If you’re looking for a break from everyday life in Hamburg, Lübeck’s Old Town is the perfect destination for a spontaneous getaway. The historic city center is located on a river island and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987. In addition to the well-known sights, it’s especially worth exploring the smaller side streets.
Discover the historic passageways and courtyards
Away from the pedestrian zone, so-called “Stiftshöfe” and alleyways shape the cityscape. These mostly narrow passageways lead directly from the street into the inner courtyards of the Old Town located behind them. Over 90 of these medieval courtyards have been preserved to this day. These include, among others, the Füchtingshof on Glockengießerstraße and the Dunkelgrüne Gang.
The courtyards were built in the late Middle Ages to create additional living space in a confined area and are still inhabited today. The Stiftshöfe were named after wealthy citizens who once donated this living space to the needy or to the widows of sailors. Here you’ll find a clear map showing some of Lübeck’s courtyards and passageways.
Viewpoints and Landmarks of the Old Town
The city’s most famous landmark is the Holstentor, a preserved city gate from the late-medieval fortifications that served to protect the Hanseatic city in the 15th century.
For a panoramic view of the Old Town and the Trave River, head to the observation tower at St. Peter’s Church. From the top, on a clear day, you can enjoy a sweeping view over the city’s rooftops all the way to the surrounding countryside.
Enjoying North German cuisine
For a culinary break, check out Café Niederegger on Breite Straße, which houses a small marzipan museum on the upper floor.
If you’re looking for a traditional dinner, the Schiffergesellschaft is one of the city’s oldest inns. The building is still used as a restaurant today, and its interior is decorated with historic ship models from the 15th and 16th centuries.
Tips for your trip from Hamburg
🚂 By public transportation: Regional trains ( RE8 and RE80) depart regularly from Hamburg Central Station and reach Lübeck Central Station in about 45 or 50 minutes, respectively, without having to change trains. From there, it’s just a few minutes’ walk across the Puppenbrücke directly into the Old Town.
🚗 By car: From Hamburg, you can reach Lübeck via the A1 highway in about an hour, covering roughly 70 kilometers.
