MileHacker Logo
Things to Do in Lubeck

Things to Do in Lubeck

Lubeck Schleswig Holstein, Germany Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Explore Lübeck'the scenery through a variety of outdoor activities.

Hiking & Cycling Routes

Wakenitz River Paths

These routes present easy, flat walking and cycling paths along the Wakenitz River, offering tranquil natural scenery suitable for all fitness levels.

Lübeck to Travemünde Coastal Walk

A relatively easy, scenic walk along the coast from Lübeck (or its outskirts) to Travemünde, which gives pleasant views of the Baltic Sea landscape.

Forests around Lübeck

Smaller forests like Lauerholz present gentle walking trails for a relaxed natural experience. Dedicated mountain biking trails are limited in the immediate Lübeck area.

Water Sports & Activities

  • Boat Tours: City boat tours on the Trave River present an unique perspective of the Old Town.
  • Kayaking/Canoeing: Rent kayaks or canoes for self-guided trips on the Wakenitz River. This creates for a peaceful exploration of the "Amazon of the North."
  • Stand-Up Paddling (SUP): This activity sees increased popularity on the Wakenitz River and in Travemünde.
  • Swimming: Available at the beach in Travemünde during the summer months. Sailing opportunities exist in Travemünde, especially during the Travemünder Woche.

Wildlife Encounters

  • The Wakenitz River and its surrounding wetlands home various bird species.
  • Birdwatching opportunities exist along the paths.
  • Lübeck does not feature large wildlife safaris.
  • A tranquil setting for nature observation.

Cycling Network

  • Lübeck has an excellent network of dedicated bike lanes ("Radwege").
  • This makes cycling a popular and safe way to get around.
  • Routes connect to surrounding areas like Travemünde.
  • In addition connects to the Baltic Sea Cycle Route ("Ostseeküsten-Radweg").

Adventure Sports

  • Lübeck has limited specific "adventure sports" or adrenaline experiences.
  • The focus remains more on gentle outdoor activities.
  • Water-based recreation is more common than extreme sports.
  • Explore GetYourGuide for broader adventure tours.

Focus on Gentle Recreation

Lübeck does not feature a prominent extreme sports scene. Its outdoor pursuits lean towards calm enjoyment of nature and waterways, like cycling, walking, and relaxed boating.

Cultural Immersion

Engage with Lübeck's heritage through hands-on experiences and performances.

Workshops & Learning

  • Marzipan Workshops: Some confectioneries or specialized tours might provide short workshops on marzipan decoration or production. Inquire at Niederegger or the Tourist Information office.
  • Cooking Classes: Classes focusing on local Northern German cuisine may be available. Inquire at local cooking schools.
  • Language Learning: Language schools in Lübeck offer German courses, suitable for longer stays or those wishing to improve their language skills.
  • Community Engagement: Interacting with local people in bakeries, cafes, and markets for authentic interaction, supporting the local community.

Cultural Performances & Events

Theater & Concerts

Theater Lübeck has a varied program of opera, drama, and ballet. Check their schedule for performances during your visit.

Church Concerts

Churches, especially St. Mary's and the Cathedral, often host classical music concerts, notably organ concerts.

Local Festivals

Check local listings for folklore festivals or city celebrations that present insights into local traditions.

Duckstein-Festival

An arts, culture, and culinary festival held along the Trave River in July/August, a summer event.

Filmkunstfest MV

The Film Art Festival Schleswig-Holstein in November focuses on German and European films, a treat for cinema enthusiasts.

Travemünder Woche

One of the largest sailing events in the world (July), accompanied by a large festival with food, music, and activities.

Relaxation & Wellness

Find opportunities for rest and rejuvenation in Lübeck and its nearby areas.

Spa & Wellness Centers

  • Many hotels, especially larger ones like Radisson Blu Senator Hotel, feature wellness areas with saunas and swimming pools.
  • Media Docks Wellness: A dedicated wellness center offering saunas and relaxation areas.
  • Ostseetherme Scharbeutz: A large public thermal bath and spa complex located near Travemünde, a short excursion away.
  • Yoga & Meditation: Limited specific retreats, but local yoga studios have lessons.

Beach & Pool Clubs

Travemünde Beach

This area has opportunities for relaxation on the sand during warm months.

Strandperle Travemünde

A beach club offering food, drinks, and beach chairs for a relaxed seaside experience.

Natural Therapy Notes

No natural hot springs exist in Lübeck or its immediate vicinity. Germany mainly uses standard European medical techniques for traditional healing.

General Well-being

Peaceful Walks

Enjoy serene strolls in the city parks plus along the Wakenitz River.

Healthy Dining

Discover eateries with fresh, regional ingredients for nourishing meals.

