Lying 177 mi/286 km west of Berlin, Hannover, Germany, has had better luck attracting trade-show visitors than tourists; however, an older and popular attraction there is the Herrenhausen Gardens. It has intricate flowerbed patterns, one of the largest garden fountains in Europe and the Regenwaldhaus, a large greenhouse with rain-forest plants.
Most of Hannover's old city was destroyed in World War II, replaced now by new German architecture. However, the Marktkirche, a Gothic-style church in brick, and the Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall) were reconstructed after the war.
You'll also probably notice some interesting bus and tram stops: The city invited international artists to design them.
More than 50% of the city is preserved as parkland or forest today. The Maschpark near the town hall and the artificial lake called Maschsee are nice recreational areas.
Excursions from Hannover could include Celle, a beautiful town of half-timbered houses with one of North Germany's most important medieval monasteries nearby, or Hameln, of Pied Piper fame.
To request access to the full version of this destination guide, please provide your email address below. Your email address will only be used for verification purposes and will not be used for marketing purposes.