The medieval city of Brunswick captures the spirit of fairytale Germany with its rich architecture and atmospheric forests. More than 1,000 years old, the ‘Lion City’ has historical buildings dating from the Middle Ages right through to the present day.
It may be located close to Hanover but Brunswick has its own diverse cultural life with museums, art exhibitions, and major sporting events.
Brunswick has a glorious history, and the best place to start any tour is Burgplatz, the proud home of the Braunschweig Lion – the Romanesque statue that has become the symbol of the city. The main square was the center of power for both church and state during the 12th century and you’ll find the ornate Dankwarderode Castle and imposing Lutheran St Blasius Cathedral here.
Explore the Altstadtmarkt
Just a short distance from Burgplatz is Brunswick’s historic old town. The public square dates from the 12th century and is a hive of activity, hosting food markets, fun fairs and historical re-enactments.
The Altstadtmarkt – or Old Town Market – is home to an array of architectural wonders such as the Old City Hall (Altstadtrathaus), the 17th century Old Customs House (Altes Zollhaus), 16th century Cloth Merchant’s House (Gewandhaus), and the Fountain of the Virgin Mary (Marienbrunnen), which dates from 1408.
Save some time for visiting the Braunschweiger Schloss, or Brunswick Palace, which sits in the heart of the city. The seat of Brunswick’s dukes for nearly two centuries, it was rebuilt brick by brick after suffering severe bomb damage during World War II and has now been transformed into a grand shopping complex known as the Schloss Arkaden.
The natural touch
The tranquil River Oker winds around the city, providing a welcome splash of nature away from the bustle of the city. It’s a beautiful place to take a boat trip or enjoy a relaxing picnic.
If you’re traveling with kids, then hop over to Arche Noah Zoo. Here you can see animals in a spacious, natural arena. Expect to see cheetahs, South American bears, apes, and golden-headed lion tamarins and plenty more besides.
Pop art galore
Brunswick may have a rich seam of heritage, but this isn’t a city that’s stuck in the past – and there’s is no better illustration of its forward-looking attitudes than the Happy Rizzi House. Conceptualized by the American pop artist James Rizzi at the turn of the century, this bizarre building comprises nine connected blocks.
Inside it houses offices, but the pop art facade is full of colorful cartoons and smiling faces that make for the perfect feelgood photo opportunity.
Explore more of Lower Saxony
The Lower Saxony region is full of gems well worth heading beyond Brunswick to explore. The capital Hanover is just an hour’s drive away via the A2. Host to two high-profile annual events – the CeBit computer expo and the Hannover Messe industrial technology trade fair – you’ll find plenty of museums and green spaces, while the architectural high points include the baroque Herrenhäuser Gärten.
You’ll find similar baroque influences in Hildesheim, along with the Romanesque St Michael’s church. The Autostadt theme park in Wolfsburg – about a 45-minute drive from Brunswick – celebrates the city’s car industry roots, while there are themed trails to explore in the heavily forested mountains of the Harz National Park just 35 minutes away.
If you’re ready for an adventure, then car rental in Brunswick is the perfect way to explore this fascinating city and the rest of Lower Saxony.