Things To Do
in Hildesheim

Hildesheim is a charming city in Lower Saxony, Germany, known for its rich history and stunning architecture. It boasts UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the St. Mary's Cathedral and the medieval market square. The city is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, making it a perfect blend of urban and natural attractions.

Hildesheim also has a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and theaters.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historical Hildesheim
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to St. Mary's Cathedral, a breathtaking example of Romanesque architecture. Don't miss the unique wooden ceiling and the beautiful stained glass windows.

afternoon
:

Explore the Market Square, where you can admire the old timber-framed houses and visit the Historic Market Church. Enjoy lunch at a local café, sampling traditional German dishes.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a walk along the Innerste River, followed by dinner at a local restaurant known for its regional specialties.

day 2
Day 2: Art and Nature
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the Roemer- und Pelizaeus-Museum, which houses an impressive collection of ancient artifacts and art. Take a leisurely stroll in the nearby Magdalenengarten, a beautiful historical garden.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at the Hildesheim Botanical Garden, where you can explore diverse plant species and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Grab a snack at the garden café.

evening
:

For your final evening, check out a local brewery for dinner and sample some of the regional beers while enjoying live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15-25
Coffee$2-4
🍺Local beer$3-5
🚍Public transport ticket$3
🏨Budget hotel per night$70-100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage
  • Charming architecture and picturesque streets
  • Friendly locals and a vibrant community
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Public transportation options may be less frequent
  • Some attractions may have limited hours during off-peak seasons
  • "Guten Tag" - Good day
  • "Danke schön" - Thank you very much
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me
  • "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the restroom?

Places to Visit in Hildesheim

Visit one of these nice places.

St. Mary's Cathedral

Capture the stunning architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage site, particularly the intricate details of the façade.

Market Square

Photograph the charming half-timbered houses and the vibrant atmosphere of the bustling square.

The Innerste River

A picturesque spot for nature shots, especially during sunset when the reflections on the water are breathtaking.

Culinary Guide

Food in Hildesheim

Hildesheim offers a delightful culinary scene with a mix of traditional and modern German cuisine, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

Hildesheim Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Spargel (Asparagus)

In spring, enjoy white asparagus, a local delicacy often served with hollandaise sauce.

Must-Try!

Bratwurst

Savor the famous German sausage, typically grilled and served with mustard and bread.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Hildesheim Market

Visit the weekly market in the Market Square to sample local produce, cheeses, and baked goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Hildesheim experiences a temperate oceanic climate, with four distinct seasons. Summers are mild to warm, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Winters are cold, with temperatures occasionally dropping below freezing, and snowfall can be expected. Rain is fairly distributed throughout the year, so it's advisable to carry an umbrella regardless of the season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Germans value punctuality highly, so it's courteous to arrive on time for appointments and social gatherings.

Politeness

Using 'Bitte' (please) and 'Danke' (thank you) is essential in social interactions.

Quiet Hours

Observe quiet hours (usually from 10 PM to 6 AM) in residential areas to respect local residents.

Safety Guide

Safety

Hildesheim is considered a safe city for both residents and visitors, with a low crime rate. However, it's always wise to take standard safety precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping personal belongings secure. Emergency services are reliable, and the local police can assist with any issues.

Tipping in Hildesheim

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to round up the bill or leave a tip of about 5-10% in restaurants, depending on the service quality.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash, especially in smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild weather, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Summer offers warm temperatures perfect for exploring parks and attending outdoor events, although occasional rain showers can occur.

Autumn

In autumn, the foliage changes to vibrant colors, creating beautiful landscapes for photography and leisurely walks.

Winter

Winter can be cold with occasional snowfall, transforming the city into a winter wonderland, especially during the holiday season.

Nightlife Guide

Hildesheim at Night

Hildesheim's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, featuring a mix of cozy pubs, trendy bars, and lively clubs. The city attracts a diverse crowd, including students and locals looking to unwind after a long day. Popular spots include local breweries where you can taste regional beers, as well as dance clubs that host various events throughout the week. The nightlife scene tends to be more active on weekends, with many venues offering live music and entertainment.

Hiking in Hildesheim

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hiking Trails in the Harz Mountains

Located about an hour's drive from Hildesheim, the Harz Mountains offer numerous hiking trails with stunning views and natural beauty.

Hildesheim's Forest Trails

Explore the forested trails around Hildesheim, perfect for leisurely hikes with well-marked paths and scenic surroundings.

Airports

How to reach Hildesheim by plane.

Hannover Airport (HAJ)

Located about 50 km from Hildesheim, Hannover Airport is the nearest major airport, offering both domestic and international flights. It provides convenient transport links to Hildesheim via train and bus.

Getting Around

Walkability

Hildesheim is highly walkable, with many attractions located within a short distance from each other in the city center. Pedestrian-friendly streets and well-marked crossings make it easy to explore on foot. Additionally, there are plenty of parks and green spaces to enjoy during your strolls, contributing to a pleasant walking experience.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

Hildesheim is home to a university, attracting a large student population, which contributes to the youthful atmosphere and cultural events.

Families

Families are another significant demographic group, enjoying the city's parks, educational facilities, and community events geared towards all ages.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Hildesheim, with local teams competing in regional leagues and a strong following among residents.

Handball

Handball enjoys significant popularity as well, with local clubs participating in both amateur and professional competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Hildesheim is generally manageable, with congestion occurring mainly during peak hours. The city has a reliable public transportation system, including buses and trains that connect to surrounding areas. Biking is also a popular mode of transport, with designated bike lanes available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Hildesheim.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan Options

Many restaurants in Hildesheim offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, with clear labeling on menus.

Gluten-Free Options

Some eateries cater to gluten-free diets, but it's advisable to inform staff about dietary restrictions.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Hildesheim is accessible and of good quality, with several hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies throughout the city. Emergency services are reliable, and many healthcare providers speak English. It's advisable for visitors to have travel insurance in case of unexpected medical needs.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide