Things To Do
in Nordhausen
Nordhausen sits in northern Thuringia at the edge of the Harz, where brick Gothic architecture meets modern culture. The town has a rich industrial and mining heritage, charming streets, and a lively Market Square. It serves as a practical gateway to the Harz foothills and Kyffhäuser landscapes, ideal for day trips and outdoor adventures.
Visitors can enjoy traditional Thuringian cuisine, local spirits like Nordhäuser Doppelkorn, and a compact, walkable city center rich in history.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Nordhausen Town Hall, an impressive building showcasing Gothic architecture. Stroll through the cobblestone streets of the historic center, taking in the charm of the old buildings and quaint shops. Don’t forget to stop by the St. Blasii Church, where you can admire its stunning stained glass windows.
After lunch at a local café, visit the Nordhausen Museum to delve into the region's history and culture. Spend the afternoon exploring the unique exhibits, including artifacts from the Middle Ages and various art pieces. Take a leisurely walk in the nearby Stadtpark, enjoying the tranquility and beautiful landscapes.
As the sun sets, enjoy a traditional German dinner at a local restaurant, sampling local delicacies such as Harzer cheese and Thüringer sausages. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the historic streets, soaking in the ambiance of the city at night. End your evening with a visit to a nearby brewery for a taste of regional beer.
Begin your day at the Nordhausen weekly market, where you can experience the vibrant local culture and sample fresh produce. Engage with local vendors and artisans, discovering handmade crafts and regional specialties. Enjoy a warm pretzel or a slice of cake as you wander through the stalls.
After the market, make your way to the nearby Nordhausen Synagogue, an important historical site that reflects the town's diverse past. Participate in a guided tour that provides insights into the Jewish community's history in the area. Later, grab lunch at a cozy bistro before heading to the Harz Mountains for some breathtaking views.
Return to Nordhausen and unwind with a casual dinner in the Old Town. Opt for a restaurant that offers a fusion of traditional and modern German cuisine. For a nightcap, visit a local wine bar to sample some fine wines from the surrounding regions.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-6 |
| 🛏️Hotel per night (mid-range) | $60-120 |
| 🚆Public transit day pass | $6-10 |
| 🛒Groceries for a few days | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable city with rich history
- Gateway access to the Harz and Kyffhäuser landscapes
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Smaller scale may feel quiet for some travelers
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Ich hätte gern…" - I would like to have…
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Danke schön" - Thank you very much
Places to Visit in Nordhausen
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic brick Gothic facades and lively scenes in Nordhausen’s central square, best captured at dawn or twilight.
Narrow lanes lined with preserved timber-framed houses provide classic German town photography opportunities.
Water reflections and calm quayside views perfect for sunset shots.
Food in Nordhausen
Nordhausen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled sausages served with mustard and bread—an iconic Thuringian street food widely available in Nordhausen.
Must-Try!
A comforting one-pot stew with potatoes, beans, and seasonal vegetables.
A hearty potato soup commonly enjoyed in the region.
A famous grain-based schnapps from Nordhausen; enjoyed neat or in cocktails.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly markets on the historic Market Square with fresh produce and regional specialties.
Casual stalls offering Thuringian bratwurst, pretzels, and seasonal snacks around the city center.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite handshake is common; use formal Sie with strangers and older adults until invited to switch to du.
Be on time for appointments or reservations; punctuality is valued.
Maintain a quiet, orderly demeanor in public spaces; follow typical German etiquette for queues and tipping.
Safety
Tipping in Nordhausen
Ensure a smooth experience
It is customary to round up the bill or leave about 5-10% in restaurants if service is good.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; smaller shops may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming squares; great for city walks and outdoor cafés.
Warm afternoons and long evenings; ideal for Harz hikes and outdoor markets.
Golden light and harvest markets; cooling temperatures, perfect for photography.
Cold days with a chance of snow; festive lights in the Market Square and visits to museums keep things cozy.
Nordhausen at Night
Hiking in Nordhausen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Harz’s highest peak with forest trails and panoramic views; a classic day hike from nearby towns.
Scenic forest trails around the Kyffhäuser Monument offering expansive views.
Gentle river valley paths suitable for easy hikes within reach of the city.
Airports
How to reach Nordhausen by plane.
Closest regional airport with domestic and some international flights; transfer to Nordhausen is straightforward by rail or road.
Larger international airport about two hours by train; good for long-haul connections.
Major hub with broad international connections; reachable by rail with reasonable transfer times.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, students from the local university of applied sciences, and longer-term locals.
Visitors drawn by Harz access, historic architecture, and regional cuisine.
A small but steady presence contributing to cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed at amateur and club levels with local matches seasonally available.
Popular in regional clubs and schools; often played in winter months.
In winter, nearby Harz mountains offer skiing and snow activities when conditions permit.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nordhausen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Thuringian dishes can be adapted; look for Kartoffelgerichte, salads, and seasonal vegetables, and ask for cheese or mushroom fillings.