Holstentor: Lübeck's Medieval Gateway
Discover Lübeck's iconic Holstentor, a medieval gate and UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a glimpse into the city's Hanseatic past and architectural grandeur.
The Holstentor, a striking red-brick city gate, stands as a proud symbol of Lübeck's rich Hanseatic history. Built in 1464, this iconic structure, with its distinctive twin towers and arched entrance, once served as a key part of the city's medieval fortifications. Today, it houses the Holstentor Museum, offering visitors a glimpse into Lübeck's past as a powerful trading hub. Its slightly leaning facade and robust construction tell tales of resilience and strength, making it a must-see landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Holstentor is more than just a gate; it's a journey back in time, inviting you to explore the legacy of a city that once dominated trade in Northern Europe.
A brief summary to Holstentor square
- Holstentorplatz, Lübeck, Lübecker Altstadt, 23552, DE
- +494511224129
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit the Holstentor Museum inside the gate to learn about Lübeck's history as a Hanseatic trading hub.
- Climb one of the Holstentor towers for panoramic views of Lübeck's Old Town.
- Explore Holstentorplatz, the square surrounding the gate, for cultural events and a vibrant atmosphere.
Getting There
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Walking
From Lübeck Hauptbahnhof (main train station), the Holstentor is approximately a 10-minute walk. Exit the station towards the city center and follow the signs for 'Holstentor' or 'Altstadt' (Old Town). The gate is visible from a distance. Walk straight along the street, cross the Puppenbrücke (Dolls Bridge) over the Trave River, and you'll arrive at Holstentorplatz.
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Public Transport
From Lübeck Hauptbahnhof, several bus lines stop at Holstentorplatz. Check local transit schedules (Stadtverkehr Lübeck) for the most up-to-date information. A short-distance ticket ('Kurzstrecke') is sufficient for this ride. The cost is around €2.00. Bus lines 5, 9, and 50 will take you to Holstentorplatz.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from Lübeck Hauptbahnhof to the Holstentor takes about 5 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is between €8 and €12. The drop-off point is usually on Possehlstraße, near Holstentorplatz.
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Driving
If driving, be aware that parking in the immediate vicinity of the Holstentor is limited and can be expensive. Consider parking in one of the larger parking garages slightly further out, such as the multi-story car park 'Am Holstentor' (Possehlstraße 1). Hourly rates are around €2.50, and a day pass costs approximately €12.50.
Discover more about Holstentor square
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lübecker Löwen
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Puppenbrücke
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Reliefkarte von Lübeck
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The Broken Bells Of St. Mary's
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Stadtgraben
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Palais Rantzau - ein Haus der Deutschen Stiftung Denkmalschutz
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Lübecker Altstadt
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Lübeck Altstadt
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Koberg
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Burgtor in Lübeck
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Klughafenbrücke
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Jerusalemsberg
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Gedenkstätte Jerusalemsberg
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Unmissable attractions to see
Museum Holstentor
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Salzspeicher
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Promenade an der Obertrave
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Das älteste Haus Lübecks
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St. Petri (Kultur- und Universitätskirche) Lübeck
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St. Peter's Church
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Wasserspiele Obertrave
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Hansestadt Lübeck Bronze
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Marktplatz Lübeck
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Markt
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Kaak
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Wasserspiele Breite Straße
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Stadtverwaltung Hansestadt Lübeck
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Marienkirche
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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
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Ristorante San Remo
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Restaurant am Holstentor Lübeck
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Lübecker Hanse - Lübeck
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Thana Asia Restaurant
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Brauberger zu Lübeck
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Stadtschänke
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Seewolf
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Buddha Bowl - 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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NEW YORKER
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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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Haerder-Center
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Flying Tiger Copenhagen
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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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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MENGwirtschaft
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Unklar Bar - Lübeck
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Bar 112 - Lübeck
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Bierbar Uhu
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