Things to do & places to visit in Lower Saxony, Germany

Lower Saxony (Niedersachsen in German) in Germany's northwest is the country's second-largest state in terms of size and its fourth population-wise. Home to Hannover and several other larger cities, the area is treasured for its natural beauty, as well, with diverse terrain that includes coastline, flatlands, rolling hills and woodlands. Both the wildlife-filled Harz Mountains in the south and the East Frisian Islands off the northern coast are beloved by Germans and visitors alike.

Lower Saxony #9 destination in Germany 2023. The average rating score is 4.30 based on 50.4k traveler reviews, of 2.264 attractions. Timezone: Europe/Berlin, current date and time: Wednesday, May 08, 2024, 0:12.

Lower Saxony Weather Statistics view more »

General weather summary in May

63°F - 44°F

Temperature Highs - Lows

Moderately chilly with a gentle breeze

Feels like

28%

Chance of rain

95.0 millimeters

Amount

13.6 mph

Wind speed

74%

Humidity

15.6

Daylight length

5:30 AM

Sunrise

9:08 PM

Sunset

43%

Cloud cover

Sweater

What to wear

Top things to do (32)

Top destinations in Lower Saxony 100

See more 88 destinations »

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Eilenriede - Park (239 reviews)
- Beautiful
Parks

This is one of the nicest city parks I have ever visited. I learned later it is nearly twice the size of NYC Central Park. It is very clean although there were many empty condom wrappers on the side trails!. I saw a large eagle and lots of other interesting birds. This is a good place to hike or ride a bike. See more..
4.5 Autostadt (1.409 reviews)
- A Must Visit, Plan to spend the entire day if you are a car aficionado.
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Speciality Museums

As a communications platform for the Volkswagen Group, the Autostadt in Wolfsburg focuses on the Volkswagen corporate values and all aspects of mobility. The theme park and educational centre have attracted more than 42 million visitors since the official opening in 2000, making the Autostadt one of the most popular tourist destinations in Germany. The Autostadt is also the world's largest new car delivery centre and home to the multi-brand car museum ZeitHaus. Furthermore, the Autostadt offers a variety of activities and events for car enthusiasts, fans of art, culture, design and architecture as well as gourmands. See more..
4.5 Erlebnis Zoo Hannover (1.374 reviews)
- stunning creativity meets nature
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Zoos

This zoo offers an exciting experience to the whole family. Coming here one can book on line or get the ticket by the door. The zoo is so big and magical you feel like you have been trough many countries when you are done because of the creative settings in the zoo plus one can interact with non dangerous animals. Will go again next year!! See more..
4.5 The New Town Hall (1.372 reviews)
- A must-go in Hannover
Wednesday: 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Government Buildings

汉诺威的必去景点之一。内部陈列有不同年代的汉诺威的城市模型以及友好城市的徽标。观景台是最让人印象深刻的，可以俯瞰整个汉诺威。而且斜着上下的电梯特别且有趣。电梯并不能把你直接送到观景台，还需要走陡峭的旋转楼梯，并且高处风非常大，因此不推荐行动不便者登高观景。隔壁就是马斯湖。One of the must-see attractions in Hannover. Inside there are city models of Hanover from different eras and the logos of the friendly cities. The observation deck is the most impressive and overlooks the whole of Hanover. And the lifts that go up and down at an angle are special and interesting. The lift doesn't take you directly to the observation deck, you have to take a steep revolving staircase and it's very windy up there, so it's not recommended for people with limited mobility. Next door is Marschsee. See more..
4.5 Herrenhäuser Gärten (1.161 reviews)
- Very beautiful with a lot to see
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Gardens

The over 300 year old Herrenhäuser Gärten are a fascinating garden ensemble. It consists of the baroque Großer Garten, the botanical Berggarten and the Georgengarten in english landscape style. See more..
4.5 Maschsee (838 reviews)
- Very enjoyable
Bodies of Water

I enjoyed very much my time spent at Maschsee although weather was not the best for outdoor activities. It is an artificial lake in a walking distance from the city center, suitable for all possible free time activities. It was built in 30th last century and one can identify sign of it. Especially the colummn with Olympic torch runner on its top takes a breath away and scare a bit at the other hand knowing in what intention such monuments were built and what followed. Anyway it makes this place not only recreation area but also historical place worth a more research. See more..
4.5 Meyer Werft (585 reviews)
- Perfect! This is where they build best cruise ships!
Ships

Such an organized shipyard, where many of modern cruise ships were built. Very neat, impressive. Worth visiting (for those who can). See more..
4.5 Weltkulturerbe Rammelsberg Museum & Besucherbergwerk (562 reviews)
- Disappointing due to language
Speciality Museums • Mines

