Whether it’s the North Sea or the Baltic Sea, the islands in Germany have character. Sometimes sophisticated, sometimes unspoilt, sometimes almost deserted. Here is an overview of the most beautiful German islands, sorted by the North Sea and Baltic Sea. Nowhere else is relaxation closer than here.
Islands of the North Sea
East Frisian Islands (Lower Saxony)
Borkum
Borkum is the largest of the East Frisian Islands. It has a genuine maritime climate, which is particularly beneficial for allergy sufferers. The historic town center with its spa house, the promenade with its pavilion, and the Greune Stee nature reserve make Borkum the perfect mix of relaxation and exploration.
• Getting there: By ferry or catamaran from Emden or Eemshaven (NL); train connection available in Emden.
Juist
Juist is a place of longing for those seeking peace and quiet. The car-free island impresses with its endless sandy beach, romantic spa square, and the “Domäne Bill,” a café at the western end of the island with a view of the mudflats. If you love pure nature, you’ll find it here – between horse-drawn carriages and seagulls.
• Getting there: By ferry from Norddeich with IC train station (depending on the tide); also possible by plane from Emden.
Norderney
Norderney combines sophisticated seaside resort tradition with youthful flair. The “Conversationshaus”, the “bade:haus” spa, and the north beach attract visitors of all ages. There are also good restaurants, cafés, and many events throughout the year.
• Getting there: Regular ferries from Norddeich; direct train connection to the harbor available.
Baltrum
Baltrum is the smallest of the East Frisian islands – but big on relaxation. The beach, the island museum “Altes Zollhaus” and the children’s playhouse make hearts beat faster. Everything is within walking distance and wonderfully relaxed.
• Getting there: By ferry from Neßmersiel; parking and shuttle service to the harbor available.
Langeoog
Langeoog offers ten kilometers of the finest sandy beaches, dune landscapes, the water tower panorama, and the maritime museum. The island is car-free and thrives on its liveliness – ideal for families and active vacationers.
• Getting there: Ferry from Bensersiel, independent of the tides; connection to the center with the island railway.
Spiekeroog
Spiekeroog is the greenest of the East Frisian Islands. The “Alte Inselhaus” (old island house), the old island church, and the idyllic spa gardens are all worth seeing. Nature lovers will find quiet mudflat landscapes and little hustle and bustle here.
• Getting there: Ferry from Neuharlingersiel; parking available at the harbor.
Wangerooge
Wangerooge is charming and steeped in tradition. The “Café Pudding” on the dunes, the old lighthouse with museum, and the rose garden in the center of town are popular destinations. The car-free island offers short distances and lots of flair.
• Getting there: Ferry from Harlesiel, combined with island railway; also accessible by small plane from Harle.
North Frisian Islands (Schleswig-Holstein)
Sylt
Sylt is Germany’s iconic island. The beach at Westerland, the red cliffs in Kampen, and the captain’s village of Keitum stand for diversity – between celebrity flair and natural beauty. Whether cycling, gourmet dining, or mudflat hiking: Sylt inspires with contrasts.
• Getting there: By car train or regional train via the Hindenburgdamm; flights to Westerland are also available.
Föhr
Föhr is considered the green island of the North Sea. In Wyk, the promenade invites you to stroll, the Frisian Museum tells exciting stories, and Frisian villages such as Nieblum delight visitors with their thatched houses and old churches.
• Getting there: Ferry from Dagebüll; train connection to the ferry terminal available.
Amrum
Amrum fascinates with its wide Kniepsand (very fine sand) beach, the lighthouse with panoramic views, and the Frisian fog with charming houses. Forest, dunes, and mudflats alternate in a small area – pure nature.
• Getting there: Ferry from Dagebüll or Schlüttsiel; transfer to Föhr possible.
Pellworm
Pellworm is slow-paced and rural. The old church with its leaning tower, the North Sea Dike Museum, and the Halligblick walking trails make the island a retreat for quiet hours.
• Getting there: Ferry from Nordstrand (Strucklahnungshörn); parking at the pier.
Nordstrand
Although Nordstrand is a peninsula, it has a real island feel. Worth seeing: St. Vinzenz Church, the “Beltringharder Koog” and the many farm shops selling regional products.
• Getting there: Accessible by car or bus via the dam; also a starting point for mudflat walks to Pellworm.
Other North Sea islands
Heligoland
Heligoland is located in the middle of the North Sea. Highlights include the rugged red cliffs with seabirds and seal colonies. Duty-free shopping in the colorful lobster shacks is also popular on the island. No cars, no hustle and bustle – just solitude, nature, and the North Sea. Even the journey there is beautifully wild.
• Getting there: Catamaran or ferry from Cuxhaven, Hamburg, Büsum, or Bremerhaven; also possible by plane.
Islands of the Baltic Sea
Baltic Sea islands in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania
Rügen
Germany’s largest island shines with diversity: the chalk cliffs in Jasmund National Park, Granitz Hunting Lodge and the pier in Sellin are among the most famous attractions. Add to that wide beaches and sophisticated spa architecture.
• Getting there: By car via the Rügendamm or by train to Bergen/Rügen; long-distance buses and ferries from Szczecin or Usedom.
Usedom
Usedom is sun-drenched and steeped in history. The imperial spas of Ahlbeck, Heringsdorf, and Bansin with their piers, promenades, and historic spa architecture make the island unique. Cyclists also get their money’s worth.
• Getting there: By car via Wolgast or by train from Züssow; Heringsdorf Airport with seasonal connections.
Hiddensee
Hiddensee is car-free and inspiring with its tranquility. The Gerhart Hauptmann House, the Dornbusch lighthouse, and the fishing village of Kloster are just a few of the highlights of this quiet island. Ideal for hikers, artists, and dreamers.
• Getting there: Ferries from Schaprode, Wiek, or Stralsund; seasonal water taxis also available.
Poel
Poel is close to Wismar and offers a relaxing Baltic Sea vacation. The Timmendorfer Strandpromenade (not to be confused with Timmendorfer Strand on the mainland), the local history museum in Kirchdorf, and the lighthouse at Schwarzer Busch are all worth exploring.
• Getting there: Accessible by car via a dam; also by bus from Wismar.
Ummanz
Ummanz is Rügen’s small, quiet sister. The island captivates visitors with the Vorpommersche Boddenlandschaft nature reserve, the surfing areas at Breetzer Bodden, and the open-air museum in Waase. Peace, nature, and plenty of space to breathe.
• Getting there: By car via a bridge from Rügen; also easily accessible by bike.
👉 Here you can visit the website of the Vorpommersche Boddenlandschaft.
Baltic Sea islands in Schleswig-Holstein
Fehmarn
Fehmarn is Germany’s third-largest island and a paradise for active people. Popular places include the Fehmarn Maritime Center, the south beach at Burgtiefe, and the cliffs at Katharinenhof. Surfers, cyclists, and families alike will find something to enjoy here.
• Getting there: By car or train via the Fehmarn Sound Bridge; ferry connection to Denmark (Puttgarden–Rødby).
