Things to Do at Herrenhäuser Gärten

Complete Guide to Herrenhäuser Gärten in Hanovre

About Herrenhäuser Gärten

The Herrenhäuser Gärten (Herrenhausen Gardens) in Hannover represent one of Europe's most magnificent baroque garden ensembles, dating back to the 17th century. Originally created for the Dukes of Brunswick-Lüneburg, these world-renowned gardens showcase the pinnacle of baroque landscape architecture and have been meticulously maintained for over 300 years. The complex consists of four distinct gardens: the Great Garden (Großer Garten), the Mountain Garden (Berggarten), the Georgen Garden (Georgengarten), and the Welf Garden (Welfengarten). The crown jewel is the Great Garden, featuring perfectly geometric parterre layouts, ornate fountains, and the spectacular Great Fountain that shoots water up to 80 meters high. The gardens have witnessed centuries of royal history and continue to serve as a cultural hub, hosting concerts, festivals, and exhibitions. In 2013, the reconstructed Herrenhausen Palace was added to the ensemble, completing the historical vision with modern museum facilities and event spaces.

What to See & Do

Großer Garten (Great Garden)

The baroque masterpiece featuring geometric parterre gardens, hedge mazes, ornate sculptures, and the famous Great Fountain - one of Europe's highest garden fountains

Berggarten (Mountain Garden)

A botanical paradise housing rare plants, tropical greenhouses, and seasonal displays including spectacular orchid and butterfly exhibitions

Herrenhausen Palace and Museum

The reconstructed baroque palace featuring interactive exhibitions about the gardens' history, the Hanoverian royal family, and baroque culture

Garden Theatre and Orangery

Historic venues hosting concerts, theatrical performances, and cultural events in stunning baroque settings

Georgengarten

An English-style landscape garden perfect for leisurely walks, featuring the Wilhelm Busch Museum and connecting to the city center

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Great Garden: Daily 9:00-20:00 (summer), 9:00-16:30 (winter). Berggarten: Daily 9:00-19:00 (summer), 9:00-16:00 (winter). Palace Museum: Tue-Sun 11:00-18:00

Tickets & Pricing

Great Garden: €8 adults, €4 reduced. Berggarten: €6 adults, €3 reduced. Combined ticket: €12 adults. Palace Museum: €8 adults. Annual passes and group discounts available

Best Time to Visit

May to September for full garden blooms and fountain operations. Spring (April-May) for tulips and cherry blossoms. Summer evenings for illuminated gardens and outdoor concerts

Suggested Duration

Half day (3-4 hours) for main highlights, full day for comprehensive visit including all gardens and museum

Getting There

From Hannover Hauptbahnhof, take tram line 4 or 5 to 'Herrenhäuser Gärten' stop (15-minute journey). By car, follow signs to Herrenhausen from the A2 or A7 autobahns, with paid parking available on-site. The gardens are also accessible by regional bus lines 120 and 200. Walking from the city center takes approximately 45 minutes through the scenic Georgengarten. Bicycle rentals are available throughout Hannover for a pleasant ride through the connecting garden paths.

Things to Do Nearby

Wilhelm Busch Museum
Dedicated to the famous German humorist and artist, featuring caricatures, comics, and satirical art in the Georgengarten
Hannover Zoo
One of Germany's most spectacular zoos featuring themed landscapes and the famous Zambezi River boat safari
New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus)
Impressive early 20th-century city hall with a unique dome elevator offering panoramic views of Hannover
Maschsee Lake
Artificial lake in the city center perfect for boat trips, waterfront dining, and recreational activities
Old Town (Altstadt)
Historic quarter with timber-framed houses, the Market Church, and traditional German restaurants and beer halls

Tips & Advice

Visit during the summer months to see the Great Fountain in full operation and enjoy the outdoor concerts in the Garden Theatre
Purchase the combined ticket for better value if planning to visit both the Great Garden and Berggarten
Bring comfortable walking shoes as the gardens cover extensive grounds with gravel paths
Check the events calendar before visiting - the gardens host numerous festivals, concerts, and special exhibitions throughout the year

Tours & Activities at Herrenhäuser Gärten