When thinking of Flensburg, many often associate the city with the famous "traffic offender registry." However, the city at the German-Danish border has much more to offer than points in the road traffic register. Flensburg is a historic harbor city that captivates visitors with its eventful history, picturesque old town, and its proximity to the Baltic Sea. Whether it's impressive architecture, Northern German way of life, or the fresh sea breeze – Flensburg enchants visitors with a unique blend.

• Maritime flair and historical harbor atmosphere: Flensburg is shaped by its large harbor and the Flensburg Fjord.
• Historic old town with unique architecture: Medieval merchant courtyards and colorful brick houses invite you to stroll around.
• Cross-border culture: The proximity to Denmark is reflected in the language, gastronomy, and culture.
• Rum tradition and local specialties: Flensburg is known for its rum history and the famous Flensburg Brewery.
• Nature and outdoor experiences: Numerous hiking and biking trails lead through the picturesque coastal landscape around the Flensburg Fjord.

• Foundation: around 1200
• Population: approx. 97,000 (as of 2023)
• Area: 56.38 km²
• Federal State: Schleswig-Holstein
• Special Feature: northernmost city in Germany, directly at the border with Denmark
• Harbor Length: about 1.5 km – one of the largest yacht harbors in Northern Europe
• University: Europa University Flensburg and Flensburg University of Applied Sciences
• Famous Product: Flensburger Pilsener (“Flens”) with the iconic swing-top closure
• Highest Elevation: Marienhöhe (64 m)
• Rum City: Flensburg was one of the most important centers of rum trade in Europe
• Language: German, Danish, and Low German are spoken
• Car Registration Plate: FL
• Traffic Register: Seat of the driving ability register (“Points in Flensburg”)
• Water Depth of the Fjord: up to 19 meters
• Share of Danish Minority: about 20%
• Average Temperature: 8.3 °C
• Annual Precipitation: approx. 850 mm
• Special Feature in Cityscape: Many Danish street names and bilingual signs
• Oldest Church: St. Marien, built in the 13th century
• Important Export Goods: Rum, shipbuilding products, machinery

5 Curious Facts About Flensburg

1. More Denmark than Expected – Flensburg is the city with the largest percentage of Danish citizens in Germany. There are Danish schools, kindergartens, clubs, and even Danish beer in the supermarkets.

2. The Secret Rum Capital of Germany – In the 18th century, trade with the Danish West Indies flourished. Flensburg imported raw sugar and rum and developed into the most important rum city in Germany.

3. The Narrowest Street in Germany – The “Enge Gasse” is only 1.70 meters wide, making it one of the narrowest streets in the country.

4. The Smallest Museum in Schleswig-Holstein – The “Rummuseum Johannsen” is no larger than a living room but tells an impressive story about Flensburg’s rum trade.

5. Flensburg as a Film Set – The harbor and the old town have been used multiple times as filming locations for movies, including scenes from “Die Pfefferkörner” and various German crime dramas.

Flensburg has benefited from its favorable location on the Flensburg Fjord since its founding in the 13th century. Especially the rum trade and shipping shaped the economic and cultural development of the city. Initially, merchants and fishermen established settlements, but particularly through trade with Scandinavia, England, and the Netherlands, the city experienced an economic upswing. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Flensburg was the center of the European rum trade. Merchants imported rum from the Caribbean and sugar cane from Danish West Indies (now the Caribbean) and processed it in Flensburg. The “Flensburger Gold” was shipped all over the world and brought great wealth to the city.

Flensburg in the 20th Century to Today

After World War II, Flensburg became a border town again. The city developed into a modern economic and educational center with increasing importance for tourism. Today, it is a cultural center with a maritime atmosphere that attracts visitors from all over the world.

