Hanover shines as a city full of surprises, whether you want to stroll through medieval streets, uncover dark secrets, or enjoy scenic rides around its lush parks. The city’s diverse offerings make it a perfect destination for all kinds of travelers. We especially enjoy the Hannover Guided City Walk, which offers a charming introduction to the Old Town’s narrow alleys and impressive landmarks like Leineschloss and the Hannover Opera Theater. If you’re intrigued by stories of crime, the Crime Walking Tour provides a gripping look into the city’s dark past. For exploring at your own pace, the 24-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus is a convenient way to see Hannover’s top sights, from Masch Lake to Herrenhäuser Gardens. And if you love experiencing a city by night, don’t miss the Flashlight Guided Walking Tour at Night, which casts the city in a new light.
Below, you’ll find a curated list of the 15 best tours in Hanover, covering everything from history and culture to food and outdoor adventures. Each offers a unique way to dive into what makes Hannover special.
1. Hannover: Guided City Walk
Experience medieval Hannover on this lively guided walk. It’s a great way to get your bearings and see the city’s historic core. Your guide will lead you through narrow alleys of the Old Town, pointing out key sites like the Market Church and the New Town Hall. You’ll stand outside the Leineschloss, the palace which now houses Parliament, and marvel at the modern Hannover Opera Theater. This tour is perfect for first-time visitors who want an engaging overview of Hannover’s history in just two hours. The friendly guides share fascinating stories about the city’s past as you pass quaint half-timbered buildings and lively squares. With a solid 4.5/5 rating from over 420 reviews, it offers great value at just $17 per person. Expect a lively stroll packed with historical insights and local color.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history lovers and first-timers seeking a good intro to Hannover’s historic heart.
2. Hannover: Crime Walking Tour
For those curious about Hannover’s darker side, the Crime Walking Tour is a gripping two-hour journey. It earns a 4.5-star rating from 326 reviews and costs $20. Your guide will take you to original locations of infamous crimes, including murder and fraud cases, and tell stories about the city’s prisons and notorious figures. It’s a compelling way to learn about Hannover’s criminal history and the sights connected to these stories. The tour appeals to those interested in true crime or historical mysteries, offering a different perspective on the city’s past. Expect intriguing facts and a walk through parts of Hannover that are usually hidden from travelers.
Bottom Line: Perfect for crime buffs or history fans looking to explore Hannover’s edgier stories.
3. Hannover: 24-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Ticket
If you want a flexible way to see Hannover’s main sights, the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus is your best bet. For $27, you get a full day of access to an open-top bus with an audio guide available in 10 languages. The route hits all the big attractions, from the Old and New Town Halls to the Herrenhäuser Gardens and Masch Lake. You can hop off at any stop to explore, then hop back on when ready. It’s ideal for travelers on a tight schedule who want to maximize sightseeing without much walking. A bonus is the option to visit the Hanover Adventure Zoo (own expense), which is a favorite for families.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want to combine transport and sightseeing effortlessly.
4. Hanover: Flashlight Guided Walking Tour at Night
Discover Hanover’s illuminated landmarks with this unique flashlight tour. For just $17 and over 35 reviews, this two-hour walk offers a magical night experience, highlighting sites like Leineschloss and the Market Church in a different light—literally. Using flashlights, your guide reveals hidden details and shares stories of the city’s history and architecture after dark. The atmospheric setting makes it perfect for a romantic evening or those who want to see Hannover from a different perspective. The guide’s storytelling adds a lively touch, and the tour’s high 4.8/5 rating reflects its popularity. Expect to feel a special connection to the city’s picturesque old town at night.
Bottom Line: A memorable way to explore Hannover’s architecture and history in a cozy, intimate setting.
