Written by Celine Fournier, Elsa Holm, Felix Schmidt, Finn Weber, Sandrine Simon
16/09/2025
Magic K, Pexels
Usedom, known as the 'Sun Island,' offers extensive sandy beaches along the Baltic Sea, complemented by elegant 19th-century spa architecture. It is a destination that balances natural beauty with cultural and historical experiences.
The Imperial Spas of Ahlbeck, Heringsdorf, and Bansin feature lively promenades, shops, and various dining options, providing opportunities to socialise. Zinnowitz also has a vibrant promenade. On the beaches, visitors can find beach bars, dedicated areas for sports like beach volleyball, and informal evening bonfire gatherings, which are suitable for meeting other travellers.
Top 7 Things to do in Usedom
Activities range from exploring historic spa towns and relaxing on the beach to active cycling, unique treetop walks, and insightful museum visits.
1. Explore the Imperial Spas and Promenades
Wander through the elegant Imperial Spas of Ahlbeck, Heringsdorf, and Bansin, admiring their distinctive 19th-century architecture. Each town boasts a beautiful pier and a lively promenade filled with shops and dining options, perfect for a leisurely stroll with Baltic Sea views.
Cost: Exploring the towns and promenades is free. Costs for food, drinks, or souvenirs will vary.
Transport: The Imperial Spas are well-connected by the Usedomer Bäderbahn (UBB) train and local buses, which are often free to use with a KaiserbäderCard received with your guest card. You can also walk or cycle along the extensive coastal promenade that links these towns.
2. Cycle the Coastal Bike Trail
Embark on a cycling adventure along Usedom’s comprehensive network of bike paths, including the scenic coastal route that stretches from Karlshagen to Świnoujście. This offers an excellent way to experience the island’s diverse landscapes, pristine beaches, and architectural marvels.
Cost: Bicycle rentals typically range from €8 to €12 per day for a standard bike. E-bikes and specialized bicycles are also available at varying prices.
Transport: Bikes can be rented from numerous outlets across the island. The coastal trail is easily accessible from most towns.
3. Usedom Treetop Walk in Heringsdorf
Ascend a gently winding wooden walkway that leads through the treetops to a 33-meter-high observation tower in Heringsdorf. From the top, you are rewarded with a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of the island, the Baltic Sea, and the serene Achterwasser.
Cost: Admission is approximately €16.50 for adults and €12.50 for children (6-14 years). Family tickets are also available.
Transport: The Treetop Walk is located in Heringsdorf. Take the UBB train or a local bus to Heringsdorf, then follow signs for a short walk to the entrance. Taxis are also available in the main resort towns.
4. Visit the Historical-Technical Museum Peenemünde
Explore the profound history of the former Peenemünde Army Research Centre. This museum offers detailed insights into the development of rocket technology during World War II and its broader implications for space travel, providing a crucial historical perspective.
Cost: Entry for adults is typically between €10 and €12.
Transport: Peenemünde is reachable by the UBB train. The train line branches off from Zinnowitz to Peenemünde.
5. Relax in a Strandkorb
Embrace a beloved Baltic Sea tradition by renting a Strandkorb, a classic hooded beach chair. These comfortable chairs provide shelter from the wind and sun, making them perfect for unwinding on Usedom's fine sandy beaches while enjoying the coastal atmosphere.
Cost: A Strandkorb typically costs €7 to €10 for a full day, or about €2.50 per hour.
Transport: Strandkörbe are readily available for rent on most beaches in the spa towns and are usually within walking distance of nearby accommodations.
6. Experience the Zinnowitz Diving Gondola
Descend into the Baltic Sea in a unique diving gondola at the end of Zinnowitz pier. This offers an unparalleled opportunity to observe the underwater world and marine life without getting wet, providing a distinct perspective of the sea's hidden beauty.
Cost: Adult tickets are approximately €8.50, and children's tickets are €5.50 for a 30-minute experience.
Transport: The Diving Gondola is located at the end of the pier in Zinnowitz. Zinnowitz is accessible by UBB train or bus, with the pier being a short walk from the town center.
7. Day Trip to Świnoujście, Poland
Cross the border to Świnoujście, the lively Polish part of Usedom. Discover its modern promenade, vast sandy beaches, and the iconic Stawa Młyny, a historic windmill beacon marking the harbor entrance. This offers a unique cross-cultural experience.
Cost: Exploring Świnoujście is free, but budgeting for food, shopping, and an optional lighthouse entry fee of approximately €2 is recommended.
Transport: The easiest way to reach Świnoujście is by cycling along the continuous coastal promenade from the German Imperial Spas. The UBB train also extends to Świnoujście. Private car transfer tours are also available.
At TFA Travel we believe in travel for all. Our mission is to enable people to explore the world as easily as possible without having to pay a travel agent a huge commission.
Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
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