We booked this mine tour for 3:00 pm as all other slots were full. Unfortunately, the ticket cashier neglected to tell us that it would be German speaking only. She knew we were English when we asked for tickets. The guide noticed , once we got underground and out of the train that we couldn’t understand so he explained a little in English and then said if we came back the next day( the day we were departing) for 9:45 that we would hear it all in English. One of our friends did bring the matter up upon our departure from the building but it was kind of laughed at. I do think that staff should make people aware of the English and German speaking times. See more..
4.5 Hameln Old Town (507 reviews)
- Pretty Town
Neighborhoods

I made a day trip by train from Hannover at a cost €23 return. The old town is a 15 minute walk from the station. It is a very pretty town but lacked atmosphere which I'm sure you would get in tourist season. The museums were shut but was nice to walk round and the buildings are very pretty. See more..
4.5 Burg Bentheim (456 reviews)
- One of those hidden gems!
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Points of Interest & Landmarks • Castles

We found this place by a pure chance, and we felt so lucky! The castle is beautiful and well-preserved, and it has amazing views on the town and the park. It is also suitable to visit with children. The entrance fee is about 5 euros per person which is cheap comparing to other, more well-known castles. There are also less visitors there so it would be a perfect place for someone who loves history/architecture and can't stand crowds. There are also plenty of nice cafes nearby, and the town itself is marvelous. I would definitely recommend it as a day trip, and I am going to visit there again! See more..
4.5 Volkswagen Auto Museum (451 reviews)
- If you love cars don't skip this place
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Speciality Museums

I loved it so much it was like walking into a shoe store. It's worth the time very impressive collection See more..
4.5 Seehundstation und Waloseum (400 reviews)
- A nice day trip.
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Science Museums

We travelled here April 2015 and visited the seal station. The centre is small but lovely. We were immediately in view of the seals at the centre as the viewing tank is just inside the centre. We watched the feeding and the talk- all in German, but this is to be expected so we cannot Mark down for this. The museum is insightful and we were lucky enough to have a friend present that speaks German so we had a translator. The shop is well stocked and we overall had a lovely relaxed day trip. We were unable to very to the whale museum due to our own poor planning but I'm sure this is just as nice. See more..
4.5 Deutsches Marinemuseum Wilhelmshaven (394 reviews)
- A great musuem to visit if you are into history and naval warfare
Speciality Museums

The admission is free of charge, if you are wearing a service uniform or have a valid military service ID ready, otherwise, the entry costs 14 € for adults. It is located in an easy to reach place. It will probably take 2-3 hours to complete the full tour around all of the ships (and there are at least 5 you can get on or in (in the case of the submarine)). The enjoyment is amplified if you actually know a little about the navy. The ships are from slightly different service periods, therefore it is interesting to note the layout and equipment differences between them. See more..
4.5 Weltvogelpark Walsrode (383 reviews)
- Surely the best bird park you could ever visit
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Zoos

What a great place.....very high standards of bird care evident....extremely clean & tidy...variety of birds is astonishing....plenty of free flight birds to see & the flying displays are brilliant especially when you get Condor's, Parrots, Cranes, Pelicans & Eagles all flying free in formation over a large grassed area. Well priced at 16 euros per person & it takes a long day to see it all. Never been a fan of zoos & birds in cages but this place redefines what can be achieved with proper planning and regard to animal welfare....full credit to the folk who run this it is an excellent place to see birds both in the wild, in beautiful gardens & in large open cages...also many opportunities to get fantastic photo's. Highly recommended and we will certainly return next time we are in Hannover See more..
4.5 Deutsches Panzermuseum (374 reviews)
- Must visit for anyone interested in armoured warfare
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Speciality Museums

A museum covering virtually the whole history of German armoured from the First World War to modern equipment of the Bundeswehr. Being a Second World War history buff, I was most fascinated with the tanks of the era. Amongst the tanks on display are the Panther, Tiger, and King Tiger. It’s a must visit for any military history buff; admission is 8€, there is a small and limited gift store. Give yourself at least two hours to do the place justice. Masks are currently recommended but not required. See more..
4.5 Luneburg Water Tower (356 reviews)
- Interesting water facts
Lookouts

Nice view from the top. It is also nice to make photos from the bridge overlooking the tower. A must visit if you're in Lüneburg. See more..
4.5 Zoo Osnabrück (353 reviews)
- Amazing Zoo
Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 6:30 PM Zoos

This zoo is amazing. The animals are clearly well cared for but it also has a lot of educational features. Set back in a forest area it is a lovely place to spend the day. See more..
4.5 Gedenkstätte Bergen-Belsen (301 reviews)
- Great to see the history, so to never be repeated
Historic Sites • Cemeteries

We went there in a cloudy but not raining Sunday. The memorial museum is really well organized and shows the horror of those concentration camp time. You can walk around outside but should see the exhibition. Reserve 2-3 hours for the visit See more..
4.5 Marktplatz (300 reviews)
- Roaring
Points of Interest & Landmarks

