Wismar
Wismar, Germany

Wismar Cruise Port Guide

Welcome to Wismar, a charming UNESCO World Heritage port city located along Germany's northern Baltic coast.

Frequently visited by boutique and regional cruise operators like Phoenix Reisen and Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, this historic destination captivates travelers with its well-preserved Hanseatic brick Gothic architecture and serene maritime atmosphere.

Cruisers can effortlessly step off their ship and immerse themselves in centuries of rich trading history, scenic harbor views, and authentic German coastal culture.


Key Wismar Port Information

Top Attractions & Excursions

Just a short 10-minute walk from the cruise pier lies the bustling Marktplatz Wismar, one of northern Germany's largest market squares featuring the iconic Wasserkunst Wismar water feature.

Visitors should explore the impressive St. Nikolai Church, a brick Gothic masterpiece located about 15 minutes on foot from the ship.

Another highlight is the Alte Schwede, the city's oldest historic townhouse built in 1380, offering a glimpse into medieval merchant life.

Last updated on August 7, 2026

Nearby Cities & Attractions

Passengers often take a day trip to Schwerin, located about 30 kilometers south, to tour the fairy-tale Schwerin Castle in roughly 30 minutes by train.

The seaside resort town of Kühlungsborn is situated 45 kilometers to the northeast, reachable in under an hour by car or tour bus for beautiful sandy beaches and seaside promenades.

Alternatively, the historic Hanseatic city of Rostock lies about an hour away by train, offering rich history and vibrant shopping streets.

Last updated on August 7, 2026

Port Location

Cruise ships dock at the Alter Hafen (Old Harbor) or the adjacent commercial port area, placing passengers right on the doorstep of the historic Old Town.

The city center is usually an easy 10- to 15-minute flat walk from the berth, making shuttle buses or tender boats unnecessary for most calls.

The immediate port area around the harbor features charming seafood stalls, cafes, and local souvenir shops overlooking historic sailing ships.

Last updated on August 7, 2026

Local Currency

The local currency is the Euro (€), as US dollars are not accepted in local establishments.

Credit cards are widely accepted at major restaurants, hotels, and shops, though carrying small amounts of cash is recommended for smaller bakeries or market stalls.

ATMs are easily accessible throughout the Old Town and near the harbor area for convenient currency withdrawals.

Last updated on August 7, 2026

Safety Considerations

Wismar is an extremely safe destination with very low crime rates, making it ideal for independent exploration on foot.

Standard travel precautions apply, such as keeping personal belongings secure in crowded places like the central market square.

Cruisers can feel completely comfortable strolling the cobblestone streets without a guided tour or worry.

Last updated on August 7, 2026

Weather & Climate

The primary cruise season runs from May through September, with pleasant summer temperatures averaging between 18°C to 24°C (64°F to 75°F).

Coastal Baltic winds can bring sudden weather changes, so layered clothing and a light waterproof jacket are essential items to pack.

Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended due to the city's extensive historical cobblestone streets.

Last updated on August 7, 2026

Getting Around

Because the main attractions are concentrated within walking distance of the pier, public transportation is rarely required for exploring the city center.

For longer journeys, Wismar's main railway station is a 10-minute walk from the port, offering convenient connections via Deutsche Bahn trains to nearby cities.

Taxis and local bus routes operated by NAHBUS are available near the harbor and train station for regional trips or comfortable transfers.

Last updated on August 7, 2026

Shopping

The primary shopping district stretches along Krämerstraße and around the central Marktplatz Wismar, lined with boutiques and craft stores.

Popular souvenirs include local Baltic amber jewelry, traditional Hanseatic marzipan, smoked fish from the harbor, and regional sea buckthorn products.

Prices in Germany are fixed and non-negotiable, and duty-free shopping is generally limited to tax-free shopping schemes for non-EU residents at participating stores.

