Hanau: The Complete Guide

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Hanau is a city in the state of Hesse, Germany. It is located about 25 kilometres southeast of Frankfurt and has a population of approximately 100,000 people. The city has a rich history that dates back to the 12th century. It was once the residence of the Counts of Hanau and was later ruled by the Electorate of Hesse. Hanau was also the birthplace of the famous Brothers Grimm, who collected and published many of the world’s most beloved fairy tales.

Today, Hanau is a modern and vibrant city that is known for its cultural heritage and historical landmarks. The city has a number of museums and galleries, including the Brothers Grimm Museum, the German Goldsmiths’ House, and the Hanau Art Museum. In addition to its cultural offerings, Hanau is also home to a number of beautiful parks and natural areas. One of the most popular parks is Wilhelmsbad, which features extensive gardens, fountains, and a picturesque lake.

Hanau is also a thriving economic centre, with a strong industrial and commercial sector. The city has a diverse economy that includes industries such as automotive engineering, electronics, and logistics. Overall, Hanau is a dynamic and diverse city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or nature, you’re sure to find plenty of things to see and do in this charming German city.

History of Hanau

Hanau has a rich and diverse history, spanning centuries and leaving its mark on the city’s appearance and way of life. The origins of Hanau can be traced back to 1143, when a castle was built on the banks of the Kinzig River. This fortified castle was expanded over time and eventually transformed into a grand palace, known as the Stadtschloss.

In the 19th century, Hanau-born Elector Wilhelm II. ordered the demolition of the oldest medieval part of the palace, despite its historical significance. Following the annexation of the Electorate of Hesse by Prussia in 1866, the palace was no longer needed as a residence for noble families, and was purchased by the city of Hanau in 1890. The various buildings were repurposed as homes and government offices, with one building serving as the mayor’s residence for a time.

In 1597, Calvinist refugees from the Spanish Netherlands and France founded the Neustadt, or “New City,” in Hanau. These refugees brought with them a wealth of capital and knowledge, and their settlement in the flourishing Neustadt attracted goldsmiths, weavers, and other craftsmen.

These events are just a few of the many that have shaped the fascinating history of Hanau, leaving an indelible imprint on the city that can still be seen and felt today.
In the early 17th century, the Dutch-Walloon double-church was erected in Hanau. Sadly, it was destroyed during WWII, leaving only the smaller Dutch section to be rebuilt. The ruins of the Walloon part were kept as a memorial.

During the Thirty Years’ War, Hanau served as the base for the Swedish Army led by General Ramsay. The city was besieged for nine months in 1635 by imperial troops under General Lamboy. The citizens suffered greatly, but the city was eventually liberated by Wilhelm V of Hesse Kassel, an ally of the Swedish king Gustav II Adolf. In remembrance of this event, Hanau holds an annual church service that has evolved into the Lamboyfest festival.

WWII inflicted massive destruction on Hanau, with only seven houses left standing in the city centre after a British air strike on March 19th, 1945. Sadly, American troops invaded only ten days later, and the war ended. A commemorative service is held annually at the main cemetery on March 19th in memory of those who lost their lives on that day.
After the war, the city underwent rapid reconstruction, with little regard for historical ruins or aesthetic appeal, as the need for living space was urgent. Consequently, only a few old buildings were restored in the 1950s and 60s.

Visiting Hanau 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 Hanau 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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This complete guide to Hanau not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Hanau and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Dutch-Walloon Church

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Tilman2007

The Dutch-Walloon Church in Hanau is a historic church building located in the city center of Hanau, Germany. It was built in the early 17th century as a double church for the Dutch and Walloon Protestant communities who had settled in Hanau. During World War II, the church was heavily damaged and only the smaller Dutch part was rebuilt. The…

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Location: Wallonisch-Niederländische Kirche, Gärtnerstraße, Hanau, Hesse, Germany | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 1.0km

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Visiting Dutch-Walloon Church

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.