Flensburg is divided into several districts, each distinguished by its history, architecture, and unique features. The following table gives you an overview:

District	Known for
Old Town	historical merchants' courtyards narrow streets museums
Fruerlund	residential area close to the fjord naval school
Mükwik	red castle building naval harbor villa district
North City	multicultural quarter student life
Weiche	former barracks area new development areas
Sandberg	residential area university
Engelsby	family-friendly residential area
South City	shopping streets train station district
Western Heights	old villas historical architecture
Tarup	rural character lots of greenery
Jürgensby	Danish influence quiet residential area

Flensburg is located in the far north of Germany, right at the border with Denmark. The city stretches along the Flensburg Fjord, a bay of the Baltic Sea.

• Distance to Kiel: approx. 90 km
• Distance to Hamburg: approx. 160 km
• Next larger city in Denmark: Sonderborg (approx. 40 km)

Climate and Weather in Flensburg

Flensburg has a temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cool winters. Its proximity to the Baltic Sea results in frequent winds and relatively high precipitation.

• Average temperature in summer: 16–18 °C
• Average temperature in winter: 0–2 °C
• Sunny days per year: approx. 1,500 hours
• Rainy days per year: approx. 130–150 days

So, Flensburg is not a sunny city, but the often harsh weather is simply part of the northern German coastal atmosphere. And when it storms, there's always a hot Pharisäer – the famous Flensburg rum coffee.

👉 Fun Fact: Flensburg has its own weather saying: "If you see the fjord, it's going to rain. If you don't see it, it's already raining."

Flensburg is rich in historical sights and cultural highlights. You definitely shouldn't miss these landmarks:

• Nordermarkt: A historic square with colorful merchants' houses and cozy cafés.
• Südermarkt: Central shopping street featuring impressive architecture and St. Mary's Church.
• Museumswerft Flensburg: A lively museum showcasing the maritime history of the city.
• Phänomenta: An interactive science museum for both young and old.
• Flensburger Förde: A natural fjord with fantastic views and maritime charm.

The Nordertor – The Landmark of the City

Anyone visiting Flensburg should take a detour to the Nordertor. Built around 1595, this gate is the last remaining city gate of Flensburg and a symbol of the city’s eventful history. It once served as the northern boundary and part of the city's fortifications. Today, it is a protected monument and a popular photo opportunity.

The Rote Straße and its Merchant Courtyards

The Rote Straße is a real gem in the heart of Flensburg. Here you can find historical merchant courtyards that offer insight into the heyday of trade. Goods from all over the world were stored here in the past; today, the courtyards house small shops, cafés, and restaurants. Particularly noteworthy is the Johannsenhof, where the history of Flensburg's rum trade comes to life.

Route for a Perfect Sightseeing Tour

If you want to discover as many sights as possible in one day, the following route is recommended:

1. Start at the Nordertor – The landmark of Flensburg as your starting point.
2. Walk through the Rote Straße – Explore the historic merchant courtyards.
3. Visit St. Nikolai Church – Quick stop in the impressive place of worship.
4. Head towards the harbor and museums’ shipyard – Experience maritime history.
5. Continue to the Marineschule Mürwik – One of the most beautiful buildings in the city.
6. End with a Pharisäer in the Old Town – The perfect conclusion to a day of sightseeing.

🤓 Tip: If you want to dive deeper into maritime history, you should book a harbor tour and discover Flensburg from the water!

Flensburg's cuisine is heavily influenced by its proximity to Denmark and the Baltic Sea. Fish, hearty home-style cooking, and sweet specialties are on the menu here. But which dishes should you not miss?

Fish Sandwich – A Must on the Coast

A visit to Flensburg without a fish sandwich? Unthinkable! Whether with matjes herring, Bismarck herring, or shrimp – a fresh fish sandwich is the perfect snack in between. They are particularly delicious at the stands by the harbor.

Pharisäer – Flensburg's Legendary Hot Drink

The Pharisäer is a true Flensburg specialty: hot coffee with a shot of rum and a thick layer of whipped cream. The legend says that the drink was invented to secretly consume alcohol without the pastor noticing.

