Independent tourism and recreation in the city of Wismar Historical information about the city of Wismar Wisma...
Wismar is one of the best preserved medieval cities in Germany and an important historic port on the Baltic Sea coast. Throughout its history, Wismar was a Slavic settlement, a thriving Hanseatic trading center, was ruled by Sweden for several centuries and survived two world wars. Today, the historic city center is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List along with the old town of Stralsund.
Early period: Slavic settlement
Before the appearance of the German city, these lands were inhabited by the West Slavic tribes of the Obodrits. On the site of modern Wismar there was a small fishing and trading settlement.
The name of the city probably comes from the Slavic name Vyszemir or Visemar. The first written mention of the settlement dates back to the XII century.
At this time, the region was part of the Slavic principalities, but gradually came under the influence of German rulers during the eastern colonization of German lands.
Foundation of the city
At the beginning of the XIII century, the territory became part of the possessions of the princes of Mecklenburg.
Around 1226, Wismar received city rights under Lübeck law, one of the most common city laws of medieval Northern Europe.
Thanks to the convenient harbor, the city quickly developed as a shopping center.
The main products were:
grain;
salt
wood;
fish;
fur;
beer.
By the middle of the XIII century, Wismar had already become one of the largest ports of the Baltic Sea.
Blossoming in the Hansa era
The city reached its greatest power in the XIV-XV centuries.
Wismar was a member of the Hanseatic League, a trade union of Northern European cities.
The Hanseatic League comprised hundreds of cities from England to Russia and controlled much of the trade in the Baltic and North Sea.
For Wismar, it was a period of incredible prosperity.
The city was building:
commercial warehouses;
churches;
monasteries;
stone houses of merchants;
reinforcement.
Rich merchants traded with:
England;
The Netherlands;
Scandinavia;
Novgorod.
Lübeck?
Gdansk.
It was then that the appearance of Wismar, which tourists can see today, was formed.
Medieval churches and architecture
In the XIV century, the largest temples of the city were built:
St. George's Church, Wismar
St. Nicholas Church, Wismar
St. Mary's Church, Wismar
They became symbols of the wealth and influence of the Hanseatic city.
Wismar was one of the finest examples of brick Gothic, an architectural style characteristic of the Baltic Sea coast.
Under Swedish rule
One of the most unusual periods in the history of the city was the Swedish rule.
After Thirty Years' War and the signing of Peace of Westphalia in 1648, Wismar came under Swedish control.
For the Swedes, the city was of great strategic importance, as it allowed to control trade in the Baltic.
Wismar became an important naval base of the Swedish Empire.
During this period, construction was carried out:
new fortifications;
bastions;
defensive structures;
administrative buildings.
Swedish influence lasted for nearly 180 years.
Even today in the city you can see traces of this period in architecture and urban symbolism.
The Return of Germany
In the early nineteenth century, Sweden’s power weakened.
In 1803, Sweden transferred Wismar to the Duchy of Mecklenburg under a long-term pledge agreement.
Formally, the city was considered a Swedish possession for a long time, but in fact it was ruled by the German authorities.
All Swedish rights to the city were finally terminated in 1903.
This makes Wismar one of the few German cities with such a long Swedish past.
The industrial age
In the second half of the XIX century, the development of industry began.
There are:
shipyard;
machine-building enterprises;
rail communication;
modern port facilities.
The city has retained its importance as an important trading port of the Baltic Sea.
First World War
During World War I, Wismar was used as an industrial and port center.
The city did not suffer serious destruction at that time.
World War II
During World War II, the city was important due to shipyards and industry.
In the last months of the war, Wismar was occupied by British troops.
Later, according to the agreements of the allies, the city was in the Soviet zone of occupation.
Despite the war, the historic center suffered significantly less than many other German cities.
Thanks to this, a large number of medieval buildings have been preserved.
GDR period
From 1949 to 1990, Wismar was part of the German Democratic Republic.
