Things to Do at Herrenhäuser Gärten

Complete Guide to Herrenhäuser Gärten in Hanover

About Herrenhäuser Gärten

Herrenhäuser Gärten is one of Europe's most magnificent baroque garden complexes, located in Hanover, Germany. Originally created in the 17th century for the royal House of Hanover, these stunning gardens showcase the pinnacle of European garden artistry and have been meticulously maintained for over 300 years. The gardens consist of four distinct areas: the Great Garden (Großer Garten), the Berggarten, the Georgengarten, and the Welfengarten, each offering unique landscapes and attractions. The crown jewel is the Great Garden, a masterpiece of baroque garden design featuring geometric patterns, ornate fountains, and perfectly manicured hedges. The recently reconstructed Herrenhausen Palace serves as the centerpiece, while the gardens themselves have earned recognition as a candidate for UNESCO World Heritage status. The complex represents not only horticultural excellence but also centuries of European cultural history, making it an essential destination for anyone visiting northern Germany.

What to See & Do

Great Garden (Großer Garten)

The main baroque garden featuring geometric parterre designs, the impressive Great Fountain reaching 80 meters high, ornate sculptures, and the reconstructed Herrenhausen Palace with its museum and events.

Berggarten

A botanical paradise housing exotic plants, tropical greenhouses, the Sea Life Centre, and seasonal displays including spectacular orchid and butterfly exhibitions in climate-controlled pavilions.

Grotto and Garden Theatre

The historic grotto decorated with crystals, minerals, and shells, plus an open-air baroque theatre that hosts classical concerts and performances during summer months.

Georgengarten

An English landscape garden perfect for leisurely walks, featuring the Wilhelm Busch Museum dedicated to caricature and critical graphics, plus peaceful walking paths and meadows.

Fountain Displays and Water Features

Spectacular water shows featuring over 50 fountains operating simultaneously, including the famous Great Fountain, bell fountains, and intricate water parterres creating magical displays.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Great Garden: April-October 9:00-20:00, November-March 9:00-16:30. Berggarten: Daily 9:00-19:00 (summer), 9:00-16:00 (winter). Georgengarten: Always accessible.

Tickets & Pricing

Great Garden: Adults €8, reduced €6. Berggarten: Adults €6, reduced €4. Combined ticket: Adults €12. Children under 12 free. Annual passes and group discounts available online.

Best Time to Visit

May through September for fountain displays and full garden blooms. Spring (April-May) for tulips and blossoming trees. Summer evenings for illuminated gardens and outdoor concerts.

Suggested Duration

Half day (3-4 hours) for main highlights, full day (6-8 hours) to explore all four gardens thoroughly including museums and special exhibitions.

Getting There

Herrenhäuser Gärten is easily accessible from Hanover city center via public transportation. Take tram lines 4 or 5 to 'Herrenhäuser Gärten' stop, which takes about 15 minutes from the main train station. By car, follow signs to 'Herrenhausen' from the A2 or A7 autobahns, with paid parking available at multiple locations around the gardens. The gardens are also reachable by regional buses and offer bicycle parking facilities. From Hanover Airport, take the S-Bahn to the city center and transfer to the tram system.

Things to Do Nearby

New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus)
Hanover's impressive early 20th-century city hall with a unique curved elevator ride to the dome offering panoramic city views and beautiful architecture.
Maschsee Lake
Artificial lake in the city center perfect for boat trips, waterside dining, and recreational activities, surrounded by parks and walking paths.
Hanover Zoo
One of Germany's most scenic zoos featuring themed landscapes like Yukon Bay and Zambezi, known for innovative habitat designs and diverse animal collections.
Sprengel Museum
Modern art museum housing significant collections of 20th and 21st-century art, including works by Picasso, Klee, and contemporary German artists.
Old Town and Market Church
Historic city center with traditional German architecture, the brick Gothic Market Church, charming squares, and traditional restaurants serving regional cuisine.

Tips & Advice

Visit during fountain operating hours (10:00-12:00 and 15:00-17:00 in summer) to see the spectacular water displays at their best
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the gardens cover extensive grounds with gravel paths and require significant walking
Check the events calendar for special illuminations, classical concerts, and seasonal festivals that enhance the garden experience
Bring a camera with extra battery - the photogenic baroque architecture and colorful flower displays offer countless picture opportunities

Tours & Activities at Herrenhäuser Gärten