Your guide to Hannover / Things to do if you only have 24/48 hours in Hannover
Only 24-48 hours in Hannover
You don't have to spend a week somewhere to get to know it. If you're going to find yourself in Hannover, Germany, with only 24 or 48 hours to spare, you can easily make the most of it if you plan ahead. If you're looking for what to do in one day in Hannover, try these great attractions and activities:
Visit the New Town Hall
Trammplatz 2, 30159 Hannover, Germany
One of the most popular sights in Hannover is the New Town Hall. This architectural beauty was built in 1913 to act as Hannover's town hall and the mayor's main residence. It was built in the majestic style of old German kingdoms and feels like it's been around for centuries. Tour the beautiful grounds around the building itself to see well-manicured gardens, and head inside to explore the handsome rooms of the hall. Take a lift up the curved dome to get a spectacular view of the city.
Take a Walk in Herrenhauser Garten
Herrenhäuser Str. 4, 30419 Hannover, Germany
See some of the most well-kept and well-designed gardens at the Herrenhauser Garten. This collection is made up of four expansive gardens, and each has its own style. At the Berggarten, you'll find over 12,000 plant species. The Big Garden is one of the finest examples of the Baroque style that you'll find in Europe. The other two gardens feature a nearly 2-kilometer path between trees that connected the city to the castle. Make sure you have your camera ready — you'll want to take the picturesque scenes you'll find in these gardens home with you.
SEA LIFE Hannover
Herrenhäuser Str. 4a, 30419 Hannover, Germany
If you visit the Herrenhauser Garten, you can jump straight from there to SEA LIFE Hannover. This aquarium lets you get up close to aquatic creatures through an underwater tunnel. Meet stingrays, crocodiles, seahorses, sea turtles, and more at SEA LIFE. Take a self-guided tour of the aquarium, show up for one of the "ranger talks," watch some of the public animal feedings, and explore the ocean depths at this fun attraction.
See Modern Art at the Sprengel Museum
Kurt-Schwitters-Platz, 30169 Hannover, Germany
If you're a fan of modern art, you'll love Hannover's Sprengel Museum. Their permanent collection, which features work by French artist Niki de Saint Phalle, is extensive, and the rotating exhibits are always thought-provoking. The Sprengel Museum prides itself on showcasing the most cutting-edge contemporary art. For lovers of art, this is a must-see destination if you only have one day in Hannover.
Shop at Ernst August Galerie
To get some shopping time in, stop by the Ernst August Galerie. This two-floor shopping center is home to a great many shops and restaurants that will keep you busy for as long as you would like. From name-brand clothing to Germany-based stores, you'll find many fashionable and interesting items here. If you're looking to take home a souvenir or update your wardrobe during your stay, the Ernst August Galerie should be on your to-do list.
Marktkirche
Hanns-Lilje-Platz 2, 30159 Hannover, Germany
For Hannover citizens, there aren't many buildings as instantly recognizable as Marktkirche, or Church on the Market. It was built in the 14th century in the brick Gothic style and features some interesting iconography. Inside, the tall vaulted ceilings and stained glass windows look like they came out of a book. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, religion, or just interesting sights, Marktkirche is well worth the visit during your short stay.
Gilde Brewery
Hildesheimer Str. 132, 30173 Hannover, Germany
No trip to Germany is complete without a pint of good German beer. For one of the best beers Hannover has to offer, head to Gilde Brewery. Gilde Brewery has been in the beer business since 1546, making it the oldest brewery in Hannover, a city that's certainly made its mark on the beer world. Take a behind-the-scenes tour of the Gilde Brewery, or sit down and enjoy a pint of their best creations. Either way, a tasty German beer always makes for a day well-spent.
Watch a Performance at the Opera House
Opernpl. 1, 30159 Hannover, Germany
The Staatsoper Hannover, or Hannover State Opera House, is one of the most important art institutions in the city. Even if you don't watch a performance, the building itself deserves to be seen. If you show up earlier in the day, you might be able to take a guided tour of the opera house's gorgeous rooms. But they also have a full schedule of operas, ballets, and performances of many kinds that you might be able to buy a ticket for if your stay overlaps with one of them.
Simply Follow the Red Thread
Ernst-August-Platz 8, 30159 Hannover, Germany
For one of the best ways to see as much as you can in a small amount of time, follow the Red Thread. This is an actual red line that's been painted on the ground to give visitors a way to take the best walking tour of the city. The line is 4.2 kilometers long and takes you to 36 sights in the city, including many of the locations on this guide. For 3 euros, you can buy a booklet from Hannover Tourism Information that dives into the details and history behind each of the locations it takes you to. But you can always simply start walking to see where the line takes you.
Stay the Night at a Fantastic Hotel
Whether you're staying 24 or 48 hours in Hannover, you'll need a place to rest up before starting your day's adventure or traveling to your next destination. Luckily, Hannover is home to some of the best hotels where you can get a great deal on a relaxing, cozy room.
If you plan out your visit to Hannover well, you can fill your short stay with unforgettable experiences. Use your 24 or 48 hours in Hannover wisely by visiting these and the many other great attractions you'll find in the city.