thebackpackdiaries

Just a 2-hour train ride from Berlin, we arrived in Schwerin, the charming capital of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, under a blanket of cloudy skies. The moody weather gave the city an almost cinematic charm – perfect for exploring its tranquil lakes and storybook castle.

🌫️ Arrival in Schwerin – First Stop: Pfaffenteich
Our first steps took us to the Pfaffenteich, a peaceful rectangular pond nestled right in the heart of the city. Framed by historic townhouses, leafy promenades, and the dome of Schwerin Cathedral peeking in the distance, it looked more like a miniature fjord than an urban water feature.
🦢🐦 Swans glided across the still water, and the quiet hum of locals strolling gave the area a relaxed, almost Scandinavian feel.

🏰 Toward the Castle – Through the Schlossgarten
We continued walking toward Schwerin Castle, following a gentle route through the Schlossgarten. This formal garden, laid out with elegant pathways, manicured lawns, and baroque-style flowerbeds, made for a serene prelude to the castle itself. Statues dotted the greenery, and the occasional fountain gurgled quietly as we passed.

🌊 Embraced by Water – The Schweriner See
As we approached the castle, we found ourselves surrounded by Schweriner See, one of the largest lakes in northern Germany. With its peaceful ripples and breezy shorelines, it felt like the castle was floating. The setting was absolutely magical – castle on an island, embraced by water and sky.

🏰 Schwerin Castle – Stepping into a Fairytale
Finally, we arrived at the iconic Schwerin Castle (Schloss Schwerin) – and yes, it truly lives up to the hype.

🎉 A few fun facts about Schwerin Castle:
🏰 Over 1,000 years of history: Though rebuilt many times, the site has been home to dukes since the 10th century.

🧚‍♂️ It’s often called “Neuschwanstein of the North” due to its romantic architecture.

👻 According to legend, the castle is haunted by a friendly ghost named Petermännchen, a tiny guardian spirit.

🎨 Inside, you’ll find lavish rooms, historic portraits, and grand halls – a glimpse into royal life in Mecklenburg’s past.

👫 Schwerin Castle is a popular venue for weddings, conferences, and other special occasions, so it’s recommended to inquire well in advance of your desired event date.

We took our time exploring the interior and gazing out the windows over the lake – it was like being inside a painting.

🗺️ Final Thoughts
Even under grey skies, Schwerin glowed with quiet beauty. The walk from Pfaffenteich to the Castle, through gardens and along lakes, was refreshing, slow-paced, and deeply scenic. A perfect day trip for lovers of nature, history, and a touch of royal flair.