Camping in Lübeck

Camping in Lübeck means camping in one of the most exciting regions on the German Baltic coast. The former Hanseatic city with its magnificent architecture, narrow medieval alleyways and beautiful old town island is a great destination for a city trip. The numerous beautifully situated campsites in the area are the perfect base for exploring Lübeck.

Camping in Lübeck: All important information at a glance

With a good 215,000 inhabitants, Lübeck is one of the most important centres in the northern German state of Schleswig-Holstein. Above all, its proximity to the Baltic Sea makes the former stronghold of the Hanseatic League an irresistible magnet for many campers - which is precisely why there are numerous great campsites in the surrounding area.

If you want to immerse yourself in the cultural wealth of the city, it's best to look for one of the campsites on the banks of the River Trave. In the immediate vicinity of the Baltic Sea, campers get plenty of peace and nature, yet are not far from the city centre - perfect for a relaxed city break without the hustle and bustle and stress of the big city.

The landscape on the River Trave is completely influenced by the Baltic Sea and is ideal for camping. Even at the height of summer, it doesn't get too hot because there is always a fine breeze of fresh sea air and the fresh air ensures a good night's sleep. Of course, only if the campers are not distracted by the marvellous starry sky...

A little further away, but still well connected to Lübeck city centre, are the numerous campsites in the Bay of Lübeck. Over 55 kilometres of fine beaches make camping holidays a real treat, especially in summer. Some of the most beautiful campsites on the entire Baltic Sea coast can be found here, including the popular holiday resort of Timmendorfer Strand.

In addition to traditional campsites, there are also pitches for motorhomes in the Lübeck area. From here, you can go on perfect day trips and return to the cosy atmosphere of your own mobile home in the evening. Mobile homes and tent pitches are also available to rent on most sites if you are travelling without a motorhome.

Depending on the location, many of the campsites are either on the beach or close to the Baltic Sea. This is a real relief after an exciting day in the city. Get off the road and into the freedom of nature. Holidaymakers can chat with their neighbours about their experiences of the day. And those who aren't tired yet can spontaneously make their way to the Baltic Sea and end the day on the sandy beach.

Top campsites in Lübeck and the surrounding area

Here are our campsite recommendations for campers planning a trip to Lübeck and the surrounding area of the Hanseatic city: Travemünde-Ivendorf campsite: Family-friendly site at Skandinavienkai on the Baltic Sea with a natural swimming pool and 200 pitches - Lübeck-Schönböcken campsite: Campsite close to the city with a children's playground, free Wi-Fi and modern sanitary facilities - Ostseecamp Lübecker Bucht: Centrally located in the heart of the Bay of Lübeck and just a few minutes from a fine sandy beach. - Campingplatz Südstrand: Great campsite by the sea with fantastic views of the Baltic Sea and a recommended café. - Campingplatz Elfenschlucht: Wonderful small and quiet campsite on a natural cliff with probably the best view of the Bay of Lübeck.

Compulsory visitor's tax for campers in Lübeck-Travemünde

The Lübeck district of Travemünde is a health resort and seaside spa and charges a spa tax for the use of green spaces, paths and squares. The spa tax is charged in addition to the costs for overnight stays at the campsite and amounts to 2.80 euros per day in the high season (15 May - 14 September) and 1.40 euros in the rest of the year. Use of the beaches is included in the fee.

Camping in Lübeck with a dog: What should I bear in mind?

Bringing dogs or other pets is generally not a problem on the campsites in Lübeck - regardless of whether you are travelling with a motorhome, caravan or tent or staying in rented accommodation. However, there are restrictions on the beaches: In the high season in summer, dogs are not allowed on popular beaches such as Timmendorfer Strand. However, there are 6 dog beaches spread across the Bay of Lübeck. This makes it easy to find a nice spot for you and your four-legged friend.

How to get to Lübeck

To get to Lübeck and Travemünde quickly and easily by campervan, the following routes are recommended for motorhome travellers:

• From the north: A7 motorway from Flensburg, A1 motorway from Puttgarden
• From the east: A20 from Rostock, A24 from Berlin, then change to the A1 in Hamburg
• From the south: A7 from Hanover, then change to the A1 in Hamburg
• From the west: A1 from Bremen

The most beautiful destinations in Lübeck and the surrounding area

Lübeck is not just a great city that is best explored on an extended stroll through the town. There are also a number of beautiful destinations in the surrounding area that are easily accessible from most campsites.

The Baltic Sea spa town of Lübeck-Travemünde is particularly attractive with its lively Trave promenade. Another beautiful destination for campers in the Bay of Lübeck is Grömitz in Ostholstein. Here, campers can spend relaxing hours in an idyllic location on the Wagrien peninsula.

For culture fans, the municipality of Scharbeutz is well worth a visit. In addition to the regional museum, the main sights include the Old Watermill and the Garkau estate in Klingsberg with its impressive Bauhaus architecture. Thanks to Lake Pönitz and a long, fine sandy beach, the campsites in Scharbeutz are also an excellent spot for water sports enthusiasts, especially sailors and divers.

Timmendorfer Strand is also one of the most popular holiday destinations in the Lübeck area. Campers can enjoy an impressive natural experience here in a landscape that is entirely characterised by the Ice Age. The hilly terrain here is repeatedly interrupted by lakes and the so-called Knicks - wall-like hedges of trees and shrubs.

Top sights in Lübeck

The most beautiful sight in Lübeck is the very well-preserved, medieval old town of Lübeck. In 1987, it was the first historic centre in Northern Europe to be declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Magnificent town houses and small alleyways characterise the city just as much as monumental buildings or the city's typical corridors and courtyards.

