Things To Do
in Oldenburg

Oldenburg, Germany, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, beautiful parks, and a lively cultural scene. Nestled in Lower Saxony, it features a mix of modern amenities and historical architecture, including the stunning Oldenburg Castle. The city is also home to a number of museums, galleries, and theaters, making it a hub for the arts.

With its friendly atmosphere and numerous green spaces, Oldenburg offers a delightful experience for visitors seeking both relaxation and exploration.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Oldenburg
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Oldenburg Castle, where you can explore the museum and gardens.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the beautiful Eversten Holz park and enjoy lunch at a nearby café.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant specializing in regional cuisine and finish with a walk around the city center to admire the illuminated buildings.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Visit the State Museum for Art and Cultural History to soak in some local art.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at the Oldenburg Botanical Garden, taking in the diverse plant life.

evening
:

Enjoy drinks at a popular local bar and perhaps catch a live music performance at a nearby venue.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🚌Public transport ticket$2
🏨Budget hotel (per night)$70
🍺Local beer$4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical heritage.
  • Beautiful parks and outdoor spaces.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Weather can be unpredictable.
  • Public transport might not cover all areas extensively.
  • "Guten Tag" - Good day
  • "Danke schön" - Thank you very much
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ich hätte gerne..." - I would like...

Places to Visit in Oldenburg

Visit one of these nice places.

Oldenburg Castle

Capture stunning shots of this historical landmark, surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens.

St. Lamberti Church

This iconic church provides a picturesque backdrop, especially during golden hour.

The Eversten Holz Park

A serene park with lush greenery and walking paths, perfect for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Oldenburg

Oldenburg boasts a diverse culinary scene, where traditional German dishes meet international flavors. Visitors can enjoy a variety of local specialties, street food, and cozy cafés that reflect the city's rich gastronomic culture.

Oldenburg Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Grünkohl

A hearty kale dish typically served with sausages and potatoes, especially popular in winter.

Must-Try!

Oldenburger Karpfen

Local carp, often prepared in a variety of ways, showcasing the region's freshwater fish.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Oldenburg Weekly Market

A vibrant market held every Wednesday and Saturday, offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and handmade goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Oldenburg experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 1°C (34°F) in January to 22°C (72°F) in July. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with late spring and summer having slightly higher precipitation. Visitors should be prepared for variable weather, especially in transitional seasons.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Germans value punctuality; always try to arrive on time for appointments and gatherings.

Greetings

A firm handshake is the standard greeting, and it’s polite to address people using their titles and surnames.

Quiet Hours

Respect quiet hours, especially in residential areas, typically observed from 10 PM to 6 AM.

Safety Guide

Safety

Oldenburg is generally considered a safe city, with low crime rates. However, like any urban area, it’s wise to remain aware of your surroundings and take standard safety precautions, especially at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112 for any urgent situations.

Tipping in Oldenburg

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated in Germany; rounding up the bill or leaving a 5-10% tip is customary for good service.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to carry some cash, especially for small purchases and in markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring is mild and beautiful, with blooming flowers in parks and gardens. Ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Warm temperatures make summer perfect for enjoying outdoor dining and events, though occasional rain showers can occur.

Autumn

Autumn offers stunning foliage and cooler weather, making it a great time for hikes and cultural events.

Winter

Winter can be cold with a chance of snow, but the city is beautifully decorated for Christmas, with festive markets to enjoy.

Nightlife Guide

Oldenburg at Night

Oldenburg has a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of bars, pubs, and clubs catering to different tastes. The city is known for its laid-back atmosphere, making it a great place to enjoy live music or dance the night away. Popular areas include the Old Town and around the university, where you can find trendy venues and local hotspots. From cozy beer gardens to lively nightclubs, there's something for everyone in Oldenburg's nightlife.

Hiking in Oldenburg

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hiking Trail in the Wildeshauser Geest Nature Park

This scenic trail offers a beautiful natural setting, perfect for hiking and enjoying wildlife.

The Wiesenweg Trail

A well-marked trail that takes you through lush meadows and forests, suitable for all hiking levels.

Airports

How to reach Oldenburg by plane.

Bremen Airport

Located about 45 km from Oldenburg, Bremen Airport is the nearest major airport, offering both domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Oldenburg is a highly walkable city, with most attractions, shops, and restaurants located within a compact downtown area. The city is designed to be pedestrian-friendly, with well-maintained sidewalks and numerous crosswalks. Walking is a popular way to explore, and many visitors find it enjoyable to stroll through the charming streets and parks.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

A significant demographic in Oldenburg, due to the presence of the University of Oldenburg, contributing to the city's youthful atmosphere.

Families

Many families reside in Oldenburg, attracted by its quality of life, parks, and educational facilities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in the region, with local clubs and a passionate fan base.

Handball

Handball enjoys a significant following in Oldenburg, with local teams competing in national leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Oldenburg is generally manageable, with well-marked roads and bike lanes. Public transportation includes buses that connect various parts of the city, and cycling is a favored mode of transport. Parking can be limited in the city center, so using public transport or biking is often recommended.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Oldenburg.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegan Options

Many restaurants in Oldenburg cater to vegan diets, offering a variety of dishes made with fresh vegetables and alternatives.

Gluten-Free Options

You can find gluten-free meals at several eateries, but it's advisable to ask in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Germany has a high standard of healthcare, and Oldenburg is no exception. The city has several hospitals and clinics that provide excellent medical services. Most healthcare facilities have English-speaking staff, and emergency services can be accessed by dialing 112. EU citizens should carry their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for coverage.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide