Holstentor: Lübeck's Medieval Gate
Discover the iconic Holstentor in Lübeck, a magnificent medieval gate and UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a captivating journey through Hanseatic history and impressive architecture.
The Holstentor, a magnificent medieval city gate, stands as a proud symbol of Lübeck's rich history and Hanseatic heritage. This iconic landmark, with its distinctive twin towers and imposing structure, once served as a formidable defense and a powerful statement of the city's wealth and independence. Today, it welcomes visitors to Lübeck's charming Altstadt (Old Town), a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the gate's fascinating museum, wander through its arched passageways, and marvel at the intricate details of its architecture. The Holstentor offers a captivating glimpse into Lübeck's past and is a must-see for anyone interested in medieval history, impressive architecture, and the legacy of the Hanseatic League. Its picturesque setting makes it a perfect spot for photos and a memorable start to your Lübeck adventure.
A brief summary to Holstentor square
- Holstentorplatz, Lübeck, Lübecker Altstadt, 23552, DE
- +494511224129
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds, especially during peak tourist season.
- Take a walk around the Holstentorplatz to appreciate the gate from different angles and capture stunning photos.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the Trave River and explore the nearby Salzspeicher (salt warehouses) for a complete Lübeck experience.
Getting There
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Walking
From Lübeck Hauptbahnhof (main train station), the Holstentor is approximately a 10-15 minute walk. Exit the station and head straight, following the signs towards the Altstadt (Old Town). Walk along Konrad-Adenauer-Platz, cross the Puppenbrücke bridge over the Trave River, and continue straight. You'll see the Holstentor directly ahead. No costs involved.
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Public Transport
From Lübeck Hauptbahnhof, you can take bus lines 1, 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 11, 12, 16, 30, 31, 32, 39 or 40 to the 'Holstentorplatz' bus stop. The ride is very short. From the bus stop, the Holstentor is just a few steps away. A single ticket costs around €2-3.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from Lübeck Hauptbahnhof to the Holstentor will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around €8-12 for the ride.
Discover more about Holstentor square
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lübecker Löwen
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Puppenbrücke
0.2 km
Cross Lübeck's historic Puppenbrücke, adorned with captivating statues, and step into a world where art, history, and Hanseatic charm converge in a picturesque setting.
St. Peter's Church
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Bismarckdenkmal
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Discover the Bismarckdenkmal in Lübeck, a historical landmark celebrating the legacy of Otto von Bismarck amidst serene gardens, offering a glimpse into Germany's past.
Reliefkarte von Lübeck
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The Broken Bells Of St. Mary's
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Witness history etched in shattered bells at Lübeck's St. Mary's Church, a powerful memorial to peace within a Brick Gothic masterpiece, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Marktplatz Lübeck
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Discover Lübeck's Marktplatz: a historic square in the heart of the Altstadt, surrounded by stunning architecture and steeped in Hanseatic history, offering a vibrant cultural experience.
Marienkirche
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Stadtgraben
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Discover Lübeck's Stadtgraben: A historic moat turned tranquil park, offering scenic views and a glimpse into the city's medieval past along the Altstadt.
Palais Rantzau - ein Haus der Deutschen Stiftung Denkmalschutz
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Church of St. Lawrence
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Discover a peaceful retreat at St. Lawrence Church in Lübeck, a welcoming house of worship offering a serene escape and a glimpse into the local community's spiritual life.
Lübecker Altstadt
0.7 km
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Lübeck Altstadt
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Koberg
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Discover Koberg in Lübeck: A captivating square where medieval architecture meets Hanseatic history, offering a unique glimpse into the city's rich cultural heritage.
Burgtor in Lübeck
1.2 km
Discover the Burgtor in Lübeck: a historic northern gate, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, and a gateway to the city's Hanseatic past and vibrant present.
Unmissable attractions to see
Museum Holstentor
0.1 km
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Salzspeicher
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Haus Senkbeil
0.3 km
Experience the rich heritage and stunning architecture of Haus Senkbeil in Lübeck's historic Altstadt, a must-visit tourist attraction.
Wasserspiele Obertrave
0.3 km
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Hansestadt Lübeck Bronze
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Wasserspiele Breite Straße
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Stadtverwaltung Hansestadt Lübeck
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Malerwinkel
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Marzipanmuseum Niederegger
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Wasserspiele Klingenberg
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Buddenbrookhaus
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Stitens Almshouse
0.5 km
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Wassertreppe Lübeck
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Lübeck Cathedral
0.8 km
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Museumshafen Lübeck
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Essential places to dine
L'Osteria
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BLOCK HOUSE
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Kartoffelspeicher
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Potters Restaurant
0.2 km
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Ristorante San Remo
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Restaurant am Holstentor Lübeck
0.2 km
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Lübecker Hanse - Lübeck
0.2 km
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Thana Asia Restaurant
0.3 km
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Brauberger zu Lübeck
0.3 km
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Stadtschänke
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Seewolf
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Buddha Bowl - Lübeck
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Schabbelhaus zu Lübeck
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Merhaba - Lübeck
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Restaurant Lübke's Speicher - Lübeck
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Between
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TWEEN MODE - Lübeck
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NEW YORKER
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BlueBrixx Store Lübeck
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Marc O'Polo
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KULT
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TALLY WEiJL
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TK Maxx
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Wicky Lübeck
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Lübeck Laden
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Boutique Armoni
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Haerder-Center
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Your Style- Man Store
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Flying Tiger Copenhagen
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Principessa - Geschenkartikel & Wohnaccessoires
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Dietrich's Bar - Luebeck
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Caffe Grande Barcio
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Lulu's Pub
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Mac Thomas - Lübeck
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Funambules - Lübeck
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sZiggy's Bar
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Discover the inviting atmosphere and delightful drinks at sZiggy's Bar, a must-visit spot in Lübeck's historic district for every traveler.
Finnegan Lübeck
0.4 km
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Gang No. 56 - Lübeck
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Time Out | Sportsbar • Restaurant • Cocktails
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MENGwirtschaft
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Roberts Kneipe - Lübeck
0.5 km
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Blauer Engel - Lübeck
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Unklar Bar - Lübeck
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Bar 112 - Lübeck
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Bierbar Uhu
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