Visit Schwerin Castle – A Day Trip from Berlin

Schwerin Castle is a quick day trip from Berlin and is a great way to get out of the city and visit some of the lesser known parts of Germany.

Check out our full Berlin itinerary here.

When I think of castles, I think of the United Kingdom or Ireland. I know the rest of Europe has some beautiful castles, but I didn’t know that Germany is loaded with them. Schwerin Castle (also called Schwerin Palace) is a stunning example of romantic historicism, and you feel like you are in the middle of a fairy tale as you explore it!

Brief History of Schwerin Castle

The area of Schwerin was inhabited around 3,000 years ago, but the first fort we know of was built on the island in the 10th century.  Later, stronger stone forts were built and then turned into more luxurious living quarters. It was remodeled, partially, so many times that by the 1800s, it was a hodgepodge of architectural styles.

Put off by the broken down structure and the multiple styles, the Grandduchy of Mecklenburg-Schwerin decided to build a new castle in the mid-1800s.  We heartily approve of his masterpiece!

Up until 1918 the Schwerin Castle continued as the home to the Grandduchy of Mecklenburg-Schwerin. 

Perhaps one of the most interesting pieces of history is the poltergeist of Schwerin Castle: a small, goblin-like man who changes the color of his shirt depending on impending doom that might happen. Black means death, red means war. Several stories have been circulated about this little ghost, and many appearances happen on the bridge going toward the gardens.  He is supposed to be good-natured and will act as a watchman for those who are good and be nasty to those who are not so worthy. 

Schwerin Castle today

Today the castle is used as state parliament. When visiting, you can walk through the courtyard into the gardens for free. If you would like a tour or going into the museum there is a fee. Since visiting the Caserta Castle in Italy with the kids tested their patience, we opted out of touring this castle to keep the trip fun. The grounds, however, are beautiful. It was a lot of fun watching some of the local kids listening to their music and making up dances. Many people were riding bikes or running around the park. 

You can take a break at one of the cafes to enjoy local delicacies. We chose to go up the road to a delicious Pakistani restaurant which we recommend. 

Where is Schwerin Castle?

The city of Schwerin is north of Berlin near the Baltic Sea. It’s surrounded by several lakes, and Lake Schwerin has a small island on it that is home to Schwerin Castle. 

Amongst all the castles that Germany has, Schwerin Castle is definitely worth seeing if you are in Berlin. The drive was quick (autobahn quick) and beautiful, and a nice change of pace. 

Plan your trip: 

You can choose to tour the castle and visit the museum, or you can also take a Lake tour which offers a spectacular view of the castle. For more information about the castle in Schwerin check out their website.