5. Hannover: New Town Hall exclusive Guided Walking Tour
For a behind-the-scenes look at Hannover’s most iconic building, the New Town Hall Guided Tour offers exclusive access for about $10. In just 45 minutes, you’ll see non-public areas, 3D models of Hannover’s development since 1689, and ride the arched elevator for panoramic city views. The guide shares stories about the building’s history and architecture, making this a must for architecture buffs or those interested in civic history. The small-group format ensures an intimate experience, and the high 4.8/5 rating speaks to its quality. This tour is a quick but enriching peek into one of Hannover’s most impressive landmarks.
Bottom Line: Perfect for short on time but eager to go inside and learn about Hannover’s history through its stunning city hall.
6. Hannover: Culinary Walking Tour Downtown + Old Town
If you love discovering new flavors, this Culinary Walking Tour is a flavorful three-hour stroll through Hannover’s downtown and Old Town. It includes visits to the State Opera, rustic half-timbered houses, and five tastings of typical local dishes. Highlights include the grotto designed by Niki de Saint Phalle and the chance to see intricate marble and boxwood patterns. The tour is well-rated at 4.6/5 from 46 reviews and offers a delicious way to experience Hannover’s culinary traditions. It’s especially suited for foodies who want to pair sightseeing with tasting local gastronomy.
Bottom Line: An appetizing way to explore Hannover’s history and culture through its food.
7. Hannover: Guided Bike Tour for Foodies with Tastings
For active travelers, the Bike Tour for Foodies combines exercise with culinary delights. Costing $44, it lasts around 3.5 hours and includes four tastings at different stops. You can rent a bike or bring your own—making it flexible for everyone. The route passes through Maschsee, the New Town Hall, and the Herrenhausen Gardens. Riders say the tour is “very impressive,” with a knowledgeable guide leading the way. It’s a fun way to see parts of Hannover while sampling local treats. Expect a mix of nature, architecture, and food, making it suited for those who want a physically active sightseeing experience.
Bottom Line: Best for active food lovers who want to combine sightseeing, exercise, and tastings.
8. Hanover: Night tour with night watchman Melchior
Step into medieval Hannover with the Night Watchman Tour. For $20 and 1.5 hours, you’ll follow Melchior, the friendly but grumpy night watchman, through dark alleys and historic sites. His entertaining stories bring the Middle Ages to life, and the experience is ideal for those who enjoy theatrical storytelling. The tour’s 4.5-star rating reflects its charm and authenticity. You’ll see Hanover’s old town from a new perspective and learn about medieval life in a lively, engaging way. It’s a cozy evening activity with a dash of theater and history.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history buffs and those looking for a memorable, theatrical walk through Hanover’s night-time streets.
9. Hanover: Crime Tour by Bike
Explore the city’s dark secrets on two wheels with this Crime Tour by Bike. Priced at $20 and lasting about 3-3.5 hours, it’s a lively ride through Hanover’s criminal past, including the beginnings of criminology in Europe. You’ll visit the idyllic Maschsee, learn about historic crimes, and hear stories about unsolved mysteries. The cycling aspect makes this a dynamic and engaging way to see the city’s neighborhoods beyond the tourist center. With a high rating of 4.8/5 from only 10 reviews, it’s a niche option for crime enthusiasts and active travelers alike.
Bottom Line: An energetic, story-rich experience for those interested in Hanover’s darker stories and who enjoy cycling.
10. Hannover: Culinary walking tour district List/Oststadt
Explore the vibrant List/Oststadt district with this culinary walk. For $41, over three hours, you’ll visit landmarks like the Eilenriede city forest, the Lister Mile, and the Bahlsen biscuit factory. The tour features 5 tastings of local specialties and gives insight into Hanover’s urban development and architecture. Highlights include stops at the Korting Straße and the Weiße Kreuzplatz, with plenty of local stories along the way. Rated 4.6/5 from 18 reviews, it’s a great choice for foodies and architecture fans alike.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting an in-depth, flavorful look at Hanover’s lively districts.
