Glückstadt Travel Guide

Find all you need to know about Glückstadt, including top attractions, food, accommodations, culture, safety, transportation, and more in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Glückstadt

Glückstadt is a charming city located in South Holstein, in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, known for its rich cultural heritage and scenic views. Founded in 1617, Glückstadt has a long history of maritime trade and is now a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors from all over the world. With a variety of activities and attractions to choose from, Glückstadt has something for everyone.

In this comprehensive travel guide, you will find all you need to know about Glückstadt, including top attractions, outdoor adventures, food and drink scene, accommodations, cultural events, safety tips, transportation options, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Glückstadt

Glückstadt has plenty of places to visit, including museums, historical sites, outdoor attractions, and more. Here are some of our top picks:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Deichmuseum: Learn about the city’s maritime history at this museum, which features exhibits on shipbuilding, fishing, and more.
  • Kronprinzenhaus: This 17th century building was once a residence for royal visitors and now serves as a cultural center for events and exhibits.
  • Mühlenturm: Visit this tower to see a small collection of local artifacts and enjoy scenic views of the Elbe River.
  • Schloss Glücksburg: This castle was built in the mid-17th century and now houses government offices. Visitors can tour the castle’s chapel and gardens.

Natural Attractions of Glückstadt: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Elbe River Promenade: Take a scenic stroll along the Elbe River and enjoy views of passing ships and the city skyline.
  • Glückstadt Marsh: Explore the wetlands and wildlife of this protected area, which includes hiking trails and birdwatching platforms.
  • Glückstädter Geest: This nature reserve is home to native plant species and offers scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Schleswig-Holsteinische Schweiz: This hilly region is known for its hiking and biking trails, as well as charming villages and historic sites.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Glückstadt

Glückstadt and its surrounding areas have plenty of options for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Some of the top places to explore include:

  • Elbe Cycle Route: This international route stretches over 1,200 km from the Czech Republic to the North Sea and passes through Glückstadt.
  • Marsch und Küstenradweg SH: This route runs 410 km along the coast of Schleswig-Holstein and includes stunning views of the Wadden Sea and the North Sea.
  • Stör-Wasserstraße Route: Follow this 56 km route along the river and enjoy scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Wassermühlenroute: This 87 km route connects several historic watermills in the region and includes beautiful countryside views.

Best Things to Do in Glückstadt: Activities and Tours

Glückstadt offers plenty of activities and tours for visitors of all ages and interests. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Boat Tour: Take a boat tour and explore the scenic Elbe River and its surroundings. Options include historical tours, sunset tours, and self-guided tours.
  • Culinary Tour: Sample local cuisine and drinks on a culinary tour that takes you to some of Glückstadt’s top restaurants and bars.
  • Golfing: Play a round of golf at the nearby Golf Club Gut Haseldorf, which offers beautiful views of the Elbe River and the surrounding countryside.
  • Kinder Kunst Haus: This museum features hands-on art exhibits for children and is a great way to keep the little ones entertained.
  • Segway Tour: Explore Glückstadt in a unique way by taking a Segway tour of the city’s top attractions and scenic areas.

Week-Long Itinerary for Glückstadt

To fully experience Glückstadt and its surroundings, we suggest the following itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Arrive in Glückstadt and take a stroll along the Elbe River promenade, followed by a guided tour of the city’s top attractions.

Day 2: Historical Tours

Visit the Deichmuseum and the Kronprinzenhaus, two of Glückstadt’s top historical sites.

Day 3: Nature and Outdoor Adventures

Explore the Glückstadt Marsh and the nearby Schleswig-Holsteinische Schweiz region.

Day 4: Elbe River Tour

Take a boat tour of the Elbe River and enjoy scenic views of the passing ships and the surrounding countryside.

Day 5: Golfing and Relaxation

Spend the day playing golf at the nearby Gut Haseldorf Golf Club and unwind at a local spa.

Day 6: Culinary Tour

Sample local cuisine and drinks on a guided culinary tour of Glückstadt’s top restaurants and bars.

Day 7: Departure

Depart Glückstadt and head to your next destination or catch a flight home.

Food and Drink Scene of Glückstadt

Glückstadt has a variety of dining options, ranging from traditional German cuisine to international fare. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Matjes: Pickled herring is a local favorite and is often served with potatoes and cream sauce.
  • Rote Grütze: This berry compote is a popular dessert and is often served with whipped cream.
  • Stinte: These small fish are a regional specialty and are often served fried with potatoes and salad.

