Goslar

Situated on the edge of the Harz Mountains, the medieval town of Goslar offers something for everyone. From scenic views, authentic cuisine, and deep-rooted history, it’s no surprise that Goslar was awarded a place on 

Trip Advisor’s Top Ten Hotspots for 2009 list. The best way to get to this whimsical town is definitely by car. The closest airport is Hannover, which is only a short, 55-minute drive away.
The freedom a rental car offers will allow you stop and take pictures and explore the tiny villages you’ll see along the way. Once arriving in Goslar, you will immediately feel its charm. Some say that the intricate, timber-framed houses, quaint cobblestone streets and elegant church steeples remind them of villages they once read about in fairly tales.

Goslar’s historic city center and market square are best explored by foot. The winding streets and alleys are lined with family-run bed and breakfasts, boutique shops, cozy cafes and traditional restaurants. As one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites, along with the nearby mines of Rammelsberg, the historian in your group will certainly find many places of interest. The medieval old-town is home to many exhibitions including tin figure, music instrument, doll, and modern art museums. There are also several old churches, city landmarks, and nostalgic statues to appreciate.

For those interested in exploring the tranquillity of the surrounding nature, there are several options present. During the warmer months, there are endless amounts of extensive hiking and biking trails. If you find the right trail, you will stumble upon a spectacular bird’s eye view of Goslar against the backdrop of Harz Mountains. For skiing, drive up to Goslar’s Hahnenklee- Bockswiese ski lifts and cable car. There are courses suited for both beginners and more advanced skiers. Nearby, one can also go swimming, rock climbing, wind-surfing, golfing, water-skiing and hang-gliding. All of these activities can be reached in a short drive.

In June, July, and August there are various outdoor events. The Riflemen’s and Folks Fair, for example, entertain guests with amusement rides and firework shows. Liberal Arts and Performing Arts days offer a potpourri of outdoor concerts, puppet shows, A cappella choir performances and cabaret. The most famous of these outdoor events is, unarguably, the Goslar traditional German Christmas market. Situated in the market square, live, seasonal music and tiny, open-air booths decorated with holly and twinkling lights create a lively ambiance. Handmade crafts, toys, books and ornaments attract thousands of tourists annually. While you’re buying unique gifts for family and friends, don’t forget to sample some of the homemade gingerbreads, candied fruit and nuts, hot mulled wine and bratwurst.

Tourists often like to drive around the surrounding Harz area to enhance their experience of 15th-19th century Germany. Quedlinburg, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, can be reached within 35 minutes. For a visit to the witch’s dancing place, open air theatre, the outdoor Harz bob or zoo, drive a short 40 minutes to Thale. On your way, you can stop in Wernigerode, known for its perfectly preserved gothic city center, romantic-style castle, and trail heads that leads you to the highest point in northern Germany: the Brocken.

The young, old, and those in between will be pleased by what Goslar has to offer. Relax on a patio in one of the cafes as you sip fresh brewed coffee and listen to music played by street vendors. Or, be adventurous and wander through the hiking trails, learn how to ski, or go on a bike ride. Whatever you desire to do, Goslar is the place for you.