Lüneburg’s Old Town: A Walking Tour through the Salt Empire’s Medieval Streets

Lüneburg made its fortune as the “White Gold” hub of northern Germany’s prosperous salt trade. This walking tour offers a glimpse into its fascinating past, taking you to see well-preserved architecture in the heart of the medieval town, where the salt trade shaped its streets, buildings, and culture. The tour begins near Brausebrücke Bridge, where you’ll get your first taste of Lüneburg’s scenic beauty. You’ll head toward the Marina Café to enjoy views of the Ilmenau, and hear stories about the importance of this river in the salt trade. As you walk into Lüneburg’s Old Town (Altstadt), you’ll be surrounded by cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses and medieval charm, setting the tone for what’s to come. You’ll pass by Lüneburg Town Hall, one of the most iconic landmarks in the city center with its Luna Fountain, topped by the Goddess Artemis. In the bustling Am Sande square, you’ll come across Bakery Hesse, where bread has been baked since 1493. The tour ends at St. John’s Church, where you’ll have the option to climb the Lüneburg water tower observation deck for a panoramic view of the city. Along the way, you’ll have a chance to: • Admire the Old Crane in the Lüneburg harbor, a marvel of medieval engineering, which dates back to 1346 and required eight men to operate • Visit Krone Brewery, where you’ll hear about Lüneburg’s brewing history • Step into the hallowed halls of St. Nikolai Church, originally constructed for the barrel makers and ship carpenters in the city • Explore the unique Sinking District, the curious slanted neighborhood that’s gradually disappearing due to the salt mining that used to take place here • Discover the intriguing Pregnant Haus, a house famous for its bulging façade • Stop at the Tourist Information Lüneburg to get insights into the city’s historic treasures • Visit St. Michaelis Church, where Johann Sebastian Bach completed some of his early schooling, while you hear about the composer’s ties to the city This fascinating 60-minute journey through the streets of Lüneburg will give you an insider’s perspective on its medieval history and architectural highlights. Whether you’re a history buff or simply love exploring beautiful cities, Lüneburg’s rich past and stunning landmarks will leave a lasting impression.

Price: £9.99 from VoiceMap