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15 Best Things to Do in Magdeburg (Germany)

One of the oldest cities in Germany’s eastern federal states, Magdeburg is 1,200 years old and was once a member of the Hanseatic League of merchant cities. In the 10th century Magdeburg was the residence of Holy Roman Emperor Otto I, and his tomb is in the astonishing cathedral. That monument was the first example of Gothic architecture in Germany and warrants as much as half a day if you love Medieval art.

Magdeburg is also the country’s second greenest city and even though it has been repeatedly visited by war it has been carefully rebuilt every time. Today, Magdeburg has modern wonders like a 60-metre wooden tower built for the millennium, the final project by architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser and Europe’s largest canal underbridge.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Magdeburg :

1. Magdeburg Cathedral

Magdeburg cathedral’s present appearance dates to the 13th century when the worldly Prince Archbishop, Albert I of Käfernburg adopted the new French Gothic style.

The cathedral took 300 years to complete and the architects learned by trial and error as in the beginning they had no frame of reference for Gothic architecture.

The scale is epic, at 120 metres long and with towers 100 metres high, and even after hundreds of years of war and looting there’s still a wealth of art.

Most remarkable are the 13th-century carvings of the five wise and five foolish virgins from the bible story at the entrance to the northern transept.

Other virtuoso pieces are the 13th-century “Royal Couple” sculpture in the sixteen-sided chapel, the tomb of 10th-century Holy Roman Emperor Otto I, ancient Roman pillars reused in the Apse and a baptismal font carved from Egyptian porphyry that could be thousands of years old.

2. Kloster Unser Lieben Frauen

An 11th-century Romanesque monastery is the rousing backdrop for a contemporary art museum.

The exhibitions opened in the atmospheric barrel vaults of the north wing in 1975 and concern themselves mainly with sculpture, photography and video art.

Most of the work is post-1945, but there is an assortment of sculpture from antiquity, the Middle Ages and the Baroque period, and pieces by Maillol, Rodin and Wilhelm Lehmbruck.

The complex is one of Saxony-Anhalt’s most celebrated monuments, constructed between the 11th and 13th centuries and composed of a basilica, cloister, convent and school.

3. Jahrtausendturm

Shaped like an irregular cone, this edifice in the Elbauenpark was built for the new millennium and at 60 metres high is one of the tallest wooden buildings in the world.

Inside, on five floors the Jahrtausendturm has an exhibition chronicling the development of science across 6,000 years of human history.

With each new level you’ll jump forward in time, starting on the ground floor with Ancient Egyptian mathematics, and moving through Medieval medicine, Renaissance mechanics and alchemy and inventions like the telescope and printing press.

The fourth floor shows all the discoveries of the Early Modern Age, like electricity, stellar parallax, radio, while the fifth is about science in the 21st century.

At the top, after 243 steps or 450 metres on the exterior ramp there’s a scenic viewpoint.

4. Rotehorn Park

The largest park in the city takes up most of the Werder river island on the Elbe and is billed as one of Germany’s loveliest English landscape parks.

There are two tram lines serving Rotehorn Park from the centre of the city.

The island had been undeveloped for hundreds of years when the city first laid out the park in the 1870s and in 1898 it was extended to its current 200 hectares.

If you have an eye for 20th century architecture, look out for the Stadthalle, which was built in the Bauhaus style for the German Theatre Exhibition in 1927. Also designed for the event was the Albinmüller-Turm, a lookout tower 60 metres high.

Tuesday to Sunday in summer you can rent a rowboat on the Adolf-Mittag-See, the tranquil lake at the centre of the park.

5. Johanniskirche

Funded by the city’s merchants around the 10th century, the Johanniskirche is no longer a consecrated church, and is instead used as a concert hall, museum and convention centre.

In 2014, from January to June it was also where Saxony-Anhalt’s State Parliament met.

The Johanniskirche has been destroyed and rebuilt no fewer than four times: Twice after Medieval fires, then again after being sacked during the Thirty Years’ War in the 17th century and finally after the Second World War.

You can go in any day of the week except Monday and see how the nave has been turned into an impressive open space.

There’s also an observation platform at 52 metres after 277 steps to the top of the south tower.

6. Grüne Zitadelle von Magdeburg

On the northwest corner of Domplatz (Cathedral Square) is a fantasy-like mishmash of irregular striped towers, creating the impression of a medieval castle viewed underwater.

The Green Citadel is the work of the rebellious Friedensreich Hundertwasser and was his final project before he passed away in 2000. Making liberal use of colourful ceramic tiles, the complex is a mixed-use development home to shops, a cafe, a restaurant, a theatre, hotel, children’s playground and residential space.

The name “green” comes from the abundance of vegetation in the citadel, in line with Hundertwasser’s environmental ethics.

There are trees growing in the courtyard and the building is topped with a grass roof.

You can hear anecdotes about the citadel and get an inside look at the upper floors on a guided tour.

7. Kanalbrücke Magdeburg (Water Bridge)

When this navigable aqueduct was completed in 2003 Berlin’s inland waterways could finally be accessed from Germany’s inland ports on the Rhine and Ruhr to the west.

