Camping Rügen – bright sunshine, crystal-clear sea and picturesque nature.
Are you still looking for your next travel destination?
Then the beautiful island of Rügen on the Baltic Sea is just the place for you.
Whether it’s a beach vacation, unique nature or charming little towns – the multifaceted island has a lot to offer and combines everything your heart desires.
You can reach the vacation island quickly and easily, even by car and ideally with a roof tent or tent trailer.
This means you are not only very flexible on arrival, but also on site.
Whether alone, as a couple or with the family – here are our tips on top spots, activities and sights as well as information about camping on Rügen.
Camping Ratgeber:
Nature and beach: vacation tips with dogs & children
Are you longing for a break from the stress of everyday life and want to really switch off again?
Then pack your bags and get ready for a relaxing yet eventful and adventurous vacation that you won’t soon forget.
Do you want to sunbathe, read an exciting book and listen to the sound of the sea?
Then enjoy your time on one of the fabulous beaches!
Are you attracted by beautiful landscapes, do you like to move around and are you open to new experiences?
Then take a walk in the countryside and along the piers or visit the famous national park.
Or do you like strolling through the city, browsing through antique shops and are interested in new cultures?
Then take a city trip or head to the island’s largest seaside resort.
Rügen is the perfect vacation destination for young and old and promises an eventful time.
With an area of 930 square kilometers, Rügen is the largest island in Germany.
Rügen offers you:
- Fresh sea air
- Fantastic beaches and crystal-clear sea
- Idyllic landscapes
- Charming cities
- Cultural highlights
- Relaxation, fun and adventure for the whole family
Before we get to our vacation tips, here is some general information about Rügen:
Rügen from above: your vacation can be this beautiful
Here you have an all-round overview of the popular vacation island from above to familiarize yourself with the beautiful, idyllic landscapes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i8iAr9j-J90
Map: How to get to the Baltic Sea island
Rügen is the largest German island and is located in the Baltic Sea.
There are several ways to reach the popular tourist island in a relaxed manner.
The best option is to travel by car from Stralsund via the Rügen Bridge and have your car and roof tent ready and waiting in the resort.
Ferries also travel to the island every 30 minutes. Now we come to our vacation tips:
Bucket list: Top sights & attractions
Sights – When you go on vacation to Rügen, you can expect much more than fairytale beaches and blue seas.
Whether with friends or family – the popular destination promises a few varied and promising days.
From miles of fine beaches, turquoise-blue water as far as the eye can see and radiant nature to cultural and historical treasures and charming fishing villages.
Adventurers, nature lovers and culture vultures will all be happy on this fascinating young island.
What you should do on Rügen:
- Relaxing on the beach and swimming in the sea
- Walks through the dunes
- Exploring the Jasmund National Park
- City trip to the seaside resort of Binz
- Walk on the beach at sunset or sunrise
- Cycle tour along the coast
My top tips and recommendations:
Jasmund National Park: natural panorama, chalk cliffs & Königsstuhl
Probably the island’s best-known attraction is the popular Jasmund National Park.
The park stretches over 3,100 hectares across the peninsula of the same name and is the destination of numerous tourists and visitors every year.
The national park is known for its unique chalk coast, dense beech forests and unspoiled nature.
For these reasons alone, the park is definitely worth a visit, which is why you should plan at least a day trip for it.
It is also home to the island’s most famous landmark: the towering Königsstuhl.
At a height of 118 meters, the legendary chair guarantees a breathtaking view over the entire Baltic Sea and offers you a paradisiacal panorama that you will remember for a long time to come.
Climb this architectural highlight on a hike and prepare yourself for mighty chalk cliffs and a view of astonishing nature!
The Königsstuhl is a must-see when visiting Rügen and especially the Jasmund National Park, so it should definitely be on your bucket list.
The highlights of the national park:
- Over 3,100 hectares in size
- Unique chalk coast and cliffs
- Dense beech forests
- Unspoiled, picturesque nature
- Panorama of the famous Königsstuhl
Take a look at the following video for your first impressions of the amazing national park: https://youtu.be/ho9HZXGys4A
Binz: walks along the promenade & exciting architecture
Another place you should visit on Rügen is the island’s largest seaside resort: Binz.
It is known for its beautiful promenade, which you can explore on a long walk, its white villas and elegant piers.
There’s never a dull moment in this tourist district, so there’s something for everyone.
You also have direct access to the miles of sandy beaches from here, so you can cool off whenever you need to.
