Things To Do
in Gießen

Gießen, Germany, is a charming city located in the state of Hesse, known for its rich history and vibrant student population. The city is home to the Justus Liebig University, one of the oldest universities in Germany, which adds a youthful energy to the atmosphere. Gießen features picturesque parks, historic buildings, and a range of cultural attractions.

The city is also conveniently situated near Frankfurt, making it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Gießen
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Botanical Garden, where you can enjoy a peaceful stroll among diverse plant species.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head over to the Gießen Museum, which showcases the city's history and art.

evening
:

Conclude your day with dinner at a local restaurant followed by a leisurely walk along the Lahn River.

day 2
Day 2: Day Trip Adventures
morning
:

Take a short train ride to Marburg and explore its medieval old town and castle.

afternoon
:

Visit the Landgrafenschloss Marburg, offering stunning views and rich historical exhibits.

evening
:

Return to Gießen for a relaxed evening at a local beer garden, enjoying traditional Hesse cuisine.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍺Beer (0.5L)$3
🍕Meal at a restaurant$15
🚌Public transport ticket$3
Coffee$2
🏨Hotel (1 night)$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical heritage.
  • Vibrant student atmosphere with diverse activities.
  • Easy access to nature and outdoor activities.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Weather can be unpredictable, especially in winter.
  • Less international cuisine variety than in cosmopolitan areas.
  • "Guten Morgen" - Good Morning
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me
  • "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Gießen

Visit one of these nice places.

Botanical Garden

The lush greenery and diverse flora make this garden a perfect backdrop for nature photography.

Gießen Town Hall

The historic architecture of the town hall provides a beautiful contrast to the modern cityscape.

Lahn River Promenade

Capturing sunset views along the river is a must, with scenic paths and charming bridges.

Culinary Guide

Food in Gießen

Gießen offers a delightful culinary experience with a mix of traditional Hesse dishes and international flavors.

Gießen Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Handkäse mit Musik

A regional cheese served with onions and vinegar, often enjoyed with bread.

Must-Try!

Frankfurter Rippchen

Cured pork ribs typically served with sauerkraut and mashed potatoes.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Gießen Weekly Market

Held every Thursday, this vibrant market offers fresh produce, local cheeses, and baked goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Gießen experiences a temperate oceanic climate with distinct seasons. Summers are warm, with average temperatures ranging from 20-25°C (68-77°F), while winters can be cold, with temperatures often dropping to -1°C (30°F) or lower. Rainfall is fairly distributed throughout the year, with the wettest months typically occurring in summer. Spring and autumn bring mild temperatures and beautiful foliage, making it a lovely time to visit.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Germans value punctuality highly; being on time is seen as a sign of respect.

Quiet in Public Transport

Maintain a quiet demeanor on public transport to respect fellow commuters.

Greeting Etiquette

A firm handshake is the standard greeting, often accompanied by eye contact.

Safety Guide

Safety

Gießen is generally a safe city for both residents and visitors. However, like any urban area, it is important to stay vigilant, especially in crowded places. Common-sense precautions such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings are advisable, particularly at night.

Tipping in Gießen

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It's customary to round up the bill or leave around 5-10% as a tip in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's wise to carry some cash for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather and blooming flowers, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Warm temperatures allow for numerous festivals and events, perfect for enjoying Gießen's vibrant atmosphere.

Autumn

The changing leaves create stunning landscapes, and the cooler weather is great for exploring local markets.

Winter

Winter can be cold, but the city lights up with festive decorations and Christmas markets.

Nightlife Guide

Gießen at Night

Gießen has a lively nightlife scene, especially appealing to students. The city is dotted with bars, pubs, and clubs that cater to various tastes, from cozy beer gardens to energetic dance clubs. Popular spots include local breweries and themed bars, often hosting events and live music, making it a vibrant hub for nightlife enthusiasts.

Hiking in Gießen

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Lahn Valley Trail

A scenic hiking trail following the Lahn River, offering beautiful views and accessible paths for all skill levels.

Kellerwald-Edersee National Park

Located approximately an hour away, this national park features diverse landscapes and well-marked trails for hiking enthusiasts.

Airports

How to reach Gießen by plane.

Frankfurt Airport (FRA)

Located approximately 80 km from Gießen, Frankfurt Airport is one of the largest and busiest airports in Europe, offering numerous international and domestic flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Gießen is a highly walkable city, with many attractions, shops, and eateries located within a short distance of each other. The flat terrain makes it easy to explore on foot, and there are numerous pedestrian-friendly paths. The city also promotes walking through well-maintained sidewalks and designated pedestrian zones, making it enjoyable for visitors.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

A significant portion of Gießen's population consists of students, thanks to the presence of Justus Liebig University, bringing a youthful and dynamic atmosphere.

Local Residents

The local residents include families and professionals who contribute to the city's cultural and economic diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is extremely popular in Gießen, with local clubs and leagues attracting passionate fans.

Basketball

The city has a growing basketball community, with teams competing at various levels and local tournaments regularly held.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Gießen is generally manageable, with peak hours during the morning and evening commutes. Public transport is well-developed, with buses connecting various parts of the city and surrounding areas. Cycling is also popular, with dedicated bike lanes making it easy and safe to navigate the city on two wheels.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Gießen.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Gießen provide vegetarian and vegan dishes, especially in student-oriented eateries.

Gluten-Free Options

Some restaurants offer gluten-free alternatives, but it’s advisable to check in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Gießen is accessible, with several hospitals and clinics offering a range of services. The city is served by the University Hospital of Gießen, which is equipped with modern facilities. Emergency services are reliable, and visitors can seek medical assistance at local pharmacies and health centers. It's advisable to have travel insurance for any medical needs.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide