Hanover travel guide

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Introduction to Hanover

Herrenhäuser Gärten, Hanover Fairground, and Berggarten Hannover have one thing in common - they're all three very good reasons to visit Hanover, Germany. Hanover has plenty of experiences to offer curious travelers. This capital city of the German federated state of Lower Saxony is a travel destination everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. Boasting a variety of natural beauty and architecture, a unique historical background, and a culture as rich as its population of over 535.9 thousand people, the city of Hanover is truly one of the main highlights of Germany.

Easily accessible from Hannover airport, Hanover is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in Germany any time of the year.

You'll learn more fascinating facts about Hanover as you explore this spectacular city.

Traveling to Hanover is especially rewarding for anyone eager to connect with locals and learn more about their unique culture and traditions.

Get ready to explore and learn more about the city of Hanover below!

History of Hanover

Hanover, the capital of Lower Saxony, has a rich history stretching back to medieval times. Founded in medieval times, it became a city of importance in 1241, when it was granted city rights by Duke Otto the Child.

Through the centuries, Hanover played a significant role in the Protestant Reformation and later became a powerful kingdom under the rule of George I of Britain in 1714. The 19th century saw Hanover industrialize rapidly, becoming a hub for insurance and vehicle manufacturing.

Severely damaged during World War II, the city was rebuilt in the post-war era, maintaining a balance between modernity and its historical roots. Notably, the Herrenhausen Gardens, one of Europe's most beautiful baroque gardens, and the historic Old Town, showcase Hanover's rich past. Today, Hanover is recognized for its leading trade fairs, including the Hanover Fair and CeBIT, making it a bustling center of commerce and culture.

Top services in Hanover

Here on this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Hanover, Germany. Check out the cheapest and most popular flights offered by 339 airlines that fly to Germany. Browse the 19 top-rated tours available to you in Hanover. Compare the rates and services of the 5 types of places to stay in Hanover and the 7 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage. We make it easy for you to find and book the top services in Hanover.

Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Hanover, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place. Book with Guide to Europe to get an expertly-curated and fully-customizable itinerary and experience the best of Hanover on your vacation in Germany.

Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Hanover from our free 24/7 customer support. Continue reading to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Hanover!

Best time to visit Hanover

The best time to explore Hanover, Germany is between May and September when the weather is comfortably warm. These months offer ideal conditions for sightseeing, with average temperatures ranging between 15°C and 25°C. The city is less crowded in May and early June, making it a perfect time to enjoy Hanover's outdoor attractions, such as the Herrenhausen Gardens and Eilenriede Park. The summer months of July and August see a surge in tourists, but also host a series of vibrant events like the Maschsee Lake Festival and the International Fireworks Competition at Herrenhausen Gardens. If you're a fan of Christmas markets, consider visiting in late November or December. While the weather is chillier, the festive atmosphere is unparalleled. The Hanover Christmas Market is a must-see, transforming the city into a winter wonderland. To avoid the holiday rush, plan your visit in early December. Regardless of when you choose to visit, Hanover offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, promising an unforgettable experience.

Local tip for visiting Hanover

When visiting Hanover, be sure to venture beyond the city center to explore the less touristy but equally charming districts of Linden and List. These neighbourhoods are vibrant, filled with local shops, boutiques, and cafes that capture the authentic Hanover lifestyle. The insider tip is to visit the Linden Market on Saturdays. This weekly market is a hidden gem where you can mingle with locals, sample regional produce, and discover unique crafts. Also, don't miss out on the List's Eilenriede, one of the largest city forests in Europe. It's a serene escape with plenty of walking trails away from the bustling city center. As per local advice, renting a bike is the best way to explore these areas, as Hanover is renowned for its extensive and user-friendly bike paths. These offbeat experiences will provide you with a more authentic, local flavour of Hanover.

Learn more about Germany

There are many reasons to visit the city of Hanover, but a trip to Germany needs no explanation.

Exploring Germany, which spans 357,588 square kilometers, is an adventure of a lifetime. Germany offers an abundance of truly magical places to discover, including cultural, historic, and scenic sites of significant value to both locals and travelers.

