Things To Do
in Gießen
Gießen is a charming university town located in central Germany. Known for its picturesque old town with timber-framed houses and a bustling market square, Gießen offers a blend of historical charm and modern amenities. The town is home to the renowned Justus Liebig University, attracting students and academics from around the world.
Surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, Gießen is a vibrant cultural hub with museums, theaters, and cultural events throughout the year.
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please/You're welcome
- "Guten Morgen" - Good morning
- "Auf Wiedersehen" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Gießen University Botanical Garden, where you can enjoy a diverse range of plants. Take time to appreciate the peaceful surroundings and learn about various plant species.
Visit the historical Alte Universitätsbibliothek and admire its stunning architecture. Afterwards, stroll through the university campus and enjoy the student atmosphere.
Dine at a local restaurant to savor authentic German cuisine. Finish your day with a leisurely walk along the Lahn River.
Begin with a refreshing walk in the Buseck Valley Park, surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty as you explore the trails.
Visit the local market in Gießen for fresh produce and handmade goods. Interact with local vendors and soak in the community vibes.
Relax at a cozy café with a book in hand. Watch the sunset while enjoying a cup of traditional German coffee.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural history and attractive architecture
- Vibrant student life due to the presence of several universities
- Beautiful parks and green spaces for leisure activities
- Good public transportation connections to larger cities like Frankfurt
- A variety of local festivals and events throughout the year
- Relatively affordable cost of living compared to other German cities
- Limited job opportunities outside of academia and education
- Smaller city may lack some international amenities
- Transport options may be limited at night
- Weather can be cloudy and rainy, affecting outdoor activities
- Smaller expat community compared to larger cities
- Less nightlife compared to major urban centers
Best Activities in Gießen
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Gießen offers beautiful natural surroundings, ideal for bike riding through the parks and forests during the warmer months.
Explore the diverse plant life at the Botanical Garden located in Gießen, offering a peaceful and scenic outdoor experience.
The hilly terrain around Gießen provides excellent opportunities for hiking, with various trails and scenic viewpoints to discover.
Tours
Uncover the best of Gießen with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Gießen
Visit one of these nice places.
An interactive science museum with a rooftop terrace providing panoramic views of Gießen.
A botanical garden offering beautiful natural landscapes and picturesque spots for photography.
A scenic lake surrounded by greenery, ideal for capturing peaceful and serene moments.
Food in Gießen
Gießen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular local specialty, consisting of a cold green sauce made from seven herbs and usually served with boiled potatoes and hard-boiled eggs. It's a must-try dish in Gießen and can be found at traditional German restaurants such as Zum Löwen.
Must-Try!
This traditional Hessian dish features handkäse cheese marinated in vinegar, oil, and onions. It's a unique and flavorful appetizer commonly found at local pubs and taverns like Alte Schiffchen.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Gießen better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in the city center, the farmer's market offers a variety of fresh local produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and street food stalls selling bratwurst, crepes, and other tasty snacks.
An annual festival featuring a wide range of traditional and modern street food, from German sausages to international options. It's a great place to sample different flavors and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Gießen, it's common to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. Use formal titles (Herr or Frau) unless invited to use first names.
Germans generally value punctuality, so be sure to arrive on time for appointments and social gatherings in Gießen.
Germans appreciate their personal space, so be mindful of maintaining an appropriate distance while conversing or interacting with others.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Gießen with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Gießen
Ensure a smooth experience
In Gießen, Germany, it is customary to tip restaurant servers, taxi drivers, and hotel staff. A tip of 5-10% of the total bill is generally appropriate for good service.
Payment in Gießen, Germany, is commonly made using cash or credit/debit cards. Most establishments accept major credit cards, but it's always good to have some cash on hand, especially for smaller vendors or in more rural areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Gießen.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for blooming flowers, pleasant weather, and outdoor activities. The city comes alive with various events and festivals.
Ideal for warm weather, outdoor adventures, and enjoying the local parks and gardens. Many cultural and music festivals take place during this time.
Great for experiencing the beautiful fall foliage, cooler temperatures, and attending harvest festivals. It's also a good time for hiking and outdoor recreational activities.
Perfect for enjoying the festive holiday markets, winter sports, and cozy indoor activities. The city transforms into a magical winter wonderland.
Gießen at Night
Hiking in Gießen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking trail along the Lahn River, offering beautiful views and a guide to the local flora and fauna.
A forested area ideal for hiking with various trails, picnic spots, and wildlife observation opportunities.
A moderate hiking path that leads to Tannenberg offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
A picturesque valley with hiking routes that allow you to explore the lush greenery and diverse animal life.
A bit further out, this national park offers extensive trails through forests and around lakes, known for its pristine nature and biodiversity.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Gießen through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Gießen by plane.
The largest international airport in Germany and one of the busiest in Europe, located approximately 50 kilometers south of Gießen.
An international airport in Cologne, Germany, located about 100 kilometers to the northwest of Gießen.
An international airport located in Stuttgart, about 190 kilometers to the south of Gießen.
An international airport in Düsseldorf, located approximately 120 kilometers to the northwest of Gießen.
An international airport located in Nuremberg, roughly 200 kilometers southeast of Gießen.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population, consisting of individuals who hold German citizenship and are ethnically German.
A significant demographic group consisting of Turkish nationals and those of Turkish descent, contributing to the cultural diversity of Gießen.
This group includes individuals from countries such as Poland, Romania, and the Balkans, representing a noteworthy presence in Gießen.
Individuals from countries in the Middle East, including Syria and Iraq, especially those who have migrated in recent years.
A growing community of African nationals and those of African descent, contributing to the multicultural landscape of Gießen.
Comprising individuals from various Asian countries, including students and migrants from China, India, and Vietnam.
The Soul of Gießen
Discover the essence of Gießen through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Gießen, with various local clubs and a strong community interest.
Basketball has a significant following in Gießen, with local teams competing in regional leagues and promoting the sport among youths.
Handball is a well-practiced sport in Gießen, with local clubs offering training and competitions for all age groups.
Athletics, including running and field events, is popular among both amateur and competitive sports enthusiasts in Gießen.
Volleyball is widely played in Gießen, with clubs facilitating play at different skill levels and involving local schools and communities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gießen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Gießen offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, with some places specializing in plant-based cuisine. Notable options include Café Vetter and the vegetarian-friendly menu at Zum Wiesengrund.
While not as prevalent as vegetarian or vegan options, a number of restaurants and cafes in Gießen do offer gluten-free dishes. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs with the staff who are generally accommodating.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Gießen with these cultural adventures.
