Maschsee

The Great Garden in Hannover is one of Europe's most stunning baroque gardens, drawing in travelers from across the globe. At its heart lies the recently reconstructed Herrenhausen Palace, which now houses the innovative Herrenhausen Palace Museum. Wandering through the garden, you'll encounter a spectacular array of romantic fountains, exotic plants, and eye-catching sculptures. It's a lively spot, hosting events like the international fireworks competition and the Small Festival in the Great Garden that bring in crowds from near and far. These Royal Gardens are Hannover's crown jewel, showcasing over 300 years of aristocratic elegance. The highlight is the Great Garden, a beautifully preserved 17th-century masterpiece. When you visit, don't miss Herrenhausen Palace. It has been meticulously restored to its original glory and is equipped with state-of-the-art multimedia facilities. This palace is a hub of over 160 events annually, serving as a scientific and innovative center for all of Lower Saxony, continuing the legacy of its famous former resident, the universal scholar Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz. The Great Garden is the perfect place to get wonderfully lost. You can gaze in awe at the magnificent Great Fountain, which soars 82 meters high, making it the largest of its kind in Europe. The Grand Cascade is equally enchanting, and artist Niki de Saint Phalle's whimsically decorated grotto is a must-see. During the annual international fireworks competition, the skies above transform into a mesmerizing display of world-class pyrotechnics, turning the night into a brilliant canvas of trailing sparks. While you're there, take a moment to enjoy one of the serene walking paths or grab a bite at a nearby café; these small pleasures make the experience even more memorable.

Once upon a time, Berggarten was a mulberry tree plantation, bustling with Elector's silkworm farms. Fast forward to today, and it has transformed into a botanical wonderland teeming with diverse plant life. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or a budding botanist, taking a closer look at the intricate details here offers a bounty of rewards. Over the centuries, plants from every corner of the globe have made their home at Berggarten. Some, like the African Violet and the Flamingo Flower (Anthurium), were the first of their kind to grace European soil. Berggarten is a must-visit year-round, constantly evolving and surprising visitors with its kaleidoscope of colors and unique atmosphere. Interestingly, Berggarten is also home to one of the most impressive orchid collections in Europe. With over 25,000 plants, the orchid greenhouse is a stunning spectacle that shouldn't be missed. The garden's layout itself is a masterpiece, designed to lead you on a journey through its lush landscapes. Don't forget to take a moment to relax by the serene ponds, where you might spot some local wildlife enjoying the beautiful surroundings.

Many visitors are often surprised to learn that the stunning building they're gazing at is actually Hannover's "new" town hall. Its grandeur and majestic architecture give it an air of historical significance, reminiscent of an era when Hannover was a kingdom. Yet, this impressive structure was officially inaugurated on June 20, 1913, after a dozen years of construction. During the opening ceremony, Heinrich Tramm, the mayor at the time, proudly informed Emperor Wilhelm II: "And it is all paid in cash, Your Majesty." The city spared no expense, investing a whopping ten million Marks into this magnificent edifice, which stands on 6,026 beech-tree piles. Esteemed architects Eggert and Halmhuber were the creative minds behind its design. The town hall's dome is a marvel, soaring to a height of 97.73 meters (320 feet). What's truly unique is the diagonal lift inside the dome. It travels at a 17-degree angle, covering 43 meters up to the gallery at the dome's peak. From this perch, you can soak in breathtaking views of the entire city and even catch a glimpse of the Harz Mountains on a clear day. While you're in Hannover, take a moment to appreciate the intricate details of the town hall's architecture. The interior is just as captivating, with opulent halls and grand staircases that transport you back in time. The surrounding Maschpark offers a serene escape, perfect for a leisurely stroll after exploring the city.

Welcome to Hanover Adventure Zoo! Picture this: rose-pink flamingos gracefully wading by a roaring waterfall; rare Rothschild giraffes towering majestically above you; Barbary lions keenly watching antelopes move across the white desert sand. It's a scene straight out of a nature documentary. Here, the adventure is real and you’re in the animals’ domain! You won't believe how close you can get to the wildlife. Massive glass panes provide an intimate viewing experience that lets you connect with lions, tigers, and polar bears, all while maintaining a safe distance. It's thrilling to see apes almost face-to-face, observing their curious expressions and playful antics. Whether you're visiting your favorite animal or waving goodbye to pelicans, Bennett kangaroos, goats, and sheep in their walk-in enclosures, every moment is memorable. Don't miss the daily shows and feedings. They're not just entertaining but also a fantastic opportunity to learn more about these fascinating creatures. And here's a fun tidbit: Did you know that Rothschild giraffes are one of the most endangered giraffe subspecies? Spotting them here is a rare treat! So grab your camera and let Hanover Adventure Zoo take you on a wild ride through the realms of the animal kingdom.