Brothers Grimm National Monument

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Velopilger

The Brüder-Grimm-Nationaldenkmal, or the Brothers Grimm National Monument, is a famous landmark located in the city of Hanau, Germany. It was created to honour the Brothers Grimm, who were born in Hanau in the late 18th century. The monument is situated in the city centre, on the market square, and consists of life-sized bronze statues of the Brothers Grimm. The statues…

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Location: Brüder-Grimm-Denkmal, Am Markt, Hanau, Germany | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 1.1km

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Visiting Brothers Grimm National Monument

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

Deutsches Goldschmiedehaus

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Freak-Line-Community

The Deutsches Goldschmiedehaus, or German Goldsmiths' House, is a museum and research center dedicated to the art of goldsmithing located in the city of Hanau, Germany. The museum is housed in a historic building that was once part of the Hanau Castle complex. The museum's collection includes a wide range of objects related to the art of goldsmithing, including jewelry,…

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Location: Deutsches Goldschmiedehaus, Altstädter Markt, Hanau, Germany | Hours: Tuesday to Sunday / Tuesday through Sunday 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Closed on Mondays | Price: €2.50 for adults | Website | Distance: 1.4km

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Visiting Deutsches Goldschmiedehaus

Click here to read our blog about Exploring Germany's Fairy Tale Route

Schloss Steinheim

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Lumpeseggl

Schloss Steinheim (also Steinheim Castle or Kurmainzisches Schloss Steinheim), which dates back to 1222, was originally owned by the Electorate of Mainz for approximately 370 years. In the years 1808/13, extensive renovations were carried out in the classical style, which have greatly influenced the castle's appearance today. Since 1938, the building has been serving as a museum. The museum is…

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Location: Steinheim Castle, Hanau, Germany | Hours: Saturdays & Sundays: 11 A.M. TO 5 P.M | Price: Adults: €4.00, Children Free | Website | Distance: 2.2km

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Visiting Schloss Steinheim

Schloss Philippsruhe

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Rainer Lippert

Schloss Philippsruhe, or Philippsruhe Palace, was built between 1700 and 1725 for Count Philipp Reinhard near Kesselstadt as a baroque palace in the west of the city of Hanau. Its current appearance largely goes back to conversions from the Wilhelminian period : Landgrave Friedrich Wilhelm von Hessen-Rumpenheim only lived in the castle for four years (from 1880 until his death…

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Location: Schlossterrasse - Schloss Philippsruhe, Philippsruher Allee, Hanau, Germany | Hours: 11am-6pm Tue-Sun | Price: adult/concession €4/3 | Website | Distance: 2.5km

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Visiting Schloss Philippsruhe

Museum Grossauheim

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Lumpeseggl

The Großauheim Museum has been located in the former power station and historic bathhouse since 1983. In recent years, the museum has undergone extensive renovations and received a fresh direction. The exhibition area is divided into two sections, with the art exhibition opening in August 2010 in the former art nouveau bathhouse, which dates back to 1908. The exhibition features…

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Location: Museum Großauheim Pfortenwingert 4, 63457 Hanau | Hours: Saturdays & Sundays: 11 A.M. TO 5 P.M | Website | Distance: 2.8km

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Visiting Museum Grossauheim

Hessisches Puppenmuseum

CC BY-SA 1.0 / Hessisches Puppenmuseum

The Hessisches Puppenmuseum, or Hessian Doll Museum, is located in the city of Hanau and is dedicated to the history and art of dolls. The museum was founded in 1984 and is housed in a historic building that was once part of the Hanau Castle complex. The museum's collection includes more than 10,000 dolls, making it one of the largest…

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Location: Hessisches Puppen- & Spielzeugmuseum, Parkpromenade, Hanau, Germany | Hours: Tue/Wed/Thu 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m Fri/Sat/Sun and public holidays 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m | Price: Adults 3.50 euros Children and young people up to 18 years accompanied by families - Free | Distance: 4.1km

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Visiting Hessisches Puppenmuseum

Wilhelmsbad, Hanau

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Freak-Line-Community

Wilhelmsbad is a large park and spa located in the city of Hanau, Germany. The park covers an area of over 160 hectares and is one of the most popular outdoor destinations in the area.  Wilhelmsbad was originally designed in the late 18th century as a pleasure park for the Landgrave Wilhelm IX of Hesse-Kassel. The park features extensive gardens,…

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Location: Staatspark Hanau-Wilhelmsbad Parkpromenade 7 63454 Hanau | Hours: Daily | Price: Free Entrance | Website | Distance: 4.2km