The city developed as:
shipbuilding centre;
industrial port;
Fishing base.
Wismar shipyards built ships for many countries of the socialist bloc.
During this period, some historical buildings were restored, but many monuments were in a neglected state.
After the reunification of Germany
After the unification of Germany in 1990, a large-scale restoration of the historical center began.
The following have been restored:
old houses;
market area;
churches;
harbor;
city gate.
In 2002, the historic center of Vismar was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
This was a recognition of its immense historical value as one of the best preserved cities of the Hanseatic League.
Vismar today
Today, Wismar is a cozy city with a population of about 43 thousand people.
It attracts tourists thanks to:
magnificently preserved medieval center;
Hanseatic architecture;
Swedish historical heritage;
marine atmosphere of the Baltic coast;
Old churches and squares;
The picturesque harbor.
Walking through the streets of Wismar, you can see the almost untouched appearance of the rich Hanseatic city of the XIV-XV centuries. That is why many historians consider it one of the most authentic medieval cities in Northern Europe.
The main advantage of Wismar is its historical center. Here you can walk through the old streets, see brick Gothic buildings, medieval churches and houses of merchants, which have not changed in the last few centuries.
Wismar is often called a city where history is better preserved than in many of Germany’s more famous tourist destinations.
There is no huge flow of tourists, so the walks are calm and comfortable.
Medieval atmosphere
The historical center of the city resembles the scenery for a film about the Middle Ages.
Particularly impressive:
Market Square is one of the largest medieval squares in Germany.
old merchant houses;
narrow cobbled streets;
the old city gates;
Hanseatic League buildings.
Almost every quarter keeps monuments of XIII-XV centuries.
Baltic Sea City
Vismar is located on the shore of a picturesque bay of the Baltic Sea.
The main place of rest is considered the old harbor.
Here you can:
Observe yachts and fishing vessels;
walk along the waterfront;
rest in fish restaurants;
take a boat trip.
In the evening, the harbor becomes one of the most beautiful places in the city due to sunsets above the water.
Architectural monuments
The symbols of the city are ancient churches:
St. Nicholas Church, Wismar
St. George's Church, Wismar
St. Mary's Church, Wismar
These structures are outstanding examples of North German brick Gothic and can be seen from almost anywhere in the city.
Legacy of the Hanseatic League
Wismar was an important city of the Hanseatic League.
Thanks to this, many have survived here:
trading houses;
warehouses;
port facilities;
historic squares.
History lovers will be interested in learning about the development of trade in the Baltic Sea several centuries ago.
Swedish heritage
The unusual feature of Wismar is that for almost 180 years the city belonged to Sweden.
The town has survived:
buildings of the Swedish period;
memorials;
elements of fortifications of the XVII century.
Wismar is often called the most Swedish city in Germany.
Outdoor recreation
In the vicinity of the city are:
sandy beaches of the Baltic Sea;
natural parks;
bicycle routes;
Walking areas along the coast.
Fans of active recreation can engage in:
cycling;
sailing;
fishing;
boat trips.
gastronomy
The city is famous for dishes of fresh fish and seafood.
Tourists should try:
smoked eel;
Baltic herring;
fish soups;
traditional North German dishes.
Many restaurants serve fish caught in the Baltic Sea.
High-level hotels (4 stars)
Such hotels are suitable for those who prefer a high level of service, convenient location and additional services.
Townhouse Wismar is located right on the central Market Square in the historic city center.
Park Inn by Radisson Wismar is a modern hotel next to the old harbor and promenade.
WONNEMAR Resort-Hotel Wismar is a good option for family holidays, there is a water park and entertainment complex nearby.
The average room price is between 120 and 200 euros per night depending on the season.
Mid-range hotels (3 stars)
The most popular option among tourists due to the good ratio of price and quality.
Fründts Hotel is a cozy hotel in the historic part of the city.
Stadthotel Stern is located near the main attractions.
