Top 10 Things to Do and See in Schwerin, Germany
![Schwerin Castle](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/20x11/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/shutterstock_197054195.webp)
Schwerin lies about 110 kilometres east of Hamburg and stuns with its romantic palace and surrounding landscape riddled with lakes. But there’s more to explore than that – artworks from the Middle Ages all the way through to modern times, historic townhouses and peculiar anecdotes from the city’s past. Here are the top 10 things to do when you’re visiting the charming city in Germany’s north.
1. Schwerin Castle
Building, Museum
![Schwerin Castle, Germany](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/shutterstock_84962560.webp)
Schwerin Castle is something straight out of a fairytale. Over 1,000 years, the beautiful building was reconstructed and expanded several times. Influenced by the Renaissance era, the castle sits on an island surrounded by parks and gardens. Today, it’s the seat of the Landtag of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and houses the castle museum. Daily guided tours take your around the lavishly furnished decorated rooms and allow a glimpse into the castle’s history.
The twelve lakes
You’ll see water wherever you go when you visit Schwerin. The landscape is dominated by 12 lakes that surround the city. Lake Schwerin alone encompasses more than 60 square kilometres and is a haven for watersport fans. You can join a boat trip, sail, kayak, swim or stay on a houseboat for the length of your trip.
2. Schwerin Cathedral
Cathedral, Church
![Schwerin Cathedral, Schwerin](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/1986884.webp)
The 13th-century cathedral ranks among the best examples of brick-built Gothic architecture in North Germany. Rather than just marvelling at its architectonic features, it’s worth stepping inside to explore some of the details. Back in the Middle Ages, a reliquary that was believed to hold Christ’s blood drew pilgrimages to Schwerin Cathedral.