Lübeck’s a city that completely blew me away.
A historically significant destination in northern Germany, it’s often overlooked despite its rich Hanseatic League heritage, stunning architecture and delectable food options.
Its compact old town is packed with fascinating sites and unique attractions; with one day in Lübeck, you can see quite a bit!
Where to stay in Lubeck: LIHO Hotel
LIHO Hotel is a fantastic choice for staying in Lübeck, located just a five-minute walk from the Holsten Gate and close to both the old town and the train station.
The rooms are modern, cosy and well-equipped with comfortable beds, plenty of storage, and spacious bathrooms.
I found the staff to be super friendly as well!
Click here to take a look at LIHO hotel’s listing on Booking.com
Things to do in Lubeck
There are so many fun things to do in Lübeck! Here are the highlights:
To learn all about Lübeck’s fascinating history, I recommend taking a guided tour. You can book these through the tourist office, either in person at the Holstentorplatz or on their website.
Holsten Gate (Holstentor)
The Holsten Gate is Lübeck’s most iconic landmark – and it’s extra stunning in person!
This medieval structure boasts distinctive red brick and slanted towers and reflects Lübeck’s history as a powerful Hanseatic city.
Inside, the museum (€8 entry) delves into the city’s trade and defence history.
St. Mary’s Church (Marienkirche)
Lübeck is known as “the city of seven spires” and the twin-spired Gothic Marienkirche is one of its most notable.
Built for the city’s upper class, its sheer size and intricate design reflect the status of those who worshipped here.
Inside, the architecture and details tell a story of wealth and rivalry among Lübeck’s elite.
St. Peter’s Church
St. Peter’s Church is well worth a visit, purely for the fact that you can climb to the top of the tower (€5 entry) for panoramic views of the old town and river!
The tower is separate from the main church, and you can usually take an elevator to the top – although when I was there, the lift was out of action which meant I walked all the way up to the top!
Lübeck Town Hall (Rathaus)
The Lübeck Town Hall is a striking black-brick building that speaks volumes about the city’s wealth during its Hanseatic League days. I was told it “looks like the ministry of magic” and can definitely see it!
The use of rare black bricks was a statement of Lübeck’s importance to visitors from across Europe.
Hidden alleyways and courtyards
Lübeck is famous for its alleyways and hidden courtyards.
These were established due to overcrowding in the city (as it’s an island, historically it had nowhere to expand to). Homeowners would build more homes in their gardens, rent them out and create alleyways for access.
Salt Storage Houses (Salzspeicher)
These striking riverside warehouses, built in the 16th and 17th centuries, highlight Lübeck’s role in the salt trade – they’re where salt was stored when it was brought to the city.
Nowadays, they’re iconic to the city!
European Hansemuseum
The European Hansemuseum is a must-visit for anyone who wants to learn more about Hanseatic League and Lübeck’s key role in it.
Through immersive exhibits and medieval artefacts, it highlights the League’s rise, influence and eventual decline.
Book tickets in advance if you know you definitely want to go.
Where to eat in Lübeck
Here are some of the best places to dine in Lübeck!
Café Niederegger
Café Niederegger is synonymous with Lübeck’s famous marzipan – it’s a must-visit if you’re in the city.
The café stretches across three floors, with a shop, a café and a small marzipan museum at the top.
I tried the marzipan cake (Marzipantorte), and while it’s not normally my kind of thing, I could see why people do!
Schiffergesellschaft
Dining at Schiffergesellschaft was one of the highlights of my visit to Lübeck.
This historic restaurant – once a guildhall for seafarers – is packed with maritime artefacts and an old-world atmosphere.
The wooden interiors and long communal tables make it feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
The food was excellent – I had vegetable soup and a lentil patty with mashed potatoes and vegetables.
Christmas Market Food Stalls
The Christmas markets in Lübeck are full of delicious food stalls – if you’re visiting Lubeck in December, try the garlic mushrooms sold all over the markets!
How to get to Lübeck
Lübeck is less than an hour from Hamburg by train, making it an easy day trip or short-stay destination.
Hamburg has affordable flights from major European cities.
If you’re travelling overland, Hamburg is a well-connected rail hub with links to most major cities in Europe.
When to visit Lübeck
Winter is ideal if you want to experience Lübeck’s enchanting Christmas markets, but it’s a year-round destination!
In the summer, you’ll enjoy longer days and mild weather. Shoulder seasons are generally cheaper.
You can’t go wrong!
For another underrated German city, check out my guide to Aachen!