Hotel Am Alten Hafen is located near the old harbor and the sea promenade.
The cost of living is usually between 80 and 130 euros per night.
Budget hotels
Suitable for travelers who spend most of their time on excursions and walks.
B&B Hotel Wismar is a modern budget hotel.
Hotel Schwedenhaus Wismar is a popular option among motorists.
Hotel Knöpel is one of the most affordable hotels in the city.
The average price is from 50 to 90 euros per night.
Guesthouses and boarding houses
For those who like a homely atmosphere and relaxation.
Pension Am Burgwall
Pension Apostel
Advantages:
lower prices;
home atmosphere;
Opportunity to communicate with local residents.
The cost of living is usually from 40 to 80 euros per night.
Market Square (Marktplatz)
The main square of the city and one of the largest medieval squares of Northern Germany.
Here are located:
old merchant houses;
city fountain;
historic town hall;
Numerous cafes and restaurants.
The square is the heart of the city and the starting point of most excursions.
How to get there
From the railway station walk about 10-15 minutes. There are also city buses to the square.
St. Nicholas Church
One of the most beautiful Gothic churches on the Baltic coast. Built in the XIV century for sailors and traders. Inside preserved ancient altars, stained glass and elements of medieval decoration.
How to get there
Located in the historical center, a few minutes walk from the Market Square.
St. George's Church
One of the largest temples of brick Gothic in the Baltic. After severe destruction during World War II, the church was rebuilt. From the observation deck there is a beautiful view of the city and the sea.
How to get there
Walk about 5-10 minutes from the city center.
St. Mary's Church Tower
To this day, a high bell tower has been preserved from the church, which is considered one of the symbols of Wismar. Nearby is a small park and historical monuments.
How to get there
It is located in the city center, near the Market Square.
Old harbor
One of the most picturesque places in the city. Here you can see:
fishing vessels;
sailboats;
pleasure boats;
Old port facilities.
On the waterfront there are fish restaurants and souvenir shops.
How to get there
From the city center walk about 10 minutes.
Watergate
The only surviving medieval city gate. Through them once passed merchants who arrived in the city by sea.
How to get there
Located near the harbor and the embankment.
UNESCO Old Town
The main attraction of Vismar is the historical center itself. Narrow streets, merchant houses, cobbled roads and ancient squares allow you to feel the atmosphere of the medieval Hansa.
How to get there
The historic center starts just outside the station and occupies most of the old town.
Phantom Technical Museum
A modern interactive museum dedicated to engineering and industry in the region.
Especially interesting:
families with children;
tech enthusiasts;
students.
How to get there
By bus or taxi about 10 minutes from the center.
Beaches and coast of the Baltic Sea
In the vicinity of Wismar there are small beaches and recreation areas.
Popular:
Wendorf beach;
coast of Wismar Bay;
Walking areas along the sea.
In the summer you can swim, do water sports or just relax on the shore.
How to get there
By bus, bicycle or car in 10-20 minutes from the city center.
Spring (March-May)
In the spring, the city gradually comes to life after winter. There are more tourists on the streets, summer cafes open, the season of walks along the harbor and the Baltic coast begins.
At this time, there are:
Easter fairs;
Spring concerts in churches and theaters;
cultural events in the historic center;
The first maritime festivals and yacht exhibitions.
Spring is well suited for a quiet acquaintance with the city without a large number of tourists.
Summer (June-August)
Summer is considered the main tourist season.
During this time:
sea excursions;
pleasure boats;
summer cafes on the waterfront;
Open-air concert venues.
The temperature is comfortable for walking, and the Baltic Sea attracts beach lovers.
The Harbour Festival (Hafenfest)
One of the most popular summer events is the Harbour City Festival.
During the festival are held:
concerts;
sea shows;
artisan fairs;
exhibitions of ships;
entertainment programs for children.
Swedish Festival (Schwedenfest)
Biggest event of the year in Wismar.
