Usedom - Discover the sunny island of the Baltic Sea
Usedom, affectionately known as the “Island of Sunshine”, is one of the most popular travel destinations on the German Baltic Sea. With over 1,900 hours of sunshine a year, almost endless sandy beaches and impressive natural diversity, Germany’s second largest island offers relaxation and adventure.
Usedom looks back on a long and eventful history. As early as the 19th century, the island became a meeting place for European nobility and wealthy citizens. The three imperial spas of Ahlbeck, Heringsdorf and Bansin still bear witness to this glamorous era. Magnificent villas in the style of spa architecture, sophisticated promenades and piers lend the resorts a unique charm. Usedom’s piers, above all the Ahlbeck pier, the oldest preserved pier in Germany, are landmarks of the island. They are not only popular photo motifs, but also historical witnesses that allow you to stroll across the sea.
In the north of the island, in Peenemünde, was one of the most important centers of rocket research during the Second World War. Today you can visit the Historical-Technical Museum, which provides information about this period. You can also visit a submarine in the port of Peenemünde.
The beaches of Usedom are undoubtedly one of the island’s main attractions. With 42 kilometers of the finest sandy beach, the island is one of Germany’s beach paradises. The beaches of the Kaiserbäder in particular are known for their width, cleanliness and gently sloping shores, which are ideal for families.
But Usedom has more to offer than just the sea. The Achterland, a quiet region in the interior of the island, is characterized by forests, lakes and small fishing villages. Here you can go on long walks and bicycle tours. Here you will find almost untouched nature, such as the Gothensee nature reserve. Small, charming villages such as the artists’ village of Benz are just waiting to be discovered. A very special highlight is the Usedom Island Nature Park, a protected landscape that is home to numerous bird species. Birdwatchers can admire cranes and white-tailed eagles here, for example.
The cuisine of Usedom is characterized by its proximity to the sea and regional agriculture. Fresh fish such as herring, cod and pikeperch are served in the island’s numerous restaurants and fish smokehouses. The traditional fish sandwiches, which are available at many beach stalls, are particularly popular. The Achterland offers regional specialties such as game dishes and products from local farms, including honey, apple juice and cheese. In the seaside resorts, elegant restaurants invite you to enjoy modern interpretations of Baltic cuisine.
Wellness lovers will also get their money’s worth: many hotels and spas offer thalassotherapy treatments, massages and saunas that rely on the healing power of the sea. There are numerous offers to relax body and mind, especially in the imperial spas. You don’t necessarily have to stay in the hotels, as it is often possible to take advantage of the offers as part of a day visit.
Excursion tips for Usedom
Usedom is Germany's sunniest island and, especially in the summer, one of the most popular holiday regions on the Baltic Sea coast. But a holiday on Usedom in winter? Is it really worth it?
There is a lot to discover in the hinterland of the island of Usedom, especially if you turn off the main roads. For us, the Mellenthin moated castle is one of the tips not to be missed.
There is a place on Usedom where, almost 80 years ago, scientists worked on technologies that changed the world forever. A visit to the Peenemünde Historical and Technical Museum takes you to the very place where the history of modern space technology was decisively shaped.
Whether in summer or winter, Usedom is simply beautiful. During an island safari on Usedom, we were drawn to the snow-covered hinterland.
The treetop walk in Heringsdorf is definitely one of the highest excursion destinations on Usedom. Here, visitors of all ages can experience a unique view of the region.
Who doesn't know it - the beach chair. Hardly any vacationer on the Baltic or North Sea has not sat in a beach chair and it is simply part of the German coastal landscape.
Culinary tips
There is a lot to discover in the hinterland of the island of Usedom, especially if you turn off the main roads. For us, the Mellenthin moated castle is one of the tips not to be missed.
Usedom is not just a vacation island where you can enjoy the sun. We took a closer look at the island's culinary experiences and visited the Usedom roasting plant. Here you can experience the art of coffee roasting up close.