You can spend an eventful and lively day here with your friends or family and combine a beach vacation with exciting new cultures.
The highlights of a visit to the seaside resort of Binz:
- Lively promenades
- Fairytale villas
- Elegant piers
- Access to sandy beaches
A relaxing day at the beach is a must on any vacation!
Beaches: relaxation, sports facilities & a secluded insider tip
Despite everything, the Baltic Sea island is best known for its attractive beaches.
You can relax and enjoy your day here with the salty sea air and the sound of the waves.
Simply switch off from the stress of everyday life and enjoy the peace and quiet with a nice book in your hand.
If you get warm, you can cool off in the pleasant water at any time.
Depending on whether you prefer to be alone with your loved ones or whether you also want to have fun and action on the beach, you can choose one of the idyllic beaches that Rügen has to offer.
Either way, you are guaranteed an unforgettable beach and swimming vacation.
These beaches are recommended:
- South beach Sellin
- Sandy beach at the Schaabe
- Bodden beach at Palmer Ort
My beach tips, first as an itinerary: If you have several days on your vacation and are flexible with your roof tent, you should visit each of the beaches!
Südstrand Sellin: Leisure activities and sports facilities
Probably the best-known beach is Sellin’s south beach, which can be reached via a steep slope.
Numerous leisure activities for the whole family await you on around 650 meters of white sandy beach.
It’s full of life and fun here.
You can relax on the sand, play volleyball or splash around in the sea.
Throughout the day, entertainers ensure that there is never a dull moment.
There are also plenty of snacks on offer, as the mobile beach catering service is always on hand with coffee, ice cream and small snacks.
Highlights of the south beach in Sellin:
- Accessible via a steep slope
- Around 650 meters of white sandy beach
- Numerous leisure activities
- Child-friendly
- Sports activities for the whole family
- Entertainment by entertainers
- Mobile beach supply with coffee, ice cream etc.
Sandy beach on the Schaabe: natural stretch of beach
The 11 kilometers of fine sandy beach on the Schaabe are a little quieter.
This stretch of beach is unguarded and unspoiled and is therefore less suitable for families with children, but rather for a relaxing day away from the hustle and bustle.
It is also worth coming here for evening strolls and to enjoy the amazing and picturesque sunset.
Information about the sandy beach at the Schaabe:
- 11 kilometers of fine sandy beach
- Unguarded and natural
- Relaxed day, away from the hustle and bustle
- Recommended for evening walks
Bodden beach at Palmer Ort: an insider tip for nature lovers
Another somewhat remote insider tip is Palmer Ort.
This rather hidden beach is a little paradise for nature lovers, as not many tourists come here.
You can enjoy the day here in many small bays, switch off from everyday life and enjoy swimming in the clean and relatively warm water.
A day at the charming Boddenstrand definitely guarantees relaxation with a feel-good effect!
Information about the Bodden beach at Palmer Ort:
- Remote and rather hidden
- Paradise for nature lovers
- Less crowded
- Many small bays
- Clean, warm water
What time of year is best for a vacation on Rügen?
Rügen: Temperatures and trend
The popular vacation island of Rügen boasts pleasant, even temperatures all year round.
The best time for a beach vacation is in the summer months, with average temperatures of around 20 to 22 degrees.
As it doesn’t get too hot, Rügen is also ideal for a vacation full of sightseeing, culture, hikes and walks.
- Average temperature in summer: 20 to 22 degrees
- Average water temperature: 10 °C.
Weather Today / in 3 days
Here you can already find a weather forecast for today and the coming days: Where should I stay on my vacation?
The popular island of Rügen is the perfect place to go camping!
Camping vacation instead of hotel or vacation apartment
Do you want to try something new, experience adventure and get the most out of your nature vacation?
Then this is your opportunity!
Rügen is very unspoilt and allows you to enjoy all facets of this diverse island while camping.
With your roof tent, you have a large and comfortable place to sleep at all times and are not tied to just one place.
The whole thing can be unfolded in just a few minutes and with just one hand movement.
Read more about the advantages of a roof tent, different models, the set-up and prices here: Roof tent for the car.
These are the advantages of camping by the sea
Camping is a unique experience and definitely an additional highlight on your vacation on Rügen.
This option is cheaper than staying in a hotel or vacation apartment.
You are not tied to any meal times and can plan your day individually.
This makes your vacation even more unique and relaxing.
