Cobbled streets and Gothic architecture make Luneburg one of Germany’s most charming towns. Get lost in the winding streets of the medieval Old Town and admire colourful topsy-turvy buildings with gabled roofs. Despite its medieval past, a lively student population gives Luneburg an upbeat feel, with plenty of cafes, bars and taverns to visit.
Things to do in Luneburg
Strolling around the medieval Old Town is one of the best ways to enjoy Luneburg. You’ll stumble across streets like Auf dem Meere, a postcard-perfect thoroughfare lined with centuries-old townhouses. Other roads lead to Rathaus, the city’s stunning Baroque town hall. Guided tours take you behind the scenes of the iconic building, which is topped by an enormous steeple.
In the heart of the Old Town, Am Sande Square is lined with beautiful red-brick buildings constructed in the Gothic style. Many of the ground floor shopfronts house al fresco cafes where you can enjoy coffee and cake in the sunshine.
The German Salt Museum occupies the former Luneburg Saltworks factory and introduces you to the city’s most famous export. You’ll learn about the history of salt mining and how “white gold” made Luneburg one of the wealthiest cities in medieval Europe. As you stroll around the city, you’ll notice many of the buildings lean, a result of centuries of mining.
From trendy brunch cafes to farm-to-table restaurants, Luneburg offers plenty of dining options. Don’t miss Gasthausbrauerei und Brennerei Nolte if you’re a beer aficionado. The brewery has been bottling Pilsners and distilling schnapps since 1906. On a sunny day, the beer garden is the place to be.
Getting around Luneburg
Luneburg is compact and easy to get around on foot, with much of the Old Town pedestrianised. The town is a 40-minute drive from Hamburg and 1.5 hours from Bremen. Frequent trains run between Luneburg Station and both major cities.