Overlooking the Baltic Sea in Germany’s far north, Timmendorfer Strand is a vibrant coastal town and beachside getaway destination. It’s famed for its family-friendly aquarium and bird-filled park, as well as its wide stretch of sand that’s ideal for a range of water sports.
Things to do in Timmendorfer Strand
At the heart of Timmendorfer Strand is Timmendorfer Platz, a lively square that’s lined with breezy cafes and restaurants. It’s a short stroll from the leafy walking trails of Kur Park and the Maritim Seebrücke, a historic pier that stretches out into the Baltic Sea. You can relax on the adjacent beach or coincide your visit with one of the professional volleyball tournaments here.
Get up close to animals from around the globe at Sea Life Timmendorfer Strand, an impressive aquarium that combines engaging exhibits with several play areas. Come face-to-face with boa constrictors and otters in the Rainforest Adventure, see European lobsters and octopi in the Coasts of Europe display before being surrounded by tropical fish in the eight-metre-long tunnel.
Bird enthusiasts shouldn’t miss a visit to the Vogelpark Niendorf, an avian sanctuary that’s home to around 1,000 birds representing 250 different species. In addition to rare owls, flamingos and red-crowned cranes, the park features a children’s playground complete with a jumping cushion and spinning tops. The sanctuary is close to the Aalbeek-Niederung Nature Reserve, which features scenic walking trails hugging the shores of Hemmelsdorfer Lake.
Getting around Timmendorfer Strand
Timmendorfer Strand is a 25-minute drive from Lübeck and around an hour from both Hamburg and Hamburg Airport. Trains connect to the Timmendorfer Strand railway station while buses travel throughout the town. The centre of Timmendorfer Strand can easily be explored on foot.