🌟 Classics
These are the iconic highlights everyone should experience on Rügen.
- Ride the Rasender Roland steam train from Göhren to Binz – a nostalgic journey through the island’s seaside resorts.
- Visit the Sellin pier & admire its classic architecture – one of Rügen’s most photogenic spots.
- Explore Granitz Hunting Lodge – climb the tower for a panoramic island view.
- Stroll along the Binz promenade – elegant villas and relaxed seaside flair.
- Discover the Colossus of Prora – a huge Nazi-era complex now transformed.
- Walk the Sassnitz harbor & Europe’s longest outer pier – pure Baltic charm.
- Watch the Störtebeker Festival – open-air pirate theatre at its best.
- Visit Cape Arkona – dramatic cliffs and historical lighthouses.
- Take a day trip to Hiddensee – a car-free island with quiet beauty.
- Enjoy Rügen’s best beaches – from lively to secluded, there’s something for everyone.
🏞️ Chalk Cliffs & Nature
Rügen’s iconic white cliffs and ancient forests are UNESCO-protected treasures.
- Take a boat tour to the famous Königsstuhl cliff – see the rocks from the water.
- Hike the beach trail from Sassnitz – stunning views of the Wissower Klinken.
- Wander the Jasmund National Park – beech forests and dramatic cliffs await.
🔍 Hidden Gems
Off the beaten track – these local secrets are peaceful and authentic.
- Book a guided tour to Vilm Island – strict nature reserve, rarely visited.
- Watch the sunset from Vju Hotel tower – Göhren in golden light.
- Drive through the countryside during poppy and rapeseed blossom season – a feast for the eyes.
- Climb the tower at Ranzow Castle – panoramic views of sea and chalk cliffs.
- Visit the 12 km Schaabe sandbar – a beach between sea and lagoon.
🚴 Mönchgut Peninsula Tips
This tranquil region in the southeast is perfect for slow travel and nature lovers.
- Walk around Göhren’s North & South beach via the Nordperd cliff.
- Cycle the route Göhren–Thiessow–Klein Zicker – great coastal scenery.
- Stroll from Sellin harbor to Baabe jetty – peaceful and picturesque.
- Pro tip: Stay in Göhren – charming, well-located, and full of atmosphere.
🌿 More Insider Tips
Charming little spots and curious places locals love.
- Visit Putbus, the white town – neoclassical design and lovely gardens.
- Enter the Upside-Down House in Lauterbach – quirky fun for families.
- Explore a rural farm with animals & local products – family-friendly and authentic.
- Climb the Wedding Tower in Binz – small but scenic.
- Stop by Lietzow, Rügen’s narrowest point – sea on both sides.
- Climb the Rugard Tower in Bergen – central island views.
- Walk around Nonnensee lake – ideal for birdwatchers and slow strolls.
- Check out the maritime-style bank – yes, a bank that looks like a boat.
- Spot storks near Bergen – best in spring.
- Cross by the Wittow ferry – a scenic shortcut to the north.
- Try a healing chalk treatment – Rügen’s natural spa product.
🍽️ Food & Drink
Discover local tastes and enjoy Rügen’s culinary traditions.
- Eat a fish sandwich or smoked fish – simple and so good.
- Dine by the harbor – seafood with a view.
- Taste sea buckthorn products – full of vitamin C and regional flavor.
- Dine or stay in a castle – for a royal experience.
⚡ Adventure & Fun
Rügen has more to offer than peace and quiet – adventure awaits too.
- Walk the treetop path in Prora – nature and views in one.
- Play mini golf in Göhren – with a sea view.
- Try the climbing park or indoor pool – fun for all ages.
- Watch or try windsurfing on Ummanz – great wind and wide waters.
- Go out dancing or clubbing – yes, Rügen has nightlife too!
🌧️ Rainy Day Tips on Rügen
Even when it rains, Rügen offers exciting indoor experiences – from museums to play parks.
- Ozeaneum Stralsund – a modern ocean museum with giant aquariums and life-sized whale displays.
- German Oceanographic Museum (Meeresmuseum) Stralsund – located in a former monastery, focused on marine science and history.
- Karls Adventure Village Zirkow – indoor fun, food, shops, and family entertainment under one roof.
- Indoor Playground “Pirateninsel” Putbus – huge play area with slides, bouncy castles and climbing fun for kids.
- National Park Centre KÖNIGSSTUHL – interactive nature exhibition and cinema about Rügen’s chalk cliffs and nature.
- Mönchgut Museum Göhren – local history and heritage, with covered parts even in bad weather.
- Rügen Museum Bergen – geology, culture, and art in the island’s historic center.
- Thermal Spa Binz or Waterpark Sellin – perfect for relaxing or swimming on a rainy day.
- Rügen Park Gingst – miniature world and attractions, partially doable even in light rain.