Hanover

Hannover

Lower Saxony's capital and largest city, known for its impressive Herrenhausen Gardens, one of Europe's most important Baroque gardens, and its world-class trade fairs. The rebuilt Old Town with its brick Renaissance architecture and vibrant cultural scene makes it an essential northern German destination.

Things to do

• Herrenhausen Gardens — Explore one of Europe's most significant Baroque gardens with its ornate parterre, maze, and fountains spanning 135 acres of manicured splendor.
• Neues Rathaus — Visit this stunning Art Nouveau town hall with its copper roof and climb the tower for panoramic views of the city and surrounding Maschpark.
• Sprengel Museum — Discover modern and contemporary art including works by Picasso, Kandinsky, and Kurt Schwitters in this world-class museum housed in a glass and steel building.
• Old Town (Altstadt) Reconstruction — Wander through meticulously rebuilt half-timbered Renaissance buildings and charming squares that showcase Hanover's architectural heritage.
• Sea Life Hannover — Explore one of Europe's largest aquariums with underwater tunnels and over 2,000 fish from diverse marine environments.
• Maschsee Lake — Stroll, bike, or boat around this recreational lake in the city center popular for swimming, picnicking, and waterside dining.
• Wilhelm Busch Museum — View satirical drawings and paintings by the renowned cartoonist Wilhelm Busch and his contemporaries in a charming villa setting.

Food to try

• Hannover Aal Grün — Smoked eel traditionally served with mustard and potatoes, a local specialty reflecting the city's historical connection to the Leine River.
• Leberwurst — A spreadable liver sausage typical of Lower Saxony, often enjoyed on fresh bread with onions and mustard at local markets.
• Hannoverscher Schnitzel — A thin, breaded veal cutlet served with a creamy sauce and fresh vegetables, a hearty regional main course.
• Knackwurst — A snappy, short German sausage filled with pork and spices, best sampled at the Markthalle or street vendors throughout the city.
• Pfannkuchen — Traditional German pancakes served sweet with jam or savory with ham and cheese, available at cafés throughout Hanover's squares.
• Markthalle Food Market — Browse the daily market in the historic covered hall for regional specialties, fresh produce, and prepared Lower Saxon dishes.

Local customs & good to know

• Bicycle Culture — Hanover is one of Germany's most bike-friendly cities with extensive cycling paths; renting a bike is the preferred way to explore both city and Herrenhausen Gardens.
• Trade Fair Traditions — As host to the world's largest industrial trade fair (Hannover Messe), the city has deep roots in commerce and innovation; book accommodations early during fair weeks.
• Brick Gothic Architecture — Lower Saxony's characteristic red-brick construction defines Hanover's aesthetic, particularly visible in the Old Town's meticulously restored merchant houses and churches.
• Beer Garden Social Hour — Join locals for Feierabend (literally 'evening off') at beer gardens and cafés around Maschsee Lake and the Old Town, especially on warmer evenings.