Lübeck's landmark is the Holsten Gate, which was built in the second half of the 15th century and still serves as the entrance to the city centre today. Other buildings that shape the city's identity are the town hall, St Mary's Church and the cathedral, which all bear witness to the Gothic style and impress with their pointed arches and numerous gables.

In addition to the large representative buildings with which the Hanseatic city openly displayed its power and wealth, the many town houses are also a sign of the great prosperity that prevailed in the city. Some of these town houses now function as museums in Lübeck and can therefore also be viewed from the inside.

Of particular interest is the Buddenbrookhaus, which is the birthplace of the brothers Thomas and Heinrich Mann. The building houses an exhibition about the two writers. The Günter Grass Centre, which was founded in honour of this famous writer from Lübeck, is located in a former town house. A visit to the European Hansemuseum is also an informative experience.

Activities and excursions for campers

Discover Lübeck

When camping in Lübeck, guests can look forward to a varied programme that promises excitement whatever the weather. Discovering Lübeck by bike is particularly easy. The city can be easily criss-crossed by bike - a tour along the Trave canals and today's green ramparts is particularly attractive. A city tour in Lübeck is also ideal for admiring the hidden sights and following in the fascinating footsteps of the old Hanseatic League. Another real highlight is the harbour tour by boat through the port of Travemünde.

The attractive surrounding area

In addition to the wider Baltic Sea coast, the Ratzeburg lake district is particularly recommended in the surrounding area. The landscape to the south-east of Lübeck offers great nature and holidaymakers can explore the numerous lakes by kayak or on attractive cycle paths.

A programme for rainy days

In the event that holidaymakers catch a rainy day or two, they can enjoy a relaxing visit to the thermal baths near Lübeck. The Holstein-Thermen in Bad Schwartau or the Ostsee-Therme in Scharbeutz in particular guarantee cosy relaxation. Travellers can also treat themselves to some peace and quiet in a sauna in Lübeck, which is a wonderful way to switch off and unwind.

The Lübeck swimming pools or the various cinemas in Lübeck offer an exciting family day out. A unique film programme awaits holidaymakers at Koki - the municipal cinema, which also functions as an exhibition venue for film art. In particular, holidaymakers can watch films that are not supported by large production companies in the cinema. Lübeck's indoor climbing centres are ideal for sporting activities whatever the weather.

events

May

• Bathing: On the second weekend in May, the Baltic Sea on Travemünde beach is traditionally declared open by Lübeck's mayor and all the die-hards then plunge into the cold water to the cheers of countless spectators. A lively festival with live music and numerous food and drink stalls has also become established around this highlight of the bathing season.

August

• Duckstein Festival: A ten-day street festival held at the beginning of August on the banks of the River Trave not far from the Old Town. The festival focuses on the diverse culture and delicious culinary specialities on offer. In addition to the musical performances by many singers and bands, the international street theatre is a highlight of these days.
• Lübeck Museum Night: This always takes place on the last weekend in August and transforms the city into a cultural metropolis. Interesting lectures and panel discussions, dance, theatre and music performances or new exhibitions impress the numerous guests.

October

• Lübeck Marathon: Since 2008, the Lübeck Marathon has been held annually at the beginning of October in the Hanseatic city and takes runners through the old town, along the banks of the River Trave to the Baltic Sea and back again. In addition to the marathon, the event, which attracts over 4,000 athletes in total, also organises a half marathon, a family run and a school run.

December

• Lübeck Christmas market: The Christmas market in Lübeck is a traditional event that has been held in the city since the 17th century, opens on the Sunday of the dead and brings the old town to life until 30 December. 150 different stalls fascinate visitors with very different themes such as a fairytale forest or an arts and crafts market.
• In the morning, the River Trave invites you to take a stroll through Lübeck's Old Town. Here you can enjoy a cosy breakfast or take a leisurely stroll through the alleyways. Afterwards, travellers can enjoy the interesting cultural programme in the old Hanseatic city and visit museums, exhibitions or impressive architecture.

Gastronomic highlights for campers

When camping in Lübeck, guests can indulge in the delights of North German cuisine and benefit from the region's many culinary specialities. Due to its proximity to the coast, fish dishes are particularly popular in the region and every snack bar offers a matjes roll as well as the classic chips. However, the city's most famous dish is Lübeck National - a hearty stew with bacon, asparagus and carrots.

However, the former trading centre is most famous for Lübeck marzipan, which has been produced locally since the beginning of the 16th century. Since a dozen marzipan factories were built in the 19th century at the latest, Lübeck marzipan has spread around the world and is now a registered trademark. In the Marzipan Salon on the second floor of the Café Niederegger, travellers can find out more interesting information about the sweet delicacy.

Another local speciality is Lübeck Rotspon - a red wine originating from Bordeaux, which is given a very special and very popular flavour through special storage. Lübeck and the seaside resort of Travemünde, which belongs to the city, also boast several Michelin-starred restaurants. Lübeck has been able to call itself a Fairtrade city since 2012, as the city's restaurants, cafés and local retailers all support fair trade.

Weather and best time to go camping in Lübeck

Lübeck is a suitable destination for a camping holiday all year round, as even the cooler seasons at the Baltic Sea have their own charm. However, those who prefer a warmer climate for camping should travel in July and August - the maximum temperatures then average up to 23 degrees.

In general, the best weather in Lübeck and Travemünde is in June, July, August and September. The coldest month is January, which is only recommended for hardy campers. Most of the rain falls in July and December - so you should bring suitable rainwear in these months.