Overview

Hype:

The Old Lighthouse in Travemünde, known as the Alter Leuchtturm, stands at the mouth of the Trave River on Germany’s Baltic coast and represents an important piece of maritime history. Its current structure dates back to 1539, replacing earlier navigation beacons, and it functioned as an active lighthouse for more than 400 years before being decommissioned in 1972.

Today, the lighthouse is preserved as a technical and cultural monument and is open to visitors as a museum. Inside, exhibits explain the evolution of lighthouse technology, navigation aids, and seafaring history, while a staircase leads to a viewing platform that offers wide views of the Baltic Sea, Lübeck Bay, the beach, and Travemünde’s harbor.

The lighthouse is a popular attraction due to its historical significance, coastal setting, and scenic views, especially during warmer months when Travemünde is lively with tourists, ferries, and seaside activities. It is often combined with walks along the promenade, beach visits, and harbor sightseeing.

Time:

Fees: Admission

Recommended Ages:

	0-3
	4-11
	12-19
	20-49
	50-69
	70+

Recommended Months to Visit:

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Links: https://www.leuchtturm-travemuende.de/en
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Travem%C3%BCnde

Location

Closest City or Region: Travemunde, Germany

Coordinates: 53.960631, 10.879403

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July 9, 2025 Trip Report

By Jeremy Dye

Trip Members

Jeremy Dye, Tara Dye, Savannah Dye, Madilyn Dye, Cooper Dye,

Story

After the Sand Sculpture Museum, we caught a bus up to the beach area. We ate a picnic lunch, then went up in the old lighthouse in Travemünde. They had a giant circular staircase going all the way up with periodic landings that had some displays. The view from the top was fun.

Pictures