Background

Willy Brandt House: A Journey Through German History

Explore the life and legacy of Willy Brandt, Nobel Peace Prize laureate and former German Chancellor, through interactive exhibits and historical artifacts in his childhood home in Lübeck.

4.6

The Willy Brandt House in Lübeck offers a compelling and interactive journey through the life and times of Willy Brandt, the Nobel Peace Prize laureate and former German Chancellor. Housed in a beautifully restored patrician house on Königstraße, the museum uses multimedia exhibits and original artifacts to showcase Brandt's childhood in Lübeck, his resistance against Nazism, his exile in Norway, and his impactful political career, including his time as mayor of Berlin and his efforts to bridge the divide between East and West Germany. Visitors can explore 20th-century German history through Brandt's personal experiences, making it an engaging and educational experience for all ages. Admission is free, making it accessible to everyone wanting to learn about this influential figure and his contributions to peace and democracy. The museum also hosts special events, literature talks, and film screenings, further enriching the visitor experience.

A brief summary to Willy Brandt House, Lübeck

Local tips

  • Take advantage of the free admission to explore the museum's engaging exhibits on Willy Brandt's life and political career.
  • Check the museum's schedule for special events, such as literature talks and film screenings, to enhance your visit.
  • Allow at least two hours to fully experience the museum's multimedia presentations and interactive displays.
  • Visit the museum's garden to see relics from the Berlin Wall and reflect on the division that once separated East and West.
  • Combine your visit with other nearby attractions in Lübeck's Old Town, such as St. Mary's Church and the Günter Grass House.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    The Willy Brandt House is located in the heart of Lübeck's Altstadt (Old Town) on Königstraße 21, making it easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From the Markt (market square), walk east along Breite Straße, then turn right onto Königstraße. The museum will be on your left. Allow approximately 5-10 minutes for a leisurely walk. Landmarks like St. Mary's Church and the Rathaus (Town Hall) are nearby, providing easy orientation.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by train at Lübeck Hauptbahnhof (main train station), take bus lines 1, 11, 12, 30, 8720 or 9 to the 'Königstraße' stop. The Willy Brandt House is a short 1-minute walk from the bus stop. A single ticket for a short trip (Kurzstrecke) costs approximately €1.80. Alternatively, from the Hauptbahnhof, take a bus to 'Sandstraße' or 'Wahmstraße' which are both a 3-minute walk to the museum.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Lübeck Hauptbahnhof to the Willy Brandt House takes approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around €8-€12 for the ride. Simply provide the driver with the address: Königstraße 21, 23552 Lübeck.

  • Driving

    If driving, be aware that parking in Lübeck's Altstadt can be limited and expensive. Consider parking outside the immediate city center and walking or taking public transport. If you choose to drive, the closest parking options are the multi-story car park at Am Holstentor on Wallstraße or the parking area on Mengstraße/Marienkirche. Parking fees typically range from €2-€3 per hour. Alternatively, a larger parking area is available at the Musik- und Kongresshalle on Willy Brandt Allee, a short walk from the Altstadt.

Unlock the Best of Willy Brandt House, Lübeck

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Willy Brandt House, Lübeck

The Willy Brandt House in Lübeck stands as a testament to the life and legacy of one of Germany's most influential political figures. Willy Brandt, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate and former Chancellor, dedicated his life to fostering peace, democracy, and reconciliation in a divided world. This museum, located in his hometown, offers visitors an immersive journey through his remarkable life and the tumultuous events of the 20th century. The museum is housed in a meticulously restored patrician house on Königstraße, a stately avenue in Lübeck's Old Town. The building itself has a rich history, having served as an assembly house for long-distance merchants and later as the seat of the Supreme Court of the Four Free Cities. Its transformation into the Willy Brandt House is a fitting tribute to a man who championed freedom and justice. The permanent exhibition, thoughtfully curated by the German Federal Chancellor Willy Brandt Foundation, unfolds chronologically, guiding visitors through six distinct sections of Brandt's life. The journey begins with his childhood and youth in Lübeck, providing insights into the formative experiences that shaped his values and political convictions. Visitors will learn about his early involvement in the resistance movement against Nazism, his daring escape to Norway by boat, and his years in exile, where he continued to fight for a better world. The exhibition then delves into Brandt's post-war career, highlighting his pivotal role in rebuilding Germany and fostering reconciliation with its neighbors. His time as the governing mayor of Berlin during the Cold War is particularly compelling, showcasing his unwavering commitment to freedom and his defiance in the face of Soviet pressure. Visitors can explore the challenges he faced during the Berlin ultimatum, the construction of the Berlin Wall, and the iconic visit of John F. Kennedy, who famously declared, "Ich bin ein Berliner!" Brandt's tenure as Chancellor of West Germany is also explored in detail, with a focus on his groundbreaking Ostpolitik, a policy of détente and engagement with Eastern Europe. This courageous initiative paved the way for improved relations between East and West Germany and ultimately contributed to the fall of the Berlin Wall and the reunification of Germany. The museum's exhibits are designed to be engaging and accessible to visitors of all ages. Multimedia presentations, interactive displays, and original artifacts bring Brandt's story to life, allowing visitors to connect with his experiences on a personal level. Visitors can sit at a replica of a government bench, stand at a lectern and watch reruns of Brandt's significant speeches. Beyond its role as a museum, the Willy Brandt House also serves as a center for political education, hosting seminars, lectures, and discussions on contemporary issues. It is a place where visitors can reflect on the challenges facing the world today and draw inspiration from Brandt's unwavering commitment to peace, justice, and human rights. The museum's garden features relics from the Berlin Wall, serving as a stark reminder of the division that once separated East and West. The garden provides a tranquil space for reflection and contemplation, allowing visitors to consider the lessons of history and the importance of building a more peaceful and just world. The Willy Brandt House is more than just a museum; it is a living memorial to a man who dedicated his life to making the world a better place. It is a place where visitors can learn about the past, engage with the present, and imagine a brighter future.

Popular Experiences near Willy Brandt House, Lübeck

Popular Hotels near Willy Brandt House, Lübeck

Select Currency