City escape
Fueling up in Germany’s finest cities
Designer Outlet Neumünster is located close to two of Germany’s most captivating cities. A visit to both Hamburg and Lübeck makes the perfect weekend getaway in Schleswig-Holstein. Fuel up in the hustle and bustle of metropolis Hamburg and step back in time in the medieval streets of Lübeck.
The best neighborhoods in Hamburg
Spending a day in Hamburg means strolling through a diverse set of neighborhoods. The city has so many stories to tell! Start your visit in the vibrant and eclectic Schanzenviertel - “Schanze” for the locals. This neighborhood is characterized by street art, bustling streets and many boutique shops. One of the district’s highlights is Rote Flora, an occupied former theater which stands as a symbol of Schanze’s rebellious spirit. Get lost in the streets and have coffee at either Blanco or Trader. Hungry for more? Then grab lunch at Bullerei, a former cattle market transformed into a hip restaurant by celebrity chef Tim Mälzer and his partner.
From here, it’s easy to walk into the neighboring district Karolinenviertel. A tad smaller, but no less captivating. Walk through the Marktstraße and find a series of vintage shops, art galleries and artisanal eateries. Everything feels creative here and locals warmly welcome tourists walking around. This beautiful Hamburg neighborhood is home to many local markets and events, so you might be lucky and bump into one.
Beautifully merged contrasts: Altstadt & Neustadt
Walk or take the subway to Neustadt now. This part of the city has streets lined with elegant 19th century buildings, many shops and water floating by around every corner. If you want a little break to the bustling city life, then pay a visit to the peaceful Planten un Blomen park. Hamburg has it all. Time for another coffee now? Then we recommend the cozy terrace of Erste Liebe Bar.
Heading into the afternoon, Altstadt Hamburg is still waiting for you. This is the heart of the city’s rich heritage! Walk over the cobblestoned streets and be sure to visit the famous Rathaus and the impressive St. Peter’s Church. Wind down by the scenic waterfront and take some time to admire the architecture. It’s beautiful to see how Hamburg’s contrasts merge so well. Reflect over it all with a glass of carefully selected wine at Die alte Druckerei.
Sunset in the Hamburg harbour
As the sun starts to set, make your way to UNESCO world heritage Speicherstadt. This is Hamburg’s iconic warehouse district, a symbol of the city’s maritime legacy. Red-brick buildings and canals will welcome you with all their charm. What used to be the hub of Hamburg’s trade scene, is now a bustling part of the city. A must-see is the famous Wasserschloss viewpoint, as well as the Speicherstadt Museum. If you’re lucky with the weather, book and enjoy a boat trip on the canals.
The final stop of this day out in Hamburg is an iconic one. Welcome to HafenCity - the main harbor area - and its famous Elbphilharmonie building. This area is perfect for pedestrians strolling around to find gourmet restaurants and upscale shops. For lunch, we recommend Coast restaurant. The view on the world-renowned concert hall is amazing. Talking about the Elbphilharmonie, did you know that the glass façade resembles the waves of the Elbe river which it is built on?
End your day in Hamburg in style by staying at The Westin, located in the concert hall. Yes, you read that right! This five star hotel has the most unique location in the whole of Hamburg and therefore is our top hotel recommendation - take a note: the spa is included for hotel guests. It’s just the most magical feeling: opening the door to your room and having an A+ view over Hamburg all to yourself.
A new day with new discoveries
Kick off day two of your weekend trip in Schleswig-Holstein with a visit to Designer Outlet Neumünster. Grab a freshly roasted coffee, hop on the ferris wheel and find your favorite designer brands at 70% discount rates. Saving in style! Now continue your journey to the second big city in this region: Lübeck. Whilst Hamburg has a more modern atmosphere, Lübeck is quite the opposite. You find yourself in the most powerful Hanseatic city here. Lübek used to be one of the most significant trading centers in Northern Europe, thus it holds a very lively history. And you can still feel that energy in the cobblestoned streets…
What to do in landmark-rich Lübeck
Enter the medieval city via the famous Holstengate. Constructed in the late 15th century, it is one of the remains of Lübeck’s medieval fortifications. Together with the Altstadt, it is part of the UNESCO world heritage list. The walls and architecture literally tell stories here. Did you know that Lübeck was the first port on the Baltic Sea? You can learn all about this history and the overall Hanse culture in the impressive European Hansemuseum. A must-do in Lübeck. In a previous Dominican monastery, many immersive rooms transport you to a time of medieval traders and archeology.
What better way to take in the Hanse experience than to discover the Altstadt of the Queen of Hanseatic Cities itself, Lübeck. Stroll through the medieval alleys, take a look at the picturesque courtyards and enjoy the cultural heritage of the city: Marzipan! Being the birthplace of this delicious candy, take the chance to taste some or even pay a visit to the Marzipan museum. In for a drink? Then we warmly recommend Jawed’s Remise. The setting in a hidden courtyard feels just like a movie decor.
Water activities in Lübeck
Lübeck is blessed with water surrounding the old part of the city. The network of waterways leaves you with picturesque views anywhere you go. Book a self-drive boat trip with Boat Now or float along the hidden corners of Lübeck. For those feeling a bit more active, kayaking and canoeing are available as well.
Once the sun starts to set, find yourself a spot to relax next to the water. Many locals come here to recharge batteries and to feel a connection to nature within the city. Find “An den Obertrave 50” on the map for an ideal spot. Thank us later.
… and of course, we can’t skip a good food recommendation. As you’re close to the see, the fish is delicious here. Try to grab a table at Fangfrisch and taste their famous fish & chips or the local catch of the day. After dinner, head to InterCity Lübeck for a good night sleep and to reflect on a weekend with many impressions.
Read next
