Visit Hannover - Visit Lower Saxony

Hanover, the capital of Lower Saxony

Hanover, the state capital of Lower Saxony

Hanover has been the state capital of Lower Saxony since the state was founded 80 years ago. It’s a major role, and one that suits us quite well.

Hanover is the capital of the state of Lower Saxony and offers a blend of cultural diversity, green oases, and a wide variety of recreational activities and events. In the heart of the Hanover region, urban life, short distances, and diverse local recreational areas come together. Lakes, river landscapes, forests, and green corridors invite visitors to discover the city and the region from ever-changing perspectives.

Quality of Life and Diversity in the Hanover Region

The city and nature are close together

The Hannover region combines vibrant urban neighborhoods with expansive natural and recreational areas. Explore the Eilenriede City Forest, enjoy a relaxing time at Lake Masch, or discover the trails along the Ihme and Leine rivers. Numerous green corridors and protected areas complement the diverse landscape.

The short distances between urban attractions and nature-oriented destinations make Hannover particularly versatile. Culture, shopping, dining, and leisure activities can be easily combined with walks, bike rides, or outings into the countryside.

Getting Around by Car in Hanover and the Surrounding Area

A dense network of light rail, commuter rail, buses, and bike paths connects the city with the surrounding municipalities. Hannover Central Station serves as a major transportation hub for regional and intercity connections.

Many attractions, event venues, and recreational areas are easily accessible by public transportation or bicycle. This allows you to plan your stay flexibly and combine different destinations in the region.

Hanover – The Capital of Lower Saxony

Center for Science, Business, and Innovation

As the state capital of Lower Saxony, Hanover is a major administrative, academic, and economic hub. Universities, research institutions, and technology companies bring together knowledge and expertise across numerous fields.

Companies in the manufacturing, service, logistics, and healthcare sectors shape this diverse business hub. International trade shows and conferences regularly bring visitors, industry professionals, and new ideas to the city.

Experience Culture and Urban Identity

Opera, theater, museums, concert halls, and a variety of performance venues shape Hannover’s cultural landscape. As a UNESCO City of Music, the capital of Lower Saxony boasts a vibrant music scene that ranges from classical concerts to modern festivals.

The city’s connection to Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz is also part of its identity. Discover a Hanover that blends cultural heritage, science, and contemporary creativity.

Culture, Events, and Unique Destinations

Discover Attractions and Recreational Activities

Hanover and the surrounding region offer a wide variety of museums, galleries, theaters, and exhibition venues. Among the most well-known attractions are the Herrenhausen Gardens and the Hanover Adventure Zoo. Both offer unique experiences along with a diverse range of activities for families, couples, and groups.

In addition, smaller cultural centers, regional museums, and rotating exhibitions invite visitors to discover new aspects of the state capital and its surrounding area.

Experience Festivals and Events

Major events such as the Maschseefest, the Hannover Schützenfest, and numerous sporting events are highlights of the event calendar. They combine tradition, entertainment, and city life, attracting visitors from Lower Saxony and beyond.

Concerts, markets, festivals, and seasonal events offer special experiences all year round. Thanks to the excellent public transportation network, you can easily reach many event venues by public transit.

Natural Areas and Recreation in the State of Lower Saxony

Lakes, Forests, and River Landscapes

A variety of natural landscapes await you in and around Hanover. Take a trip to Steinhuder Meer, explore the Leine floodplain, or enjoy some downtime in the Eilenriede. Walking, biking, and water sports offer countless opportunities to actively experience Lower Saxony.

The combination of urban green spaces and regional landscapes makes Hanover an ideal starting point for day trips and weekend activities.

Recreational Activities for the Whole Family

Parks, zoos, family-friendly attractions, and local cultural events round out the region’s recreational offerings. Many of these destinations are close to one another and are easily accessible by train, bus, bicycle, or car.

Whether you're looking for a nature experience, a family outing, or a relaxing day in the countryside, you'll find activities in Hanover and the surrounding region to suit a variety of interests and age groups.

Centrally located and well-connected

Hanover as a starting point for Lower Saxony

Thanks to its central location in the state of Lower Saxony, Hanover is an ideal starting point for exploration. Public transportation, bike paths, and roads connect the state capital with numerous cities, towns, and tourist destinations in the surrounding area.

This makes it easy to flexibly combine cultural attractions, natural areas, and recreational destinations. Travelers from other parts of Germany can also reach Hanover quickly and conveniently.

Leisure and Recreation Just a Short Distance Away

Amusement parks, zoos, wellness facilities, and seasonal attractions are all easily accessible from Hanover. The short distances make it easy to plan day trips and allow for a variety of experiences during your stay.

Discover Lower Saxony, explore Hanover, and enjoy the unique blend of the state capital, the surrounding region, and nature.

All information, all tips

Hanover vacation region

Whether on foot, by bike, on horseback, or on the water—here you'll find places to visit, routes, and tips for the Hannover vacation region.

read

Historic, vibrant, unique

9 cities + 2 in Lower Saxony

A tour of the nine +2 cities in Lower Saxony offers plenty of variety.

read