Burgtor
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Burgtor

4.6
·1k reviews·Lübeck, Germany

Lübeck's oldest medieval city gate, a historic sentinel with impressive brickwork and attached city walls.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Burgtor

Burgtor

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Lübeck's oldest medieval city gate, a historic sentinel with impressive brickwork and attached city walls.

4.6
(1k reviews)

"Probably the most impressive building I saw in Lubeck because it can be viewed in situ."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶 Walk from City Center

It's a pleasant 10-minute walk from Lübeck's central areas to reach Burgtor. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Capture the Night View

The gate is stunning when lit up at night. Don't miss it! :iphone:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Medieval Gateway

The Medieval Gateway

Northern entrance to Lübeck's Old Town

Lübeck's oldest surviving city gate, a magnificent brick structure from the 15th century.

Attached City Walls

Attached City Walls

North of Lübeck's Old Town

Impressive sections of the original medieval city wall still connected to the gate, offering a glimpse into past defenses.

Evening Ambiance

Evening Ambiance

Lübeck Old Town

The gate is beautifully illuminated at night, creating a stunning contrast against the dark sky.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Burgtor

While Burgtor is less crowded than the famous Holstentor, visiting during off-peak hours ensures a more intimate experience. Consider early mornings or late afternoons to avoid the few tour groups and enjoy the medieval atmosphere without the hustle.

Exploring the Surroundings

Burgtor is a gateway to Lübeck's old town, and much of its charm lies in its integration with the remaining city walls. Plan to walk around the area to appreciate its historical context and the attached sections of the medieval fortifications.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light, peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Magical illuminated views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🏰 Durch das Burgtor – Velburg von oben erleben Ein schmaler Pfad, ein letzter Anstieg, und dann öffnet sich der Blick: Die Burg Velburg, auf ihrem Berg thronend, mit Blick über Ort und Landschaft. Der Moment, durch das Burgtor zu treten, ist wie ein Schritt durch die Zeit – ruhig, mächtig, geschichtsträchtig. Und rundherum? Nur Sonne, Stein und Weite. ✨ Warst du schon mal auf einer Burg, die dic...
eifelfranke
84 likes • 453 views

🚶 Walk from City Center

It's a pleasant 10-minute walk from Lübeck's central areas to reach Burgtor. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Capture the Night View

The gate is stunning when lit up at night. Don't miss it! :iphone:

Burgtor 🏛️ 📍Lübeck, Germany #lübeck #djimini3pro #travel #traveltheworld #drohne
hani.dawoud
1.2K likes • 27.4K views
BURGTOR-the only city gate in Thun still standing and preserved today. If you look closely, you will find a walled-up tracery window from around 1280 in the city wall above the gate, possibly from the former ossuary chapel. 📍Schlossberg, Thun, Switzerland🇨🇭 Burgtor is located on the Schlossberg and is listed as Swiss cultural property of national significance. When visiting Schlossberg, it’s...
mimi_kocic
49 likes • 2.5K views

🧐 Explore the Walls

Much of the old city wall is still attached, offering a more complete medieval feel. :world_map:

💡 Seek Out Stories

If excursions are available, hearing the history of Burgtor is highly recommended. :bulb:

Das Stösschen – klein, aber oho! 🍻 Ursprünglich in Dortmund am Burgtor geboren, um den wartenden Leuten an der Schranke schnell ein Bier zu bringen. Heute ist es aus den Kneipen der Stadt nicht mehr wegzudenken. Wo trinkt ihr am liebsten euer Stösschen? 🍻 #Dortmund #Kneipe #DortmunderKronen Anzeige
prettywiselovebird
385 likes • 17.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶 Walk from City Center

It's a pleasant 10-minute walk from Lübeck's central areas to reach Burgtor. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Capture the Night View

The gate is stunning when lit up at night. Don't miss it! :iphone:

🧐 Explore the Walls

Much of the old city wall is still attached, offering a more complete medieval feel. :world_map:

💡 Seek Out Stories

If excursions are available, hearing the history of Burgtor is highly recommended. :bulb:

✨ Less Crowded Gem

Often overlooked for Holstentor, Burgtor offers a more tranquil experience. :star:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Burgtor to be a beautiful and impressive medieval city gateway, often appreciating its historical authenticity and the attached sections of the old city wall. While less famous than Holstentor, its charm lies in its less crowded atmosphere and its integration into the urban landscape. The evening illumination is a particular highlight.

