Lübeck

Lübeck is a glorious medieval town that’s earned its place on UNESCO’s World Heritage list. It’s a quiet alternative to the more spectacular attractions further south. The altstadt (old town) was heavily bombed in WWII but has been sensitively rebuilt and the town’s stately charm is apparent today.

Cheapish accommodation is plentiful and there is a good variety of moderately-priced restaurants. Lübeck is home to the delightful Marionettentheater (Puppet Theatre), which shouldn’t be missed.

There’s a stark reminder of the war inside the Marienkirche. A bombing raid brought the church bells crashing to the stone floor and the townspeople have left the bell fragments in place, with a small sign saying: ‘A protest against war and violence’.