Nestled in the heart of Hanover, the Museum August Kestner is a true gem for history enthusiasts and art lovers alike. Named after August Kestner, a notable collector who lived from 1777 to 1853, this museum boasts an impressive cache of Egyptian and Greco-Roman artifacts. Kestner amassed these treasures during his tenure as the Hanoverian ambassador in Rome, adding a fascinating layer of history to each piece. What makes this museum stand out is its status as the oldest municipal museum in Hanover, housed in a striking glass-concrete building from 1961. This architectural marvel showcases parts of the original museum's staircase, side wings, and nearly the entire entrance facade, which adds a historical charm to your visit. It's like stepping into a time capsule that beautifully blends the past with modernity. The Museum August Kestner is the only place in Hanover where you can explore 6,000 years of applied art across four captivating collections. From ancient Egyptian and Greco-Roman cultures to medieval and modern design, the museum offers a journey through time. It also hosts one of the largest collections of coins and medals in northern Germany, making it a must-see for numismatists. With several special exhibitions each year, the museum keeps things fresh by highlighting unique topics and contextualizing its extensive collections in intriguing ways. As you wander through its halls, you'll find yourself enchanted by the stories each artifact tells. Whether you're a history buff or just curious about the past, the Museum August Kestner offers an engaging and educational experience. For those looking to dive deeper into the history of Hanover, this museum is a splendid starting point. Don't forget to take a moment to appreciate the architectural beauty that frames these timeless treasures.

Dive into the depths of a tropical underwater paradise right in the heart of Hannover at the Tropical Sea Life Aquarium! This enchanting spot offers a captivating journey across 3,500 square meters of aquatic habitats, from the local Leine River all the way to the exotic Amazon. Imagine strolling through an aquatic wonderland where mussels, freshwater stingrays, and even piranhas are just a glance away. As Germany's first tropical Sea Life Aquarium, it houses over 3,500 sea creatures spread across 37 mesmerizing pools. One of the highlights is the Ocean Pool, featuring a stunning eight-meter-long glass tunnel. Here, visitors are mere inches away from majestic sharks and graceful turtles, creating an unforgettable experience. The adventure doesn't stop there: step into the tropical plant dome and find yourself in a lush rainforest setting. A breathtaking walk over a unique glass bridge awaits, where below, Cuban crocodiles stealthily glide through the water. And here's a little insider tip for your visit: don't miss the feeding sessions. They offer a fascinating glimpse into the daily lives and behaviors of these aquatic residents. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or just looking for a cool spot to explore, Sea Life Hannover promises an aquatic adventure like no other.

The Sprengel Museum Hannover is a treasure trove for art enthusiasts, especially those passionate about German Expressionism and French Modernist painting. It's a must-visit spot for anyone exploring the artistic pulse of the 20th and 21st centuries. Founded with the generous donation from Dr. Bernhard and Margrit Sprengel to the City of Hanover in 1969, the museum opened its doors in 1979. Walking through its halls feels like stepping into a vibrant world where masterpieces by Max Ernst, Paul Klee, Emil Nolde, Pablo Picasso, and Kurt Schwitters come to life. You'll also find remarkable works from groups like Die Brücke and the Blauer Reiter. Art from the post-1945 era is showcased in a truly striking manner, with pieces by renowned artists including Gerhard Richter and Bruce Nauman. One of the museum's standout features is its artist-designed rooms, featuring the fascinating reconstruction of Kurt Schwitters’ legendary ‘Merzbau’, El Lissitzky’s ‘Abstract Cabinet’, and the ethereal light spaces by James Turrell. Photography enthusiasts will be thrilled to know that the museum places particular emphasis on this medium, offering a rich experience for all visitors. The Sprengel Museum Hannover brings together the modern art collections from the former Städtische Galerie and the Landesgalerie, making it a dynamic convergence of artistic visions. If you're planning a visit, don't miss the chance to explore its temporary exhibitions, which often feature emerging artists and groundbreaking contemporary works. The museum's location near the picturesque Maschsee Lake also provides a perfect opportunity for a leisurely stroll after immersing yourself in the world of art.