Last updated on August 7, 2026

Shore Excursions & Tours

Hamburg Historic Old Town and WW2 Walking Tour in Small Group

Image

Explore Hamburg’s rich history on a 2.5-hour small-group walking tour through the Old Town, visiting landmarks like the neo-Renaissance Town Hall and St. Peter’s Church. Learn about the city's past as a Hanseatic trading hub and its post-war reconstruction while enjoying optional coffee stops at local roasters. The tour includes entrance to a World War II museum and a 360° panoramic viewing platform for stunning city views. With a group size limited to 15, you are guaranteed a personalized and intimate experience.

2.5 hours From $41

Historic Free Tour of Hamburg Old Warehouse District

Image

Discover the history of Die Speicherstadt on this 100-minute walking tour through Hamburg's former UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will explore the world's largest warehouses while learning about the district's evolution from a 19th-century trading center to its modern cultural relevance. Marvel at the architectural majesty of the Chilehaus masterpiece as you uncover the fascinating highlights of this unique area.

1.7 hours From $4

Mister X Hamburg 2h city tour, hunting & games for all ages

Image

Engage in an exciting tactical hunt against a real person, "Mister X," through the city center of Hamburg in this original game running since 1998. Using a live tracker, you must follow clues and location updates sent every two minutes to catch him before he escapes. Be careful as you track his route, because he might be watching you and taking photos from a short distance.

2 hours From $12

Yacht Sailing After Work Tour of Hamburg Harbor

Image

Experience Europe's third-largest harbor from the unique perspective of a modern 42-foot sailing yacht. Your local guide will navigate past the iconic Elbphilharmonie and close to massive container ships while sharing unexpected facts about the port. While the crew aims to present content in English, the focus remains on the high entertainment value of sailing through the maritime skyline.

2 hours From $83

Speicherstadt & HafenCity Erlebnistour

Image

Explore the Speicherstadt and HafenCity on this walking tour that offers insider knowledge about the Elbphilharmonie and views of the famous Wasserschloss. A guide will lead you through quiet courtyards and the Kontorhausviertel to admire the breathtaking architecture of the Chilehaus. Along the way, you will learn secrets about historic trade goods like coffee and tea while discovering the area's transition from tradition to modernity.

2 hours From $27

Hamburg Half Day Walking Tour with a Local: 100% Personalized & Private

Image

Join a local Hamburg host for a fully personalized experience based on your specific personality and interests. After completing a short questionnaire, you will be matched with a like-minded guide to create a flexible itinerary that explores the city's unique charm, from the Elbphilharmonie to artsy districts. You can discover local food culture or iconic landmarks, with the freedom to change your plans spontaneously during the tour.

Hamburg - Private Peppercorn Tour for 2 Persons

Image

Dive into the world of the hit German children's crime series "The Peppercorns" by visiting original film locations in the Speicherstadt and HafenCity. This exclusive private tour provides insider background information to help you recognize scenes and storylines from the show. You will travel comfortably in a rickshaw that seats two, with the option for additional guests to accompany the tour on rental bikes.

1.5 hours From $123

From Kiel: private Hamburg 6hour-Tour with a former Policeman

Image

Enjoy a private 6-hour city tour of Hamburg in a luxury vehicle led by a former police officer and fourth-generation local. This personalized experience is designed for a private group of up to six people and includes refreshments on board. Your professional driver offers pickup from the Cruise Terminal Kiel and will return you to your ship or drop you off at a desired location in Hamburg.

The Kiez Captain Reeperbahn Kieztour Hamburg

Image

Explore the "sinful mile" and the history of St. Pauli on this personal tour led by a guide with decades of local experience. You will discover iconic sites like the Davidwache, the cult bar "Zur Ritze," and the locations famous for the Beatles and Hans Albers. The tour covers fascinating topics ranging from the area's gang wars to the history of Herbertstraße, offering much more than just the red-light district.

2 hours From $24

Photo Tour of Hamburg's UNESCO World Heritage Site

Image

Improve your photography skills on this 4-hour photo tour designed to help you find the perfect perspective and image composition. Whether you use a smartphone or a digital camera, you will receive creative instructions to capture the most beautiful views of your motifs. The route is flexible and adapts to the group, with a maximum size of eight participants to ensure personal attention.

