Things To Do
in Lübeck

Lübeck, Germany, known as the 'Queen of the Hanseatic League,' is a picturesque city rich in medieval history and stunning architecture, particularly noted for its brick Gothic buildings. The city is situated on the banks of the Trave River, offering beautiful waterfront views and a charming old town that is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Lübeck is also famous for its marzipan, making it a culinary destination for sweet lovers.

With its vibrant cultural scene and numerous museums, Lübeck provides a delightful mix of history, art, and gastronomy.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Old Town
morning
:

Start your day at the iconic Holsten Gate, followed by a visit to the St. Mary's Church to admire its stunning architecture.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local café, then explore the Lübeck Museum of Theatre Puppets and the historic Hospital of the Holy Spirit.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional restaurant in the old town, then take a leisurely evening stroll along the Trave River.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Visit the Buddenbrook House, the former residence of the Mann family, then head to the nearby St. Anne's Museum Quarter.

afternoon
:

After lunch, venture to the nearby beach at Travemünde for some relaxation and scenic views.

evening
:

Return to Lübeck for dinner at a modern bistro, followed by a nightcap at a local pub.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$20
Coffee$3
🍺Local beer$5
🏨Hotel night stay$100
🚌Public transport ticket$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich in history and culture, with beautiful architecture.
  • Delicious local cuisine, particularly marzipan.
  • Walkable city with scenic views and friendly locals.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Weather can be unpredictable, especially in winter.
  • Higher accommodation prices during peak tourist season.
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ich hätte gerne..." - I would like...

Places to Visit in Lübeck

Visit one of these nice places.

Holsten Gate

An iconic symbol of Lübeck, this stunning medieval city gate is perfect for capturing historical architecture.

St. Mary's Church

Known for its impressive Gothic architecture and beautiful interior, it's a must-see for photography enthusiasts.

Trave River Promenade

The scenic waterfront offers picturesque views, especially at sunset, ideal for capturing the essence of Lübeck.

Culinary Guide

Food in Lübeck

Lübeck offers a delightful culinary experience, renowned for its marzipan and fresh seafood, alongside traditional German fare.

Lübeck Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Marzipan

A sweet confection made from almond paste, Lübeck's marzipan is a must-try, often shaped into beautiful designs.

Must-Try!

Labskaus

A traditional sailor's dish made with corned beef, potatoes, and beetroot, typically served with herring and a fried egg.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Lübeck Christmas Market

A festive market held during the holiday season offering local delicacies, including mulled wine and gingerbread.

St. Mary's Church Market

A vibrant market featuring local artisans, street food vendors, and fresh produce.

Climate Guide

Weather

Lübeck experiences an oceanic climate with mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures in winter range from 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F), while summer temperatures can reach 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Rain is common throughout the year, especially in late autumn and winter. Spring and summer are typically drier, making them the most pleasant seasons to visit.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is the standard greeting; it's polite to make eye contact.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to say 'Guten Appetit' before starting your meal.

Punctuality

Being on time is highly valued in German culture; it's best to arrive at agreed times.

Safety Guide

Safety

Lübeck is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as with any travel destination, it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Keep your belongings secure and be cautious of pickpockets in busy tourist spots. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Lübeck

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is customary in restaurants, typically around 10-15% of the bill; rounding up is also accepted.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit cards, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild weather and blooming flowers make spring a lovely time to explore Lübeck; expect occasional rain.

Summer

Summer is warm and bustling with tourists; enjoy outdoor festivals and events, but be prepared for higher accommodation prices.

Autumn

Autumn brings beautiful foliage and cooler temperatures; it's a quieter time to visit with fewer crowds.

Winter

Winter can be cold and snowy, but the Christmas markets create a magical atmosphere; dress warmly!

Nightlife Guide

Lübeck at Night

Lübeck's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, with a mix of bars, pubs, and clubs catering to various tastes. The old town offers cozy taverns where you can enjoy local beers and wines. For those seeking a livelier atmosphere, the clubs near the river feature DJ sets and dancing, often attracting a younger crowd. The summer months also bring outdoor events and festivals that enhance the nightlife experience.

Hiking in Lübeck

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Wakenitz Trail

A scenic 15 km hiking trail along the Wakenitz River, offering lush landscapes and wildlife.

Hansa Park Trail

This trail leads through the beautiful countryside near the Hansa Park amusement park, perfect for a blend of nature and fun.

Airports

How to reach Lübeck by plane.

Lübeck Airport (LBC)

Located about 8 km from the city center, Lübeck Airport offers flights to various European destinations, making it the nearest airport for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Lübeck is a highly walkable city, with most attractions concentrated in the old town, which is pedestrian-friendly. The cobblestone streets, well-marked pathways, and absence of heavy traffic make it easy to explore on foot. Biking is also popular, with dedicated lanes and bike rentals available.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

Lübeck has a significant student population due to its universities and educational institutions.

Senior Citizens

The city is home to a growing number of retirees, attracted by its quality of life and historical charm.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is widely popular in Lübeck, with local clubs participating in regional leagues.

Handball

Handball is another favored sport, with clubs and schools actively promoting the sport.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Lübeck is generally light, especially in the city center where pedestrian zones limit vehicle access. Public transportation, including buses and trains, is reliable and connects the city to surrounding areas. Biking is also a preferred mode of transport, supported by extensive bike lanes.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Lübeck.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check the menu in advance.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are available, particularly in larger establishments and health-focused cafes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Lübeck is of high quality, with a range of public and private hospitals and clinics. Emergency services are reliable, and most medical professionals speak English. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide