Holsten Gate (Holstentor)

The Basics

As the city’s most visible icon, the Holsten Gate plays a starring role on most Lübeck tours. Visit the museum, which includes historic ship models and suits of armour, or get an intimate look at the surrounding area on a walking tour, which typically also include notable sights such as the Town Hall and the acid-green spires of St. Mary’s Church. You can even make a game of exploring on family-friendly scavenger hunt.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Holsten Gate is popular with history buffs—and with art lovers who recognize the gate from Andy Warhol’s print of it.

• Pre-book admission tickets online to avoid queues.

• For a great view of the landmark from the outside, head to the Lubeck Welcome Center.

How to Get There

The Holsten Gate is about a 10-minute walk from Lübeck’s central station. All of the Old Town’s top attractions are located inside the city walls and within easy walking distance of the gate.

When to Get There

In winter, between January and March, the Holsten Gate museum is open Tuesday-Sunday. From April through December, it is open daily.

City of Seven Spires

With its striking Gothic architecture and abundance of spires, Lubeck’s Old Town—which boasts the title of Germany’s largest historic center—is a striking UNESCO World Heritage site. After seeing the Holsten Gate, visit other highlights, including the turreted Hospital of the Holy Spirit, the 12th-century Lübeck Cathedral, and the niche Museum of Theatre Puppets.