DISTANT PLACES
Travel tips for destinations far from the Hanseatic City of Bremen
Flensburg on the Baltic Sea
On the Förde at the border to Denmark
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Heiliggeistkirche on Große Straße
Many coastal churches display so-called "votive ships." These are found in the Heiliggeistkirche on Große Straße, built in 1386 and located not far from St. Marien Church. These models of large sailing ships vary in detail but carry deep meaning: they were often donated as thanks for surviving a storm at sea or to ensure future safety. They also served as symbols of pride for the professions that relied on seafaring for their livelihoods.
Just Steps from Heiliggeistkirche: Beyond the "Börsenkeller" and in the neighboring Neptun-Hof, hungry visitors can find an excellent selection of local flavors
As you stroll down Große Straße toward Holm, you’ll encounter a balanced mix of independent boutiques and well-known chains. It is a place where kitsch meets art, high-end goods sit beside bargain finds, and there are endless things to wear, display, or simply enjoy over lunch.
Window Display at "Stadtmatrosen Flensburg" on Große Straße
If you look beyond the main thoroughfare of shops and cafes, you will discover hidden gems: historic courtyards tucked away behind narrow entrances. Among these is a particularly noteworthy site - the "Historical Merchant’s Courtyard" (Historischer Kaufmannshof) located between Norderstraße and Museumshafen.
Historic Merchant’s Courtyard between Norderstraße and Museumshafen
These courtyards were primarily used by merchants trading across the Baltic Sea. In earlier times, homes and warehouses were often located in the same space. Here at Flensburg’s historic harbor, distances were short. Goods and raw materials were delivered from ships into the courtyards via horse-drawn wagons, handcarts, or on the backs of hardworking men. They were stored in multi-story warehouses. Even though the pulleys and hoists have long since disappeared, the architecture still reveals where precious goods were once hidden behind secure walls.
At the junction of Große Straße and Holm, it becomes clear that in this harbor town, art takes precedence over commerce - at least spatially. And don't worry about "shortness of breath"; while "Museumsberg" is a literal hill you must climb on foot, the view makes the climb worthwhile.
The Natural History Museum on Museumsberg at Dusk
On this "hill," the city and the former Duchy of Schleswig present themselves through two primary buildings (https://museen-flensburg.de). It is no surprise that the museum, founded in 1876, is one of the largest in Northern Germany. In addition to its permanent collection of art and cultural history, it boasts a vast collection of historic furniture and original rustic farmhouses. With 900 objects, it is noted as one of the most extensive collections of its kind in Germany.
Flensburg’s Oldest Secular Building (c. 1490)
At the end of Holm, near Südermarkt and St. Nikolai Church, architecture enthusiasts can find Flensburg's oldest secular building. This former merchant house was constructed after the Great Fire of 1485 and completed around 1490. Today, a pharmacy occupies the space, providing residents with "medical potions" from its historic medicine cabinet among other products. It remains a mystery whether the ox trader Jens Lorup commissioned the restored 1998 paintings in the merchant hall or if they were preserved by later inhabitants.
A popular photo spot on Rote Straße
The nearby "Rote Straße" (Red Street) is also a must-see (https://rotestrasse.de). It is highly recommended for visitors to wander through, browse, and - depending on your interests - shop and dine. The street has an inviting atmosphere; whether the offerings suit your personal taste is for you to discover.
Historic courtyard on Rote Straße with craft and gastronomy
This is Flensburg's oldest street and was once part of the "Oxen Path," where herds were driven from Denmark to Flensburg. While that journey was undoubtedly grueling for the livestock, it is a much smoother experience today for those cycling along the namesake bike path.
Glass objects on display
Map
More impressions
Weinhundert - Store & Bar on Rote Straße
... only the red gate no longer stands
Tasteful selection
Courtyard with dining options
Entrance to Neptun-Hof at Nordermarkt
Oluf-Samson-Gang between Norderstraße and the Museum Harbor
Historic building from the 18th century opposite St. Marien Church
Window
At the museum shipyard
Night view of the historic harbor from the Captain’s Quarter
The pier in Glücksburg
Marina in Glücksburg
Rügen by the Baltic Sea
Active holiday featuring cycling and hiking
Enjoy an active holiday featuring cycling and hiking along the Baltic coast in Mönchgut on the island of Rügen. Long sandy beaches, rolling hills, and lush forests provide a varied and beautiful setting for your getaway. Often, the only thing breaking the peace is the distant whistle of the historic 'Rasender Roland' steam train. Despite its name (which suggests something "racing" or fast), it’s actually quite the opposite. A journey by train is simply part of the holiday experience.
read more about Rügen ...
In the Probstei in late summer
Schönberger Strand and sea and more
Can you walk or ride a bike from Brasilien (Brazil) to Kalifornien (California) in just a few minutes, always with a view of the water? No, not with your finger on the globe or map, but in person. You’ll have to forgo Copacabana and the Sunset Strip with the Angels in Los Angeles (Spanish for "The Angels"). Instead, you get Germany’s "True North" with all its bright sides. Of course, there are sometimes shadows here too, but they belong only on the margins of this story.
read more about Schönberger Strand ...
