Freedom is woven into every brick of its architectural façade, and history resonates in every room and corridor. As the birthplace of American independence, Independence Hall witnessed the signing of both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. Generations of visitors have stepped back in time to explore the Assembly Room, the Courtroom of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, the Long Gallery, the Governor’s Council Chamber, and the Committee of the Assembly Chamber. Many historical figures, including Benjamin Franklin and Abraham Lincoln, have walked these halls, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire.

On your voyage of discovery along the banks of the Trave, you will pass the tranquil Museum Harbour on Untertrave. Lovingly restored, traditional sailing ships are lined up here like a row of pearls, and sometimes in pairs when times are busy. With their proud masts, burnished brass and wooden ship planks, they are real gems at the quay and genuine witnesses to another era of shipping. You can enjoy a magnificent view of these wooden witnesses of seafaring from Lübeck’s new favourite spot – the Drehbrückenplatz.

Basilica di San Lorenzo Maggiore is an extraordinary building complex that mixes Gothic and Baroque architecture and dates back to the end of the 13th century. Every Christmas, a life-size nativity scene is set up inside the church. A museum occupies three floors above the courtyard and exhibits historic items from the monastery as well as archaeological remains.