Your Front‑Row Seat at the Baltic Sea – Day Trips Around Heiligenhafen
Heiligenhafen is the perfect starting point for exploring the Baltic Sea region. Whether you enjoy nature, culture, family activities or maritime experiences – the surrounding area offers plenty to discover. Many destinations can be perfectly combined with a visit to the beaches in Heiligenhafen, the local sights or various activities.
1. Fehmarn – The Sunny Island
Just a few minutes from Heiligenhafen lies the island of Fehmarn – one of the sunniest places in Germany. Perfect for day trips, beach visits and nature experiences.
- wide beaches & nature
- harbour Burgstaaken
- Flügge lighthouse
- nature reserve Grüner Brink
Perfect for: families, nature lovers, beach days.
2. FehMare – Spa & Water World at Südstrand
The FehMare is the large spa and water park on Fehmarn. With a seawater wave pool, sauna area and direct beach location, it’s ideal for families and wellness lovers.
- seawater wave pool
- sauna area with Baltic Sea view
- outdoor pools & slides
- directly at Südstrand
Perfect for: families, wellness, rainy days.
3. Butterfly Park Fehmarn – Tropical House & Nature Experience
The Butterfly Park in Burg is a popular destination for families. In a large tropical hall, hundreds of exotic butterflies fly freely – a highlight also featured in our bad weather tips.
- large tropical hall
- hundreds of free‑flying butterflies
- exciting for children & adults
Perfect for: families, nature lovers, rainy days.
4. Fehmarn Aquarium (currently closed)
The former Meereszentrum in Burg was one of the largest aquariums in Germany. It is currently closed due to Fehmarnbelt construction projects. New concepts are planned but not yet opened.
Note: Many travel guides still list it – but it is currently not open.
5. Grömitz – Promenade, Zoo & Beach
Grömitz offers a long promenade, many restaurants and the popular Arche Noah Zoo. Ideal for families and couples.
- long beach promenade
- Arche Noah Zoo
- pier with diving gondola
Perfect for: families, walks, day trips.
6. Lübeck – UNESCO World Heritage & Marzipan City
The Hanseatic city of Lübeck is a cultural highlight. Historic old town, museums and the famous Holstentor make it a perfect excursion destination.
- Holstentor
- old town & marzipan house
- museums & churches
Perfect for: culture, shopping, architecture.
7. Kiel – Harbour, Ships & Maritime Atmosphere
Kiel offers maritime experiences, large ships, museums and a lively city centre.
- maritime museum
- Kiel Fjord
- city centre & shopping
Perfect for: maritime experiences, day trips.
8. Holstein Switzerland – Lakes & Nature
The Holsteinische Schweiz region is a paradise for nature lovers. Forests, lakes and small towns invite you to hike and cycle. Particularly worth seeing: Eutin Castle.
- Plön Lake
- Eutin & Eutin Castle
- hiking & cycling trails
Perfect for: nature, hiking, tranquillity.
9. Hansa Park – Theme Park by the Sea
Hansa Park in Sierksdorf is the only theme park directly by the sea. Ideal for families and adrenaline fans.
- roller coasters & shows
- family areas
- sea view included
Perfect for: families, action, day trips.
10. Oldenburg in Holstein – History & Culture
Oldenburg is one of the oldest towns in Germany and offers historical sights and museums such as the Wall Museum.
- Wall Museum
- old town
- churches & culture
Perfect for: culture, history, walks.
Conclusion: Heiligenhafen Is the Perfect Starting Point
- Fehmarn: nature, beaches & family destinations
- Grömitz: promenade & zoo
- Lübeck: culture & history
- Kiel: maritime experiences
- Holstein Switzerland: pure nature
- Hansa Park: action & fun
Helpful pages for your stay
Holiday Planning: This guide is part of our Complete Heiligenhafen Travel Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions about Excursion Destinations
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What are the best day trips for families near Heiligenhafen?
The Hansa-Park in Sierksdorf and the Meereszentrum aquarium on the island of Fehmarn are the top choices for families. Both are reachable within a 15 to 30-minute drive. -
Can I visit the island of Fehmarn by bike?
Yes, the Fehmarn Sound Bridge has a dedicated path for cyclists. It is a scenic route, but be prepared for strong winds. Many visitors combine this with a visit to the charming town of Burg. -
Which historic cities are worth a visit?
The UNESCO World Heritage city of Lübeck is only 45 minutes away and famous for its Holstentor and marzipan. Alternatively, Oldenburg in Holstein offers a great open-air Wallmuseum about Slavic history.