Hannover is a city that offers more than just its famous trade fairs and modern “Leine” river views. Its location in northern Germany makes it a perfect jumping-off point for exploring charming towns and historic neighborhoods. What we really love are the diverse tour options, especially those that combine rich history with local flavor. For example, the Goslar City guided tour takes you into the medieval heart of the Harz Mountains, offering a private, intimate experience—perfect for avoiding the crowds. Meanwhile, the City walk through Hanover provides a relaxed way to wander the old town, soaking up the sights at your own pace. Lastly, the 1000 years of city history the Braunschweig city walk uncovers over a millennium of developments in a compact, engaging format.
Below, we’ve rounded up the best city tours around Hannover, each offering a different slice of local life. Whether you prefer exploring medieval castles, historic city centers, or intimate private tours, there’s something here for every traveler.
1. Goslar City guided tour
Situated in Germany’s Harz Mountains, Goslar is a picture-perfect town known for its medieval architecture and half-timbered houses. This private guided tour offers a great way to get acquainted with Goslar’s key sights without the hassle of maps or group crowds. The tour lasts about two hours and is led by a dedicated guide, providing insights into the town’s history and landmarks like the Imperial Palace of Goslar.
What makes this tour stand out is its private nature—meaning you get personalized attention and detailed commentary that enhances your understanding of Goslar’s rich past. The highlight is passing by the Imperial Palace, a sprawling complex with stunning architecture and stories of imperial splendor. The tour also includes a visit outside to the Siemenshaus, a beautifully preserved 19th-century merchant’s house considered one of the most charming in the region. While admission to the palace isn’t included, the guided walk allows you to appreciate the architecture and historical significance firsthand.
With a high review score of 4.5/5 from 11 reviews, travelers praise its informative guides and comfortable pace, making it ideal for those who want a deeper, private experience. For around $354, you get a memorable tour that’s perfect for history lovers, architecture fans, or anyone wanting a personalized way to explore Goslar’s medieval streets.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a private, detailed introduction to Goslar’s medieval charms, this tour is well worth the price—and it’s a wonderful way to avoid large group tours while learning the town’s secrets.
2. 1000 years of city history The Braunschweig city walk
For just over $90, the Braunschweig city walk offers a fascinating 1.5-hour journey through over a millennium of city development. Known as the Lion City, Braunschweig’s history is vividly brought to life through visits to iconic sites like the Brunswick Palace and the Rathaus. This tour is perfect for history buffs or anyone interested in seeing how a city evolves over centuries.
Starting in the charming Magniviertel, the walk explores key landmarks like the Happy Rizzi House, a colorful modern building that contrasts with historic architecture. You’ll also see the Saule bronze sculpture, a striking monument symbolizing 2,000 years of Christianity in the area. The Burgplatz is another highlight, where you’ll learn about Duke Henry the Lion’s residence—an important figure in the city’s history. The tour concludes at the Altstadtmarkt, a lively medieval marketplace with impressive patrician houses and a large, ornate church.
Rated 5.0/5 from two reviews, travelers appreciate the entertaining and informative guidance and the insider tips that make the city’s history come alive. This tour is ideal for visitors with limited time who want a concentrated dose of Braunschweig’s past, especially those eager to see key landmarks without tiring themselves out.
Bottom Line: If you want a compact, lively overview of Braunschweig’s 1000-year history, this guided walk offers great value and engaging storytelling.
3. City walk through Hanover
For a budget-friendly option, the City walk through Hanover offers a 2-hour stroll through the city’s historic core for just $16 per person. This tour is perfect if you’re looking for a quick, accessible introduction to Hannover’s medieval streets and modern sights. It begins at the Hannover Tourist Information and wraps up back at the starting point, making it easy to join and convenient to fit into a busy schedule.
Highlights include the New Town Hall, an impressive building with a famous dome showcasing four different city models—an excellent way to get a quick overview of Hannover’s layout. You’ll wander through the Altstadt, with its half-timbered houses, and learn about the Staatsoper Hannover, built by Georg Friedrich Laves in the late 19th century. The tour also includes the Aegidienkirche ruins, a sobering reminder of wartime destruction turned memorial.
With an overall rating of 4.0/5 from 16 reviews, feedback highlights the tour’s informative narration and the guide’s bilingual skill, though some noted that not all commentary was in English. It’s ideal for budget-conscious travelers or those wanting a casual, accessible overview of Hannover’s historic core.
Bottom Line: For a quick, affordable introduction to Hannover’s old town and key sights, this guided walk offers good value and some local insights.
How to Choose
When selecting a city tour in Hannover, consider your budget, time available, and personal interests. If you’re after an in-depth exploration with personalized attention, the Goslar private tour provides a rich, tailored experience. For those eager to uncover local history and architecture in a short time, the Braunschweig walk offers a concentrated dose of the past. Budget travelers or those with limited time will find the city walk in Hanover ideal for quick sightseeing.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your preferred time and tour. Think about whether you want a private, in-depth experience or a group overview, and pick the tour that best matches your pace and curiosity.
Final thoughts
Hannover and its surrounding towns have a rich variety of city tours that suit different interests and schedules. If you’re a history enthusiast wanting detailed stories in a private setting, the Goslar tour is a standout. For travelers wanting a quick yet insightful glimpse into Braunschweig’s impressive past, the city walk delivers. And for those on a budget or short on time, the Hanover city walk offers a straightforward introduction to the city’s main sights.
No matter which tour you choose, booking in advance ensures you don’t miss out. Each experience brings something unique to the table—whether it’s medieval castles, historic marketplaces, or lively city streets—making Hannover a destination that rewards curious explorers.