Things to Do in Rügen Island

Rügen Island sits in the Baltic Sea off Germany's northeastern coast, connected to the mainland by bridges and ferries. As the country's largest island, it's actually quite diverse - you'll find dramatic white chalk cliffs that inspired Romantic painters, expansive sandy beaches, ancient beech forests, and charming seaside resorts that have been drawing visitors since the 19th century. The island has this interesting mix of natural grandeur and old-world resort culture, where grand hotel architecture from the Kaiser's era sits alongside protected national park landscapes. You might be surprised by how much variety exists here - from the iconic chalk formations at Jasmund National Park to the quieter fishing villages tucked into hidden bays.

The island's dining scene centers heavily on fresh Baltic Sea fish, particularly herring, cod, and flounder, often prepared in traditional northern German styles. Many restaurants occupy historic resort buildings with sea views, though this prime positioning often comes with higher prices. The fishing villages like Vitt and Lohme offer more authentic, less touristy dining experiences where locals actually eat. You'll find good regional specialties like Rügener Inselforelle (island trout) and various smoked fish preparations. Most resort towns have a mix of traditional German restaurants and more casual beachside cafes, with Binz and Sellin offering the widest selection.

Late spring through early fall offers the most reliable weather, with May through September being the primary season when all attractions and accommodations operate full schedules. July and August bring the warmest weather and longest days, but also the largest crowds and highest prices - particularly noticeable at the popular beach resorts. June and September might actually be ideal, offering pleasant weather with fewer visitors and lower accommodation costs. Winter has its own appeal for those seeking solitude, as the dramatic coastal landscapes take on a different character, though many tourist services close and weather can be quite harsh.