5 Days in Göttingen: A Cultural Adventure

Discover history and modernity in Göttingen, Germany.

22 April 2023

As a tourist, a trip to Göttingen, Germany would be a wonderful experience to explore the city's rich history, stunning architecture, and unique culture. The city is famous for its beautiful medieval architecture, charming streets, and lively atmosphere filled with cozy cafes, restaurants, and shops. From the historic landmarks such as St. Jakob church and the Old Town Hall to the fascinating museums and galleries, there is something for everyone here.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Welcome to Göttingen!

  • Check into Hotel Freizeit In, a gorgeous 4-star hotel with a pool and sauna
  • Head to the historic old town and discover St. Jacob's Church, one of the oldest in Germany
  • Visit the Göttingen City Museum for a crash course in the city's history and culture
  • Take a stroll through the Botanic Garden, home to over 10,000 plant species
  • Have dinner and drinks at the rustic Brauhaus Joh. Albrecht, famous for its German beer and local dishes
Day 2

Art and Science

  • Explore the famous Max Planck Institute for Solar System Research and learn about their scientific breakthroughs
  • Admire the beautiful architecture and art installations at the Städtisches Museum
  • Check out the impressive collection of German literature at the Göttingen State and University Library
  • Have lunch at the charming Cafe Lotti, known for its tasty cakes and sandwiches
  • Visit the Gotthold Ephraim Lessing Theater for a taste of German theater culture
Day 3

Outdoor Adventure

  • Take a day trip to the nearby Harz Mountains and do some hiking in the beautiful forest trails
  • Visit the medieval town of Goslar and see its UNESCO World Heritage-protected Old Town
  • Stop at the Rammelsberg Mine Museum for some history lessons on the region's mining industry
  • Have a picnic lunch with local produce from the weekly farmer's market
  • Relax at the beautiful Grone Baths, with three different pools and plenty of sun loungers
Day 4

Foodie Fun

  • Explore the local food scene with a culinary walking tour of Göttingen
  • Sample the city's famous sausages and beer at the Marktbrunnen Square food market
  • Visit the Nikolai Chapel and explore the artisanal shops and stalls of the weekly flea market
  • Check out ZHG Cafe at the University, where students and locals alike gather for coffee and conversation
  • Have a romantic dinner at the Michelin-starred Restaurant Rote Bühne and try their highly-regarded tasting menu
Day 5

Science and Technology

  • Make a pit stop at the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt and learn about its role in keeping time across Germany
  • Explore the interactive, hands-on exhibits at the Phæno Science Center
  • Visit the mathematically extravagant Gottingen Sieben statue to learn about its significance
  • Have a final German supper at the cozy Zum goldenen Herz, famous for their schnitzel and potato dumplings
  • Take in one last glimpse of the city from the top of the Göttingen City Tower, with a 360-degree panoramic view.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Göttingen by plane is to fly into Hanover Airport, which is approximately 134 km away from the city. From Hanover Airport, you can take the S-Bahn to Hanover Central Station and then take a train to Göttingen. The journey takes approximately 2 hours.

Car

The best way to get to Göttingen by car is to take the A7 motorway if you are travelling from the north or south of Germany. If you are travelling from the west, you can take the A44 motorway. The journey time depends on the starting point.

Train

The best way to get to Göttingen by train is to take the Intercity Express (ICE) or Intercity (IC) train from major cities in Germany such as Berlin, Frankfurt, Hamburg, or Munich. The Göttingen train station is well connected to other German cities and the journey time varies depending on the starting point.

Boat

There are no direct routes to Göttingen by boat as the city is inland. However, you can take a boat from the port of Hamburg to the Hanover Port, which is approximately 134 km away from Göttingen. From Hanover, you can take the S-Bahn to Hanover Central Station and then take a train to Göttingen.

Bus

The best way to get to Göttingen by bus is to take a long-distance coach from major German cities such as Berlin, Frankfurt, or Munich. The journey times and departure points vary depending on the service provider.

More travel plans

Göttingen: A Whimsical Family Adventure Await

Göttingen, Germany offers a perfect family-friendly trip with its rich historical attractions, charming surroundings, and welcoming atmosphere. Explore the enchanting Georg-August-University, one of the oldest in Germany, where kids can marvel at the iconic observatory and delightful botanical garden. Take a leisurely stroll through the idyllic Old Town, filled with half-timbered houses, quaint cafes, and unique shops, making it an ideal destination for a memorable and enjoyable family adventure.

A whimsical 5-day getaway in Göttingen, Germany

Embark on a romantic journey to Göttingen, Germany, where you can stroll the picturesque streets and admire the charming half-timbered houses. Enjoy a candlelit dinner at a cozy local restaurant, savoring authentic German cuisine and sipping on delicious regional wines. Wind down with a visit to the Friedhof Forest Cemetery, where you can wander hand-in-hand through the serene landscape and take in the stunning sculptures and gravestones.

Göttingen on a Budget: 2-Day Adventure!

Göttingen, Germany, located in Lower Saxony, offers plenty of affordable options to explore the city on a limited budget. The city is easily navigable by foot or bike, making it easy to discover the picturesque streets, bustling markets, and delightful cafes. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the historic university, sample local cuisine, and unwind in the tranquil parks and gardens.

Experience the Best of Göttingen in 3 Days

A trip to Göttingen, Germany as a tourist can be an exciting experience, with numerous historical sites, cultural institutions and famous landmarks to explore. Visitors can wander the streets of the city's charming Old Town, take a stroll through the Botanical Garden, and admire the stunning architecture of the city's many churches. Lovers of science and history can also visit the Max Planck Institute and the University of Göttingen, which have made significant contributions to both fields.