Germany Schleswig-Holstein

The city of Lübeck (German: Hansestadt Lübeck) is situated strategically on the mouth of the River Trave which flows into the bay in the southern Baltic Sea. In the early years as the city grew, it quickly became a powerful maritime trading center and has remained a center for maritime commerce to this day. The large entrance gate to the city is called: The Holsten Gate (Das Holstentor) and marks off the western boundary of the old center of the Hanseatic* city of Lübeck. Built in the 15th century the Red Brick Gothic Gate is a reminder of medieval city fortifications. Together with the Citadel Gate, they are the last two remaining gates. Regarded as a symbol of the city with its impressive two-round towers and arched entrance, together with the old city center they have been included on the list of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Lauenburg is situated at the northern bank of the river Elbe. The town was founded in 1182 by Bernard of Ascania, the ancestor of the Dukes of Lauenburg. Lauenburg is a notable old town with a number of historic buildings from the 17th century and earlier. In the past these houses were mostly the homes of sailors. Today, the area appeals to artists as well as tourists. Furthermore, the Maria-Magdalenen Church, built in the 13th century is another attraction of the old town of Lauenburg.

Kiel is a city in northern Germany. The city is known for a variety of international sailing events, including the annual Kiel Week, which is the biggest sailing event in the world. Kiel's shopping district is a major attraction. Kiel's Holstenstraße (Holsten Street) is one of the longest shopping miles in Germany. The town hall was built in 1911, The square in front of it is bordered by a lake and the Opera House. There are also a number of lakes and parks in the city centre, e.g. Schrevenpark. There are two botanical gardens, the Old Botanical Garden and New Botanical Garden. As Kiel is situated near the sea, the beaches to the north of Kiel are also popular places to visit.

Schleswig is a town in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany. Sights : Schleswig Cathedral (1134), with the tomb of King Frederick I of Denmark Gottorf Castle (built 1161), former residence of the dukes, with the baroque Neuwerk garden, containing a replica of the Globe of Gottorf Holm: old fishing village at the Schlei shore