11. Hanover: Guided Walking Tour of the Linden-Limmer District
Experience the energetic life of Linden-Limmer on this small-group walk. For just $15 and two hours, you’ll explore areas like Küchengarten, the Ihme center, and the Limmerstraße. The guide shares stories of local culture and the district’s transformation. With a perfect 5/5 rating from five reviews, it’s praised for its relaxed pace and local flavor. This tour is ideal for travelers wanting an authentic neighborhood experience away from the main tourist spots.
Bottom Line: Great for those seeking a relaxed, community-focused tour with local insight.
12. Hanover: Old Town Historical Walking Tour by Geo Epoche
Step back in time with the Old Town Historical Walking Tour. For $28, two hours of walking reveal the story of Hanover’s development from the Middle Ages to today. Walk past 14th-century Market Church and explore Calenberger Neustadt with its many eateries. The guide’s stories focus on King George Ludwig’s rise to the throne of England, tying local history to European events. With a 4.8/5 rating from nine reviews, it’s praised for its detailed storytelling and friendly guides.
Bottom Line: Suitable for history lovers wanting an engaging, story-rich exploration of Hanover’s Old Town.
13. Hanover: Royal Gardens of Herrenhausen Guided Tour
The Royal Gardens of Herrenhausen are a Baroque masterpiece, and this 1.5-hour guided tour takes you through their elegant pathways. For $12, you’ll see highlights like the Great Fountain, the grotto, and colorful flower borders, learning about their history and connections to the English royal family. The guide shares insights into the ornamental patterns of boxwood and marble. The tour’s 4.3/5 rating shows it’s a favorite among garden enthusiasts. The beautifully maintained gardens offer a peaceful escape and a glimpse into the grandeur of Hanover’s royal past.
Bottom Line: Ideal for garden lovers seeking a relaxed, informative visit to one of Hannover’s most stunning sites.
14. Cycling tour through the green Hannover
This guided 25 km cycling tour showcases Hannover’s lush landscapes. For $19 and about three hours, you’ll enjoy relaxation in the Eilenriede city forest, see the Herrenhäuser Gardens, and cruise around the Maschsee Lake. The route is designed to take you off the beaten track through scenic areas and parks. Reviewers mention the “great guide” and the “interesting stops,” making this a top pick for active travelers who want a scenic day out. Its combination of nature, architecture, and exercise makes it a well-rounded way to enjoy Hannover’s outdoors.
Bottom Line: Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want to combine fitness and sightseeing.
15. Fritz Haarmann – Die Mördertour
Explore Hannover’s dark side with the Fritz Haarmann – Die Mördertour. For $34 and two hours, this tour walks from Hannover train station to the murderhouse site where Haarmann, Germany’s most notorious serial killer, committed his crimes. The guide recounts the grisly stories of the 1920s, giving a sobering perspective on the city’s history. With a 4.4/5 rating, it appeals to those interested in true crime and historical mysteries. It’s a stark contrast to the more traditional tours, offering a compelling, if unsettling, look at Hannover’s past.
Bottom Line: Not for the faint-hearted but highly recommended for crime history enthusiasts.
How to Choose the Right Hanover Tour
Picking the best tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend exploring. If you’re new to Hannover, the Guided City Walk offers a solid overview, while history buffs might prefer the Old Town Historical Tour. For a unique experience, the Night Tour with Night Watchman Melchior combines history and theater, perfect for evening plans. Food lovers should consider the Culinary Tours or the guided bike trips, which blend outdoor activity with local flavors.
Budget-wise, the New Town Hall tour offers a quick but exclusive peek inside for just $10, while the Royal Gardens is a peaceful, affordable garden visit. Booking early is advised for popular tours, especially during peak seasons like spring and summer.
To sum it up, Hanover offers a wide variety of tours to suit every interest—be it history, food, outdoor adventures, or even crime stories. For a comprehensive introduction, the Guided City Walk is a reliable starting point. For something more unique, the Flashlight Night Tour or the Crime Bike Tour will add a memorable twist. Whatever your preference, planning ahead and booking early will ensure you don’t miss out on these engaging experiences in Hannover.