This little square lined with beautiful historical buildings and with a charming fountain in the centre really lives. There are several option for refreshment, either one of restaurants and cafes with the outside seating or just drink or ice cream to go. Although it can be very crowded at times it is always enjoyable. See more..
4.5 Stabkirche (299 reviews)
- Hahnenklee, Harz mountains, Germany
Churches & Cathedrals

Hahnenklee is a small town in Saxony. The wooden church is at the edge of town towards the mountain. There is a carillon next to, but detached from the church. The photos show, especially the ones taken inside, what a jewel it is. About 200 metres from the church is a cable car service that runs from the centre of the town up the mountain. This is accessible by wheel chair but I'm not sure if it would be suitable for the infirm. A chair lift has recently been built but when we where there it wasn't yet in service. At the top is a decent little café. Also there is a mechanical bob sleigh run. Looked good, but not for me though. See more..
4.5 Alte Liebe in Cuxhaven (273 reviews)
- The "meeting point" of Cuxhaven
Spent 1-2 hours Piers & Boardwalks

This is where "things happen" in Cuxhaven, the "meeting point" of the city. Ships are departing and arriving here, it's nice to sit down somewhere or just walk around and watch them come and go. See more..
4.5 Gäenseliesel (272 reviews)
- The queen of town
Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks

The name means "girl with a goose". She is kissed by everyone in Gottingen once they are done with their PhD thesis defense. You are supposed to cross the fountain to reach her. I wouldn't recommend doing that. People also throw coins in this fountain to get to visit this town again. See more..
4.5 Aegidienkirche (263 reviews)
- Powerful war memorial
Historic Sites

The Aegidienkirche, bombed in WOII and left in ruins as a war memorial. The peace bell was donated by the city of Hiroshima, Japan. Spend a little time here. Absorb the history and think about the madness of war. This sight is on the Red Thread route that guides you around Hannover town. See more..
4.5 Strandpromenade Norderney (260 reviews)
- Outstanding promenade
Spent < 1 hour Islands • Beaches • Nature & Wildlife Areas

This promenade is very well maintained, clean and neat. Plenty of restaurants, cafes, bars and hotels around. We enjoyed our visit with many impressive views. Is this a helpful review? Then please give me a "Thumbs up Thank FrankGeisler" by clicking the button below. See more..
4.5 Kugelbake (259 reviews)
- A must see...
Spent More than 3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks

this is a must see when in cuxhaven. It’s a nice and easy walk to get there. It’s not just a historical site... See more..
4.5 Historisches Lueneburger Rathaus (255 reviews)
- Beautiful Rathaus
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings • Government Buildings

Beautiful town hall from the outer view. One of the few Christmas markets in Lüneburg is placed here. See more..
4.5 Science Center phaeno (255 reviews)
- Perfect day activity fot the curious kid inside you
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Science Museums

Marvelling at the fire tornado over six meters high, setting a ball in motion alone through brainwaves and relaxation, or lying as comfortably as a fakir on a bed of nails: over 350 phenomena amaze both young and old at phaeno in Wolfs-burg and kindle enthusiasm for science and technology. There's something to discover for everyone in Germany's unique Experimental Landscape. Families as well as individu-als, groups, or clubs and societies can all experience a wide spectrum of phenomena from the world they live in and find out what's behind them. And the best thing about it: phaeno is a hands-on adventure, where visitors are called upon to take an active part and influence what goes on. There are no prescribed routes through the exhibition, the direction taken is determined by the curiosity of the guests themselves. The path they choose leads them through such interesting fields of discovery as Energy, Mirrors, Vision or Life. See more..
4.5 Borkumer Kleinbahn (253 reviews)
- The Shuttle from the Ferry
Wednesday: 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM Rail Services • Taxis & Shuttles

A great way to get from the Ferry terminal to central Borkum. The train is included in the price of your ferry or ferry/train ticket from Emden. See more..
4.5 Berggarten (247 reviews)
- Best botanical garden - 3 hours tour
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Gardens

A real Mecca for plant lovers is the Berggarten. What began around 1700 as a mulberry plantation for silkworm breeding is now a much-noticed botanical garden. The collections in the open air and in the show houses reflect the flora on all continents. The orchid collection is of worldwide importance. The Berggarten offers visitors a variety of beautiful plant treasures at any time of the year. See more..
4.5 Tierpark Nordhorn (246 reviews)
- Walking between the animals
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Zoos

This is a nice and small zoo where you can walk in between various animals, like wallabies, dears, owls, parakeets and other birds, prairie dogs, etc. There are no giant animals like giraffes, elephants and bears and it has also a lot of animals which you also see in a petting zoo, like donkeys, goats, rabbits, etc. There is one scenery that actually blew me away. It is the one of the Siberian ibex. When you enter this, it is almost like you are watching a national geographics documentary on a very wide screen. Very nicely done! See more..