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Hanover Travel Guide

About Hanover

Now one of Germany’s wealthiest cities, Hanover (Hannover in German) literally had to rise phoenix-like from its own ashes following WWII, but has since become a fascinating blend of ancient and modern.

Much of this former Hanseatic League city on the bank of the River Leine fell victim to Allied bombers during the 1940s, but several medieval highlights in the Old Town survived. Holzmarkt and Kramerstrasse, with their distinctive half-timbered buildings, and the 15th-century Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus), are must-sees, as is the Marktkirche (Market Church). Helpfully, for visitors, the city’s pavements are daubed with a Red Thread, a trail stretching for 4.2km (2.5 miles) that joins up over 30 prime sights and attractions.

Like many big German cities, Hanover (Hannover in German) combines the past with a modern face, but it remains an attractive place. It boasts elegant parkland, a large zoo and it has a range of museums and galleries.

Whilst exploring, you’ll be unable to miss the city’s quirkier side, revealed in its abundant and innovative street art, from multi-coloured abstract shapes to wacky sculptures. Many fountains and even some bus stops are also creative in their artistry.

The city’s calendar is packed with festivals, such as Schützenfest Hannover, the world’s largest marksmen’s festival. Hanover also hosts the world’s second-largest Oktoberfest after Munich, with 160 rides, two large beer tents, and around a million revellers every year.

With its good rail connections, and central location in the heart of northern Germany, Hanover makes a handy base from which to explore the region. What’s more, it has all the facilities, shopping and entertainment (including more than 40 theatres) demanded by modern travellers.

Key facts

Population:
525875
Latitude:
52.384543
Longitude:
9.732405
A digital image at https://illuminoto.com

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Grand Hotel Mussmann

Housed in an elegant building immediately opposite the main railway station, the Grand Hotel Mussmann has a deceptively modern interior, offering up-to-date comfort at a competitive price for the level of accommodation.

Crowne Plaza

The 349-room Crowne Plaza benefits from an excellent location opposite the Finnish National Opera on Mannerheimintie, close to most of the attractions in Helsinki. The hotel offers wireless internet access in all areas. Creature comforts include saunas, a spa and pool, and a restaurant and bar.

Centro Hotel Atlanta

Another budget option in the city centre, the Atlanta is conveniently located for transport links and the main attractions. In addition to its 42 rooms, it offers a sauna and inclusive breakfast.

City Hotel Hannover

This is a three-star hotel in the heart of the city centre pedestrian zone, surrounded by restaurants, bars and other attractions. Single and double rooms are available, as are discounts at the adjacent gym and nearby car park.

Hotel Zentrum

Conveniently located close to both the railway station and the Old Town, this two-star offering is situated in a quiet side street. All rooms are en-suite, and buffet breakfast is provided.

Sheraton Hanover Pelikan Hotel

Situated in a popular area of Hanover, the Sheraton Hanover Pelikan Hotel is housed in a former factory that once produced the famous Pelikan fountain pens. Today, the hotel offers comfortable rooms, a large fitness area, sauna and steam bath facilities, a restaurant and the legendary Harry's New York Bar.