As the home country of many world-famous attractions like the spectacular Herrenhäuser Gärten, Hanover Fairground, and the Berggarten Hannover, you’re all set for a unique and memorable travel experience in Germany.

Click or tap the link below to discover more about Germany.

What to see in Hanover

Photo of Hanover, Germany. Building of New Town Hall reflecting in water on sunset.

Hanover has something for everyone. Regardless of age and interest, travelers have the best time exploring every corner of the city.

Read on to discover the best places to visit and find out what to expect from the city of Hanover.

Top attractions in Hanover

Home to plenty of top attractions, Hanover is more than just a wonderful city in Germany. Hanover is a travel hotspot and a great place to experience a mix of the traditional and modern culture of Germany.

One fascinating sight in Hanover is the unforgettable Herrenhäuser Gärten. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the city, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Hanover. This remarkable attraction is located at Herrenhäuser Str. 4, 30419 Hannover, Germany and is open for visitors Monday - Sunday, between 09:00-20:00.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Germany, check out our list of top attractions in Hanover below. Discover the best places to visit in Hanover, including the fascinating Herrenhäuser Gärten, Hanover Fairground, Berggarten Hannover, Market Church Hannover, and Maschpark.

Map of attractions

Use this map to find the location of all top attractions in Hanover.

Things to do in Hanover

Photo of panoramic view of Hanover cityscape in Germany.

Enrich your travel experience in Hanover by joining tours and activities. Hanover offers an exciting selection of top-rated tours and it's easy for every traveler to find something to their liking. Take the opportunity to catch the top attractions on a tour, stay active with an adventurous excursion, or learn something new about the local history or culture of the city.

Discover the most popular experiences in Hanover below.

Most popular experiences in Hanover

Traveling is all about gaining new experiences. You can have that and more in the city of Hanover.

Hanover offers numerous tours and activities for travelers to choose from. Historical Tours, Walking Tours, and City Tours are only a few of the many experiences you can book for your holiday in Germany.

Explore the most popular experiences you can join in Hanover by clicking on one of the top-rated tour categories below.

Top tours & tickets starting in Hanover

Travelers in Hanover can choose from 7 categories of top-rated tours and tickets. If you're curious about what the most frequently recommended experiences in the city are, Cultural Tours is the answer.

The most popular tour in Hanover is the fantastic Hop-on hop-off tour in Hanover in a double-decker bus. By joining this highly recommended tour, travelers get to learn more about what makes Hanover one of the best travel destinations in Germany.

Hanover also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience in the city. The affordable City walk through Hanover is the cheapest tour in the city, and is a popular Historical Tour. This experience costs around 13 EUR and allows travelers a great time in Hanover. This Historical Tour is available in 2 languages: German, and English. Around 12 travelers have given this activity an average rating of 4 stars out of 5.

Secure an unforgettable experience for your upcoming trip to Hanover and book a top-rated tour in the city. Discover the best tours, activities, and tickets in Hanover below.

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Search for things to do in Hanover

Discover the best things to do in Hanover. Choose from 19 fantastic tours and activities available in the city.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Hanover. Click the green button to view your options.

What to eat in Hanover

For food lovers, Hanover is a treasure trove of culinary delights. From vibrant street food stalls to elegant high-end dining, the city offers a variety of gastronomic experiences. The best places to eat in Hanover stretch from the bustling Kröpcke to the hip streets of Linden. Try the rich and hearty Calenberger Pfannenschlag, a traditional sausage stew, or the sweet delight of Welf pudding, a local favorite dessert. For a unique dining experience, visit the historic Markthalle, a food market filled with local and international delicacies. If you’re a fan of seafood, don’t miss the city’s diverse fish restaurants. For those with a sweet tooth, Hanover's chocolateries and bakeries offer a wide range of treats, from gingerbread to artisan chocolates. In terms of drinks, Hanover is famous for its locally brewed beers and herbal schnapps. For the ultimate dining experience, try pairing your meal with a locally-brewed Herrenhausen or a Lüttje Lage, a traditional Hanoverian drink. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or just curious about local cuisine, Hanover’s dining scene promises a memorable culinary journey.

