I’ve been to Hannover a lot more than most people would due to family commitments, so I’ve certainly maxed out the place to be able to offer my top recommended highlights for a 2 day itinerary here.
Is it worth visiting Hannover?
Yes, it is, even if it is just for a weekend. It’s not as big as Munich and Berlin of course but it is very green, clean and represents a more traditional side of Germany.
Hannover is located in northern Germany and is a city filled with rich history, beautiful parks, and cultural attractions. With a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication, Hannover offers a good range of activities for both adults and children to enjoy. It didn’t have that big city feel to me, more of a large town so you won’t get too overwhelmed and there’s plenty of green spaces.
How do you get around in Hannover?
The public transport system in Hannover is good, efficient, and cheap. It’s called Üstra and there are 12 city trains and 38 bus lines connecting 872 stations all over Hannover. There’s a good tram system too which runs across most of the main towns. Most transport staff speak English in case you get lost.
What is Hannover Germany known for?
With its well-planned geometric parks and green spaces, Hannover is known as the ‘garden city’.
2 day itinerary
If you’re planning a trip to Hannover and wondering how to make the most of your time, here’s an ideal itinerary for 2 days in Hannover to help you get the best out of your visit.
Day 1:
Morning:
The Herrenhausen Gardens
Start your day by visiting one of the highlights of Hannover, the Herrenhausen Gardens. These amazing baroque gardens feature perfectly manicured lawns, flowerbeds, and intricate fountains. Use your time to take a stroll through the gardens, and be sure to explore the Herrenhausen Palace and the famous Great Garden, which is one of Europe’s most well-known baroque gardens.
Hannover centre – The Old town
Head to the Hannover City Centre, where you can explore the historic Old Town. Begin at the Marktkirche (Market Church), a stunning Gothic-style church with an impressive interior. You can also climb to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the city. Just next to this, you’ll find the Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall), a picturesque building that dates back to the 15th century so take a peek inside if it’s open before continuing your walk through the charming narrow streets of the Altstadt.
Afternoon:
Lunch in the Aldstadt
For lunch, try some traditional German cuisine at one of the local restaurants in the Altstadt. Try some hearty bratwurst or schnitzel, I’m fond of a currywurst with sides, accompanied by a refreshing glass of Pils beer.
Sprengel Museum or Landesmuseum
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Hannover’s vibrant art scene by visiting the Sprengel Museum. This modern art museum houses an impressive collection of works by renowned artists such as Picasso, Klee, and Kandinsky. The Landesmuseum next door is also pretty good as an alternative option and is better for kids and more interactive experiences
Paddle boat on the Maschsee
Next, take a short walk to the nearby Maschsee, a picturesque lake that offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. It has some impressively huge fish swimming in it, which you can see from the lakeside. Rent a paddle boat or simply relax by the waterfront. I must have done at least 6 paddle boat trips here and it never gets old, especially on a nice day. If you’re visiting during summer, you might even catch the Maschsee lake festival which runs around August time and has plenty of food, music, and a real festival atmosphere.
Optional extra: I’d also say catch a Hannover 96 football match if you can, it’s affordable, has a good atmosphere (better when they’re in the Bundesliga), and gives you a great window into the locals’ passion for sport.
Evening:
Dinner and drinks in Linden
For dinner, head to Hannover’s trendy Linden neighbourhood, known for its vibrant nightlife and diverse dining options. This lively area is filled with bars, restaurants, and cafes catering to all tastes and budgets. Sample some local specialties again or opt for international cuisine.
Hannover Opera House
After dinner you could catch a performance at the Hannover Opera House for a bit of culture, it’s an impressive venue with many productions throughout the year. Or you can carry on enjoying the local nightlife, which goes on until the early hours.
Day 2:
Morning:
The New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus)
Start your second day in Hannover by visiting the Neues Rathaus, which you passed yesterday and probably noticed how impressive it was. This is an iconic landmark of Hannover. Go inside this time, take in the impressive architecture, and jump in a lift to the top of the dome for panoramic views of the city. There’s a Rathaus Museum inside the building to visit and learn about the history of Hannover with some cool models of the city pre and post-war.
Afternoon:
Hannover zoo
After grabbing some lunch head over to the Hannover Adventure Zoo in the afternoon for a unique zoo experience. This zoo is one of the oldest and most prestigious zoos in Germany but is known for its innovative designs and immersive exhibits, allowing visitors to get up close and see animals differently. Spanning over 22 hectares, the zoo is home to a wide variety of animals from around the world. Hannover Zoo also offers boat rides and informative shows, making it an enjoyable and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
Evening:
Maschesee Lakeside dinner
In the evening, go for a final dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants near the lake, where you can indulge in delicious regional cuisine while taking in the beautiful views.
During your 2 days in Hannover you’ll see it is a city that blends rich history with modern attractions, so explore the city’s historical landmarks, and find some quiet time in its natural surroundings. Enjoy your weekend in Hannover whether it be a lively one filled with dancing or a calmer set of cultural experiences, you can have either here.