Göttingen: The Complete Guide

Goettingen
CC BY-SA 2.5 / Daniel Schwen

Göttingen is a city located in Lower Saxony, Germany, and it is also a stop on the Fairy Tale Route. The city is known for its historical and cultural landmarks, including the Göttingen Old Town, which is home to several half-timbered buildings and the St. Johannis Church, a Gothic-style church built in the 14th century.

In terms of the Fairy Tale Route, Göttingen is famous for its connection to the Grimm Brothers. Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm worked at the University of Göttingen as professors of linguistics and philology from 1829 until their dismissal in 1837 due to political conflicts. During their time in Göttingen, they continued to research and collect fairy tales, and published several volumes of their famous fairy tales.

Visitors to Göttingen can explore the Grimm Brothers’ legacy by visiting the historic university campus, which includes the Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm Center, a library dedicated to their works. The city also hosts an annual fairy tale festival, where visitors can enjoy fairy tale performances, art exhibitions, and other cultural activities. Additionally, the Göttingen International Handel Festival is a major cultural event that takes place every year, celebrating the life and works of composer George Frideric Handel.

History of Göttingen

Göttingen: Early Beginnings

Göttingen dates back to the 10th century, originally known as Gutingi. It was officially recognized as a town in 1230 and quickly grew due to its strategic location.

Göttingen: Academic Heritage

In 1737, the University of Göttingen was founded by King George II of Great Britain. The university became one of Europe’s most prestigious institutions, attracting scholars worldwide.

Göttingen: Modern Development

Today, Göttingen is a vibrant blend of historical charm and modern amenities. The town has preserved its medieval architecture while fostering a thriving academic and cultural scene.

Visiting Göttingen for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Göttingen on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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Best things to do and See in Göttingen

1. Explore the Old Town of Göttingen

Göttingen’s Old Town (Altstadt) is a charming district filled with cobbled streets, medieval architecture, and vibrant squares. Walking through this historic area, visitors can admire half-timbered houses, quaint cafés, and local artisan shops, making it a perfect place to soak in the city’s atmosphere.

One of the highlights is the Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus), a stunning 13th-century building that once served as the city’s administrative center. The surrounding marketplace is a lively hub where visitors can experience seasonal events, street performances, and traditional markets, offering a glimpse into Göttingen’s rich cultural heritage.

2. Visit the Gänseliesel Fountain in Göttingen

The Gänseliesel Fountain is one of Göttingen’s most famous landmarks, located in front of the Old Town Hall. This Art Nouveau statue, depicting a young goose girl, has become a beloved symbol of the city.

A unique tradition surrounds the fountain—newly minted PhD graduates from the University of Göttingen climb up to kiss the statue after receiving their doctorate, making it the most kissed girl in town. Whether visiting for its historical significance or simply to witness this quirky tradition, the Gänseliesel Fountain is a must-see.

3. Discover the University of Göttingen

Founded in 1734, the University of Göttingen is one of Germany’s most prestigious academic institutions, known for its contributions to science and literature. The university’s historic buildings, botanical gardens, and research institutes make it a fascinating place to explore.

Visitors can admire the Aula (Main Hall), where Nobel Prize-winning scholars have lectured, and stroll through the Old Botanical Garden, which features a diverse collection of plants and serene walking paths. The university’s influence is deeply woven into Göttingen’s identity, making it an essential stop for history and education enthusiasts.

4. Walk Along the Göttingen City Wall

Göttingen’s City Wall (Stadtwall) offers a scenic walking route around the historic center, providing lush greenery, peaceful paths, and panoramic views of the city. Originally built for defense, the wall now serves as a tranquil escape for locals and visitors alike.

The tree-lined promenade is perfect for a leisurely stroll, jogging, or cycling, offering a blend of nature and history. Along the way, visitors can spot remnants of medieval fortifications, adding to the charm of this historic landmark.

5. Visit the Old Botanical Garden in Göttingen

The Old Botanical Garden is a hidden gem in Göttingen, offering a peaceful retreat with diverse plant species, shaded pathways, and picturesque ponds. Originally established for scientific research, the garden now serves as a public green space where visitors can relax and explore.

The garden features rare botanical specimens, seasonal blooms, and educational exhibits, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. Open daily from sunrise to sunset, entry is free, allowing guests to enjoy its beauty at any time.

6. Climb the Bismarck Tower in Göttingen

The Bismarck Tower, located on Hainberg Hill, offers breathtaking panoramic views of Göttingen and the surrounding countryside. Built in 1896, this historic tower was dedicated to Otto von Bismarck, Germany’s first chancellor.

Visitors can climb to the top for spectacular vistas, especially during sunrise or sunset. The tower is open year-round, and entry is free, making it a fantastic spot for photography and sightseeing.

7. Explore the Städtisches Museum Göttingen

The Städtisches Museum Göttingen showcases the city’s rich history through archaeological artifacts, medieval relics, and cultural exhibitions. Housed in a historic building, the museum provides insight into Göttingen’s evolution from a medieval town to a thriving university city.