Out and about in Usedom's imperial spas and fancy a beer? Then head to Heringsdorf to the Usedomer Brauhaus. With its central location in the seaside resort of Heringsdorf, it is easy to reach and an ideal stop after a walk along the beach promenade or a visit to the impressive villa architecture of the…
Book your accommodation
A vacation on Usedom is a dream come true for many vacationers every year. When looking for suitable accommodation, they are spoiled for choice: camping, hotel, vacation apartment, what should it be? Where do you want to stay? Near the beach or in the hinterland? And then, of course, there's the question: What's the vacation…
Beachhouse Bansin Penthouse Waterfront
Beachhouse Bansin Penthouse Sunset
Strandhotel Ostseeblick
SEETELHOTEL Pommerscher Hof
Das Ahlbeck Hotel & SPA
A-ROSA Strandidyll Heringsdorf
Travel information
How to get to Usedom
by car
Usedom can be reached via the B111 federal highway, which leads from the A20 (Gützkow junction) via Wolgast to the island.
Another option is via the B110, which leads from the A11 (Schmölln junction) via Anklam to Usedom.
Since 30.06.2023, the Swine Tunnel in Swinemünde offers a way to reach the island of Usedom without a ferry ride. The tunnel, which runs underneath the Swine, connects the Polish part of the island of Usedom with the island of Wollin. Travel through the 1.8 km long tunnel is free of charge.
The island is connected to the mainland by two bridges:
- The Zecherin Bridge in the west
- The Peene Bridge near Wolgast in the north
When planning your journey, please note the times when the bridges are closed due to shipping traffic.
Zecherin Bridge
- 05.45 – 06.00 (summer only)
- 08.45 – 08.55
- 12.45 – 13.00
- 16.45 – 17.00 (early October to mid-March: opening on demand by prior arrangement with the shipping company)
- 20.45 – 21.00 (summer only)
Opening times are subject to change.
Peene bridge near Wolgast
- 05.45 – 06.15
- 07:45 – 08:15 (mid-March to early October)
- 08:45 – 09:15 (early October to mid-March)
- 12:45 – 13:15
- 17:45 – 18:15
- 20.45 – 21.15 (Opening only if required by commercial shipping – by appointment on 0381 20671144 or on VHF channel 9)
Opening hours are subject to change.
by train
Deutsche Bahn offers regular connections to Usedom:
There are direct connections from Berlin, Hamburg and other major cities.
The main train station on Usedom is Züssow, from where regional trains of the Usedomer Bäderbahn (UBB) run to the various towns on the island.
By bus
Long-distance buses are an inexpensive alternative for traveling to Usedom. There are providers that travel directly from some major German cities to Usedom.
By plane
The nearest international airport is Heringsdorf (HDF) on Usedom itself. In the summer season there are charter flights and some scheduled connections to this airport.
Alternatively, you can also arrive via Rostock-Laage or Szczecin (Poland) airports and travel to Usedom from there by public transport or rental car.
By bike
The island is part of the Baltic Sea Coast Cycle Route and the Berlin-Usedom Cycle Route.
On the road on Usedom
By bike
Usedom is known for its well-developed cycle paths, which are ideal for exploring the island in an environmentally friendly and active way. The Baltic Coast Cycle Path is particularly popular, leading along the beaches and through picturesque landscapes. Bicycles and e-bikes can be hired at many rental stations.
On foot
For shorter distances or to experience nature up close, hiking or walking is ideal. Usedom offers numerous hiking trails through forests, along the coast or through idyllic villages.
With the Usedomer Bäderbahn (UBB)
The Usedomer Bäderbahn connects the most important places on the island and is a convenient way to cover longer distances. The train runs along the coast and stops in the seaside resorts and smaller towns.
By car
A car offers maximum flexibility, especially if you want to visit more remote places or sights such as Peenemünde or the Achterland. The road network is well developed.