Schwedenfest Wismar takes place annually in August and is considered the largest Swedish festival outside Sweden. It is dedicated to the period when Wismar was under Swedish rule for almost 180 years.
During the festival, there are:
historical reconstructions;
parades in old costumes;
concerts;
performances of Swedish musical groups;
fairs;
festivities;
historical military camp of the XVII century.
Every year the festival is visited by about 100 thousand guests.
Autumn (September-November)
In autumn, there are fewer tourists, and the city acquires a special atmosphere due to ancient architecture and seascapes.
During this period:
gastronomic weeks;
festivals of local cuisine;
concerts of classical music;
Theatrical events;
art exhibitions.
Autumn is considered a good time for a leisurely cultural holiday.
Winter (December – February)
In winter, Wismar becomes one of the most beautiful Christmas towns in northern Germany.
Christmas Market
The Wismar Christmas Market is held annually in the City Market Square. They work here.
trade pavilions;
Christmas shops;
gastronomic sites;
festive rides.
You can try it.
mulled wine;
Christmas cakes;
local sweets;
North German delicacies.
Spring (March-May)
Spring comes gradually. In March, it is still cool, but by May the city is already drowning in greenery.
Air temperature
March: +4... +9 °C
April: +8... +14 °C
May: +13... +19 °C
Water temperature
March: +3...+5 °C
April: +5...+8 °C
May: +9... +13 °C
Spring is great for walking around the old town, visiting museums and excursions. There are few more tourists, and accommodation prices are usually lower than summer.
Summer (June-August)
Summer in Wismar is comfortable and rarely too hot. The sea breeze makes walking pleasant even on sunny days.
Air temperature
June: +18... +22 °C
July: +20... +25 °C
August: +20... +24 °C
Water temperature
June: +15... +18 °C
July: +18... +21 °C
August: +19... +22 °C
This is the best period for:
harbour walks;
sea excursions;
relaxation on the beaches;
Visiting festivals and city holidays.
The warmest month is usually July.
Autumn (September-November)
Autumn here is mild and quite long. Summer weather is still present in September.
Air temperature
September: +16... +21 °C
October: +10... +15 °C
November: +5... +9 °C
Water temperature
September: +17... +19 °C
October: +13... +16 °C
November: +8... +11 °C
Autumn is suitable for a relaxing holiday, photo walks and acquaintance with the history of the city. There are fewer tourists at this time.
Winter (December – February)
Winter in Wismar is mild due to the influence of the Baltic Sea. Severe frosts are rare.
Air temperature
December: +1...+5 °C
January: 0...+4 °C
February: 0...+5 °C
Water temperature
December: +5 ... +7 °C
January: +3...+5 °C
February: +2...+4 °C
Snow does not fall every year and usually does not lie for a long time. But in December, the city is decorated with Christmas markets and festive illuminations.
Language of communication
The official language is German.
Most residents speak literary German (Hochdeutsch).
In touristic places, hotels, restaurants, museums and the train station, many employees understand English. Young people usually speak English better than the older generation.
Features of communication
The Germans are polite and reserved.
During communication, it is accepted:
Say hello when entering a shop, cafe or hotel
Say “thank you” and “please”
follow the line;
respect the personal space of the interlocutor;
be punctual.
A delay of more than 10-15 minutes is considered impolite.
Respect for order
Germans love order and rules.
Even if there are no people around, many will wait for a green light before crossing the road.
Tourists are encouraged to do the same.
Silence and tranquility
In residential areas it is customary to observe silence.
This is particularly true:
late at night;
night time;
Sundays and holidays.
Loud music and noisy behavior can cause discontent of neighbors.
Taking care of nature
The inhabitants of Wismar are attentive to the environment.
Copy that:
Don't litter.
sort waste;
Take care of parks and beaches.
Tipping culture
Tipping is not mandatory in Germany but is welcome.
