Lübeck’s Old Town is completely surrounded by water and has all the maritime charm to go with it. The impressive brick architecture of the merchants' houses and churches is still the hallmark of this Hanseatic town, which was founded in 1143 as the first port on the Baltic Sea and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987. Take a relaxed stroll through the medieval alleyways, immerse yourself in the pulsating life behind the old walls and discover the true meaning of Nordic beauty. Experience the unique diversity of the listed architecture and the hidden world of the historical residential alleys and courtyards.
When UNESCO awarded the status of World Heritage Site to Lübeck’s medieval town centre, it was the first time a whole district had been nominated for such an award in Northern Europe. Even the archaeological treasures below ground formed part of it! The award assigns an exceptional universal value to the historical monument that is the Old Town in accordance with the definition of the World Heritage Committee, it is relevant not just for national or local communities but for the whole of mankind. Residents of Lübeck are very proud of this status, whilst at the same time recognise their obligation to preserve the World Heritage Site of Lübeck as a place of intercultural learning and a meeting point for future generations. On a stroll through the Old Town, past listed buildings stretching back more than 8 centuries, you will really be on an exciting journey through time.
This traditional restaurant used to be the most important gathering point for seafarers and captains. The building, with a façade that has barely changed since it was built, originates from the 16th century. To this day, it entices visitors through its historical ambience in the impressive guest room full of old model ships, paintings, seafaring equipment, woodcut banquets, chandeliers and murals.
No one knows more about Lübeck’s extraordinary past as Queen of the Hanseatic League than our guides. Discover the diverse characters and events that shaped Lübeck’s history through thematic guided tours. Whether it’s a story about everyday lives in the Hanseatic city, facts about the significance of religion, or the World Heritage award, tour guides make the city’s history come to life. Is the classic city tour not your thing? No problem! Why not instead try a guided bike tour? Or perhaps a costumed tour? Another option may be our popular culinary guided tours, with a glance behind the scenes of manufactories and family businesses.
THE ABILITY TO DISCOVER, RECOGNIZE AND EXPERIENCE BEAUTIFUL THINGS IS FED BY THE WILLINGNESS TO OPEN UP.Ernst Ferstl
Discover the romantic alleyways and courtyards that can be found behind the façades of grand merchant houses all over the Old Town. The medieval labyrinth is the secret lifeline of Lübeck.
The Holsten Gate is Lübeck’s most famous landmark, maybe you’ll recognise it from some 2€ coins! It was built in the late 15th century as part of the city’s fortifications designed to protect the wealthy city from enemy attacks. Today, the walls, with a thickness of 3.50 metres, harbour an exhibition entitled “The Power of Trade”. The various thematic rooms shed light on topics such as the Hanseatic League, trade and seafaring, as well as the history of the gate itself and the weaponry inside. Another highlight here is the model city of Lübeck, which perfectly illustrates the structure of the old town. It’s well worth a visit.
Built by many generations over a period of more than a century, the five medieval brick churches with their famous seven spires dominate the city’s skyline. Behind the historical walls of St. Mary's church, St. Peter's church, St. Giles' church, St. Jacob’s church and the Cathedral, the naves are a point of convergence for people, art and culture.
Lübeck’s Town Hall has been a central point on the market square since 1230. With its beautiful ornate façades and delicate little towers, this “stone fairy-tale” is one of the most well-known brick Gothic style buildings. The building was expanded in almost every following century and thus presents itself today as a successful mix of styles from different epochs and architectural fashions. Despite all this impressive history, don’t be fooled into thinking this is a museum! The city parliament still sits here and couples can also tie the knot in the historic premises. Guests are also welcomed to take a tour in the Town Hall.
medieval alleyways and courtyards are preserved to this day on the Old Town island
the year when Lübeck was founded as the first German harbour town on the Baltic Sea
listed buildings form part of the UNESCO World Heritage
Wealthy merchants financed the construction of the Hospital of the Holy Spirit in the 13th century as a place for the old and sick. This makes it one of the oldest examples of medieval welfare in the whole of Europe. Discover the unique ambience of the historical church hall and the tiny “residential cubbyholes.” Here is especially worth a visit in the lead-up to Christmas, when a major craft market is held inside.
The Castle Monastery is the most important medieval monastery complex in North Germany and a former Dominican monastery. Today, it forms part of the European Hansemuseum which will take you on a thrilling journey through the history of the Hanseatic League. The Castle Gate guards the northern entrance to the Old Town and is one of the former four historical city gates of Lübeck. The castle monastery has stood through an eventful history, with it being turned into a poor house after the Reformation. The monastery church was then demolished at the end of the 19th century to make way for a court building. Today, the ensemble is part of the European Hansemuseum.
In the museum harbour, lovingly restored traditional yachts lie on the quay - lined up like a string of pearls. The storm-tried oldtimers have found their safe home port in Lübeck, but are still up for an adventure every now and then in the form of group charters or regattas. Why not come ‘on board and sail with us?