Hanover

Hanover is the dynamic capital of Lower Saxony, renowned worldwide as a major exhibition centre and a city of magnificent Baroque gardens. If you are planning to travel to Hanover, you will be pleasantly surprised by its strategically convenient location in the very heart of Germany, making the city an important European transport hub. Finding out how to get to Hanover is very simple: high-speed railway lines, numerous air routes, and a network of excellent autobahns all lead here.

The primary way to reach the city by air is via the international Hanover Airport (HAJ), which serves millions of passengers and offers convenient connections with major European hubs. The terminals are arranged in a compact and modern layout, ensuring quick access to the city immediately after landing. Alternatively, travellers often choose to fly into neighbouring Bremen or Paderborn, which are located within 100 km and are excellently connected to the region by ground transport.

Rail travel is one of the most comfortable ways to journey, as Hanover Main Station is a key hub for high-speed ICE trains operating throughout the country. It is easy to get here without transfers from most major German metropolitan areas. Ideal conditions are also in place for trips from the surrounding areas: a journey from historic Celle or the port city of Bremen on a regional express will take minimal time and provide plenty of enjoyment from the scenic views outside the window.

Bus services offer an economical alternative to trains, connecting the city with numerous settlements in the region. For example, a trip from cosy Celle will take less than an hour, covering a distance of about 43 km. Routes from more distant points, such as Bremen (about 2 hours on the road) or Paderborn (about 3.8 hours), are operated by comfortable coaches equipped with everything necessary for a pleasant journey.

For those who prefer independent travel, a car trip will be an excellent choice thanks to the developed network of German autobahns. You can get from Celle in just 45–50 minutes (44 km), which is ideal for a short visit. The drive from Bremen or Paderborn will take approximately 1.5–1.7 hours, allowing you to quickly cover a distance of 130–145 km and enjoy the high quality of the road surface.

Hanover is a city where German precision blends harmoniously with the comfort of green parks, but for a comfortable holiday, there are several nuances to consider.

1. Dress for the weather. The climate here is moderate but changeable. Even in summer, it is worth carrying a light windbreaker or an umbrella, and comfortable shoes are a must for long walks through the Herrenhausen Gardens.
2. Public transport. The GVH system (trams, buses, and suburban trains) works like clockwork. It is most cost-effective to buy a day pass (Tageskarte) if you plan on making more than two trips.
3. Finances and payment. Cards are accepted almost everywhere, but in small bakeries or kiosks, you may be asked for cash Euros. Always keep some small notes with you.
4. Sunday quiet. In Germany, almost all shops and supermarkets are closed on Sundays. Please plan your shopping and grocery buying for Saturday.
5. Language barrier. German is the main language, but the level of English among locals is very high. A simple "Guten Tag" (Good day) before starting a conversation will help establish a friendly rapport.
6. "The Red Thread". A unique feature of the city is the "Red Thread" (Roter Faden) painted on the asphalt. Follow this 4.2 km line to independently view 36 main attractions without a guide.

By following these simple recommendations, you will be able to feel at home in Hanover and focus on your experiences rather than everyday details.