Visiting Flensburg
Flensburg is one of the northernmost cities in Germany, located in the state of Schleswig-Holstein right on the border with Denmark. Historically, this Baltic port town grew deep inland along a fjord, fueled by an 18th-century boom in the rum trade. The city maintains a strong maritime identity, reflected in its numerous specialized museums. Centuries of territorial disputes have left their mark, resulting in a culture that blends German and Danish influences, where both languages are still commonly spoken in everyday life.
A charming historic port city
Start your visit around the Flensburg harbor, a site with deep roots since the city originally thrived on the herring trade. It spent centuries as a Danish duchy before being incorporated into Germany following wars ending in 1864. Don't miss the Shipbuilding Museum, housed in old workshops that recreate 18th and 19th-century vessel construction techniques. For a time on the water, you can book a cruise on the Alexandra, a historic steamship that first set sail in 1908.
The city's historic core is just a short walk away. Walking down Grosse Strasse is the perfect way to grab lunch or do some shopping, as the street is lined with a variety of storefronts. Continue to Südermarkt square to see Saint Nikolai Church, which dates back to 1390. One of the city's oldest secular buildings also stands in the square, the Saint Nicolas Pharmacy, a gabled house built in 1490. Finally, the small and picturesque Rote Strasse rounds out your tour of the old town. Once a medieval street filled with innkeepers and merchants, it has preserved its centuries-old architecture.
Exploring Flensburg's curiosities
Still on Rote Strasse, make sure to visit the Rum House to learn about the history of the sugar trade in Flensburg. From this former refinery, you can follow the Rum and Sugar Mile, a discovery trail with 20 stations throughout the historic center. To round out your understanding of local culture, head to the Flensburg Museum, which showcases the traditions and arts of the Schleswig region.
You cannot leave Flensburg without seeing the Flensburg Lion, a symbol of reconciliation between Denmark and Germany. Originally built by the Danes in 1850 following the Battle of Isted, the statue was returned to Denmark after World War II before finally returning to Flensburg in 2011.
When to go
The best time to visit Flensburg is during the warmer months, between May and September.
How to get there
The closest airport is in Hamburg. From there, take a train or bus to Flensburg, a trip that takes about 2 hours. If you are driving, you will arrive via the A7 highway, which runs through the Schleswig-Holstein region.
Flensburg is an ideal stop if you are heading to Northern Germany or on your way to Denmark! This is where the famous Flensburg beer is brewed, by the way. The streets in the center are lively and the small harbor is really nice. The parks are also great if it gets hot out!