Visitors can explore interactive displays, historical documents, and artistic collections, making it an engaging experience for all ages. The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with an entry fee of €5 per person.

8. Visit St. Jacobi Church in Göttingen

The St. Jacobi Church, dating back to the 14th century, is one of Göttingen’s most significant religious landmarks. Its Gothic architecture, towering spire, and intricate stained-glass windows make it a stunning site to visit.

Inside, visitors can admire historic altars, medieval sculptures, and a peaceful ambiance, perfect for reflection and exploration. The church is open Monday to Saturday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and entry is free.

9. Discover Burg Plesse Near Göttingen

Located just outside Göttingen, Burg Plesse is a medieval castle ruin offering scenic hiking trails, panoramic views, and historical intrigue. Originally built in the 11th century, the castle provides a glimpse into the region’s feudal past.

Visitors can explore stone fortifications, ancient towers, and picturesque surroundings, making it a great destination for history lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The site is open daily, and entry is free, making it an excellent day-trip option.

10. Enjoy the Kiessee Lake in Göttingen

The Kiessee Lake is a beautiful recreational area offering walking trails, picnic spots, and water activities. Surrounded by lush greenery, the lake is perfect for kayaking, birdwatching, or simply relaxing by the water.

Visitors can rent boats, enjoy lakeside cafés, or take in the peaceful scenery, making it a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike. Open year-round, entry is free, ensuring a refreshing escape in the heart of Göttingen.

Best Day Trips from Göttingen

A day trip from Göttingen offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Göttingen provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary. If you are looking to rent a car in Germany I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Adelebsen Castle

Burg Adelebsen
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Johan Bakker
Adelebsen Castle is a well-preserved medieval castle located on a sandstone cliff above the Schwülme river about 10 miles (16 km) west of Göttingen, Germany. The castle was built in the 12th century as a fortified residence for the lords of Adelebsen and served as a border fortification for the principality of Göttingen. Their line ended in 1957 with the…
Location: Burg Adelebsen, Offenser Straße, Adelebsen, Germany | Distance: 12.2km
Visiting Adelebsen Castle

We recommend to rent a car in Germany through Discover Cars, they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies. Book your rental car here.

Hannoversch Münden

Hannoversch Munden
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Dirk Schmidt
Hannoversch Münden is a charming town located at the confluence of the Werra and Fulda rivers, where they merge to form the Weser River in Breman and Lower Saxony in Central Germany. The town is known for its well-preserved medieval and half-timbered buildings, many of which date back to the 16th and 17th centuries, and is often referred to as…
Visiting Hannoversch Münden

Here is a complete selection of hotel options in Göttingen . Feel free to review each one and choose the stay that best suits your needs.

Trendelburg

Trendelburg Castle
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Presse03
Trendelburg is a small town in the district of Kassel, in the northern part of Hesse, Germany. It is located in the picturesque region of the Weserbergland hills, surrounded by forests, meadows, and rolling hills. One of the main landmarks in Trendelburg is the castle of Trendelburg, which is perched on a hill overlooking the town. The castle dates back…
Visiting Trendelburg

Hofgeismar

Hofgeismar
CC BY-SA 1.0 / Bodo Kubrak
Hofgeismar is a small town located in the north of the state of Hesse, Germany. It is situated on the banks of the river Diemel and is known for its timber-framed buildings and historic market square. The town has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages, and was an important center of trade and commerce in the region. Today,…
Visiting Hofgeismar

Kassel

Kessel
Kassel is a city in northern Hesse, Germany, located on the Fulda River. It is the third-largest city in Hesse, with a population of approximately 200,000 people. The city has a rich cultural heritage, and it is known for its museums, parks, and historic landmarks. One of the most famous attractions in Kassel is the Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe, a UNESCO World Heritage…
Visiting Kassel
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Hessisch Lichtenau

Burg Ludwigstein
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Hessisches Landesarchiv
Hessisch Lichtenau is a small town located in the northern part of the state of Hesse, Germany. It is situated on the edge of the vast forested area known as the Kaufunger Wald, and is surrounded by rolling hills and beautiful countryside. Hessian Lichtenau, the gateway to Frau Holle-Land at the foot of the Hoher Meißner and on the German…
Visiting Hessisch Lichtenau

Fürstenberg

Museum Schloss Furstenberg
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Museum Schloss Fürstenberg
Fürstenberg is a small town located in the district of Holzminden in Lower Saxony, Germany. It is situated on the banks of the Weser River, surrounded by beautiful forests and rolling hills. The town is well-known for its porcelain production, and visitors can learn more about this craft at the Fürstenberg Porcelain Museum. The museum houses a collection of porcelain…
Visiting Fürstenberg