Best Shopping in Hanover

Hanover, Germany, known for its distinct fashion, local craftsmanship, and bustling marketplaces, offers a shopping experience like no other. One of the best places to go shopping in Hanover is the Ernst-August-Galerie. Located in the heart of the city, this modern shopping center houses over 150 stores, selling everything from high-end fashion to unique souvenirs.

Just a short stroll away is the charming Georgstrasse, a pedestrian-friendly shopping street bursting with boutiques and international brands. For a more traditional experience, visit the Old Town Flea Market. This lively open-air market is a treasure trove of vintage items, handmade crafts, and local produce.

Hanover's Kröpcke Passage, a sleek, high-end shopping arcade, is not to be missed. Here, shoppers can find a myriad of luxury brands and exclusive designer boutiques.

And don't forget to pick up a Leibniz Keks, the city's iconic butter biscuit, as a delicious memento of your Hanover shopping spree. Practical tip: most shops in Hanover close around 8 pm, so plan your day accordingly.

Best free things to do in Hanover

Unleash your wanderlust in Hanover, Germany, without emptying your pockets. Discover the best free things to do in Hanover that offer a rich cultural and historical experience. Begin your journey in The Eilenriede, one of Europe's largest city forests. Whether you fancy a leisurely stroll, a jogging session or a picnic, this urban forest offers an idyllic escape from city life. Next, visit the iconic Maschsee Lake, a man-made lake in the heart of Hanover. It is an excellent spot for a relaxing walk, cycling, or just sitting by the waterside. Don't miss out on the Herrenhausen Gardens, a splendid example of baroque garden art. Although there is a fee for the Great Garden, the Georgengarten and the Welfengarten are free of charge. Finally, immerse yourself in history at the Old Town of Hanover. Wander through the narrow, winding streets and marvel at the half-timbered buildings, or visit the historical Market Church and Old Town Hall, all without spending a dime. With these free activities, your Hanover trip will be both enriching and economical.

Vacation packages in Hanover

Photo of old library building in the herrenhausen district of Hanover city in Germany.

The best and easiest way to visit Hanover is by booking a vacation package. A vacation package includes everything you need for a worry-free and perfectly planned holiday in Germany.

Booking a vacation package to Hanover means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accomodation, and a rental car, to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Hanover to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing you with everything you need to travel comfortably, your vacation package to Hanover is also fully customizable. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience, to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

On our website, you will find 198 unique vacation packages to Hanover, including flight tickets, hotel reservations, and recommendations for the best sightseeing spots, restaurants, bars, and activities.

Continue to the next section to learn more about what types of vacations you can book in the city of Hanover.

Popular types of vacations in Hanover

The most popular way to experience Hanover is by visiting the city as part of a road trip across multiple destinations in Germany. However, it is also common for travelers to go to Hanover on both shorter and longer getaways, to get a break from everyday life, relax, and experience something new.

With Guide to Europe you can find road trips, city breaks, and weekend getaways in Germany, ranging from budget to luxury. Whether you’re planning a multi-day road trip across Germany, or you just want to enjoy a few days exploring Hanover, there is a vacation package for you.

Discover the most popular vacation packages in Hanover below.

Top vacation packages in Hanover

Travelers have a great selection of vacation packages to choose from in Germany. In fact, you can choose from as many as 198 different top-rated vacation packages to take you to Hanover, and even more if you expand your search to include a bigger area of Germany.

To help narrow your choices down, here are some of the best vacation packages for exploring the city of Hanover.

For an epic vacation, discover Hanover and other top destinations in Germany on a top-rated holiday like the Cheap 10-Day Germany Road Trip Vacation from Hanover traveling east to Dresden, Berlin & Hamburg. This vacation package provides travelers with tons of opportunities to experience not only the most popular attractions in Hanover, but also in other top places to visit in Germany. If Maschpark, Erlebnis-Zoo Hannover, Herrenhäuser Gärten, Berggarten Hannover, and Hanover Park are on your bucket list, this is the perfect vacation package for you.

