Hanseatic Lubeck & Brewery

Immerse yourself in the historical and architecture splendor of Lubeck, a remarkably scenic city founded in 1143 on the Baltic coast of northern Germany. After departing from the pier, you will settle in for a leisurely 90 minute drive to Lubeck, a major trading center of the Hanseatic League that once controlled commerce here. Despite damage from World War II, many of Lubeck’s important buildings survived, earning the Old Town of the city a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation for its historical urban character. The basic structure of the Old City remains unaltered, including its 15th- and 16th-century patrician houses, churches and salt storehouses on the Trave River. You will enter Lubeck’s original downtown through the iconic Holstentor gate and then cross the picturesque River Trave before you will discover such highlights as the historic Holy Ghost Hospital, the best-preserved medieval hospital in Germany. St. Jacob´s Church, easily recognized by its four spherical globes, was built for seamen who needed a place to worship. Continuing on, you will pass by the St. Mary’s Church. The brick basilica is so distinctive it served as the model for other Gothic-style churches throughout the Baltic. Another stop will be made at the Brewery Brauberger, where you can linger over a stein of beer, learn about the brewing process and crunch on a pretzel. Incredibly, Lubeck was home to about 180 breweries in 1450, but Brauberger is one of the few that remains. Nearby, you will also find the Rathaus, one of the oldest town halls in Germany. Its distinctive blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles make it a must-see destination. Finally, you will enjoy a bit of free time to stroll about on your own and perhaps grab a quick bite to eat before its time to rejoin your coach and return to the pier.