Mindful Moments

Seek out quiet corners in historic courtyards or churches for reflection.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Lübeck has various options for evening entertainment, from quiet pubs to live performances.

Live Music & Late Night

  • Smaller pubs and bars in the Old Town may feature occasional live music.
  • Kulturwerft Gollan: A larger event venue that holds concerts and shows.
  • Kolosseum Lübeck: A historical venue for concerts and events.
  • Bars and pubs typically are open until 1:00 AM or later on weekends.

Theater & Pubs

Theater Lübeck

The main venue for opera, drama, and ballet, offering a diverse program.

Lübecker Marionetten Theater

A unique puppet theater which contains charming performances for a distinctive cultural evening.

Bar Districts

The Old Town has many pubs ("Kneipen") and bars, notably around the Breite Straße and Hüxstraße areas in the evening drink.

Casual Drinks

Easily find places for an evening drink throughout the Old Town, from cozy pubs to modern bars.

Nightclubs

Lübeck has a few nightclubs, mainly catering to a younger crowd, found in areas around the station and parts of the Old Town.

Special Events

Look at local event schedules for any special evening entertainment or cultural programming during your visit.

Local Entertainment Insights

Nightlife Concentration
  • While no formal "bar district" exists, places for an evening drink are easily found.
  • A stroll through the Old Town has many options.
  • Explore local breweries for unique beer tastings.
Cultural Evenings
  • Consider an opera or ballet performance at Theater Lübeck.
  • Check the MuK schedule for large-scale concerts or events.
  • Enjoy the lit-up historical buildings for an enchanting evening mood.

Entertainment Tip

Evenings in Lübeck are calm but . Enjoy a traditional German meal before trying to find a cozy pub for a calming nightcap.

Shopping & Markets

Discover local crafts, famous marzipan, and unique boutiques in Lübeck.

Traditional Markets

  • Wochenmarkt (Weekly Market): Held on Wednesdays and Saturdays on the Markt (market square) and Thursdays on Buniamshof.
  • This market has fresh produce, flowers, and some local specialties.
  • Christmas Markets: Highly recommended in December, with numerous stalls selling crafts, food, and Glühwein in a festive atmosphere.
  • The celebratory ambiance during the holiday season is a highlight for visitors.

Artisan Workshops & Crafts

Artisan Shops

Small artisan shops dot the side streets and courtyards of the Old Town, offering local crafts, jewelry, and art.

Lübecker Kugel

Hand-blown glass ornaments and decor, representing a popular local craft and unique souvenir.

Local Creations

Discover unique, artisan products which cause for memorable gifts or personal keepsakes.

Souvenir Recommendations

  • Lübecker Marzipan: The quintessential souvenir, available at Niederegger and other shops. Purchase various forms and flavors.
  • Holstentor Miniatures: Replicas of the iconic gate make for good keepsakes.
  • Baltic Sea Amber: Jewelry and decorative items made from local amber are popular, especially in Travemünde.
  • Local Craft Beer/Spirits: From regional breweries, these make good gifts.

Luxury & Boutique Shopping

  • Hüxstraße: Known for its independent boutiques, fashion, and design shops.
  • Breite Straße: The main shopping street features larger chain stores and department stores.
  • Discover unique fashion items and high-quality local products.
  • Find exclusive gifts and personal splurges.

Ethical Shopping Guidelines

  • Support local artisans and small businesses to ensure your money directly benefits the community.
  • Be mindful of sourcing for amber products; ensure they are genuine and ethically obtained.
  • Choose sustainable options where possible.
  • Look for fair trade certified products if applicable.

Shipping & Customs Information

Shipping Services
  • The majority of stores can arrange shipping for larger items.
  • Inquire about international delivery options if needed.
  • Ensure proper packaging for delicate purchases.
Customs Awareness
  • Be aware of import regulations for your home country regarding goods purchased abroad.
  • Check duty-free allowances before heading to avoid surprises.
  • Keep receipts for all purchases, especially valuable ones, for customs purposes.

Shopping Overview

From old-fashioned markets to artisan workshops and modern boutiques, Lübeck offers a varied shopping experience. Marzipan is the iconic local product.

Activity Planning Summary

Activities

  • Explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town and its historic landmarks.
  • Taste the famous Lübecker Marzipan and consider a workshop.
  • Enjoy river and coastal outdoor activities like boating or beach visits in Travemünde.
  • Discover secret patios, unique shops, and traditional markets.

Practical Tips

  • Book accommodation ahead for peak season, especially summer and Christmas market periods.
  • Use public transport for convenient access to areas outside the Old Town island.
  • Be aware of dining customs and note increased vegetarian/vegan options.
  • Check museum hours, performance schedules, and local festival dates for cultural events.
Things to Do in Lubeck. Activities, Experiences, Adventures