Labskaus – Traditional Sailor's Fare

The typical sailor dish made from potatoes, beef, beetroot, and rollmops may look unusual, but it tastes hearty and solid, and is part of Northern German cuisine.

Red Berry Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

A true classic from the North is red berry pudding. This dessert made from red berries is served with creamy vanilla sauce – a perfect combination!

The Flensburg Fjord shapes the cityscape and thus plays an important role for the people living in Flensburg. However, there are also other bodies of water in and around the city that invite people to go for walks, enjoy a delicious picnic, or engage in sports.

Body of Water	Length / Area	Special Feature
Flensburg Fjord	50 km	Extends to Denmark, popular sailing area
Schiffbrücke	-	Popular harbor area for walks
Port of Flensburg	-	Center of the city, with sailing ships and shipyards
Solitüder Bay	-	Small beach section with swimming opportunities

🤓 Fun Fact: The Flensburg Fjord is one of the deepest German Baltic Sea fjords – it reaches depths of up to 19 meters in some areas!

Flensburg is not only a university town but also an important economic hub in Schleswig-Holstein. Particularly, trade, the maritime economy, and Danish-German cooperation shape the city.

Population in Numbers

Flensburg is a cosmopolitan city with an interesting mix of German and Danish influences.

• Population: approx. 92,000
• Danish minority: approx. 20%
• Students: approx. 9,000
• Average age: 44 years

Important Industries

Flensburg has several economic pillars:

• Maritime economy – Port, shipbuilding, and sailing tourism
• Rum and spirits industry – Tradition since the 18th century
• Mechanical engineering & Electrical engineering – Companies like Danfoss located near Flensburg
• Tourism – Particularly popular due to its proximity to Denmark
• Trade with Scandinavia – Numerous Danish companies in the region

Education and Research

Flensburg is a university city with a broad educational landscape.

• Europa-Universität Flensburg – Focus on teacher training and sustainability
• Hochschule Flensburg – Technical and economic degree programs
• Danish schools – Several Danish educational institutions in the city area

🤓 Tip: Flensburg is one of the few cities in Germany where you can obtain a German-Danish Abitur!

Whether maritime festivals, cultural highlights, or sporting competitions – there is always something happening in the city by the fjord throughout the year. In addition to large events, there are also numerous smaller festivals that are heavily influenced by Scandinavia. The maritime events, which attract thousands of visitors every year, are especially popular. But Christmas markets and culinary festivals also have their traditions here.

Events You Shouldn't Miss

Many festivals in Flensburg are closely connected to the history and location of the city. Whether it’s the harbour spectacle, sailing regatta, or Danish festive days – there’s an event for everyone’s taste here.

Event	Timing	Information & Special Features	Entry Fee
Rum Regatta	May	Traditional sailing regatta of historical ships	Free
Steam Roundup	July	Largest steamship gathering in Europe	Free
Flensburger Hofkultur	July – August	Small arts, music, and theater in historic courtyards	Varies
Tummelmarkt	August	Historic market with a medieval flair	Free
Danish Christmas Markets	December	Scandinavian Christmas atmosphere in Flensburg's old town	Free

The Rum Regatta – When Historic Ships Compete Against Each Other

Every year in May, traditional sailing ships gather on the Flensburg Fjord for the Rum Regatta. However, unlike conventional sailing competitions, it’s not about speed here, but about the joy of sailing and the most beautiful presentation. Participants and visitors celebrate together at the harbor while the old ships race.

Steam Roundup – A Paradise for Steamship Fans

Every two years in July, the harbor transforms into a time travel to the era of steam shipping. During the Steam Roundup, steamships from all over Europe gather and invite people for rides on the fjord. The spectacle is accompanied by music, markets, and a large fireworks display.

🤓 Tip: If you want to join the rides, make sure to secure your tickets early – the spots fill up quickly!

Whether for a day trip or a weekend – the city by the fjord offers something for every type of traveler. From relaxing walks along the harbor to exciting museums, there are many ways to get to know the city.

