Weekend in Lübeck

The iconic brick gate that marked the western entrance to the Hanseatic city. You can walk through it and view the outside any time.

Tip: Visit at low tide along the Trave river behind the gate for the best reflection photos without crowds.

14th-century brick gate with twin towers, the most famous symbol of the old Hanseatic city.

Tip: Admire the exterior from the square in front. For free, read the Latin inscription on the side: 'Concordia domi foris pax' meaning harmony inside, peace outside.

A vast Gothic brick church with soaring vaults. The interior is free to enter; look for the broken bells from a WWII bombing displayed on the floor.

Tip: Go early morning before 10am to avoid tour group noise. The astronomical clock (replica of original) chimes at noon.

The iconic twin-towered brick gate, symbol of Lübeck's medieval Hanseatic wealth. You can wander around its exterior and courtyard for free; a small museum inside costs a few euros.

Tip: Come early morning to avoid crowds and get a clear photo without tour groups. The view from the bridge opposite is best.

Third-tallest brick church in the world, with a stunning Gothic nave. Has the largest brick vault in Germany. Damaged in WWII, the bell has been left on the floor as a memorial.

Tip: Climb the tower for panoramic views (small fee, but worth it). On clear days you can see the Baltic.

Massive Gothic brick church and one of the tallest in the Baltic region, with original medieval art and a famous astronomical clock.

Tip: Free entry to the main church. Look for the broken bells on the floor from the 1942 air raid — they kept them as a memory. Skip the paid tower climb unless you want the view over rooftop.

The third-largest church in Germany, a towering red-brick Gothic masterpiece. The interior is free to enter, with famous medieval art, the Danse Macabre, and bomb-damaged bells from 1942 still lying i

Tip: Walk past the main nave to the southern chapel – you'll spot a small model of the church made from matchsticks. Also listen for the hourly carillon.

Remnants of the medieval city fortifications now turned into a green park circling the old town, with walking paths, moats and bastions.

Tip: Start at the Holstentor and walk clockwise along the moat past the old mills and towers. In summer you can paddle small boats on the Wakenitz river near the southern end.

A warren of narrow lanes and tiny courtyard houses built for artisans in the 17th-19th centuries. Wander through passages off Engelsgrube and Fleischhauerstraße.

Tip: Print a map from the tourist office (free) – the alleys don't follow street signs. Try 'Hüxstraße' exit for a beer garden.

Oldest building in the city (12th century), with a massive double spire. The interior is plain but striking, with a huge cross and intricate pulpit.

Tip: Check for free organ concerts on Saturday afternoons. The best light for photos is around 4pm in winter.