Pinneberg(Germany) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Pinnau, the top family-friendly hotel is Hotel am Alten Markt, a charming boutique property located steps from Alte Markt and within walking distance of St. Nikolaikirche and the city’s main attractions. The hotel offers spacious family rooms, free breakfast, and a cozy garden terrace perfect for children to play. Nearby, Ferienwohnungen Strandhaus provides sea-view apartments with private balconies, ideal for families seeking a peaceful coastal retreat. Both properties offer kid-friendly amenities and easy access to the beach, playgrounds, and nature trails along the Baltic coast.

The best area to stay in Pinnau is Alte Markt district, offering prime access to historic landmarks like the Rathaus Pinnau and St. Nikolaikirche. This central zone blends charm and convenience—cobblestone streets, local cafes, and artisan shops line the area, making it ideal for evening strolls. For a quieter, seaside experience, consider accommodations near the Pinnau Beach or the Dünenpfad hiking trail, where you can enjoy morning ocean breezes and tranquil walks through dunes. These areas are well-connected by public transport and offer excellent value for travelers seeking both culture and nature.

Must-try cultural experiences in Pinnau include visiting the Schleswig-Holstein-Museum, which showcases the region’s unique German-Danish heritage through artifacts and interactive exhibits. Attend the annual Pinnau Folk Festival in summer, featuring traditional costumes, folk music, live crafts, and regional food stalls. Don’t miss the daily bell-ringing ceremony at St. Nikolaikirche, a centuries-old tradition marking the hour. For hands-on culture, join a local pottery workshop to create authentic North German ceramics—an unforgettable souvenir with personal meaning.

The top seaside attraction in Pinnau is Pinnau Beach, a long stretch of soft sand ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and family picnics. It features lifeguard stations, changing cabins, and dedicated kids’ zones. Just inland, the Dünenpfad (Dune Trail) offers a 3-kilometer scenic path through native dunes and wetlands, perfect for birdwatching and nature photography.

At the trail’s end stands the Pinnau Lighthouse, now a small maritime museum with panoramic views over the Baltic Sea and surrounding islands. The lighthouse also hosts seasonal light shows during winter months. Visitors can combine beach time with historical exploration for a full coastal experience.

The most photogenic landmarks in Pinnau include St. Nikolaikirche, whose Gothic spire and stained-glass windows create stunning silhouettes at golden hour; and the Rathaus Pinnau, a Renaissance-style town hall with intricate carvings and warm brickwork, especially beautiful under evening lights.

Another favorite spot is Alte Brücke, the old stone bridge spanning the Pinnau River, flanked by century-old trees that form a natural archway—perfect for romantic or candid shots. For a unique perspective, climb the Pinnau Lighthouse, where panoramic views of the city, harbor, and Baltic coastline make for breathtaking photographs, especially during sunrise or twilight.

Local culinary specialties in Pinnau include Schleswig-Holsteinischer Käsebrot, a crispy bread filled with rich local goat cheese, commonly enjoyed at breakfast stands. Another must-try is Fladenbrot, a dense rye flatbread often served with pickled herring or butter.

Don’t miss Pinnauer Fischsuppe, a hearty fish soup made with fresh Baltic catch, potatoes, and herbs—ideal for cold days. Many restaurants also feature Husum Bier, especially their dark ale with notes of caramel and nuts, which pairs perfectly with seafood dishes. These flavors reflect the region’s maritime traditions and deep-rooted Nordic influences.

Yes, Pinnau is highly suitable for road trips due to its central location in Schleswig-Holstein. Recommended route: From Hamburg, take A7 to B402—about 1.5 hours—then stop in Lübeck en route for a glimpse of medieval charm.

Alternative: Drive from Kiel via B202, passing through the Holstein Forest, with lush oak groves and pastoral landscapes. Upon arrival, explore the Pinnau Lighthouse and Dünenpfad trail. Parking is available at Parkplatz am Alten Markt and Strandpark Pinnau, both equipped with EV charging stations.

For convenience, rent an automatic transmission vehicle—city roads are narrow. Use the Pinnau City Pass for discounts on parking and attractions, and check schedules for weekend service reductions.

Couples in Pinnau can enjoy several romantic experiences: stroll hand-in-hand through Alte Markt at dusk, listening to the bell chimes from St. Nikolaikirche each evening—a centuries-old tradition.

Take a short ferry ride along the Pinnau River at sunset, where reflections dance on the water and local boatmen share stories of seafaring legends. Return to Hotel am Alten Markt for a night in a panoramic suite with a private balcony overlooking the square. For a more secluded option, book a seaside cottage with a view of the Baltic Sea—perfect for watching sunrise together.

Winter highlights in Pinnau include the Weihnachtsmarkt held on Alte Markt in December, featuring handmade gifts, mulled wine, gingerbread, and live carols—creating a cozy, festive atmosphere.

The Dünenpfad trail transforms into a snowy wonderland, ideal for snowshoeing or quiet winter walks among dunes. Seasonal snow sculptures by local artists add artistic flair. During evenings, the Pinnau Lighthouse hosts a special light show with projections telling maritime tales—visually captivating and deeply atmospheric.

For indoor comfort, visit the Schleswig-Holstein-Museum’s heated exhibition halls to explore preserved ship models and nautical history while staying warm.

Public transportation in Pinnau is reliable and well-integrated. The RE 11 regional train connects Hamburg Hauptbahnhof to Pinnau Bahnhof in about 50 minutes, with frequent departures. Local buses (Buslinie 600) serve major sites including the Rathaus, St. Nikolaikirche, beach, and museum.

Single rides cost €2.50, but the Schleswig-Holstein-Ticket offers unlimited travel across regional trains and buses for one day—ideal for tourists. Note that weekend and holiday services may be reduced. For added convenience, purchase the Pinnau City Pass, which includes free transit, museum entry, and discounts. Stations and parks have EV charging points for electric vehicle travelers.