"Beautiful place! A must see when you are visiting Lübeck!
In the evening the lights are creating a stunning contrast between the dark sky and the Gate.
If there are any excursions available to hear the story of the Burgtor, I would definitely recommend it."

Bunny Flop

"I really liked it here! Everything is done just right, in perfect style."

Roman Trač

"I didn't go inside the building but it is a beautiful medieval city gateway. Built of brick in the fifteenth century the gate still has large sections of the city wall attached, which is also impressive. It is a lovely area to walk around and a very grand building with beautiful windows still and lots of ornate stone work. Probably the most impressive building I saw in Lubeck because it can be viewed in situ, where the Holstentor Gate is an isolated building."

Marcus Hurley

What People Like

Impressive medieval architecture
Attached city walls
Less crowded than Holstentor

What People Dislike

Less popular than Holstentor

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Burgtor is conveniently located at the northern entrance of Lübeck's old town. It's a pleasant and easy 10-minute walk from the main city center, making it accessible on foot. :athletic_shoe: Many visitors find this stroll a great way to start exploring the historic area. Reddit

While walking is recommended, several bus lines stop near the northern part of the old town, bringing you within a short walk of Burgtor. Check local Lübeck transport schedules for the most convenient routes. :bus:

Driving directly to Burgtor can be challenging due to its location within the historic old town, which often has restricted traffic. It's best to park in a designated city center car park and walk. :car:

Yes, Burgtor is part of the historic old town and is a gateway to its many attractions. It's a good starting point for exploring the northern section of the UNESCO World Heritage site. :world_map:

The best way is to walk! Explore the attached sections of the city wall and wander through the charming streets of the old town that Burgtor guards. :walking:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Burgtor is a historic city gate and is visible from the outside. Entry to walk around the exterior and admire its architecture is free. :ticket:

While not always advertised, guided tours focusing on Lübeck's history sometimes include Burgtor. Keep an eye out for local tour operators or inquire at the tourist information center. Hearing the stories is highly recommended! :bulb: Reddit

As an exterior landmark, Burgtor is accessible at all times. However, the surrounding areas and any potential interior access (if available for special events) would have specific hours. :clock:

The sections of the city wall attached to Burgtor are generally part of the public streetscape and do not have a separate entrance fee. :moneywithwings:

Typically, Burgtor is viewed from the outside. However, special events or historical open days might offer limited access to climb parts of the tower or explore interior spaces. :door:

📸 📸 Photography

For stunning photos, aim for early morning or late afternoon light. The evening, when the gate is illuminated, offers a dramatic and beautiful contrast. :camerawithflash: Reddit

Try capturing the gate from the front to showcase its grandeur, but also walk around to photograph it with sections of the attached city wall for a more complete historical context. :iphone:

Drone usage in historic city centers like Lübeck is often restricted due to privacy and safety regulations. Always check local ordinances before flying a drone. :drone:

Absolutely! The illuminated Burgtor at night is a highlight. The lights create a magical atmosphere and a striking visual. :star2:

Its impressive medieval brick architecture, the integration with the old city walls, and its role as a gateway to the historic town make it very photogenic. :camera:

🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture

Burgtor was constructed in the 15th century, making it the oldest of Lübeck's former city gates. :calendar:

It served as the northern city gate of Lübeck's medieval fortifications, controlling access to the city. It was built when Lübeck was a powerful capital of the Hanseatic League. :shield:

Its impressive brick construction and the significant portions of the original medieval city wall still attached to it are key architectural features. :building_construction:

While Holstentor is more famous and isolated, Burgtor is older and retains more of its original context with attached city walls, offering a different, perhaps more authentic, medieval feel. :scales:

