Holiday Inn Lubeck

Lübeck is famous for marzipan, and there's no better spot to sample it than at the Marzipan Salon at Café Niederegger in the heart of the city. Take the kids to try the chocolate-covered, almond-based confection, which is made according to a secret recipe. Café Niederegger also has a seaside outlet in Travemünde, a short drive away, so you can opt to hit the beach before calling in for dessert.

There's no way to miss the iconic Holstentor, the city's grand medieval gate. Making for an imposing sight, the red-brick gate is defined by its 2 huge towers with black conical roofs, guarded by twin cannons. Head inside to the Holstentor Museum, where the exhibits include a miniature model of the Hanseatic city and ancient torture objects. The gate is just a six-minute's drive from the hotel.

When visiting the towering St. Mary's Church (Marienkirche), home to the largest brick-vault in the world, make sure to keep your eyes open for the little mouse Rosemary that is hidden somewhere inside the church. Touching her will bring good luck to you. The stunning Town Hall is just a stone's throw away and impresses with its majestic architecture from different epochs and black brick stones.