One Day in Hanover, Germany

March 10, 2024 - By Cheryl

Many of our friends are heading to Hanover, Germany to see Dave Matthews Band next month. It will be a quick stop between other cities. Here are some ideas on how to spend a quick day in Hanover.

Marvel at the Herrenhausen Gardens: Start your day with a visit to the stunning Herrenhausen Gardens. Considered one of the most beautiful baroque gardens in Europe, this sprawling complex features manicured hedges, sculpted lawns, stunning fountains, and several greenhouses. Explore the Great Garden, the baroque garden laid out in the French style, the Guelph Maze, the largest hedge maze in Europe, or the Berggarten, a botanical garden showcasing a diverse collection of plants. Allow 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the gardens. Herrenhausen Gardens Hanover Germany

Climb the New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus): A short walk from the gardens is the impressive New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus). This brick building is the seat of the Hanover City Council. Take a guided tour to explore the opulent chambers, including the Festival Hall, adorned with murals depicting the history of Hanover. Don’t miss the highlight – an elevator ride to the dome, offering panoramic views of the city. Allocate 1-2 hours for the tour and taking in the views. New Town Hall Hanover Germany

After exploring the New Town Hall, head to the Marktplatz (Market Square) for lunch. Here you’ll find a variety of restaurants and cafes offering traditional German fare, international cuisine, or lighter options for a quick bite.

Explore the Marktplatz (Market Square): Immerse yourself in history at the Marktplatz, the central square of Hanover’s Old Town. Admire the architectural gems like the Market Church (Marktkirche) with its Gothic brick tower, the Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus) with its Renaissance facade, and the Leibniz House, the former home of the renowned philosopher Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz. Take some time to wander around the square, soak in the atmosphere, and do some souvenir shopping at the local stalls (if interested).’

See the Royal Gardens of Herrenhausen: If you have extra time, consider visiting the Royal Gardens of Herrenhausen, another sprawling complex encompassing several gardens, including the Great Garden, the Berggarten, and the Georg Garden. Each offers a unique style and atmosphere. Allow 1-2 hours for a quick visit, or longer if you want to delve deeper. Royal Gardens of Herrenhausen Hanover Germany

Browse the shops on the Kröpcke. Kröpcke is a major intersection in the center of Hanover. It’s also a popular shopping district. There are a variety of shops here, from department stores to high-end boutiques. Be sure to check out the Galeria Kaufhof, a large department store located on the Kröpcke.

Spend time at the Maschsee: In the late afternoon, head to the Maschsee, a large artificial lake located in the center of Hanover. During colder weather, enjoy a scenic stroll along the shore or have a relaxing drink at one of the lakeside cafes or restaurants with a view.

Dinner and Drinks: In the evening, choose from a wide variety of restaurants in Hanover depending on your preference. For a traditional German experience, head to a cozy Gaststätte or a lively Brauhaus. If you’re looking for something more modern or international, there are plenty of options in the city center. After dinner, unwind at a bar or a pub, soaking up the nightlife of Hanover.

Hanover Beer Scene

Hanover, Germany, offers a variety of beers to suit different tastes:

Local Specialties:

Alt: This top-fermented dark beer is a regional specialty of Düsseldorf, a neighboring city. It’s a malty beer with a slightly hoppy bitterness. While not brewed in Hanover itself, you might find it on tap at some Gaststätten (inns) that focus on regional varieties.
(Maybe) Broyhan: Hanover was once known for its own unique style called Broyhan. This top-fermented pale wheat beer was similar to Leipziger Gose or Berliner Weisse. However, it’s not as widely available these days. You might find a revived version or beers inspired by Broyhan at some breweries or specialty shops.

Common German Styles:

Pilsner: This light, golden lager is the most popular style of beer in Germany. You’ll find major brands like Pilsner Urquell and regional varieties at most establishments.
Helles: This pale lager is similar to Pilsner but slightly maltier and less hoppy. It’s a refreshing and easy-drinking option.
Dunkel: This dark lager offers a malty flavor profile with a hint of roastiness. It’s a good choice for those who prefer a fuller-bodied beer.
Kölsch: This light, pale ale is a specialty of Cologne, Germany. While not brewed in Hanover, it’s a common find on tap at many bars and restaurants due to its popularity.

Types of Bars in Hanover:

Brauhaus (Brewery Houses): Immerse yourself in the classic German beer hall atmosphere at a Brauhaus. These large establishments often brew their own beer on-site and serve hearty German fare alongside their signature lagers. Expect a lively atmosphere with communal tables and friendly service. A great example is the Brauhaus Ernst August, known for its extensive beer garden and traditional dishes.
Gaststätten (Inns): These cozy pubs offer a more relaxed setting compared to Brauhauses. Gaststätten often have a long history and focus on regional beers alongside a menu of German comfort food. They can be a great place to soak up the local atmosphere and enjoy a casual drink.
Craft Beer Bars: Hanover has a growing craft beer scene, with dedicated bars offering a wider selection of local and international craft beers. These spots cater to beer enthusiasts with a focus on unique flavors and styles. Check out Craft Bier Bar Hannover for a vast selection on tap.
Beer Gardens: Hanover boasts several charming beer gardens, perfect for enjoying a refreshing Kölsch or local brew outdoors during the warmer months. These open-air spaces often have a festive atmosphere and can be a great place to people-watch and relax. Look for “Biergarten” in the name to identify these seasonal gems.

Here are some of the best restaurants and beer halls in Hanover, Germany according to Google:

Overall, Hanover has some interesting history evident in its well-preserved Old Town with architectural gems like the Marktplatz square, the Gothic Market Church, and the Renaissance Old Town Hall. There is plenty of ways to spend the day before a concert.