Famed for its shrimp fishing industry, Büsum is a historic spa town on Germany’s North Sea coast. It’s long been revered for the healing effects of its seawater and mud, with spa lovers travelling here since the 19th century via the Heide–Büsum railway. Today, it’s home to engaging museums and a lively harbour, as well as a family-friendly lagoon swimming beach.

Things to do

Dominating the harbour is the 21-metre-high Büsum Lighthouse, a red-and-white-striped landmark that was constructed in 1912. There are sweeping views across the harbour from the Ankerplatz der "Ol Büsum”, with boats coming and going from the nearby Wadden Sea islands.

Interested in the history of Büsum's fishing and tourism industries? Explore the interactive exhibits at Museum am Meer to learn about North Sea shrimps and the changing face of holidaying in Büsum. A short stroll away is the Museumshafen Büsum, which displays historic ships that have been lovingly restored.

For a day at the beach, visit the Perlebucht Family Lagoon, a protected swimming area fringed by man-made dunes and salt meadows. You can learn to kitesurf with one of the experienced instructors at the water sports school or take advantage of the volleyball and soccer courts. When it’s time to eat, there are picnic and barbecue areas available.

Getting around

Büsum is around 1.5 hours’ drive from Hamburg Airport, while the centre of Hamburg is connected by regular trains to the Büsum railway station. Heide – Büsum Airport is five minutes’ drive from the town centre and has flights to Heligoland on the island of Düne. Buses travel throughout Büsum, although the centre is compact enough to explore on foot.