Waterways, rivers and ports

The waterway network consists of the Mittelland Canal, the Linden Branch Canal, the Misburg Branch Canal, and the Leine Connecting Canal. These man-made waterways are supplemented by the Leine and Ihme rivers, which are also (partially) navigable. 

© Hanover Municipal Ports

The “Hannover Municipal Ports” consist of four locations where motor cargo ships are handled: The Nordhafen and the Brinker Hafen are located directly on the Mittelland Canal, the Lindener Hafen is on the Linden Branch Canal, and the Misburger Hafen is on the Misburg Branch Canal. Together, they make Hannover a major North German port city for inland waterway transport. Incidentally, Hanover has been a member of the Hanseatic League again since 2019. Hanover was already a member of the Hanseatic League from the 13th century until around 1620

There are also four marinas along the canals. These include the Hannover Marina (in the List district), the Misburg Marina, the Ahlem Marina, and the Limmer Marina

© Boat Rental at the Hannover Marina

While the canals are mainly used by cargo motorboats and yachts, the Leine and Ihme rivers are bustling with canoeists, rowers, and paddlers. On the Leine, there is a boathouse used by a rowing club and a sports dock with a canoe club and a water ski club. On the Ihme River, there is the DRC dock. However, it is now also possible to canoe on the canals; for example, there are landing stages on the Mittelland Canal and the Leine Connecting Canal.

© Stefan Knaak

The banks of the Mittelland Canal are perfect for hiking or biking, and at the Hannover Marina, you can stay in Scandinavian-style lodges and dine on a historic steamboat. On the banks of the Leine River in the Old Town, a promenade lined with cafes and restaurants beckons. You can also cycle and walk along the banks of the Leine and Ihme rivers elsewhere. In Döhren, there’s an island in the Leine, and at the point where the Leine and Ihme rivers converge, there’s even a beach club.

But the Fösse, the historic Ernst-August Canal, the artificial waterway known as the "Schneller Graben," and several streams also shape the cityscape. 

© Radio Leinehertz

Place of interest

Anderten lock

The lock was the largest inland lock in Europe when it opened.

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