There are 25 e-charging stations for e-vehicles across the island.
By bus
The island has a well-developed bus network that connects the most important places. The buses run regularly, but not very frequently.
Parking
In the high season, there may be parking problems in the seaside resorts.
Parking spaces are usually subject to a charge.
Visitor's tax / UsedomCard
A visitor’s tax is levied on the Baltic Sea island of Usedom to finance and maintain tourist services and infrastructure. This tax is mandatory for vacationers. It is levied in all seaside resorts (Ahlbeck, Heringsdorf, Bansin, Ückeritz, Loddin, Koserow, Zempin, Zinnowitz, Trassenheide, Karlshagen) and the municipalities of Krummin, Sauzin, Kamminke and the town of Wolgast.
Upon payment of the visitor’s tax, guests receive the so-called UsedomCard, which offers numerous benefits, such as the use of beaches, tourist facilities and, in some cases, local public transport. But beware, each region issues its own UsedomCard. The included offers may vary!
The prices listed here for 2025 apply per night/stay. Children under 6 years are exempt.
In the imperial spas (Ahlbeck, Heringsdorf, Bansin) the visitor’s tax is
– in the low season: EUR 2.70
– in the high season: EUR 3.30
– in the low season: 2.90 EUR
In Ückeritz the visitor’s tax is
– in the low season: EUR 3.30
– in the high season: EUR 3.90
– in the low season: 3.30 EUR
In Loddin the visitor’s tax is
– in the low season: EUR 2.20
– in the high season: EUR 3.65
– in the low season: EUR 3.25
In Koserow and Zemplin the visitor’s tax is
– in the low season: EUR 3.05
– in the high season: EUR 3.65
– in the low season: EUR 3.25
In Zinnowitz and the town of Wolgast the visitor’s tax is
– in the low season: EUR 2.20
– in the high season: EUR 4.20
– in the off-season: EUR 3.80
In Trassenheide, Karlshagen, Krummin and Sauzin the visitor’s tax is
– in the low season: EUR 2.20
– in the high season: EUR 2.80
– in the low season: EUR 2.40
In Kamminke the visitor’s tax is
– in the low season: EUR 2.75
– in the high season: EUR 3.35
– in the low season: 2.95 EUR
Best time to travel
Usedom, known as one of the sunniest regions in Germany, offers attractive travel conditions all year round.
Spring (March to May)
Spring on Usedom is characterized by blossoming nature and pleasant temperatures that are ideal for hiking and cycling tours. The Baltic Sea is still too cold for swimming, but the fresh sea air and tranquillity make this time of year particularly attractive.
Average temperatures:
- March: 4°C (day), -1°C (night)
- April: 10°C (day), 3°C (night)
- May: 16°C (day), 8°C (night)
Rainy days: 8-10 days per month
Summer (June to August)
Summer is the main season on Usedom, with warm temperatures and up to 8 hours of sunshine per day. The Baltic Sea reaches pleasant bathing temperatures of 18-20°C.
Average temperatures:
- June: 20°C (day), 12°C (night)
- July: 22°C (day), 14°C (night)
- August: 21.5°C (day), 14°C (night)
Rainy days: 7-9 days per month
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn on Usedom is often mild and sunny, especially in September, which is considered an “extended summer”. The Baltic Sea remains relatively warm until the beginning of October, making late bathing possible.
Average temperatures:
- September: 18°C (day), 11°C (night)
- October: 12°C (day), 6°C (night)
- November: 7°C (day), 2°C (night)
Rainy days: 8-11 days per month
Winter (December to February)
Winter on Usedom is cool, but rarely extremely cold, thanks to the Baltic Sea, which moderates the climate. There are fewer hours of sunshine (approx. 2-3 per day), but the island offers a tranquil, almost mystical atmosphere.
Average temperatures:
- December: 3°C (day), -1°C (night)
- January: 2°C (day), -3°C (night)
- February: 3°C (day), -2°C (night)