E-bike activity in Hamburg with a cultural program and snacks

Image

Embark on a guided e-bike journey that seamlessly combines Hamburg's city history with its green nature and cultural highlights. You will ride past legendary sights like the harbor and HafenCity, visit the Botanical Garden, and cross the picturesque Niendorfer Gehege. The tour features exclusive experiences such as a private cultural program with a well-known artist and cozy moments on the Elbe beach.

Private luxurious 6 hour Tour to Lübeck with a former Policeman

Image

Travel in a luxury vehicle to the beautiful medieval city of Lübeck on this private 6-hour tour. Led by a fourth-generation Hamburg native and former police officer, this exclusive experience caters to a private group of up to six people with refreshments included. Your professional driver will pick you up at the cruise terminal or your hotel and ensure a timely return after you have explored the historic area.

Driverguide Tour Hamburg

Image

Book a personal driver-guide and van to discover Hamburg individually with a group of up to eight people. This flexible service allows you to make spontaneous stops for photos, snacks, or drinks at any time during the journey. You can choose your preferred pickup location and specify exactly where you want the tour to end.

3.5 hours From $591

Hamburg - Private rickshaw tour for 2 people

Image

Discover Hamburg comfortably and sustainably on a romantic rickshaw ride with your own personal guide. You are free to select your route, though a tour through the Old Town, HafenCity, or the UNESCO World Heritage Site is recommended. The rickshaw allows unique access to narrow streets and areas where standard motor vehicles are banned.

1.5 hours From $123

World War 2 Hamburg Private Guided Tour

Image

Explore one of the darkest periods of Hamburg’s history on a tour dedicated to the city's era under Nazi rule and the Third Reich. You will learn about key events ranging from the 1933 discriminatory laws to the devastating bombing of 1943, as well as the city's post-war culture of memory. The itinerary covers significant sites such as the Feldstraße tower bunker and the Deserters memorial, while discussing topics like the Neuengamme Concentration Camp.

Private Walking Tour through the Fascinating Bremen's City Center

Image

Wander through the city center of Bremen to admire its amazing architecture while learning about the highlights of its local history. You will discover UNESCO World Heritage sites like the medieval Town Hall and the Statue of Roland, along with the unique charm of the Schnoor quarter. This walking tour is perfect for those who love history and photography.

2 hours From $59

A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Bremen’s Old Town

Image

Dive into history and legends on this self-guided walking tour through the heart of Bremen. The journey begins at the Brücke Herdentor, part of the former city walls, and leads you to the awe-inspiring Gothic masterpiece of St. Peter’s Cathedral. You will also enjoy a scenic walk along the Weser River to experience the city's maritime and trading heritage.

Bubble soccer in the center of Hamburg with beer / champagne

Image

Experience the excitement of Bubble Soccer, a fun activity suitable for friends, families, and parties. You will have the chance to challenge others in unique duels unlike any you have imagined before. This energetic game allows you to get the most out of yourself while enjoying a competitive atmosphere.

1.5 hours From $408

St George's Culinary Food Tour

Image

Explore one of Hamburg's most diverse and colorful districts on a culinary discovery tour through the city's rainbow stronghold. Your qualified guide will share exciting anecdotes about the area's transition from a dark past to a colorful present. Along the way, you will visit selected restaurants to enjoy five distinct local specialties.