Five worthwhile destinations

Not only the old town and the harbor have something to offer – there are also exciting places in the surrounding area that are worth visiting.

1. Glücksburg – The Wasserburg Glücksburg, one of the most significant Renaissance castles in Northern Europe, is located just a few kilometers away.
2. Solitüde – An idyllic beach by the fjord, perfect for a relaxing afternoon by the water.
3. Border trade in Harrislee – Just behind the Danish border, affordable shopping options and Scandinavian specialties await.
4. Nature Park Geltinger Birk – A nature reserve with wild horses, salt marshes, and a lighthouse.
5. Sønderborg – A Danish small town with a castle and typical Scandinavian flair, just a short drive away.

Three romantic experiences for couples

A visit to Flensburg can also be very romantic – especially if you choose the right surroundings.

1. Sunset by the fjord – Whether at the harbor or in Solitüde, the view of the water during the evening ambiance is unbeatable.
2. Dinner in a historic merchant's courtyard – In the Rote Straße, there are restaurants with a cozy atmosphere and candlelight.
3. Private boat trip on the fjord – A small sailing tour or rented rowboat creates unforgettable moments.

Three tips for singles in the city

You can have a great time here even alone!

1. Pub crawl through the old town – Numerous cozy pubs invite you to meet new people.
2. Sports activities by the fjord – Whether sailing, stand-up paddling, or jogging by the water – there are many opportunities to be active here.
3. Cultural program with concerts and theaters – Regular events at the “Speicher-Bühne” or the “Kühlhaus” provide varied evenings.

Family-friendly outings in Flensburg

Traveling with children? No problem! Here are some places particularly suited for families.

1. Phänomenta – A hands-on museum for young and old with interactive experiments.
2. Maritime Museum – Exciting insights into maritime history with old ship models.
3. Water Tower Flensburg – A view of the city that is also exciting for children.

Three recommended hotels for your stay

Whether luxury, mid-range, or budget – Flensburg has accommodations for every travel budget.

1. Hotel Hafen Flensburg – A modern 4-star hotel with views of the harbor and a maritime atmosphere.
2. Ibis Styles Flensburg – Good location, modern design, and great value for money.
3. Gästehaus Lavendel – A family-run hotel with cozy furnishings, ideal for those seeking tranquility.

Before you travel to Flensburg, there are some things you should know. From the peculiarities of city traffic to practical tips for everyday life.

Parking and Traffic – What should I pay attention to?

Parking spaces in the city center are limited, but there are some parking garages with reasonable rates. Those arriving by car should pay attention to the Park+Ride spaces to avoid searching for parking.

Public Transport

• Bus network: Well-developed, tickets can be purchased directly on the bus or via an app.
• Ferry to Denmark: There are various connections from Flensburg to Sønderborg and other Danish cities.
• Bicycle-friendly city: Many bike paths along the fjord and in the city center.

What is the weather like in Flensburg?

The weather here is typically northern German: changeable and often windy.

• Spring: Mild, but often still cool (10–15 °C)
• Summer: Average 18–22 °C, rarely over 25 °C
• Autumn: Rainy and windy, temperatures between 10–15 °C
• Winter: Rarely much snow, often damp and cold with temperatures around 0–5 °C

👉 Tip: A rain jacket and windproof clothing are more important here than an umbrella – the wind often renders umbrellas useless!

How to get to Flensburg

There are various ways to arrive:

• By car: Via the A7 from Hamburg or Denmark.
• By train: Direct connections from Hamburg, Kiel, and Denmark.
• By long-distance bus: Affordable connections from various German cities.
• By plane: The nearest major airport is Hamburg (about 2 hours away).

Flensburg uniquely combines North German calmness, Danish lifestyle, and maritime history. The perfect mix of old town, harbor life, and a touch of Scandinavian charm makes Flensburg a distinctive travel destination—whether for a day trip or a longer vacation. Discover the fascinating city in the far north and let yourself be enchanted by its maritime flair! 🌊🏙️