Usually left:
5-10% of the invoice amount in the restaurant;
a small amount for taxi drivers;
A few euros to hotel staff for good service.
Alcohol
Alcohol is allowed for adults, but it is forbidden to:
appear in public places in an aggressive state;
disturb public order;
Driving the car while intoxicated.
Penalties for traffic violations are very high.
Smoking
Smoking is prohibited:
in most public buildings;
in public transport;
at stations in specially designated places.
In many places there are special smoking areas.
Transport tickets
In Germany, there is strict control of fare.
If you go without a ticket and get caught by the controller, you will have to pay a large fine.
Therefore, the ticket must be purchased before the start of the trip and saved until the end of the route.
Documents
A passport or a copy of it is always recommended to carry.
The police have the right to check documents if necessary.
Greetings and courtesy
Hallo - Hello (Hallo)
Guten Tag - Good afternoon by Guten Tag
Guten Morgen – Good Morning by Guten Morgen
Guten Abend – Good Evening by Guten Abend
Auf Wiedersehen – Goodbye by Auf Wiedersehen
Tschüss - Bye (Chus)
Danke - Thank you (Danke)
Vielen Dank – Thank you very much (Philena Dunk)
Bitte - Please (Bitte)
Entschuldigung - Sorry (Entschuldigung)
Useful questions
Sprechen Sie Englisch? - Do you speak English?
Ich verstehe nicht – I don’t understand
Können Sie mir helfen? Can you help me? - Kennen Zee Mir Helfen
Wie viel kostet das? - How much does it cost? - V. Fil Costet Das
Wo ist...? - Where is...? (In the East...?)
Wo ist die Toilette? - Where's the toilet?
Transportation
Bahnhof - Station (Banhof)
Bushaltestelle - Bus stop (Bushaltestellé)
Fahrkarte - Ticket (Farkarte)
Zug - Train (Zug)
Wann fährt der Zug? When does the train leave? - Van Firth Der Zug
Wo kann ich ein Ticket kaufen? - Where can I buy a ticket? - Wo Kang Ih Ain Ticket Kaufen
At the hotel.
Ich habe eine Reservierung – I have a reservation (Ich Habe Aine Reservirung)
Ich möchte ein Zimmer buchen - I want to book a room (Ikh Mehte Ain Zimmer Buchen)
Wo ist mein Zimmer? - Where's my number?
Haben Sie Wlan? - Do you have Wi-Fi?
Wann ist das Frühstück? - What time is breakfast? - Van East Das Fryustück
At the restaurant.
Ich möchte bestellen - I want to order (Ich Mehte Bashtellen)
Die Speisekarte, bitte - Menu please (Dee Spisekarte, Bitte)
Was empfehlen Sie? - What do you recommend?
Ein Wasser, Bitte – Water Please by Ain Wasser
Die Rechnung, bitte - Invoice, please (Dee Rehnung, Bitte)
Das war sehr lecker - It was delicious. - Das Var Zeer Lecker
Shopping.
Wie viel kostet das? - How much does it cost? - V. Fil Costet Das
Kann ich mit Karte bezahlen? - Can I pay with a card? (Kan Ikh Mit Karte Bezalen?)
Haben Sie eine kleinere Größe? Do you have a smaller size? – Haben Zi Aine Kleiner Grösse
Ich nehme das (I take it)
Emergency situations
Hilfe! - Help me!
Rufen Sie die Polizei! - Call the police! - Rufen Zee Dee Politzai!
Ich brauche einen Arzt – I need a doctor (Ich Brauche Ainen Art)
Ich habe meinen Pass verloren - I have lost my passport
Hotel dialogue
Tourist: Guten Tag. Ich habe eine Reservierung. Ikh Habe Aine Reservirung. Good afternoon. I have a reservation.
Administrator: Auf welchen Namen? (Auf Welchen Namen?)
Tourist: Ivan Petrov. (Ivan Petrov.)
Administrator: Ihr Zimmer ist bereit. - Ir Zimmer East Beright Your room is ready.
