When we think of a seaside holiday, most people think of the turquoise Mediterranean or the rolling Atlantic. But somewhere in the north of Europe, among dunes, pine trees and wooden villas, the waves of the Baltic Sea gently caress the shores of countries that are often overlooked in travel conversations. And yet — right there, there are places that offer subtle beauty, healing silence and an unexpected wealth of experiences. Welcome to the north, where summer smells of tar, smoked fish and stories of centuries.
We present you some destinations at Baltic Sea, which could easily be mistaken for more famous Mediterranean or Atlantic destinations. Less crowded, more authentic – and its own northern charm.
Poland
Kołobrzeg: a spa pearl with history
Kołobrzeg, once an important Hanseatic port, is now renowned as one of the largest health resorts on the Baltic Sea and the Polish coast. Since 1830, natural brines have been used for healing, making the city one of the most popular health resorts in the region. Stroll along the legendary pier, visit the sea aquarium or indulge in a salt bath at the Marine Hotel by Zdrojowa, where luxury meets views of the endless horizon.
Book a hotel: Marine Hotel by ZdrojowaSopot: the Baltic Monte Carlo
Known as the “Monte Carlo of the Baltic Sea”, Sopot combines the elegance of historic villas with long days by the sea and a vibrant nightlife. Sopot’s famous wooden pier, the longest in Europe, extends deep into the sea and is perfect for romantic strolls. A stay at the Sopot Marriott Resort & Spa provides an unforgettable combination of luxury and a waterfront location.
Świnoujście: the city of lighthouses and islands
In the northwest of Poland lies Świnoujście, spread over 44 islands, with the widest natural beach in the country. Its special feature is the lighthouse, the tallest in the Baltic Sea, measuring 65 meters. Here, time passes more slowly, and the salt in the air heals body and soul. Hilton Swinoujscie Resort & Spa combines global luxury with local character.
Germany
Rügen: the island of chalk cliffs
Rügen, Germany's largest island, captivates with its impressive chalk cliffs in the Jasmund National Park, where white cliffs rise above the blue sea. The charming A-ROSA Kurhaus Binz on the sandy beach is like a time machine back to the era of imperial holidays.
Usedom: Imperial Baths
The island of Usedom, shared by Germany and Poland, is a true pearl of spa tourism. The resorts of Ahlbeck, Heringsdorf and Bansin, known as the “imperial baths”, are surrounded by historic villas, long piers and beautiful promenades. The SEETELHOTEL Kaiserstrand Beachhotel offers views of the endless sea and the elegance of past centuries.
Kühlungsborn: nostalgia by the coast
Kühlungsborn is a seaside town with one of the longest promenades in Germany, the historic Molli Railway and beautiful sandy beaches. The Molli Railway, one of the oldest narrow-gauge railways in the world, connects the resorts of Bad Doberan and Kühlungsborn and offers a nostalgic ride through picturesque scenery. A stay at the Europa Hotel Kühlungsborn means morning coffee with a view of the Baltic Sea.
Lithuania
Palanga: the summer capital
Palanga, Lithuania's main resort on the Baltic Sea, offers the perfect balance between summer hustle and bustle and the tranquility of pine forests. The J. Basanavičiaus Promenade is the center of the action, with bars, restaurants and cultural events flourishing along it. The beach stretches endlessly and allows for carefree strolls at sunset. Mercure Palanga Vanagupe Resort & SPA is a luxurious choice with an emphasis on health, tranquility and impeccable service.
Nida: the silence of the Curonian Spit
If you dream of peace, nature and spiritual refreshment, then Nida is your destination. The Curonian Spit, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, creates an almost desert landscape surrounded by pine forests and an airy silence. In Nida, every step is an artistic experience – from museums to local galleries. Nidos Namai allows you to experience this tranquility in modern comfort.
Latvia
Jūrmala: Baltic elegance near Riga
Just thirty minutes from the capital Riga, Jūrmala offers a charming combination of spa tradition, architectural heritage and sea freshness. Its famous wooden villas from the early 20th century are like something out of a fairy tale, and the beach is one of the longest and most well-groomed on the Baltic coast. Spa culture here is not an accessory, but a part of everyday life. Villa Joma is a charming and elegant choice for anyone looking for a balance between the city's pulse and the peace of the seaside.
Estonia
Pärnu: the festival heart of the Estonian coast
Estonia may not be the first country that comes to mind when you think of a “seaside vacation,” but Pärnu is changing that quickly. The city with a century-old spa tradition transforms into a festival capital in the summer, where art, music, and cuisine come together in a sophisticated whole. The long, soft beach and park-like waterfront invite families and couples alike. Hedon Spa & Hotel is a modern oasis of well-being that embodies the name – hedonism – in every detail.
Vacationing at Baltic Sea It is not for everyone. It is not as dazzling as the Mediterranean, it is not as turbulent as the Atlantic. But this is precisely where its strength lies — in peace, elegance and authenticity. A place where time passes more slowly, the smell of pine trees awakens memories of childhood, where sea mists hide the stories of centuries. If you want something different, something mysterious, something that will fill you from the inside — then the Baltic Sea should be your next destination.
