Type: Architecture, Free Time, History, Walking
Length: 5 Hours
Walking: Medium (lots of walking on cobblestone streets)
Mobility: NO wheelchairs
Guide: Licensed Guide
Language: English

Wismar Shore Excursion - This tour visits the charming medieval old town of Lubeck with its famous Holsten Gate. You enjoy an historical walking tour where you learn about the Hanseatic League and explore hidden alleyways most visitors don't see.

After meeting you guide you immediately depart for the old island town of Lubeck, which is surrounded by the river Trave and a man-made shipping channel. Lubeck was a member of the Hanseatic League, a sort of merchant association set up in Northern Germany and the Baltic Region. In the middle ages it was very dangerous for ships to travel alone so merchants banded together to form a great power.

Lubeck was also a Free Imperial City which meant it was free from rule by the Holy Roman Empire, Lubeck is steeped in history and tradition, and is simply beautiful. Today you will see proud old patrician houses and redbrick churches which are typical in the Baltic region.

Upon arrival in Lubeck you enjoy the medieval ambiance during your walking tour of the old town with its well-known Holsten Gate. This landmark is an original city gate and one of the few relics of the old city fortress. Your tour includes a visit to St. Marien Church, whose tower looms of the towns skyline. You also see the Gothic Town Hall, the oldest one in Germany.

A hidden highlight for many people is the Fuechtingshof, one of the quaintest alleys in town. Lubeck has 82 hidden alleyways which are closed from the main streets by gates. However your guide can provide access to them so you can see how locals lived for hundreds of years.

At the end of the walking tour you have free time to explore or have a quick lunch. Perhaps you will want to taste the world famous Lubecker Marzipan at Cafe Niederegger. These sweet treats are well known throughout Europe and originated from Lubeck.

Later today you return to Wismar with sweet memories of this historical city.