Trains from Goettingen to Hamburg

From Göttingen, you will take a direct train to Braunschweig, about an hour and a half away. This historic city, once the residence of the Duke of Brunswick, is home to the magnificent Burgplatz, a castle square surrounded by magnificent Baroque architecture. You'll also pass through Hildesheim, renowned for its Romanesque churches, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of St. Michael's, and the impressive Drütte Palace.

The following leg will take you to Hannover, home to the spectacular Herrenhausen Gardens and the 16th-century New Town Hall. It's also your gateway to the vast and beautiful Lüneburg Heath, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Continuing north, the train will bring you to the estuary of the River Elbe, passing through the cities of Buxtehude, Winsen, Stade, and Harburg—all of which offer numerous sights and attractions to explore.

Finally, you will arrive in Hamburg, Germany's second-largest city and a prime example of a modern metropolis. Here you can take a stroll around the world-famous harbor, admire the magnificent St. Michael's Church, and enjoy a boat ride on the Alster lake. After an exciting day exploring the city, you will arrive at the Hamburg central station, its iconic domed roof a fitting end to this memorable journey.

Goettingen is a University city located in the Lower Saxony region of Germany. Home to the iconic Göttingen University and Observatory, the city is a hot spot for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and foodies alike. From classic German dishes like Apple Strudel to modern gastronomy, the city offers a wide variety of culinary delights. Here are some of the must-visit historical and architectural sites to check out while in Goettingen. 

Göttingen University: One of the oldest and most renowned universities in the country, Göttingen University was founded in 1737. Located in the northern part of the city and formed largely in the Baroque style, it is home to some of the best astronomy, mathematics, and physics research in the world. Open to visitors throughout the year, the university is a great spot to explore its historical buildings and collections.

Old Observatory Göttingen: Another highlight of Goettingen is the Old Observatory located on the banks of the Leine Canal. It was designed by the Italian architect Daniel Barbaro and completed in 1733. Now a museum, the Observatory houses historical scientific instruments, including telescopes, sextants, and various scientific instruments from the 18th and 19th centuries, and is a reminder of Göttingen’s great scientific heritage.

Sightseeing Tour of Göttingen Old Town: For the full Goettingen experience, visitors should take a guided tour through the historic old town. With its cobbled streets, tranquil squares, and ancient churches, this is a great spot to soak in the city’s culture and get transport back in time. Starting at the covered market square, it’s possible to even take a boat tour around the city.

Göttingen Botanical Garden: Founded in 1734, the Goettingen Botanical Garden is Germany’s oldest._ Covered with more than 10,000 plant species, it is a great spot to stroll or sit down to enjoy a picnic. Spread over 8 hectares, this is an educational and green space for locals and visitors alike.

Neuwerk City Park: Another one of Goettingen’s green spaces, the Neuwerk City Park is the perfect spot for a relaxed afternoon. Filled with a variety of flowers and shrubs, it offers plenty of opportunities for bird-watching, picnics, and quiet river walks.

Jakobsbrunnen (Jacob's Well): Located in the old town square, Jakobsbrunnen is one of Goettingen’s iconic landmarks. This 18th century, Baroque-style fountain is a reminder of Goettingen’s rich cultural and artistic history.

Eat at Local Restaurants: When it comes to food in Goettingen, it can be hard to choose just one place to eat. From local delicacies like Currywurst to classic German dishes such as Schnitzel, Goettingen has it all. Some of the top-rated restaurants in the city include the historic Ratskeller, the modern bistro, Mokka, and the traditional beer garden, Eulenbräu-Gaststätte.

To wrap things up, visiting Goettingen is an unforgettable experience. From the university's rich history to the botanical garden and city park, it's easy to experience the best of German culture. From the classic German dishes, to the variety of local restaurants, it's a great spot for foodies to explore the culinary delights of the city. With a little planning, one can truly enjoy the unique architecture and history of this lovely German city.

As one of Germany’s most inviting cities, Hamburg offers a unique combination of culture, history, and modernity. From magnificent churches, to medieval streets, to bustling city squares, there’s plenty to explore in this city. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or a relaxing getaway, Hamburg is sure to offer an unforgettable experience for all types of travelers. 

St. Nikolai Memorial: The St. Nikolai Memorial is the tallest building in all of Hamburg and is the main attraction of the historical Speicherstadt district. Located in the heart of the city, the memorial was originally built as a church in 1874, but was damaged in the Second World War. Now a memorial, visitors are able to ascend the tower and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Admission is free and the memorial is open daily from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. 

Town Hall: Located in the city center, the Town Hall is the seat of the city’s government and a symbol of Hamburg’s autonomy throughout its long history. Constructed in the Gothic Revival style, the building is home to the Senate and Parliament, and its landmark clock tower can be seen from throughout the city. Entrance to the building is free and visitors can enjoy daily tours from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. 

Hamburg Rathausmarkt: This public square serves as the focal point of the city. Lined with restaurants and artisan boutiques, the market is the perfect place to experience the hustle and bustle of the city. At the center of the square is a historic fountain, surrounded by a colorful array of seasonal plants and flowers. The Rathausmarkt is open daily, and visitors should be sure to sample some local delicacies like Labskaus, Hamburg’s signature potato dish. 

Altona Fish Market: Located on the banks of the Elbe River, the Altona Fish Market is a lively weekend tradition. Since 1703, the market has been attracting locals and visitors alike. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, stroll along the stalls, and take part in one of the traditional auctions. The market is open early on Sundays, and visitors should be sure to get there early to beat the crowds. 

St. Michael’s Church: One of the city’s most iconic landmarks is the St. Michael’s Church. Construction of the church began in the early 19th century and it now stands as an impressive example of Gothic-revival architecture. While the exterior is stunning, the church also houses a beautiful interior, complete with stained glass windows, a pipe organ, and intricate paintings. Entrance is free and visitors can enjoy free guided tours on weekends. 

Hamburg Dungeon: An interactive museum, the Hamburg Dungeon is a great way to learn about the city’s dark past. Through an immersive experience, visitors are taken on a journey through Hamburg’s history, and recounted the tales of darkness, torture, and destruction that defined the city’s past. The dungeon is open throughout the year, and tickets are available online. 

International Maritime Museum: Located in the historic Speicherstadt district, the International Maritime Museum is the largest of its kind in the world. This museum is dedicated to Hamburg’s seafaring history, with an impressive collection of artifacts, models, and interactive exhibits. The museum is open daily, and visitors should be sure to check out the iconic model of the Flying P-Liner Potomac, the largest model ship in the world. 

From awe-inspiring churches to lively markets, Hamburg offers a wealth of fascinating attractions and activities. With its vibrant culture, captivating history, and delicious cuisine, it’s no wonder the city has been capturing the hearts of travelers for centuries.