Restaurant dialogue
Waiter: Guten Abend. - Good evening.
Tourist: Die Speisekarte, bitte. )Menu, please.
Waiter: Bitte schön. Please.
Tourist: Ich möchte Fisch und Wasser. ) I'd like fish and water.
Fish delicacies
One of the most popular gastronomic souvenirs is Baltic fish.
It is worth paying attention to:
smoked herring;
smoked eel;
hot-smoked mackerel;
Baltic sprat;
fish pate.
In many shops and fish shops, products are sold in vacuum packaging, convenient for transportation.
Marzipan and sweets
The north of Germany is famous for high-quality marzipan.
Popular:
marzipan candy;
chocolate with marzipan;
Christmas cakes;
handmade chocolate;
Caramel and fruit candy.
Such sweets are stored for a long time and are well suited as a gift.
German products
From Wismar they often bring:
German sausages;
cheeses;
mustard of various varieties;
fruit jams;
honey of local apiaries;
traditional North German spices.
Useful pharmacy products
Germany is known for quality pharmaceutical products.
The following are popular:
herbal teas;
remedies for colds based on medicinal herbs;
ointments with arnica for muscles and joints;
creams for sensitive skin;
vitamin complexes;
Natural balms for the lips and hands.
Many tourists specially visit German pharmacies because of the high quality of products.
Cosmetics
A good gift can be:
creams based on marine minerals;
natural cosmetics;
skin care products;
handmade soap;
cosmetics with seaweed extracts.
Sea souvenirs
Since Vismar is an ancient port city, souvenirs of marine themes are popular here:
sailboat models;
decorative anchors;
marine compasses;
ship bells;
products depicting lighthouses;
jewelry with sea symbols.
Souvenirs with Hanseatic symbols
Wismar was an important city of the Hanseatic League.
Therefore, in souvenir shops you can find:
magnets depicting the old city;
postcards with Hanseatic architecture;
books on the history of the city;
commemorative coins;
The coat of arms of Wismar.
General security
Wismar is well suited for:
independent travelers;
families with children;
elderly tourists;
traveling alone.
Even in the evening, the historic center and the promenade usually remain safe for walks.
However, it is recommended that:
Do not leave things unattended;
Keep documents and money in a safe place;
use an official taxi;
comply with traffic rules.
What documents do tourists need?
To enter Germany, you usually need:
foreign passport;
Schengen visa (if required for citizens of your country);
confirmation of accommodation reservation;
return ticket or confirmation of further route;
health insurance.
It is recommended to make copies of:
passports;
visas;
insurance policy.
It is also useful to store electronic copies of documents in your phone or cloud storage.
Health insurance
Insurance is required to obtain a Schengen visa.
Recommended coverage:
at least EUR 30,000;
emergency medical care;
hospitalization;
transportation to the country of residence if necessary.
Even with a visa-free regime, insurance is highly recommended, since medical services in Germany are quite expensive.
Emergency services
Main emergency numbers:
112 Ambulance and Fire Service
110 - police
These rooms work around the clock and free of charge.
In many cases, operators can switch the call to an English-speaking employee.
Medical assistance
If the situation is not urgent:
116117 - on-duty medical service.
By this number you can get a doctor's consultation and find out the address of the nearest clinic.
Mobile and Internet
The main mobile operators in Germany:
Deutsche Telekom
Vodafone Germany
O2 Germany
Networks are working well in the city:
4G;
LTE;
5G (in most areas)
Tourists can purchase a local SIM card or use roaming.
In many hotels, restaurants and cafes, free Wi-Fi is available.
How many tourists can stay in Germany
Germany is part of the Schengen area.
For most tourists, there is a rule:
not more than 90 days in any period of 180 days.
This means that a tourist can stay not only in Germany, but also in all Schengen countries for a total of 90 days in the last 180 days.
Create a query and local guides will offer you the best options
