The capital of Lower Saxony, one of the areas hardest hit by the Second World War, Hannover is now a major centre in northern Germany.
One of the largest cities in northern Germany, Hannover lies at the heart of modern German culture. As a centre of trade, the city holds a number of major annual commercial fairs, as well as the world’s largest marksmen’s festival and the second largest Oktoberfest in the world.
It is also home to a range of tourist attractions.
Head straight for the Town Hall to gaze upon models of the cityscape from four very different points in the history of Hannover: 1689, 1939, 1945 and 2000. Then take an elevator up to the dome in order to observe a commanding view of the city as it stands today.
Among the many sights you will be able to spot is the Royal Gardens of Herrenhausen. These world-renowned Baroque gardens date back to the 17th century and were inspired by the gardens at the Palace of Versailles in France. Captivating at their greenest in summer, they also offer a pleasant stroll in winter. Explore the Cave within the garden grounds, decorated brightly by Niki de Saint Phalle.
Other garden features include a Gallery Building, an Orangerie, and two Pavilions made by Remy de la Fosse. At the centre of the Nouveau Jardin, meanwhile you will be able to view upon the tallest garden fountain in Europe.
Elsewhere in the city, take a trip to Hannover Zoo to see one of Europe’s most spectacular zoological gardens. The zoo is made up of several themed areas containing rare species from all over the world as well as a tropical house, a jungle house and a show arena. Be one of more than a million visitors that visit each year. The Sea Life aquarium is also a popular attraction, complete with a rainforest.
A little out of town, 19 miles (30 kilometres) south of Hannover, visit Castle Marienburg, one of the most important neo-Gothic historical structures to be found in Germany, evoking still today the traditional life of the Hannoverian court. Tours of the castle and its halls and state rooms are on offer too.
