Hamburg, a vibrant city with a rich history, makes an excellent base for exploring the surrounding region. In this blog post, I’ll share three fantastic day trips from Hamburg by train: Lübeck, Lüneburg, and Schwerin Castle.
3 Day Trips From Hamburg:
1. Lubeck Germany – A Hanseatic Gem
Lübeck, a charming Hanseatic city, is just a short train ride from Hamburg. With its well-preserved medieval architecture, picturesque canals, and vibrant atmosphere, Lübeck is a must-visit destination that will steal your heart.
Lübeck was once a powerful member of the Hanseatic League, a medieval trade association that dominated Northern Europe. The city’s wealth and prosperity were largely due to its salt trade, and you can still see evidence of this history in the city’s architecture and infrastructure.
Highlights:
- Holstentor: This iconic gate is a symbol of Lübeck’s Hanseatic past. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city.
- St. Mary’s Church: Admire the stunning Gothic architecture of this 13th-century church.
- Lübeck Old Town: Wander through the narrow streets and admire the colorful buildings of Lübeck’s historic center.
- Buddenbrooks House: Visit the former home of Thomas Mann, the Nobel Prize-winning author of “Buddenbrooks.”
Getting There:
The train journey from Hamburg Central Station to Lübeck takes approximately 45 minutes.
For a full breakdown of what to do check out my blog “Hamburg to Lubeck Germany Day Trip: A City of Brick and Beauty”
2. Lüneburg Germany- A Picturesque Medieval Town
Lüneburg, a picturesque medieval town that escaped the ravages of World War II, offers a charming escape from the hustle and bustle of Hamburg. With its well-preserved historic center, Lüneburg is a delightful place to wander and explore.
Admire the stunning architecture of the Old Town, with its northern German Gothic style brick buildings and cobblestone streets. Don’t miss the Salzstadel, a historic warehouse that’s now a cultural center.
Lüneburg was also once a major center of the salt trade, and you can still see evidence of its past in the city’s architecture and history. Be sure to check out the famous crane along the riverside, a reminder of Lüneburg’s maritime heritage.
Highlights:
- Old Town: Wander through the narrow streets and admire the half-timbered houses.
- Market Square: Visit the bustling market square, surrounded by historic buildings.
- Salt Museum: Learn about Lüneburg’s rich history as a salt-trading town.
- Lüneburg Heath: Take a day trip to the Lüneburg Heath, a vast natural area with beautiful heathland and forests.
Getting There:
The train journey from Hamburg Central Station to Lüneburg takes approximately 1 hour.
For a full breakdown check out my blog “Lüneburg Germany: Day Trip from Hamburg – Discover Hanseatic Charm”
3. Schwerin Castle – A Fairy Tale Castle
Schwerin Castle is one of the most beautiful castles I’ve ever seen! It’s a stunning Renaissance castle located on an island in the Schweriner See. The castle is a must-see for any visitor to the region, and it’s surprisingly affordable and easy to get tickets to.
The castle is a fairytale come to life, with its turrets, towers, and beautiful gardens. I spent hours exploring the castle and taking in the stunning views of the lake. It’s a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a peaceful day out.
I highly recommend adding a Schwerin day trip to your Northern Germany itinerary. It’s a truly magical place that will leave you with lasting memories!
Highlights:
- Schwerin Castle: Explore the magnificent castle and its beautiful gardens.
- Schweriner See: Take a boat tour on the lake and admire the stunning scenery.
- Old Town: Wander through the charming streets of Schwerin’s Old Town.
Getting There:
The train journey from Hamburg Central Station to Schwerin takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
For a full breakdown check out my blog “Hamburg to Schwerin Castle: A Day Trip Packed with History and Charm“
Northern Germany Travel: Hidden Gems
Northern Germany offers a wealth of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. With its charming cities, picturesque landscapes, and rich history, this region is a must-visit for any traveler exploring Germany.
I had an incredible time exploring these three cities during my trip to Hamburg. Each city has its own unique charm and offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking a relaxing getaway, these cities in Germany have it all.
Pro Tip: Buy the Deutschland Ticket
I’m a big fan of the Deutschland Ticket. It’s a great way to save money on train trips in Germany, especially if you’re traveling for a longer period.
For just €49 per person, this ticket unlocks a month of unrestricted regional travel across Germany. It’s perfect for exploring the country at your own pace and taking advantage of all the amazing day trips available.
I bought the Deutschland Ticket and took full advantage of it, exploring various regions and cities throughout my trip. It was a great way to see more of the country and save some money at the same time.
Important Note: The Deutschland Ticket is valid for one calendar month, starting from the first day of the month. So, if you buy it on September 15th, it will only be valid until September 30th.
