Things to do in Wismar

Activities, attractions and tours

Wismar featuring a sunset and a bay or harbour
St-Nikolai-Kirche which includes a church or cathedral, interior views and heritage elements
Wismar showing heritage elements
Wismar showing a sunset and a bay or harbour
Wismar featuring heritage elements

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Top places to visit

1. Wismar Market Square

Wismar was built around its Market Square, which was set out on a 2.5-acre (1-hectare) lot at the time of its construction. Imposing in size and surrounded by both civic buildings and patrician townhouses, it hosts all sorts of civic events and festivities, including the city’s annual Swedish Festival and a triweekly farmers market. Visit Market Square today for the perfect place to get acquainted with Wismar and its people.
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Wilsmer Market Square which includes heritage elements

2. Holy Spirit Church

Built in the 13th century soon after the founding of the city, Holy Spirit Church served as both hospital and church, with beds for the ill and poor set up in the nave itself. Its distinctive flat ceiling was installed in the 17th century after a gunpowder explosion tore off its formerly gabled roof. Visit it now to see many of the works of art that were saved from grander houses of worship that were destroyed during World War II.
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Holy Spirit Church showing a church or cathedral and heritage architecture

3. St. Nicolai Church

Built as a church for sailors and fishermen, the St-Nikolai-Kirche is irrevocably tied to the maritime legacy of Wismar and the Baltic Coast. Founded in the 14th century and still in use as an Evangelical Lutheran church, it has one of the tallest naves of any church in Germany and is awe-inspiring for every visitor. This example of the magnificent brick gothic style defines religious architecture in Wismar and throughout the Baltic. Note its interior that was redone in a Baroque style during the height of Wismar’s power as part of the Hanseatic League.
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St-Nikolai-Kirche showing interior views

4. Wasserkunst

Built in response to Golden Age Wismar’s need for municipal water, the Wasserkunst is a wonder of both engineering and design from the famous Utrecht architect Philipp Brandin. Construction was delayed for over 20 years as the builder and the city quibbled over money. When it was finally built in 1602, it was instantly recognized as a marvel, supplying 220 homes and 16 public fountains with a continuous flow of water. Continuously renovated over the years, it was finally retired at the end of the 19th century. See it today as an important landmark of Wismar’s Old Town.
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Wasserkunst which includes a city, a sunset and heritage elements

5. St. George's Church

Formerly Wismar’s largest and youngest major church, with origins in the 13th century, St. George’s now serves as a cultural space. Come here for panoramic views of the Mecklenburg countryside. After suffering extensive damage during World War II, the church was deemed dangerous and unusable until a group of local activists lobbied for its restoration. Today, it is a beloved part of the community and offers a rare wheelchair-accessible observation platform in Wismar.
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St. George\'s Church which includes tranquil scenes, landscape views and heritage elements

6. Alte Wasserturm

Gaze at this structure standing proudly at the edge of Wismar’s Old Town. The Alte Wasserturm (Old Water Tower) epitomizes the many creative adaptations to war that have defined Germany’s Baltic region.
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Alte Wasserturm featuring heritage elements

What to do in Wismar

Popular places to visit

Wilsmer Market Square which includes heritage elements

Wismar Market Square

Find Wismar’s most splendid architecture as well as shops, restaurants and markets in and around this plaza, one of the biggest in northern Germany.

Wismar Market Square
Holy Spirit Church showing a church or cathedral and heritage architecture

Holy Spirit Church

Appreciate distinctive Baltic religious art and treasures from throughout Wismar’s history in this small but beautiful long-lived place of worship.

Holy Spirit Church
St-Nikolai-Kirche showing interior views

St. Nicolai Church

Let the massive size and intricate craftsmanship of this brick Gothic house of worship from the 1300s impress and inspire you.

St. Nicolai Church
Wasserkunst which includes a city, a sunset and heritage elements

Wasserkunst

Located in Wismar’s Market Square, this 17th-century building supplied the town with water and is an excellent example of Baroque civic design.

Wasserkunst
St. George\'s Church which includes tranquil scenes, landscape views and heritage elements

St. George's Church

Panoramic views, contemporary art and performances await visitors to this reconstructed church in the western part of Wismar’s Old Town.

St. George's Church
Alte Wasserturm featuring heritage elements

Alte Wasserturm

Impressive engineering and military history come together sublimely at this Gothic structural marvel, once a part of Wismar’s city wall.

Alte Wasserturm
St-Marien-Kirche Steeple featuring heritage architecture

St-Marien-Kirche Steeple

The history of this tower is marked by conflict, but it is now a beloved landmark of the city, offering unbeatable views and interesting exhibits.

St-Marien-Kirche Steeple

Wonnemar Wismar

Bring the children to Wonnemar Wismar and have a fun-filled day at this theme park in Wismar. Amble around the area's waterfront or visit its churches.

Wonnemar Wismar

University of Wismar

Enjoy the student vibe when you visit University of Wismar during your travels in Wismar. Stroll along the waterfront or visit the churches while you're in the area.

University of Wismar

Frequently asked questions

Is Wismar worth visiting?
Whether you're here to enjoy the local charm and cultural attractions or sample regional foods and venture into nature, there are plenty of things to do in Wismar.
How do I spend a day in Wismar?
Start your adventures with a visit to Am Schwarzen Busch Beach and Zierow Beach. Then, check out other parts of Wismar for local restaurants and some retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Wismar?
Don't go home without checking out Am Schwarzen Busch Beach, rated the top tourist attraction in Wismar.
Is three days enough to stay in Wismar?
Book a break in Wismar for three days and you'll have enough time to check out its most in-demand sights and get a taste for the local way of life. For the chance to enjoy highlights in the surrounding areas and venture away from the tourist trail, consider staying for a week or more.
Is Wismar a walkable city?
It comes down to what you want to see and do in Wismar. Several attractions, such as Windorf Beach, are accessible on foot. If you feel like a stroll around one of Wismar's neighbourhoods, Nordwestmecklenburg is 0.16 kilometres away from downtown.
What are some activities to do in Wismar with kids?
If you're looking for activities and attractions for all of your group, take a look at these great ideas for what to do in Wismar with kids.

What to do in Wismar for adults?
From tasty dishes and cultural attractions to outdoor activities and unique experiences, there's no shortage of exciting things to do in Wismar for adults.
Are there free things to do in Wismar?
From checking out parks to wandering around exciting neighbourhoods, it's simple to discover free things to do in Wismar. If you're stuck for ideas, ask for tips from a local tour guide. Zierow Beach is a must for anyone wishing to save on their sightseeing adventures.