Wangerooge is a small German island in the North Sea, which is known for its beautiful beaches and peaceful atmosphere. This East Frisian island can be reached by different means of transportation, depending on your preferences and budget. In this article we will introduce you to the different options with their advantages and disadvantages, so that you can plan a hassle-free trip and answer the question "How do I get to Wangerooge" you find solved.
Arrival to Wangerooge by ferry
The most popular way to go to Wangerooge to come is with the Wangerooge ferry, and for good reason. The North Sea island is accessible only by boat and ferries run several times a day from the mainland. The trip takes about an hour and offers fantastic views of the North Sea and the surrounding Islands. It is also affordable and incredibly easy to book.
The ferries depart from Harlesiel, a small port town on the mainland. You can park your car at the port for the duration of your trip, and the ferry port is just a short walk away. The ferry ride itself is very comfortable and offers indoor and outdoor seating, a small store and restrooms. It takes you/you directly to the port of the island, from where you can either walk or take a horse-drawn carriage to your hotel.
The ferry operates all year round, but the schedule may vary depending on the season. In the high season (June-August), ferries run every hour, while in the low season they run less frequently. Prices vary depending on age and season, but you should expect to pay around 20-30 euros for a round trip.
Arrival by car
If you prefer to travel by car, you can drive to Harlesiel and park it at the harbor. From there you can take the ferry as usual. Note, however, that you can not take your car with you to the island, since cars are not allowed on Wangerooge. Visitors must walk, bike or take horse-drawn carriages to get around.
Driving to Harlesiel can be a bit of a challenge if you are not used to German roads. The roads can be narrow and in high season there can be a lot of traffic. However, if you like to travel by car and explore the surroundings, the car is a good option.
Arrival to Wangerooge by train / railroad
Another popular way to get to Harlesiel is by train. The nearest main train station is in Wilhelmshaven, about an hour's drive from Harlesiel. From there you can take a bus or a cab to the port. Trains run regularly from major cities like Berlin, Hamburg and Bremen, making it a convenient option for travelers coming from far away.
When you arrive at the port, you can take the ferry as usual. Remember that you need to book your train ticket separately from your ferry ticket and that prices can vary depending on the season and lead time.
By plane to Wangerooge
The North Sea island has a small airport, but it is mainly used for medical emergencies and private planes. If you come from outside Europe, you will most likely fly to one of the big airports like Hamburg and then take the train or car to Harlesiel.
If you are coming from within Europe, there are several small airports nearby, including Bremen and Hamburg. From there you can take a train or a car to Harlesiel.
Prices for the crossing to Wangerooge
Prices for travel to Wangerooge vary depending on your travel preferences and the time of year. Below you will find an overview of the usual costs that you can expect:
- Wangerooge ferry: A round-trip ferry ticket costs about 20-30 euros for adults, depending on the season. Children under 14 pay a reduced price and infants travel free.
- Car parking: If you go to Harlesiel by car, you will have to pay for a parking space for the duration of your stay. Prices vary depending on the season, but expect to pay around 40-60 euros for a week.
- Train: Train tickets from major cities like Berlin, Hamburg or Bremen to Wilhelmshaven are available from about 30-40 euros each way. However, prices vary depending on the season and how far in advance you book.
- Cab: If you take a cab from Wilhelmshaven to Harlesiel, you should expect to pay about 80-100 euros one way.
- Bicycle rental: If you want to explore the island on two wheels, you can rent a bike for about 10-15 euros per day.
Conclusion on how to get to Wangerooge
Getting to Wangerooge is relatively easy, and each mode of transportation has its advantages and disadvantages. The ferry is the most popular and cheapest option, while the car can be a good choice for those who want to explore the surroundings. If you're coming from far away, it may be most convenient to take a train or plane to the nearest city.
No matter how you get to Wangerooge, you will be enchanted by its natural beauty, stunning beaches and relaxed atmosphere. We hope this article has helped you plan your trip to this little paradise.
