Hanover is a city that has overcome a great deal of turmoil as it suffered great damage throughout the world wars. However, it has persevered and is now one of Germany’s most visited tourist spots. Visiting the historic structures that survived is a great experience. However, you will not find these buildings to be its focal point. Instead, Hanover has spent time and energy on its impressive green spaces. This city is also a busy one, especially considering that over six hundred trains come through its station every day. It would be a good idea to learn a bit of German before visiting Hanover since English is not that common. As a side note, German’s spell Hanover with an extra ‘n’ so don’t be confused if you arrive and you see ‘Hannover’.
One of the best places to start exploring is to make your way to the center of the city. Kröpcke is a favorite meeting spot for the locals and is also home to the famous café it is named after. Although the original clock did not survive WWII, the replacement is nevertheless beautiful. To enjoy some of the best views of the city, make your way to the New (Neues) Rathaus. You can also enjoy a lovely city tour on a boat cruise that takes on the Ihme and Leine Rivers. Those seeking more of Hanover’s outdoor qualities will love the Hanover Adventure Zoo. Over 2,000 inhabitants call it home. There is much to see and do here, including a fantastic Safari.
As with most European cities, Hannover has its fair share of impressive churches. The St. Clements Church is one of the city’s most popular. Although it suffered from the WWII attacks, careful reconstruction was taken place allowing you to enjoy its splendor today. Make your way to Old Hanover and visit the Marktkirche, the Market Church. Built back in the fourteenth century, it is a stunning building definitely worth visiting. The Church of Aegidien has been left over time and today, you can see explore the ruins of this twelfth century church.

Hanover has its fair share of museums for you to explore as well. Those interested in Rembrandt, Dürer and other famous artists will want to spend time at the impressive Niedersachsen Landesmuseum. Those seeking contemporary art should make their way to the Sprengel Museum Hannover. Its impressive exhibits are quickly making it one of the best museums of today. Step back into time as you explore the rooms at the Hanover History Museum. There is a fantastic organ collection, an original teacher’s bench, butter churn, printing press and a manual telephone switchboard. After your tour, you will be just that much more thankful for the technologies of today.
Hanover is becoming one of the best places in Europe to put on an event. In fact, it proudly refers to itself as the ‘Exhibition City’ because it plays host to some of the largest shows in the world. For example, there is the Hanover Fair, which is the world’s largest industrial fair that draws over 200,000 visitors. CeBIT is another mega fair for all the computer enthusiasts of the world. The attendance for this one is over half a million visitors. Now that’s a fair! Although it may not draw in the numbers the previously mentioned events do, the Oktoberfest in Hanover is nevertheless a fantastic party. Spreading over two weeks, it draws in the crowds eager to be entertained.
Hanover is also nearby many other fantastic attractions. The Maschsee is a man-made lake that is the place to go sailing, swimming or skating once the water freezes over. Best of all, it is free. The Tiergarten is another great zoo in the Hanover area. The Herrenhäuser Gardens is a great venue for wonderful festivals, fireworks and theatre performances. About a day’s drive away are even more attractions for you to explore.
The Hamelin was made famous over the Pied Piper folk tale. You may even see one for yourself in this quaint town. Car enthusiasts will want to make their way to Wolfsburg, which is home to a Volkswagen manufacturing plant. Those interested in the past will love Hildesheim. Fortunately, many of its historic buildings have been well preserved and you will feel as though you have stepped back in time. Whether you stay in Hanover, or explore the surrounding areas, it is always a treat to relax after a long day. The AquaLaatzium can be found close to the Exhibition Centre. It is filled with steam baths, relaxation rooms, saunas, Jacuzzis and much more.
Spend your evenings dining at a wonderful restaurant, enjoy a cold and refreshing Broyhan-Atl, or catch a performance at the stunning opera house. There are also many boutiques and stores that line the streets. Those interested in a bit more action at night can also enjoy the nightclubs and lounges. Wherever you go to celebrate your day, Hanover is a fantastic European city that will leave a lasting impression.
Is Hannover your hometown? Is it your favorite place to visit? Share your story, tell us what we should know and what are the must sees. Add your comment +
We survived the air war in Hannover, we were born there we loved our city, but after marrying and having children, we found living there very hard, and emigrated to Australia in 1964. It was a fortunate choice. we became proud and happy Aussies, but hold many memories from old times. Still have relatives there. We have visited a few times, finding it much changed, mostly for the better. While we love Melbourne vey much, some roots are very strong, and can never be cut.
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