Yes, Burgtor marks a historical entry point into Lübeck's old town, which was a major trading hub of the Hanseatic League. The surrounding area is steeped in centuries of history. :scroll:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Burgtor offers a tangible connection to history that can spark children's imaginations. The sheer scale of the medieval gate and the remnants of the city walls can make history feel exciting and real. Encourage them to imagine knights and guards protecting the city. The walk from the city center is also a good opportunity for kids to burn off some energy before reaching the site. :running_child:

While there isn't a dedicated playground, the open spaces around the gate and the adjacent old town streets provide room for exploration. Consider bringing a small history book or app that features medieval castles and gates to enhance their understanding and engagement. :book:

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Burgtor presents a fantastic opportunity for photographers, especially those interested in historical architecture. The 15th-century brickwork, the integration with the old city walls, and the imposing structure itself are highly photogenic. Instagram Aim for the 'golden hour' during sunrise or sunset for dramatic lighting that accentuates the textures and details of the gate. Reddit Don't miss the chance to capture it at night when it's beautifully illuminated, offering a completely different, atmospheric perspective. InstagramReddit

Experiment with different angles to showcase the gate's grandeur and its connection to the surrounding wall. Capturing the gate as a gateway to the old town, with its charming streets visible beyond, can also make for compelling shots. Remember to check local regulations regarding drone photography if you plan to use one. :camerawithflash:

🚶 Solo Travelers

Burgtor is an excellent destination for solo travelers looking for a less crowded historical experience in Lübeck. Its location at the northern edge of the old town means it's often quieter than the more central attractions. Reddit You can take your time exploring the gate and the attached city walls at your own pace, soaking in the atmosphere without feeling rushed. :person_walking:

The 10-minute walk from the city center is a pleasant solo journey, allowing you to observe the city's transition into its historic core. Reddit Consider joining a walking tour if you're interested in learning more about the history, as it's a great way to connect with other travelers and gain local insights. :microphone:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Burgtor: Lübeck's Northern Sentinel

Burgtor stands as the oldest of Lübeck's four medieval city gates, a testament to the city's historical importance as the capital of the Hanseatic League. Built in the 15th century, this impressive brick structure served as a crucial point of entry and defense for the thriving trading city. Unlike the more isolated Holstentor, Burgtor retains a significant portion of its original city wall, offering visitors a more integrated glimpse into the medieval fortifications. This connection to the past is palpable as you approach the gate, imagining the bustling activity and watchful eyes that once guarded this northern entrance. Instagram

The architecture of Burgtor is characterized by its robust brickwork, a common material for Hanseatic cities. Its imposing presence is enhanced by the surviving sections of the city wall, some of which are even incorporated into modern apartments, blending history with contemporary life. Reddit Walking around Burgtor provides a sense of scale and context that is often missed with standalone monuments. It’s a place where history feels less like a museum exhibit and more like a living part of the urban fabric. Reddit

While it may not receive the same fanfare as its more famous counterpart, Burgtor offers a unique and valuable perspective on Lübeck's medieval past. It’s a place that rewards those who take the time to explore beyond the most obvious landmarks, revealing layers of history and architectural integrity. Reddit The experience is further enhanced by its integration into the charming old town, making it a perfect starting point for further exploration. Instagram

Experiencing Burgtor: Beyond the Gate

Visiting Burgtor is more than just seeing a historic gate; it's about immersing yourself in the atmosphere of Lübeck's old town. Many visitors recommend taking a leisurely walk from the city center, which takes about 10 minutes, to truly appreciate the approach to this medieval landmark. Reddit The surrounding area offers a chance to see how the old city walls are still integrated into the modern city, with some sections even serving as residences. Reddit

For those seeking a deeper understanding, look for opportunities to join guided excursions that delve into Burgtor's history. Hearing the stories behind the stones can transform a simple viewing into a rich historical experience. Reddit The gate is particularly enchanting in the evening when it's beautifully illuminated, creating a dramatic contrast against the night sky. Reddit This nighttime view is a highlight for many, offering a magical perspective on this ancient structure. Instagram

While Burgtor is a significant historical site, it's also a part of the everyday life of Lübeck. It serves as a gateway to the northern part of the old town, and its presence is a constant reminder of the city's rich Hanseatic heritage. Instagram Whether you're a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, Burgtor offers a compelling and accessible piece of Lübeck's past. :camerawithflash: :world_map:

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