" by Hermann Luyken (CC0) / Cropped from original
Photo by Hermann Luyken (CC0)

Dorf Mecklenburg

St. George\'s Church which includes tranquil scenes, a small town or village and heritage elements

Old Town Wismar

Photo "Steffin" by Hermann Luyken (CC0) / Cropped from original
Photo by Hermann Luyken (CC0)

Steffin

Frequently asked questions

Is Wismar worth visiting?
Whether you want to experience the cultural attractions and local charm or sample unique foods and explore the outdoors, there are plenty of things to do in Wismar.
How do I spend a day in Wismar?
When you've checked off major attractions like Timmendorf Beach and Am Schwarzen Busch Beach, spend some time discovering Wismar's retail and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Wismar?
The top tourist attraction in Wismar is Timmendorf Beach, so be sure to add it to your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Wismar?
Three days is plenty for a short trip to Wismar — you'll hit the main attractions and get a good feel for the place. But if you want to really experience it all, stick around for at least a week to explore some nearby highlights too.
Is Wismar a walkable city?
If touring on foot sounds like your type of vacation, Wismar is an ideal destination. Find top sights, like Windorf Beach, within walking distance of downtown. You can also enjoy a stroll around Nordwestmecklenburg, a hip neighborhood located about 0.1 miles from the city center.
What are some activities to do in Wismar with kids?
Whether you're traveling with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, a schedule filled with fun activities is the key to a stress-free getaway. Take a look at our recommendations for what to do in Wismar with kids.

What to do in Wismar for adults?
From delicious food and cultural attractions to thrilling excursions and one-of-a-kind experiences, there are loads of exciting things to do in Wismar for adults.
Are there free things to do in Wismar?
One of the best ways to find free things to do in Wismar is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider advice on hip neighborhoods, parks and other highlights you can enjoy without reaching for your wallet. Windorf Beach is one spot that doesn't have an entrance fee.

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