3 hours From $58

Visiting Wismar Cruise Deals

15 Night Copenhagen to Portsmouth cruise
July 29, 2027
Azamara Quest
S M L XL
Copenhagen Visby Stockholm Turku Helsinki Tallinn Riga Klaipeda Gdansk Ronne Wismar Portsmouth
$6,569
$438 per day
Inside
43 Night Copenhagen to New York cruise
July 29, 2027
Azamara Quest
S M L XL
Copenhagen Visby Stockholm Turku Helsinki Tallinn Riga Klaipeda Gdansk Ronne Wismar Portsmouth Falmouth Dublin Belfast Torshavn Runavik Husavik Akureyri Isafjordur Reykjanes Reykjavik Nanortalik Qaqortoq Nuuk St. John's Halifax Lunenburg Portland Boston Newport New York
$19,829
$461 per day
Inside
25 Night Copenhagen to Portsmouth cruise
July 19, 2027
Azamara Quest
S M L XL
Copenhagen Skagen Skjolden Ålesund Trondheim Stavanger Arendal Gothenburg Copenhagen Visby Stockholm Turku Helsinki Tallinn Riga Klaipeda Gdansk Ronne Wismar Portsmouth
$12,489
$500 per day
Inside
19 Night Hamburg to Copenhagen cruise
May 13, 2028
Seabourn Quest
S M L XL
Hamburg Hamburg Farsund Oslo Gothenburg Skagen Wismar Copenhagen Ronne Visby Stockholm Helsinki Tallinn Riga Klaipeda Gdansk Copenhagen
$11,698
$616 per day
Inside
7 Night Copenhagen to London cruise
August 7, 2027
Seabourn Quest
S M L XL
Copenhagen Copenhagen Karlskrona Gdansk Ronne Wismar Oudeschild London Antwerp Farsund Oslo Gothenburg Aalborg London
$4,398
$628 per day
Inside

Upcoming Cruises to Wismar Cruise Deals

15 Night Copenhagen to Portsmouth cruise
July 29, 2027
Azamara Quest
S M L XL
Copenhagen Visby Stockholm Turku Helsinki Tallinn Riga Klaipeda Gdansk Ronne Wismar Portsmouth
$6,569
$438 per day
Inside
43 Night Copenhagen to New York cruise
July 29, 2027
Azamara Quest
S M L XL
Copenhagen Visby Stockholm Turku Helsinki Tallinn Riga Klaipeda Gdansk Ronne Wismar Portsmouth Falmouth Dublin Belfast Torshavn Runavik Husavik Akureyri Isafjordur Reykjanes Reykjavik Nanortalik Qaqortoq Nuuk St. John's Halifax Lunenburg Portland Boston Newport New York
$19,829
$461 per day
Inside
25 Night Copenhagen to Portsmouth cruise
July 19, 2027
Azamara Quest
S M L XL
Copenhagen Skagen Skjolden Ålesund Trondheim Stavanger Arendal Gothenburg Copenhagen Visby Stockholm Turku Helsinki Tallinn Riga Klaipeda Gdansk Ronne Wismar Portsmouth
$12,489
$500 per day
Inside
7 Night Copenhagen to London cruise
August 7, 2027
Seabourn Quest
S M L XL
Copenhagen Copenhagen Karlskrona Gdansk Ronne Wismar Oudeschild London Antwerp Farsund Oslo Gothenburg Aalborg London
$4,398
$628 per day
Inside
14 Night Copenhagen to Copenhagen cruise
August 7, 2027
Seabourn Quest
S M L XL
Copenhagen Copenhagen Karlskrona Gdansk Ronne Wismar Oudeschild London Antwerp Farsund Oslo Gothenburg Aalborg Copenhagen
$9,898
$707 per day
Inside

Ships in Port Schedule

Map of Wismar port area
Wismar port location
MSC ship
MSC ship
Norwegian ship
Princess ship In port
Costa ship
Princess ship
MSC ship
Viking Ocean Cruises ship
Viking Ocean Cruises ship
Regent Seven Seas ship

Showing 10 ships in the area

No ships scheduled in port today.

Other Cruise Ports in Germany

Monthly Pricing - Cruises visiting Wismar

Prices are approximately equal throughout the year. On average cruises that visit Wismar are fairly expensive compared to other itineraries. Check out the chart below for the average cost per day by month.

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
$643
Jun
Jul
$466
Aug
$705
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Get Weekly Cruise Deals

Weekly emails with the best deals, fully customized for you. No spam ever.