Rügen

Written by Celine Fournier, Elsa Holm, Felix Schmidt, Finn Weber, Sandrine Simon
16/09/2025
Breathtaking view of Sellin Pier at sunset, located on Baltic Sea, Germany. Perfect for beach tourism.
Juergen Striewski, Pexels

Rügen, Germany's largest island, presents a serene landscape featuring iconic white chalk cliffs, extensive sandy beaches, and dense ancient forests, interspersed with charming seaside resorts and traditional villages. It serves as an ideal destination for those seeking a blend of natural beauty and opportunities for relaxation or gentle activity.

While Rügen generally provides a tranquil atmosphere, the larger seaside resorts such as Binz and Sellin offer more vibrant settings with various restaurants and bars where tourists can socialize. Göhren also features a spa square that becomes a popular meeting point for concerts during summer.

Top 5 Things to do in Rügen

Rügen offers a diverse range of experiences, from exploring dramatic natural landscapes and historical sites to enjoying the serene atmosphere of its Baltic Sea resorts.

1. Explore Jasmund National Park and Königsstuhl

Discover the impressive white chalk cliffs, including the iconic Königsstuhl, rising majestically from the Baltic Sea. Wander through ancient, UNESCO World Heritage-listed beech forests along well-maintained hiking trails, offering spectacular coastal views. The Königsstuhl National Park Centre provides insights into the park's geology and history, complemented by a modern viewing platform for panoramic vistas.

Cost: Access to Jasmund National Park's hiking trails is free. Entry to the Königsstuhl National Park Centre, which includes the Skywalk viewing platform, costs approximately €10 for adults.

Transport: Drive to Parkplatz Hagen (a paid car park), then embark on a picturesque 45-minute walk through the forest to reach Königsstuhl. Alternatively, take a train to Sassnitz, followed by a local bus (lines 23 or 14) that will bring you closer to the park's entrance. Boat tours departing from Sassnitz harbor offer unique views of the chalk cliffs from the sea.

2. Walk the Baumwipfelpfad Prora (Rügen Treetop Walk)

Experience a unique perspective of Rügen's natural beauty by walking along a wooden path elevated through the canopy of an ancient beech forest. Interactive stations along the 1,250-meter path offer engaging information about nature. The walk culminates in a 40-meter-high observation tower, designed like an eagle's nest, providing extensive views across the island and the Baltic Sea.

Cost: Entry for adults is approximately €14.50.

Transport: The Treetop Walk is located in Prora. Local bus lines 24 and 27 serve the 'Prora Baumwipfelpfad' or 'Prora Forsthaus' stops. Driving to Prora is also a convenient option, with parking available nearby.

3. Stroll along Sellin Pier (Seebrücke Sellin)

Take a leisurely walk along the historic Sellin Pier, renowned for its elegant spa architecture that harks back to Rügen's resort past. The pier stretches out into the Baltic Sea, offering splendid views and a charming atmosphere. At its end, a unique diving gondola descends into the sea, providing a submerged perspective of the underwater world. Dining is available at the pier's restaurant.

Cost: Walking the pier is free. A ride on the diving gondola costs approximately €9 for adults and €6 for children for a 30-40 minute experience.

Transport: Sellin is a prominent seaside resort easily accessible by car or local bus services. From Bergen, a bus ride (e.g., line 20) to Sellin Hauptstrasse takes about 30 minutes. The historic 'Rasender Roland' steam train also has a stop in Sellin.

4. Visit Cape Arkona

Journey to Rügen's northernmost tip, Cape Arkona, a historical and scenic headland. Explore two distinctive lighthouses, discover the remnants of an ancient Slavic fortress, and wander through the picturesque fishing village of Vitt. The area is largely car-free, promoting a peaceful atmosphere for enjoying the rugged cliff views and expansive sea vistas.

Cost: Access to Cape Arkona is generally free, though small fees may apply for entering specific lighthouses or museums. Parking is available in Putgarten, from where you can walk or take a small shuttle train or horse-drawn carriage to the cape.

Transport: Drive to Putgarten, where designated parking is available. From there, you can enjoy a scenic walk or utilize the local shuttle services (small train or horse-drawn carriage) to reach the cape and Vitt village. Public buses also serve Putgarten.

5. Ride the 'Rasender Roland' Steam Train

Embark on a nostalgic journey aboard the 'Rasender Roland' (Rushing Roland), a historic narrow-gauge steam railway. This charming train meanders through the scenic landscapes of southeastern Rügen, connecting several beloved seaside resorts like Binz, Sellin, Baabe, and Göhren. It offers a relaxing and traditional way to admire the island's coastal beauty and traditional architecture.

Cost: Ticket prices vary depending on the distance traveled; a day ticket or single journey can be purchased at the stations.

Transport: The 'Rasender Roland' stops at major seaside resorts including Binz, Sellin, Baabe, and Göhren. You can board the train at any of these stations.

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