Greifswald City Guide

Local food includes fresh Baltic Sea fish and Pomeranian dishes. There's Italian, Asian, Turkish, and Indian food too, mostly near the university. Vegetarian and vegan options are growing. Late-night food mostly limited to fast food or kebab.

Nightlife is driven by students, with pubs and bars near the university and city center. Club options are few.

Good mix of traditional and modern cafés. Some focus on specialty coffee. "Coffee and cake" culture is strong.

Tipping is appreciated but not required. Typically round up or add 5-10%.

SIM cards are sold at telecom shops (Telekom, Vodafone, O2), electronics stores, and some kiosks. ID or passport needed for registration. Major providers offer good coverage and eSIMs.

The city is clean with regular waste separation and recycling. Streets and public areas are well maintained.

Limited 24/7 services. Emergency pharmacies rotate, but most shops close early. Some fast food and emergency rooms operate 24/7.

Supermarkets like Edeka, Rewe, Lidl, and Aldi sell local and international products. Weekly markets offer fresh local produce. Shops open 8am to 8-9pm on weekdays and Saturdays, closed Sundays.

Most supermarkets and larger shops accept cards, but small stores and bakeries may only take cash. Carry some euros for small purchases.

ATMs from Sparkasse, Deutsche Bank, and Commerzbank are easy to find in the center. Fees vary by bank and machine, usually up to €5.

Local schools teach mainly in German. No dedicated international schools. University offers various programs.

Small but growing community tied to the university. Limited dedicated meetups or co-living. Few coworking spaces and cafés suitable for work.

Several parks and green riverbanks offer pleasant walking, running, and shaded areas.

Good routes along the Ryck River, parks, and towards the beach. Safe and scenic, with local running clubs and events.

Several gyms including university sports. Options for fitness and group classes.

Tennis courts available at local clubs with booking and coaching options. Mostly clay courts.

Padel tennis is not common or widely available yet.

Several studios offer various yoga styles, mostly in German but sometimes English.

Various martial arts clubs provide Judo, Karate, Taekwondo, boxing, and kickboxing. Local competitions occur and some offer drop-in classes.

No skiing available, the area is flat.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing are popular on the Ryck River and nearby bay. Rentals and guided tours are available.

Limited traditional surfing due to small waves. Good wind and kite surfing conditions nearby on the Baltic coast.

Diving in the Baltic is possible with wrecks and reefs to explore. Visibility varies and water is cold except in summer.

University Medical Center has English-speaking staff. Healthcare quality is high with both public and private options. Pharmacies ('Apotheken') sell meds and offer advice.

Tap water is safe and clean, standard across Germany.

Many playgrounds and family-friendly cafés. Baby supplies easy to find. Attractions like zoo, science museum, and nearby beaches appeal to families.

Generally open and tolerant, especially among students and younger people. Legal protections exist. Smaller local pride events happen.

Pet-friendly city with many green spaces and some pet-friendly accommodations. Veterinary clinics and pet stores available.