If you would like to go on a budget vacation in Hanover, book the popular Cheap 3-Day Germany City Break in Hanover and spend as little as 258 EUR. This vacation will take you on a journey to experience some of the most incredible attractions and sights in Hanover, including the fantastic Maschpark, Erlebnis-Zoo Hannover, Market Church Hannover, Herrenhäuser Gärten, and Berggarten Hannover.

Get more Hanover vacation ideas on this site and discover the greatest selection of vacation packages in Europe. Scroll down to find the best vacation packages in Germany that match your needs and budget.

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Find vacation packages in Hanover

Discover and compare 198 vacation packages that take you to the wonderful city of Hanover.

The best flights, hotels, and activities in Hanover get fully booked quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best vacation packages in Germany. Your customized holiday package to Hanover is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Hanover

To get to the city of Hanover the fastest way possible, travelers from outside Germany can travel by plane. International travelers can fly to Hanover by booking flights with any of the 46 airlines that offer direct flights to Hannover airport. Some airlines that operate flights to Hannover airport are Turkish Airlines, United Airlines, Lufthansa, LATAM Airlines, and Air China. Go to this page to compare all flights to Hanover.

To reach the city of Hanover, travelers can choose from various airport transfer options available at Hannover airport.

If you're looking for the best flight ticket deals to Hanover, knowing the cheapest travel time and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we have this information for you. Discover more about the cheapest and most popular flights to Hannover airport and Hanover below.

Find cheap flights to Hanover

Photo of the Maschteich with the surrounding nature at the Stadtpark in Hanover.

Over the years, more airlines have started offering flexible and direct flights to Hanover, making it one of the most accessible travel destinations in Germany. However, it is usually cheaper to fly to Hanover, Germany, in May.

The cheapest one-way flight to Hanover costs around 35 EUR and is offered by the airline Corendon.

The cheapest round-trip flights to Hanover cost approximately 169 EUR in total. The departure flight leaves on June 30 and the return flight is scheduled on June 29. The flight time is around 3 hours per way.

The return flight is operated by Münster Osnabrück International.

Use the search tool below to find the cheapest flights to Germany and the city of Hanover from your city of departure.

Popular flights to Hanover

Travelers visiting Hanover in Germany can fly to Hannover airport directly from 1565 destinations worldwide.

The three most popular routes to Hannover airport and the city of Hanover in Germany depart from Hannover airport in Hanover, Germany, Norman Manley International airport in Kingston, Jamaica, and Cochin International airport in Kochi, India.

Travelers can fly to Germany by choosing from from 1 weekly flight(s) from Hanover; from 1 weekly flight(s) from Kingston; and from 1 weekly flight(s) from Kochi.

The airline that operates most flights to Germany is Cambodia Airways. Cambodia Airways offers 11 scheduled flight routes to Germany.

Discover the most popular flights to Hanover below. Click to view flights to Hanover, Germany from destinations all across the globe.

Where to stay in Hanover

Photo of golden autumn in Hanover, Massachusetts cemetery.

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a city as fantastic as Hanover is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience.

The best place to stay in Hanover usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodation in downtown Hanover offers a ton of benefits.

Staying at the heart of the city allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Hanover and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally-located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Hanover planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Hanover, you'll find 5 different types of places to stay catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Germany can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the 5-star or 4-star hotels in Hanover. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range hotels to budget-friendly accommodations in the city, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Hanover.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Hanover in the next sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Hanover

A trip to the fascinating Hanover, Germany, means opportunities to relax at any of the 5 different types of places to stay in the city. Overall, travelers can choose from the following: 320 vacation rental apartments, 259 hotels, 19 cottages, 2 guesthouses and 1 hostel. While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Hanover provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Among all these choices available in the city, prizeotel Hannover-City is one of the top picks of travelers in Hanover.

The hotel is located at Hamburger Allee 50 and boasts many great utilities, including Air conditioning, Free Wi-Fi, and Bar.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Hanover. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

In Hanover, travelers looking for an economical yet top-rated place to stay usually choose BoxHotel Hannover (App based Hotel). For approximately 40 EUR, guests can book a comfortable Unknown at this popular hotel.

