In the heart of northern Germany, Hanover is a welcoming city to travelers. This was my second major city in the country, and I was pleasantly surprised. I was expecting a more urban setting, but what attracts visitors the most is its particular green thumb.

One of the greenest cities in Germany, Hannover boasts numerous beautiful landscapes and open green spaces that are perfect for outdoor and nature enthusiasts. While I was here, I focused less on visiting museums and being indoors and instead concentrated on my outdoor surroundings, as the weather was also very agreeable.

It was less touristy compared to some of the other cities I had been traveling through. Everything seemed more laid-back and more authentic as the locals weren’t trying to sell me on their city. Here is what I was able to experience in 2 days, as that felt just about the right amount of time, given that Hannover was a great place to stop on my way to Berlin.

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Getting to Hannover

Since I was coming here after spending 2 days in Cologne, the easiest way to travel here was by train. I had already purchased a month-long Eurail pass, so it was no problem to reserve a spot on the app for the next available train when I came in.

For those flying internationally or over long distances, there is Hannover Airport. Most major European cities, such as London, Amsterdam, and Vienna, have direct flights to Hannover. If you can’t find a direct flight with your itinerary, there are nearby airports in Berlin and Frankfurt where you can take a 1.5- to 2-hour train ride.

Follow the Red Thread

Don’t look at a map if you are a first-time visitor to Hannover. This is a fun way to explore instead. Inspired by the Boston Freedom Trail, this self-guided urban walking trail, marked in bold red, takes you through the city’s highlights and significant landmarks. For a fast walker, it’ll take less than 2.5 hours, but you’ll want to stop and enjoy the sights or visit some of these stops, making it a half-day or all-day experience.

The New Town Hall

One of the beautiful places to spend a day out is near the historic center of Hannover. It’s an impressive castle-like building that serves as the administrative center but is also open to visitors.

Inside, you can take a guided tour of the public areas, where models of the city are displayed at various periods in history. There’s also mural artwork and sculptures on display in the different halls. The highlight is the lift that takes you up to the top of the dome for panoramic views of the city.

Outside is much more leisurely, with a park and a small artificial pond behind the building built in conjunction. On good weather days, the circular walking paths take you around the pond, where you can get amazing reflections of the building. Visitors and residents alike come to enjoy relaxing on the grass or benches in quiet peace.

Altstadt (Old Town)

The historic quarter of Hanover. It was almost destroyed during World War II, with only some half-timbered buildings barely remaining intact by the end. These were relocated carefully and beautifully reconstructed to keep the appearance of their medieval charm alongside the churches and landmarks.

Now, it is a new “old town,” and it has never been busier, with daily visitors enjoying the cafes and restaurants packed into each lane or simply taking in the active squares. I suggest taking a guided walking tour to see it from a local perspective, as well as for a more enriching experience.

The Leinewelle

Who knew you could go surfing in the city? In the old town part of Hannover, a technical facility with a hydraulic control system was built that allows river surfing by creating a standing wave. Used by a community of professional and beginner surfers, you can enjoy the waves at various difficulties without needing the ocean.

If you are a permanent resident, you can purchase a membership for regular use, as it is surfable all year. Otherwise, buying a single day to surf as a guest is the best option. They do not offer lessons, as volunteers operate the program; therefore, make sure you have some previous experience before attempting it. You will also need to provide your equipment.

Even if you’re not the surfing type (I’m not!), you can still enjoy watching those who are on the side. It’s a fun and unique activity in Hannover. I spent almost an hour just watching before getting on with my day.

Herrenhausen Gardens

One of the most beautiful green spaces in Europe, this Baroque-style ensemble of gardens is a jewel of Hanover. Developed by the German royalty several centuries ago, it remains a popular attraction and recreation area for locals and visitors alike. The entry fee is a little on the expensive side for a garden complex, but it is worth the value you are getting. It is one of the more affordable things to do in Hannover if you are on a budget and can spare a fair amount of time.

Schloss Herrenhausen

This palace was a former summer residence of the royal House of Hanover. It was destroyed during World War II and then reconstructed by the city in the late 2000s. It is now the entry point to becoming a museum, housing exhibitions of baroque art that complement the motif of the entire complex, as well as displays featuring historical figures and mapping the beginning and development of the gardens.

Behind the palace lies the beautiful Great Garden, featuring multiple fountains and statues set amid intricate and symmetrical grottos and corner pavilions. Annual events are held here involving art, music, and even fireworks. You don’t need to see the entire garden and can enjoy a particular spot for relaxation.

Berggarten

Across the street from the Herrenhausen Gardens is the botanical garden. Aside from its outdoor appeal, where you can take long walks among the flowers and plants, there are several greenhouses containing exotic tropical and subtropical varieties. It’s also open all year round, allowing you to visit at any time.

Eilenriede City Forest

Who doesn’t love thick forests of trees? Here, you have the most extensive urban city forest in Germany and one of the largest in Europe. There is a vast network of trails for all kinds of outdoor recreation. Whether you are a nature lover, bicyclist, or just someone looking to take a nice walk or jog, here is where you should do it.

When you are lost on one of the many trails surrounded by trees, you get the feeling of being somewhere completely remote and cut off from the outside world. It’s a perfect way to escape the city without really leaving. The whole experience will revitalize you and is ideal for any season.

Maschsee Lake

The artificial lake is a massive area for relaxation and recreation. Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy canoeing, pedal-boating, and even yachting. Walkers, joggers, bicyclers, and those with strollers can enjoy the long path directly opposite the lake. There are cafes and restaurants along the banks for you to enjoy outdoor seating and take in the views. Independent vendor stalls offer snacks and coffee on your walks while buskers perform—an excellent opportunity for some forever memories.

Eating in Hannover

Markthalle

If the weather doesn’t agree with you, step in here for a short time. The covered market boasts a lot of personality, thanks to its friendly vendors and staff. It has become a favorite hangout to grab a meal and socialize in the afternoons and evenings. There are numerous restaurants to choose from, offering a variety of choice options at very reasonable prices, including traditional German and international cuisine. With enough indoor and outdoor seating, you could spend every day here and always have something new to eat.

On the other hand, if your accommodations have provided you with a kitchen, consider purchasing local fruits, vegetables, and meats to make an authentic meal.

Conclusion

This was only a small part of my adventures through Germany, but it was a memorable one. It was the beauty and culture that resonated with me in this particular place. Maybe because here I was able to slow down a bit and recharge before pushing ahead, allowing myself to take in all the green. I could imagine how amazing it looks in winter and spring. If you choose to visit Hannover, you might experience some of those same things.