A lovely riverside city in northern Germany's Lower Saxony region, Hanover is a fabulous destination for a culture-focused city break. The city regularly plays host to conferences and expos, but we’d recommend sticking around for a little longer if you can — there’s plenty to discover. You’ll find some excellent guesthouses and city hotels, too, with the best places to stay in Hanover clustered around the charming old town.

Amble around the old town for a sense of Hanover’s rich past — whilst bearing in mind that the city was extensively bombed during the Second World War. Much has been rebuilt, but the Neues Rathaus offers a rare insight into the city-as-it-was, with vast models of Hanover in 1689, 1939, 1945 and 2000. Delve into contemporary Hanover’s modern art scene at the fabulous Sprengel Museum, or step back in time with a visit to the Schloss Marienburg. Once home to the Hanoverian Court, this remains one of the most important Neo-Gothic buildings in Germany. History buffs will recall that the Dukes of Hanover were closely connected to the 18th and 19th century rules of Britain and Ireland; their legacy can be seen across the city.

Journey just beyond Hanover to tour the splendid Herrenhäuser Gärten, grand landscaped gardens which were boldly modelled on Versailles. The Eilenriede Forest, popular with ramblers, bird watchers and cyclists, is the largest city forest in Europe. Both are particularly popular during the summer months, when it’s worth booking your room at one of the best places to stay in Hanover well in advance.

The Best Places to Stay in Hanover

For Boutique Chic

• Hotel Savoy, just beyond the city centre, is a lovely four-star spot with just 18 guest rooms. Guest rooms have enormous windows, sink-into beds topped with crisp white linens, and warm, atmospheric lighting. Enjoy traditional cuisine after drinks on the flower-filled patio.

For City Style

• Kastens Hotel Luisenhof, the city's top five-star hotel, has opulent interiors with velvet armchairs, big bathtubs and a stunning classical façade. Close to the city's old town, and brilliant for business travellers or holidaymakers.
• Grand Hotel Mussmann is an impressive Hanover landmark, with elegant contemporary guest rooms featuring polished wooden floors, leather seats and marble bathrooms with big bathtubs. Big breakfasts offer the perfect start to the day at this lively central spot.
• Hotel Amadeus has 129 individually styled modern rooms with feature walls and smart bathrooms. Tuck in to excellent regional cuisine at the restaurant after days of exploring the city on foot or by bicycle. A stylish city pad.

For Great Value

• Elaya Hotel Hannover City offers simple yet stylish interiors clad in a largely monochromatic palette. Enjoy big buffet breakfasts, drinks in the cosy lounge, and an excellent central location. A well-priced choice for business or leisure.
• Boutique 030 Hannover City, just minutes from the Hauptbahnhof, offers contemporary studios and apartments for individuals, couples and groups. Expect simple kitchenettes, white-painted walls and light wood furnishings. Close to some fabulous nightlife — and the Hanover Zoo. Very affordable.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY HOUSE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Fly into Hanover Airport, or take the train to Hanover from destinations across Germany and beyond. You’re also only an hour and a half from Berlin, so well-placed for a day or overnight trip.
• Contact our partner Rentalcars if you'd like to hire a car to explore beyond the city limits.
• Visit during the summer months, with temperatures hovering around 20°C in July and August. For fewer crowds, consider travelling during the quieter shoulder seasons of May or September, outside the school holidays.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Goslar.
• Alternatively, see our pick of the best places to stay in Lower Saxony.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.