The former Free Hanseatic City Lübeck lies at the Trave river in Schleswig Holstein in North Germany.
With a population of about 214,000, it is the largest city in Schleswig Holstein.
Lübeck has been separated in 10 city districts and about 35 parts of the town. Most of the sights, however, are located in the city center that lies on an island that is surrounded by the Trave river.
When you leave the main station, it is only a short walk eastwards to the Holstentor, the western city gate and landmark of Lübeck. As Lübeck's city center is compact and small, it definitely is the best option to explore it on foot. In addition, the historic city center has been closed for private traffic to a large extent. As there are many signs with maps throughout the "Altstadt", it is hard to get lost.