Once a major player in the Hanseatic League, the northern German city of Lübeck is a fascinating destination. The second-largest city in Schleswig-Holstein, Lübeck sits at the mouth of the River Trave. Its well-preserved old town, nestled on an island, has long been a UNESCO Heritage Site. Many of the best places to stay in Lübeck are intimate historic hotels — very fitting for this characterful small city.
Dubbed the “City of the Seven Towers”, Lübeck is dominated by the spires of its largest churches. Built and extended between 1173 and 1341, Lübeck Cathedral was the first brickwork church of its scale in the Baltic region, whilst St Mary’s Church is widely considered the model for the Brick Gothic churches of the Hanseatic League’s cities. Architecture aficionados will be fascinated to chart the development of the Brick Gothic style on a guided walking tour. Admire the Holstentor, delve into the city’s past in the Museumsquartier St Annen and the Europäisches Hansemuseum, or immerse yourself in the world of puppets at the quirky Theater Figuren Museum.
Brilliant for keen ramblers, Lübeck is also popular with cyclists, who can zip along winding lanes lined with cafes, boutiques and eateries. The city claims to be the original home of marzipan, and no trip is complete without savouring this sweet treat. Venture out to the city’s verdant parks, chart tranquil waterways, or simply kick back at the best places to stay in Lübeck. Most are within walking distance of the magical old town, which feels particularly atmospheric on long summer evenings.
