Goslar

A beautifully preserved medieval mining town at the foot of the Harz Mountains with half-timbered buildings, cobblestone streets, and the stunning Kaiserpfalz imperial palace. UNESCO-listed for its medieval charm and rich silver-mining heritage, it offers the perfect blend of history and mountain scenery.

Things to do

• Kaiserpfalz Imperial Palace — Explore the magnificent 11th-century palace with its grand throne hall and museum displaying imperial regalia and medieval artifacts.
• Rammelsberg Mining Museum — Descend into the historic silver mines to experience 1,000 years of mining history with authentic tunnels and period equipment.
• Market Square (Marktplatz) & Town Hall — Admire the Renaissance town hall with its ornate facade and browse the surrounding half-timbered guild houses in the heart of the old town.
• Neuwerk Tower — Climb this 12th-century defensive tower for panoramic views over Goslar's rooftops and the Harz Mountains beyond.
• Goslar City Walls Walk — Stroll along the well-preserved medieval town fortifications that encircle the historic center, offering scenic views and photo opportunities.
• St. Cosmas and Damian Church — Visit this Gothic church featuring original 15th-century stained glass windows and a magnificent bronze font cast in 1230.
• Harz Mountain Hiking — Access numerous trails directly from town leading into the Harz wilderness with forests, streams, and mountain vistas.

Food to try

• Harzer Käse — A distinctive sour milk cheese from the Harz region traditionally served with dark bread and caraway seeds as a local specialty.
• Sauerbraten — A regional pot roast marinated in vinegar and spices, served with red cabbage and potato dumplings in authentic half-timbered restaurants.
• Goslar Pfeffernüsse — Spiced gingerbread cookies that are a traditional confectionery treat specific to Goslar, particularly popular during Christmas markets.
• Harz Forelle (Trout) — Fresh mountain trout from local streams, often prepared simply with butter and herbs in traditional regional restaurants.
• Harzer Wurst — A distinctive local sausage specialty made with meat and spices, served grilled or in traditional soups at market stalls.

Local customs & good to know

• Medieval Town Navigation — The old town center is entirely pedestrian and best explored on foot; wear comfortable shoes as cobblestone streets are uneven and steep in places.
• Visitor Card Benefits — Purchase a Goslar Card at your hotel for discounts on major attractions like Kaiserpfalz and Rammelsberg, plus free public transport in the area.
• Christmas Market Tradition — Goslar hosts one of Germany's most elaborate Christmas markets (November-December) where the entire medieval town transforms into a festive marketplace with traditional crafts and food stalls.
• Silver Mining Heritage Pride — Locals take great pride in the town's 1,000-year mining history; respectfully engage with museum guides and exhibits who often share personal family connections to the mines.