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Lübeck: Marzipan Treats, Holstentor, and Hanseatic History

Christian Wolf (www.c-w-design.de), Holstentor in Lübeck Frontseite - Zuschnitt, CC BY-SA 3.0 de
Photo: Christian Wolf (www.c-w-design.de), Holstentor in Lübeck Frontseite - Zuschnitt, CC BY-SA 3.0 de
small photo of the author of the site
Hello and welcome to my website. My name is Thorsten. I'm a software engineer living in Germany and I love to travel. So I created a site for anyone starting to plan a trip.
What this site is about

✔ Are you planning a self-organized trip to Lübeck? Then you've come to the right place. Here you will find information to help you plan your perfect stay in Lübeck.

✔ The most important start information for a trip to Schleswig-Holstein, can be found on the overview page.

✔ And when it comes to the actual planning, you will find the perfect planner for your trip to Schleswig-Holstein here.
Attraction
Park / Garden

Culture and history, explore and discover

Lübeck, a city steeped in history, offers a rich tapestry of cultural and architectural heritage. As a former leading city of the Hanseatic League, it boasts a well-preserved medieval old town that reflects its prosperous past. Visitors can expect to find a blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture, alongside a vibrant cultural scene that includes museums, art galleries, and music festivals. The city's historical significance and its picturesque setting make it a captivating destination for those interested in exploring the intersections of history, culture, and architecture.

All sights sorted by distance from center
1. St. Mary's Church: ⭐ As one of the largest brick churches in the world, St. Mary's is famous for its astronomical clock and the tragic history of its damaged bells, serving as a memorial to the victims of World War II. Distance in km: 0.28
2. Lübeck's Old Town, UNESCO World Heritage: ⭐ ⭐ A UNESCO World Heritage site, Lübeck's Old Town is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the iconic Holstentor gate. Distance in km: 0.3
3. Holstentor Museum: ⭐ ⭐ Located in the iconic Holstentor gate, this museum offers insights into Lübeck's Hanseatic past and the city's maritime history. Distance in km: 0.46
4. Lübeck Cathedral: ⭐ ⭐ A stunning example of Brick Gothic architecture, this cathedral boasts impressive interior features, including medieval art pieces and a magnificent organ. Distance in km: 0.52
5. Heiligen-Geist-Hospital: ⭐ ⭐ One of the oldest social institutions in the world, dating back to the 13th century, known for its remarkable architecture and the Christmas market held in its courtyard. Distance in km: 0.7
6. Drägerpark: ⭐ A peaceful park ideal for relaxation and leisure walks, offering a green oasis within the city with beautiful views and serene surroundings. Distance in km: 1.57
7. Schellbruch: This large nature reserve on the outskirts of Lübeck offers extensive walking paths, bird-watching opportunities, and stunning views over the water and wetlands. Distance in km: 4.48
8. Wakenitz Nature Reserve: ⭐ A breathtaking nature reserve along the Wakenitz River, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, canoeing, and observing diverse wildlife in their natural habitat. Distance in km: 5.2
9. Plön Castle: ⭐ ⭐ Nestled amidst the lakes of the Holsteinische Schweiz, Plön Castle is a historic Renaissance castle offering guided tours and stunning views. Distance in km: 37.03
10. Old Town: ⭐ ⭐ Lübeck's Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its medieval buildings, narrow streets, and the unique atmosphere that transports visitors back in time. Distance in km: 62.62

Parks, Gardens & Green Areas in the city, relax and enjoy

Lübeck offers a serene atmosphere with its blend of historical charm and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for relaxation. Visitors can expect to find a variety of tranquil spots, from lush green parks to inviting wellness centers. The city's proximity to the coast also provides opportunities for beach outings and leisurely walks along the waterfront.

1. Lübeck Botanical Garden: A beautiful botanical garden with diverse plant species.

The Lübeck Botanical Garden is a serene oasis located near the city center, offering visitors the chance to explore a wide variety of plant species from around the world. The garden is divided into several themed sections, including a medicinal plant garden, a rock garden, and a greenhouse with tropical plants. It is an ideal place for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful environment to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Type: garden | Fee: free
2. Drägerpark: A scenic riverside park perfect for picnics and leisurely walks.

Drägerpark is a charming park located along the banks of the Wakenitz River. It features lush green lawns, walking paths, and scenic views of the river. Visitors can enjoy picnics, leisurely strolls, or simply relax on a bench while taking in the tranquil surroundings. The park is also a popular spot for locals to engage in outdoor activities such as jogging and cycling.

Type: park | Fee: free
3. Wallanlagen: Historic city fortifications turned into a public park.

The Wallanlagen is a historic park that was once part of the city's fortifications. Today, it is a popular green space where visitors can walk along the old city walls and enjoy views of the surrounding area. The park features well-maintained paths, beautiful flower beds, and several sculptures. It is a great place to learn about the history of Lübeck while enjoying a peaceful walk.

Type: park | Fee: free
4. Stadtpark Lübeck: A large urban park offering various recreational activities.

Stadtpark Lübeck is a spacious urban park that provides a range of recreational opportunities for visitors. The park features expansive green lawns, playgrounds, and sports facilities, making it a popular destination for families and sports enthusiasts. There are also several walking and cycling paths, as well as areas for picnicking and relaxation. The park hosts various events and activities throughout the year, adding to its vibrant atmosphere.

Type: park | Fee: free
5. Naturschutzgebiet Schellbruch: A protected nature reserve ideal for birdwatching and hiking.

The Naturschutzgebiet Schellbruch is a protected nature reserve located just outside Lübeck. It is a haven for wildlife, particularly birds, and offers visitors the chance to experience nature in its purest form. The reserve features several hiking trails that wind through diverse habitats, including wetlands, forests, and meadows. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts will find this area particularly rewarding, as it is home to a variety of bird species.

Type: green_area | Fee: free

Tourist Information Offices

Here you can find the main tourist information offices where you can get maps, brochures, and assistance with planning your visit.

1. Tourist-Information Lübeck

Tourist information center

Address: Holstentorplatz 1, 23552 Lübeck, Germany
2. Lübecker Verkehrsverein e.V.

Tourist information center

Address: Breite Str. 6 - 8, 23552 Lübeck, Germany

What's the best way to get around as a tourist in Lübeck?

Lübeck offers a variety of transportation options that make it easy to navigate the city. The historic city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making walking a pleasant way to explore. Public transportation is well-developed, with buses connecting different parts of the city. Cycling is also popular, with many bike paths available. Ride-sharing services provide additional flexibility for getting around.

In Lübeck, the Altstadt (Old Town) is a pedestrian zone, allowing visitors to explore landmarks like the Holstentor and St. Mary's Church on foot. The city's public transportation is operated by Stadtverkehr Lübeck, with buses covering extensive routes throughout the area. For cyclists, the city offers numerous bike lanes and rental services such as Nextbike, which provide convenient access to bicycles. Ride-sharing services like Uber are available, offering an alternative to traditional taxis. Practical tips include purchasing a day pass for unlimited bus travel and checking local maps for designated cycling routes to ensure a smooth journey.