So if you want to swap your bed for a comfortable mattress on the roof of your car and enjoy the idyllic flair to the full, then embark on this adventure and go camping.
For even more exciting information about the world of camping, essential accessories and helpful tips, you are welcome to visit one of the spectacular camping fairs in your area and maybe even buy your own roof tent. The advantages of camping on Rügen:
- Adventure and a sense of freedom
- Close to nature
- Fall asleep to the sound of the sea
- Cheaper than a hotel or vacation apartment
- Individual day organization and travel planning
- Intense time with your loved ones
- Central location to the top spots
- Dog and child friendly
Probably one of the best advantages of camping: your children and your dog have all the freedom and fun of their lives!
Packing list for camping: checklist, tips & suggestions
Nowadays, most people no longer go camping with just the bare essentials.
Instead, it can be a little more luxurious.
Instead of a 2-person tent, it is more comfortable to travel in a comfortable roof tent and important outdoor equipment such as chairs, table and loungers are also a must on the campsite.
Is tidiness the be-all and end-all for you?
There is also a practical solution for this when camping!
Here’s a checklist to help you take all the essentials with you on your camping vacation and make the most of your time.
These are the most important accessories:
- Camping furniture
- Cupboards and boxes: for tidiness when camping
- Awning or awning
- Gas stove and camping kitchen
- Mosquito spray and mosquito net
- …
- You can find all the gadgets in the packing list here!
Are you a camping beginner? Read all about the basics of packing lists, routes, costs, tips and more here: Camping beginners
Campsite recommendations by the sea and beach
As wild camping is generally prohibited in Germany, you should choose a campsite or legal pitch for your overnight stay here.
The campsites on Rügen are spread along the coast and are mostly located close to the beach.
This means you don’t have to walk far from your pitch to get to the lively action.
You are free to decide when you want to start your day and how you want to spend it.
Most campsites also offer leisure activities and are therefore recommended for a vacation with the whole family.
Here I have summarized some popular, inexpensive and centrally located campsites in the region:
KNAUS Campingpark Rügen – Altenkirchen (108 pitches)
KNAUS Campingpark Rügen – Camping in Altenkirchen (address: Zittkower Weg 30 in 18556 Drewoldke) with 108 pitches for campers on a total area of 4 ha and a plot size of 80 m².
The price per person is 9.10 euros, children 5.50 euros and the stand fee 17.30 euros, payable in cash, Maestro, Mastercard, Visa.
Read more: KNAUS Campingpark Rügen in Altenkirchen.
Directions, address and camper capacities at KNAUS Campingpark Rügen:
- Address: Zittkower Weg 30 in 18556 Drewoldke, Germany
- Location: Altenkirchen, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania
- 108 pitches for campers
- 15 rental accommodations
- 22 pitches for permanent campers
- 80 m² plot size
- Total size in ha: 4
- Directions (Google Maps): KNAUS Campingpark Rügen
Drewoldke campsite – Altenkirchen (370 pitches)
Campingplatz Drewoldke – Camping in Altenkirchen (address: Zittkower Weg 27 in 18556 Drewoldke) with 370 pitches for campers on a total area of 9.5 ha.
The price per person is 6.50 euros, children 3.50 euros and the pitch fee is 11.50 – 18.50 euros, payable by cash, Maestro, Mastercard, Visa.
Read more: Drewoldke campsite in Altenkirchen.
Directions, address and camper capacities at Camping Drewoldke:
- Address: Zittkower Weg 27 in 18556 Drewoldke, Germany
- Location: Altenkirchen, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania
- 370 pitches for campers
- 27 rental accommodations
- 55 pitches for permanent campers
- Total size in ha: 9.5
- Directions (Google Maps): Camping Drewoldke
Camping Banzelvitzer Berge – Rappin (150 pitches)
Camping Banzelvitzer Berge – Camping in Rappin (address: Am Berg 4 in 18528 Rappin) with 150 pitches for campers on a total area of 4.2 ha and a plot size of 100-150 m².
The price per person is 6.50 euros, children 3.50 euros and pitch fee included, payable by cash, Maestro.
Read more: Camping Banzelvitzer Berge in Rappin.
Directions, address and camper capacities at Camping Banzelvitzer Berge:
- Address: Am Berg 4 in 18528 Rapp, Germany
- Location: Rappin, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania
- 150 pitches for campers
- 26 Rental accommodation
- 40 pitches for permanent campers
- 100-150 m² plot size
- Total size in ha: 4.2
- Directions (Google Maps): Camping Banzelvitzer Berge
Evaluation: Experience – What is important?