Below is a list of all 5 different types of places to stay in Hanover. Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

Top hotels in Hanover

Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Hanover for the unique experience they provide. So if you're the kind of traveler who prefers staying at hotels, you'll be glad to know that the city is home to around 601 hotels.

Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Hanover provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Hanover are created equal, finding the best in the city often requires careful research. For your convenience, we've done all the research to make it easier for you to check out all the top hotels in Hanover.

Kastens Hotel Luisenhof offers the most luxurious rooms and is perfect for travelers looking for the ultimate 5-star hotel experience in Hanover. If comfort, convenience, and affordability are your non-negotiables, check out H+ Hotel Hannover, the top 4-star hotel in the city. When all you need is a pleasant place to rest and sleep in between your activities in Hanover, the highest-rated 3-star hotel, prizeotel Hannover-City, is for you.

Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in the Hanover. Travelers are encouraged to book early as these hotels quickly reach capacity.

Click the arrows or swipe the list to see each hotel's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel by clicking the cards.

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Use the Accommodation Search tool below to find available stays in the city of Hanover on specific dates. This handy feature also allows you to compare prices and amenities.

Enter the preferred check-in and check-out dates. Then, select the number of guests and rooms. Click the Search button to find all the available hotels and places to stay in the city of Hanover that match the information provided.

Car rental in Hanover

Photo of main building of the Leibniz University in Hanover, Germany.

Experience the freedom and convenience of a self-drive vacation by renting a car for your adventures in Hanover. Hanover has 7 car rental companies ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Hanover start from 24.72 EUR per day or 173.06 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Ford Focus Aut.

If you prefer driving a manual car, you’ll find multiple options for rent in Hanover, starting from 17.46 EUR per day or 122.24 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Ford Fiesta.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Hanover, Germany, below.

Popular types of car rental in Hanover

Discover and choose from our broad range of popular car rental options in the city of Hanover to find the best car for your travel plans. Travelers in Hanover can choose from small cars, medium cars, large cars, estate cars, mini vans, SUVs, convertibles, premium cars, camper vans, mini campers, vans, cars. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Renting a car is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore Germany at their own pace. The most popular type of car rental among small groups of travelers in Hanover is a TopLevel.

Another very popular type of car to rent in Hanover is a TopLevel. This car is particularly popular among couples and solo travelers touring the city of Hanover.

Check out all options available in Hanover and book the car rental for your upcoming adventures in Germany below.

Search for car rental in Hanover

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Hanover. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Hanover, Germany, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Popular destinations to visit after Hanover

Photo of Herrenhausen Gardens of Herrenhausen Palace located in Hannover, Germany.

The city of Hanover is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Germany. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Germany has it all.

Germany is calling, and the country is asking you to experience its culture and diversity to the fullest! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Germany that are as magical as the city of Hanover. The most popular travel destinations in Germany are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in Germany

When unsure of where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Germany. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Domestic flights from Hanover

Photo of tourist girl visiting the ruins of the church of Aegidienkirche  in Hanover, Germany.

A taste of Germany through a visit to Hanover can often reignite a traveler's passion for adventure. When this happens, the best way to satisfy this wanderlust is to book a domestic flight from Hanover to another remarkable destination in Germany.

To begin your search for the best or cheapest flights from the city of Hanover to other spectacular locations in Germany, jump to the last section of this travel guide.

Search domestic flights from Hanover

Traveling to another city or region in Germany? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Hanover to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in Germany on the selected dates.

Popular domestic flights from Hanover

Travelers in Germany can catch flights to domestic airports in Munich, Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Cologne, and Bremen. Domestic flights in Germany are operated by 13 airlines: Corendon Airlines Europe, Lufthansa, TUI fly Deutschland, British Airways, and Volotea. There are around 39 scheduled flight routes operating to Hanover on a weekly basis.

From Hanover, travelers can book scheduled flights to 18 domestic destinations. The most popular flights from Hanover depart to many top-rated destinations in Germany and are offered by Corendon Airlines Europe, Lufthansa, and TUI fly Deutschland.

Most popular countries in Europe

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