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Visiting Wilhelmsbad, Hanau

Wildpark Alte Fasanerie Klein-Auheim

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Infinite Ache

Wildpark Alte Fasanerie Klein-Auheim is a wildlife park located in the town of Klein-Auheim, which is part of the city of Hanau in Germany. The park covers an area of around 80 hectares and is home to various species of animals that are native to the region. The park was founded in the early 20th century as a game reserve…

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Location: Wildpark Alte Fasanerie, Fasaneriestraße, Klein-Auheim Hanau, Germany | Hours: Opening times March to October: 9am to 6pm (park clusure is one hour later), November to February: 9am to 5pm (park closure is at 5:30pm) | Price: Entrance fee: adults 7 €, pensioners 5 €, children 3.50 €, families (2 adults plus up to 4 children) 19 € | Distance: 4.7km

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Visiting Wildpark Alte Fasanerie Klein-Auheim

A day trip from Hanau 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 Hanau 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.

Gelnhausen

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Tilman2007

Gelnhausen is a picturesque town located in the state of Hesse, German, founded in 1170. It is situated along the eastern bank of the Kinzig river, about 50 kilometers east of Frankfurt. The town has a rich history and was once an important centre of trade and commerce in the region. Gelnhausen is known for its well-preserved medieval old town,…

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Visiting Gelnhausen

Steinau an der Straße

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Steinau an der Straße or Steinau on the street is a small town in the Main-Kinzig district in the state of Hesse, Germany. It is situated in the Spessart hills and has a population of around 10,000 people. The town is known for its well-preserved half-timbered houses, charming old town, and scenic location. The town was first mentioned in 1140 and…

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Visiting Steinau an der Straße

Schlüchtern

Schlüchtern is a charming town located in the Main-Kinzig district of Hessen, Germany. Nestled in the picturesque Bergwinkel region, between the low mountains of Vogelsberg, Spessart and Rhön, Schlüchtern is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With a population of nearly 16,000, it offers a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of big cities. The town is named…

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Visiting Schlüchtern

Alsfeld

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Alsfeld is a town located in the Vogelsbergkreis district of the state of Hesse, Germany. It has a population of approximately 17,000 people and covers an area of 76.84 square kilometers. Alsfeld has a long and rich history, dating back to the early Middle Ages. The town was first mentioned in historical records in the year 1069, and has since…

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Visiting Alsfeld

Marburg

Marburg is a small historic town located in the central part of Germany, in the state of Hesse. It is situated on the river Lahn and is known for its medieval architecture, picturesque streets, and rich cultural heritage. The town has a population of around 75,000 people and is home to one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in…

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Visiting Marburg

Würzburg

Würzburg sits amid the rolling vineyards of the Main Valley in northern Bavaria, Germany, making it a perfect base for exploring both river-side promenades and hillside wine trails. Its compact city center is easily walkable, with pedestrianized lanes linking café-lined squares to the Baroque grandeur of the Residenz and the cathedral. Strolling along the Alte Mainbrücke at sunset—where locals gather…

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Visiting Würzburg

Heidelberg

Heidelberg, located in the region of Baden-Württemberg, is one of Germany’s most picturesque and romantic cities. Nestled along the Neckar River and surrounded by forested hills, it offers a stunning natural setting paired with classic architecture. The city’s famous castle ruins, cobbled old town, and riverside walks create a relaxed yet inspiring atmosphere that appeals to couples, photographers, and curious…

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Visiting Heidelberg

Bad Mergentheim

CC BY-SA 24.0 / Holger Uwe Schmitt

Bad Mergentheim is a spa town located in the northeastern part of the German state of Baden-Württemberg. The town is situated in the scenic Tauber Valley and is known for its beautiful architecture, rich cultural heritage, and therapeutic mineral springs. One of the town's most famous landmarks is the Deutschordensschloss, or the Castle of the Teutonic Order, which was built…

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Visiting Bad Mergentheim

Röttingen

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Tilman2007

Röttingen sits in the heart of Bavaria’s Lower Franconia region, offering a wonderfully compact old town that’s perfect for leisurely exploration. Begin by wandering the medieval walls and gates that encircle the Market Square, where charming half-timbered houses give way to artisan bakeries and cozy cafés. Mid-morning, settle at an outdoor table overlooking the Tauber River to enjoy a freshly…

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Visiting Röttingen

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…

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Visiting Bad Wildungen