Goslar

Goslar Hahnenklee
Goslar, located in the Bremen & Lower Saxony region, is a charming town nestled at the foot of the Harz Mountains, ideal for travelers who enjoy a mix of scenic beauty and cultural atmosphere. Its medieval Old Town is a delight to explore on foot, filled with narrow cobblestone lanes, half-timbered houses, and cozy squares. Landmarks like the Imperial Palace…
Visiting Goslar
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Bodenwerder

Bodenwerder
Public Domain / Rabanus Flavus
Bodenwerder is a small town in the Breman and Lower Saxony region of Germany, located on the banks of the Weser River. The town is best known as the birthplace of Baron Münchhausen, a fictional character based on the real-life nobleman Hieronymus Karl Friedrich von Münchhausen who was famous for telling tall tales and exaggerated stories. In honor of the…
Visiting Bodenwerder

Eisenach

Wartburg Castle Eisenach
Eisenach, located in the region of Thuringia, is a charming city surrounded by hills, forests, and cultural landmarks. It's best known for its impressive Wartburg Castle, perched high above the town and offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The compact city center is easy to explore on foot and features a mix of historic architecture, inviting cafés, and small…
Visiting Eisenach
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Bad Wildungen

Bad Wildungen
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Flodur63
Bad Wildungen is a small town located in the northern part of the state of Hesse, Germany. It is known for its picturesque setting, charming old town, and natural hot springs. The town has a rich history, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Stone Age. In the Middle Ages, Bad Wildungen was an important centre for salt…
Visiting Bad Wildungen

Where to Stay in Göttingen

Thought for a couple of secondsGöttingen’s historic Altstadt is the perfect starting point for any visitor. Cobbled streets wind between half-timbered houses, artisan shops, and the impressive 12th-century Gänseliesel fountain at the market square. Staying here means you’re steps from the pedestrian zone, the Old Town Hall, and winding alleys filled with cafés and bookshops. A refined choice is Hotel Freizeit In, which blends modern comfort with a central location just off the Kornmarkt.

Just a short walk east of the Altstadt, the Bahnhofviertel (Train Station Quarter) offers convenience and easy transport links. You’ll find bakeries for an early breakfast, casual bistros for lunch, and tram connections to the city’s outskirts. Ideal for day-trip travelers, this area features budget-friendly stays like Ibis Budget Göttingen Ost, a straightforward option with clean rooms and 24-hour reception.

For those drawn to academia and student energy, the University quarter around the Wilhelmsplatz and the old botanical garden is unbeatable. Leafy avenues, student cafés, and lecture halls line this vibrant neighborhood, and evening walks reveal hidden courtyards and live-music venues. A well-appointed mid-range pick is Jugendherberge Göttingen, housed in a historic villa with garden views and easy tram access back to the center.

If you prefer a quieter, residential feel, the Weende district north of the city offers tree-lined streets and local parks. This area balances village-like calm with quick bus rides into town and the nearby Göttingen Forest for walking or cycling. A charming family-run option is Landhotel Grillenberger Hof, where spacious rooms and a welcoming beer garden await after a day of exploration.

For a taste of nature and lakeside tranquility, the Kiessee district south of the city center is ideal. Paths around the lake invite morning jogs and sunset strolls, while small guesthouses line the shore. Consider Seerestaurant am Kiessee, which offers waterside rooms and hearty regional breakfasts overlooking the water.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Göttingen. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Göttingen Accommodation Map

Best Time to Visit Göttingen

Visiting Göttingen in Spring

Spring in Göttingen is marked by blooming flowers and mild temperatures. It’s an ideal time to explore the town’s parks, gardens, and outdoor cafes.

Visiting Göttingen in Summer

Summer brings warm weather and various festivals to Göttingen. Visitors can enjoy open-air concerts, street fairs, and outdoor activities along the Leine River.

Visiting Göttingen in Autumn

Autumn in Göttingen features colorful foliage and cooler temperatures. The town’s historic sites and cultural events are less crowded, offering a more relaxed experience.

Visiting Göttingen in Winter

Winter in Göttingen is festive, with holiday markets and decorations. The town’s Christmas market is a highlight, featuring traditional crafts, food, and drinks.

Annual Weather Overview

  • January 4°C
  • February 7°C
  • March 11°C
  • April 16°C
  • May 18°C
  • June 22°C
  • July 25°C
  • August 25°C
  • September 22°C
  • October 15°C
  • November 8°C
  • December 6°C

How to get to Göttingen

Traveling to Göttingen by Train

Göttingen is well-connected by train, with regular services from major cities like Berlin, Frankfurt, and Hanover. The main train station is centrally located, making it convenient for travelers.

Traveling to Göttingen by Car

Driving to Göttingen is straightforward, with major highways like the A7 providing easy access. Several parking options are available in and around the town center.

Traveling to Göttingen by Bus

Göttingen is accessible by bus, with regional and local services linking it to nearby towns and cities. The central bus station is a convenient hub for travelers.

Traveling to Göttingen by Plane

The nearest airport to Göttingen is Hanover Airport (HAJ), located about 120 kilometers away. From the airport, visitors can take a train, bus, or car to reach the town.

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