If you are going camping, you should definitely pay attention to a few important criteria when choosing your campsite so that you can enjoy your time here as much as possible.
For example, it is important that the site is centrally located, but that you have enough peace and privacy for you and your loved ones.
The campsite should also have a certain level of cleanliness so that you still feel comfortable and at home during your vacation.
Here I have listed some factors that you should keep in mind when looking for the right campsite:
- Rest
- Catering
- Friendliness
- Price-performance ratio
- General cleanliness
- Sanitary facilities
- Sanitary cleanliness
- Condition of the rental accommodation / plots
- Infrastructure
- Leisure time
- Location
Activities: Relaxation & leisure fun on Rügen
When camping, you are always surrounded by nature and usually have direct access to popular leisure activities and attractions.
Thanks to its white sandy beaches and picturesque nature, the popular vacation island of Rügen is a vacation destination with a feel-good factor and also offers fun and games as well as exciting activities for the whole family.
Here I have picked out some interesting attractions that await you on the popular island of Rügen and provide adventure, fun and excitement:
- Swimming in the sea
- Relax on one of the beaches
- Cycling in nature
- Fishing
- Boat tours
- Surfing
- Kayak
- Sightseeing
- Golf / Minigolf
- Riding
- Tennis
- Volleyball
One of the activities you shouldn’t miss out on on Rügen: Take a bike tour through the dunes!
FAQ: Questions about Rügen
What is the best way to get to Rügen?
What are the top spots and sights and what is actually the capital of Rügen?
Here you will find some questions that often come up in connection with Rügen and the corresponding answers.
What is typical for Rügen?
As Rügen is located by the sea, classic fish specialties and seafood are typical of the culinary cuisine.
The Jasmund National Park, with its natural panorama, the famous chalk cliffs and the Königsstuhl, is another reason why tourists visit the island.
Was Rügen in the GDR?
From 1956 to 1990, Rügen was a district in the Rostock district of the GDR.
The district administration was based in Bergen auf Rügen.
Is Rügen car-free?
Rügen is not completely car-free.
However, cars are not allowed on Hiddensee, the island to the west of Rügen.
What is the quickest way to get to Rügen?
There are several ways to reach the popular tourist island in a relaxed manner.
In the high season, it is best to travel by car from Stralsund via the Rügen Bridge or take the ferry via the Stahlbrode-Glewitz ferry connection.
The ferry departs approximately every 30 minutes and takes you to Glewitz in the south of Rügen.
Is Rügen a peninsula or an island?
Rügen is an island.
However, the north-east of the island is dominated by the Jasmund peninsula.
What is the capital of Rügen?
The capital of Rügen is called Bergen and is located in a hilly area.
Which Baltic Sea island is car-free?
Baltrum, Langeoog, Juist, Spiekeroog and Wangerooge are completely car-free from the East Frisian islands.
Reading tips: Vacation at the Baltic Sea
Rügen is one of the most popular islands in the Baltic Sea.
Apart from that, however, it also has other beautiful places to offer.
If you haven’t decided yet, you can read more articles on alternative destinations here.
Camping on Fehmarn
Fehmarn – Idyllic nature, picturesque beaches and pure relaxation also await you on Fehmarn.
On a camping vacation in a roof tent with your loved ones, you can enjoy the tranquillity of nature, swim in the sea during the day, sunbathe on the beach and visit exciting sights and events. Find out what you shouldn’t miss out on during your vacation here:
Camping on Usedom
Usedom – Usedom is also highly recommended for a relaxing vacation.
In addition to relaxing on the beach, swimming in the sea and hiking in the idyllic countryside, you can also enjoy a variety of leisure activities, fantastic views and sights for the whole family.
Here you can read more about how you can fully enjoy the natural aspect of the island while camping and which of the most beautiful spots you should definitely visit to have an unforgettable time:
Camping in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern
Mecklenburg-Vorpommern – Are you planning to camp by the Baltic Sea in the countryside or would you prefer to go to a lake?
No problem, the federal state offers both the coast and a wide lake landscape with the Mecklenburg Lake District.
Here you’ll find lots of great tips for your trip into nature with all the trimmings for the Mecklenburg Lake District, Kühlungsborn, Müritz, Rügen, Prerow, Usedom and more.