Local Beverages

  • Bier: German beer is world-renowned, and Glückstadt has plenty of local brews to try.
  • Korn: This local liquor is made from wheat or rye and is a popular after-dinner drink.
  • Apfelschorle: This refreshing drink is a mix of apple juice and sparkling water.

Where to Stay in Glückstadt: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Glückstadt has plenty of accommodations to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Pension Am Museum: This guesthouse is located in the heart of Glückstadt and offers comfortable rooms and a continental breakfast.
  • Hotel Restaurant Anno 1617: This historic hotel features elegant rooms, a bar, and a restaurant serving local cuisine.
  • B&B Hotel Itzehoe: This budget-friendly hotel is located just outside of Glückstadt and offers simple rooms and free parking.

What to Buy in Glückstadt: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

For those looking to bring home a piece of Glückstadt, some popular souvenirs and local products to consider include:

  • Pottery: The region is known for its traditional pottery, which makes for a unique and authentic souvenir.
  • Wine: The nearby wine region produces some excellent wines that make for a great gift or souvenir.
  • Marzipan: This almond paste is a regional specialty and is used in various desserts and sweets.

Local Culture and Customs of Glückstadt

Glückstadt has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors are encouraged to explore and experience the local traditions. Some customs and cultural events to look out for include:

  • Matjeswochen: This annual festival celebrates the regional specialty of pickled herring and includes food stalls, live music, and other cultural events.
  • Fishing and Maritime Heritage Festival: This festival celebrates the city’s maritime history and includes boat races, fishing contests, and local crafts.
  • Museum Night: This annual event allows visitors to explore Glückstadt’s museums and historical sites after hours, with special exhibits and activities.

Best Time to Visit Glückstadt

The best time to visit Glückstadt is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and outdoor activities and events are in full swing. However, Glückstadt has plenty to offer year-round, and each season has its unique charm and attractions.

Do’s and Don’ts of Glückstadt

Here are some things to keep in mind while visiting Glückstadt:

Do:

  • Do try the local cuisine, including pickled herring, stinte, and Rote Grütze.
  • Do bring comfortable shoes for hiking and biking along the Elbe River promenade and surrounding areas.
  • Do check out the local cultural events and celebrations, such as Matjeswochen and Museum Night.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to check the weather forecast and pack accordingly, especially if planning outdoor activities.
  • Don’t litter or damage the natural areas and parks.
  • Don’t forget to respect local customs and traditions, such as dress codes for religious sites.

Safety and Health

Glückstadt is a generally safe city, but visitors should exercise caution and common sense, especially when traveling alone or at night. Here are some safety and health tips to keep in mind:

Safety in Glückstadt

  • Keep valuables and important documents in a safe place, such as a hotel safe or money belt.
  • Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas, especially at night.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious activity to the local authorities.

Health in Glückstadt

  • Make sure to bring any necessary medications and medical supplies, as prescriptions might be hard to obtain in the area.
  • Drink only bottled or filtered water, and avoid tap water.
  • Be aware of any local health hazards, such as ticks in rural areas.

Getting to Glückstadt: Transportation Options and Logistics

Glückstadt is easily accessible by various transportation options, including:

Airports Near Glückstadt

  • Hamburg Airport: Located about 50 km south of Glückstadt, Hamburg Airport is the closest international airport.

Bus Stations Near Glückstadt

  • Itzehoe Bus Station: This bus station is located about 10 km from Glückstadt and offers regional and national connections.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Visitors can rent a car at the airport or other local car rental agencies to explore the area on their own.
  • Train: Visitors can take a train to Itzehoe or Elmshorn and then connect to a local bus or taxi to Glückstadt.

How to Get Around in Glückstadt

Glückstadt is a walkable city, and most of the attractions are within walking distance. Visitors can also rent a bike to explore the city and surrounding areas, or take a taxi or bus for longer distances.

Where to Go Next from Glückstadt: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Glückstadt is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding areas, which include charming villages, historic sites, and beautiful countryside. Some nearby destinations and excursions to consider include:

  • Lübeck: This beautiful Hanseatic city is known for its historic buildings, museums, and marzipan shops.
  • Cuxhaven: This seaside town is known for its beaches, hiking trails, and seafood restaurants.
  • Stade: This picturesque town is known for its historic architecture, cobblestone streets, and cozy cafes.

Conclusion

We hope this comprehensive travel guide has provided you with all you need to know to plan your trip to Glückstadt, Germany. From historic sites and natural attractions to culinary tours and local traditions, Glückstadt has something for every traveler. Don’t forget to pack your walking shoes and sense of adventure, and enjoy your visit to this charming city on the Elbe River.

North side of Glückstadt harbour North side of Glückstadt harbour Glückstadt Market square Glückstadt Market square