Fehmarn: Your sunny island in the Baltic Sea

Fehmarn is located in the Baltic Sea between the Kiel and Mecklenburg Bays, in the far east of Schleswig-Holstein. The island’s capital, Burg, and 42 small villages are spread across an area of approximately 185 square kilometers. About 13,000 people live here; incidentally, they are called Fehmaraner, not Fehmarner.

The coastline stretches for 78 kilometers and alternates between fine sandy beaches in the south, steep cliffs in the east, and a dune landscape in the north. Visitors looking to explore the island can choose between miles of beaches, quiet natural shores, and an extensive network of bike paths.

Getting to Fehmarn

Since 1963, the Fehmarn Sound Bridge—also known as the “Coat Hanger” because of its shape—has connected the island to the mainland. By car, you can reach Fehmarn via the B207, part of the so-called Vogelfluglinie, in about an hour from Lübeck and in about two hours from Hamburg.

The direct train service has been suspended due to construction of the Fehmarn Belt Crossing. Instead, the X85 Fehmarn rail replacement service runs hourly from Lübeck Central Station. You can find current schedules at Travel information from Deutsche Bahn.

Fehmarn and water sports go together like wind and waves. The island is considered one of the best surfing spots in Germany because the wind is almost always blowing from somewhere here. At Grüner Brink in the north and at Südstrand, you’ll find spots for every skill level.

Whether you're trying it for the first time or want to improve your technique, the island's surf schools are here to help. You can read more about this in our articles on surfing on Fehmarn and Kitesurfing.

On land, the island is a cyclist’s paradise with over 170 kilometers of bike paths. A tour around the island takes you along beaches, through villages, and past farm cafés. Those looking for a more athletic challenge can tee off at the golf course in Wulfen which offers ocean views and a short course open to beginners without a golf license.

Fehmarn is more than just a beach. In the northwest lies Markelsdorfer Huk, an unspoiled dune and coastal landscape that’s perfect for long walks. In the south, Wulfener Hals attracts nature lovers and birdwatchers.

If you want to take in the view of the island, you’ll find several lighthouses on Fehmarn. And with structures like the striking Fehmarnsund Bridge, the island also boasts some true landmarks. You can find an overview of all the must-see destinations on our page about the Places of interest on Fehmarn.

The island’s capital, Burg, is its lively heart. Shops, cafés, and restaurants line Breite Straße and the area around the market square. A stroll through the old town is a must during any visit to Fehmarn, no matter the weather.

When it comes to food, Fehmarn has more to offer than you might think at first glance. Fresh fish is, of course, a must—whether as a fish sandwich at the harbor in Burgstaaken or at a restaurant overlooking the water. Then there are the typical farm cafés serving homemade cake, which are popular stops on any bike tour.

All our recommendations for restaurants, cafes, fish stands, and bars are on our Dining on Fehmarn collected.

Your daily needs while on vacation are well taken care of: In Burg and the larger towns, you’ll find supermarkets, bakeries, and farm stands offering regional products. To find out where to shop and what else island life has to offer, visit our page on Life on Fehmarn.