Kap Arkona
Kap Arkona is the dramatic northern tip of Rügen and, after the chalk cliffs, the most visited attraction on the island, drawing around 800,000 visitors a year. Raw natural beauty and thousands of years of history meet here in one remarkable place.
Towers and coastal cliffs
Three towers rise above the 43-metre-high cliffs: the historic Schinkelturm from 1827, the newer lighthouse, and the naval sighting tower. Climb them for sweeping views over the Baltic Sea. On a clear day, you can see remarkably far out across the water.
History beneath your feet
The cape was once home to the Jaromarsburg, a Slavic temple fortress dedicated to the god Svantevit and a sacred site for centuries. Later, the military carved out Cold War bunkers here, which you can explore today. Nearby lies the charming, car-free fishing village of Vitt.
Practical information
The cape is car-free: park in Putgarten and walk roughly 20 minutes, or hop on the Arkona-Bahn or a horse-drawn carriage. The grounds are free to enter; the towers and the bunker require an admission fee. You will find all the details and the map location below.
Practical information
- Address
- Kap Arkona, 18556 Putgarten
- Opening hours
- The cape is freely accessible; the towers and museums have their own opening times.
- Price
- The grounds are free. Entry fees apply for the towers and the bunker (combo ticket available).
- Visit duration
- 2 to 3 hours
- Best time
- At sunset or outside peak season; after the chalk cliffs, the cape is the busiest spot on Rügen.
- Website
- www.kap-arkona.de
Location on Rügen
Frequently asked questions
What is there to see at Kap Arkona?
Two lighthouses (the historic Schinkelturm from 1827 and the newer lighthouse), the naval sighting tower, the remains of the Slavic temple fortress Jaromarsburg, Cold War bunkers, and a 43-metre-high cliff with sweeping views over the Baltic Sea.
Can you drive to Kap Arkona?
No, the cape is car-free. You park in the village of Putgarten and walk about 20 minutes to the cape, or take the Arkona-Bahn or a horse-drawn carriage.
Is Kap Arkona free to visit?
The grounds and the cliffs are free to access. Climbing the towers and visiting the bunker require an entry fee; a combo ticket is available.
What is the fishing village Vitt?
Vitt is a tiny, car-free fishing village with thatched roofs just a short walk from Kap Arkona, and one of the most idyllic spots on Rügen. See also the page about [Vitt](/vitt).