Lubeck 5 Day Itinerary

5-Day Lübeck Itinerary: Hanseatic Charm & Coastal Delights

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Lübeck Youth Hostel: Cozy and centrally located.
  • Mid-Range: Hotel Hanseatischer Hof: Historic charm with modern amenities.
  • Luxury: The Grand Hotel: Opulent rooms with stunning city views.

Transportation:

  • Lübeck is easily walkable, but consider renting a bike for longer distances.
  • Public transportation (buses and trams) is efficient and affordable.
  • Day trips to nearby destinations like Travemünde are best done by train.

Day 1: Exploring the Old Town

  • Morning: Start with a stroll through the UNESCO-listed Old Town, admiring the medieval architecture, gabled houses, and cobblestone streets. Don’t miss the iconic Holstentor gate and the impressive Lübeck Cathedral.

  • Afternoon: Visit the Buddenbrookhaus, the former home of author Thomas Mann, now a museum dedicated to his life and work. Afterward, climb St. Anne’s Church tower for panoramic views of the city.

  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional German dinner at Schrangenhof, known for its cozy atmosphere and regional dishes like Labskaus (corned beef, mashed potatoes, beetroot).

Day 2: Maritime Heritage & Sweet Treats

  • Morning: Head to the German Salt Museum to learn about Lübeck’s history as a major salt trading center.

  • Afternoon: Indulge in Lübeck’s famous marzipan treats at Niederegger, the oldest marzipan manufacturer in the world. Take a tour of the factory or simply enjoy a delicious pastry in their cafe.

  • Evening: Enjoy dinner with a view at Ratskeller, located in the historic town hall. Savor classic German cuisine while overlooking the bustling market square.

Day 3: Travemünde Seaside Escape

  • Morning: Take a scenic train ride to Travemünde, Lübeck’s charming seaside resort. Stroll along the sandy beach, enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants, or visit the Travemünde Museum for insights into the town’s maritime history.

  • Afternoon: Rent a bike and explore the picturesque coastline, stopping at quaint fishing villages like Niendorf or Scharbeutz.

  • Evening: Dine with a view at Strandhotel Travemünde, enjoying fresh seafood and breathtaking sunsets over the Baltic Sea.

Day 4: Culture & Creativity

  • Morning: Visit the Lübeck Museum of Art to explore its diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, and crafts from various eras.

  • Afternoon: Get creative at the Lübeck Puppet Theatre (Lübecker Marionettentheater). Enjoy a captivating performance or take part in a puppet-making workshop.

  • Evening: Experience a traditional Lübecker “Fischbrötchen” (fish sandwich) from one of the many street vendors near the market square.

Day 5: Farewell and Last Bites

  • Morning: Stroll through the charming streets of Lübeck’s historic quarter, picking up souvenirs at local shops or browsing antique stores.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy a final Lübecker pastry at Café Krönchen, known for its exquisite cakes and pastries.

Things to Know:

  • Lübeck is generally safe and welcoming to tourists.

  • Most museums and attractions offer English-language information.

  • The official currency is the Euro (€).

  • Credit cards are widely accepted but it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases.

Tips:

  • Purchase a Lübeck Card for discounted entry to museums and free public transportation.
  • Try “Lübecker Pfannkuchen,” thin pancakes served with fruit or sugar, a local delicacy.
  • Explore the many charming courtyards and hidden alleys throughout the Old Town.
  • Attend a concert or performance at the Musik- und Kongresshalle Lübeck for a cultural experience.

Enjoy your unforgettable journey through Lübeck!