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Historic neighborhood · Lübeck, Schleswig-Holstein
Lübecker Altstadt
An island surrounded by the Trave and canals, with brick churches, narrow lanes and hidden courtyards. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Lübecker Altstadt
The Altstadt (old town) of Lübeck occupies an oval island surrounded by the Trave river and canals. UNESCO inscribed the Hanseatic City of Lübeck as a World Heritage Site in 1987 for the medieval ensemble that shows how a trading city of northern Europe functioned.
The city's skyline is defined by seven brick church towers, including those of Marienkirche, the Dom and Petrikirche. Between them run streets of tall houses with gabled façades, built by merchants who lived on the upper floors and stored goods in the attic.
A hallmark of Lübeck are the Gänge and Höfe, narrow passages that branch off the main streets and lead to inner courtyards with small houses. They were homes for workers and craftsmen; many are still residences, so visits require quiet. Breite Straße, which connects the town hall to the north of the island, is the main shopping street.
Part of the center was destroyed in the March 1942 bombing, and the reconstruction preserved the street plan. At the northern tip stands the Burgtor, another old gate, near the Europäisches Hansemuseum.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
A full day to walk around the island at a relaxed pace and visit two or three attractions.
Best time
From May to September the days are long and you can walk around until late. From late November until close to Christmas the Christmas markets (Weihnachtsmarkt) usually run and there is more activity. On Sundays most shops are closed.
How to get there
From the central station (Lübeck Hauptbahnhof), walk about ten minutes passing Holstentor and the bridge over the Trave. City buses also cross the island.
Tip
Look for the narrow entrances to the Gänge in the side streets, such as Glockengießerstraße and Engelsgrube. If a door has a private property notice, respect it and do not enter.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Lübecker Altstadt
Is Lübeck's old town large?
The island is just over two kilometres long and can be explored on foot. From the Holstentor to the Burgtor at the other end, the walk takes about 25 minutes without stops.
What are the Gänge of Lübeck?
They are narrow passages between houses that lead to inner courtyards with small dwellings. Many are still family homes: enter only where the passage is open and keep quiet.
Why is Lübeck's city centre a World Heritage Site?
Because it preserves the layout and the buildings of a leading Hanseatic League city, with brick churches, merchants' houses, warehouses and medieval hospitals. Its UNESCO inscription dates from 1987.