The Magdeburg Water Bridge had been in the pipeline for more than a century, but plans were scrapped because of war and Germany’s division.

The aqueduct channels the Mittelland Canal over the River Elbe and is almost a kilometre in length.

Work began in 1998 and the final construction costs for this technical masterwork came to more than €500m.

There’s a path next to the canal, and it’s a sight worth seeing for anyone inspired by modern engineering.

8. Alter Markt

Between Breiter Weg and Jakobstraße, the city’s marketplace has existed since the time of Bishop Wichmann von Seeburg in the 12th century.

This square was hard-hit, first in the Thirty Years War’ and then in the Second World War, and most of the buildings on its margins are now modern.

But on the eastern end is the newly refurbished town hall, which has been on this plot in some form since the 13th century.

In front is the Roland statue, an ever-present on German town squares, and representing Magdeburg’s independence.

The main reason you’ll find yourself on Alter Markt is for the market stalls, trading seasonal fruit and vegetables, meat, dairy, baked goods, homewares, handicrafts and freshly made snacks.

9. Magdeburger Reiter

Also on east side of Alter Markt, just in front of the town hall is a statue in place since at least 1240. The equestrian sculpture is believed to represent Otto I, who is buried at Magdeburg cathedral.

He is flanked by two allegorical maids, one carrying a shield sporting the Holy Roman imperial eagle, and the other with a pennon.

The whole set is made of sandstone from Bernburg to the south, and was only gilded and placed under its current Baroque-style canopy in the 17th century.

Given the age of the ensemble the current Magdeburger Reiter is a copy, and the original is at the museum of cultural history, which follows.

10. Kulturhistorisches Museum Magdeburg

The Magdeburger Reiter is presented in the Kaiser-Otto-Saal in its original un-gilded form.

Considering the time that the statues were created, the realism is staggering, and the work is regarded as one of the most accomplished of the period.

In the same room are items from the Ottonic crypt and a three-part mural depicting scenes from the life of Otto I by artist Arthur Kampf in 1905-06. We’ve only just scratched the surface of what the museum has to offer though, as there thousands of exhibits comprising textiles, handicrafts, prints, pieces furniture, military regalia, coins, as well as fascinating Medieval artefacts unearthed in the city.

In the archaeology galleries a hundreds of thousands of finds charting 200,000 years of human history, not just in Magdeburg but France, Italy, Hungary and Czechia.

11. Faunenbrunnen

One of Magdeburg’s most famous sights was placed on Leiterstraße when the city’s pedestrian zone was being built.

Historically Leiterstraße was the divide between the secular town and Magdeburg’s episcopal quarter.

The Faunenbrunnem is a fountain designed by the Magdeburg sculptor Heinrich Apel, who crafted the model in 1976, ten years before it was cast in Lauchhammer and Rostock.

The fountain is made up of a big bronze cauldron, 3.2 metres in circumference, accompanied by a host of figures (22 in total), including fauns and sirens, animals like a snake, cat, dog and turtle, two women, a man and boys play-fighting.

The fountain was inaugurated in 1986 and appeared on GDR stamps in 1989.

12. Herrenkrugpark

On the right bank of the Elbe is a park that has been attracting guests since the 17th century when an inn, called the Herrenkrug was built by the river.

In the 1820s the great Prussian landscape architect was called in to Peter Joseph Lenné to create a manorial park and that design is what greets you today.

There are a few monuments from the 19th century in Herrenkrugpark, like a cast-iron lion from 1845 and a sturdy ball sundial dating to 1818. Botanists will be astounded by the amazing diversity of trees, too many to list but comprising a Japanese larch, a Swedish whitebeam, an American sweetgum, an Iberian oak, Norway maple and dozens more.

13. Otto-von-Guericke-Museum

In parkland on the Elbe is an octagonal defensive tower more than 20 metres high and dating to the 13th century.

This structure would have seen heavy fighting during the 16th and 17th centuries.

Now, in the tower and a modern annexe is a museum for the 17th-century physicist Otto-von-Guericke whose experiments on air-pressure helped establish the physics of vacuums.

The museum gives a sense of Guericke’s life and his contribution to science.

Historic rooms are decorated with period furniture and historical documents, while his experiments have been restaged using antique and modern equipment.

14. Magdeburg Zoo

The city’s zoo opened in 1950 and since reunification has been given a host of updates.

There are more than 200 species in a cultivated natural landscape 16 hectares in size, and the attraction is known for its walk-in habitats.

You can walk among mantled guerezas ( a type of small monkey), lemurs, owls and Australian parakeets.

There’s also a 20,000-square-metre savannah enclosure for grazing species like zebras and giraffes, installed with panoramic platforms that let you greet the giraffes eye-to-eye.

Look out for the daily feeding session for the park’s penguins and African elephants.

15. Elberadweg

The best mode of transport in one of Europe’s greenest cities is the bicycle.

Like many German cities Magdeburg’s streets have wide, accommodating cycle lanes so all members of the family can ride in safety.

And being on the Elbe Magdeburg also links with the largest and most popular cycling network in Germany.

The Elberadweg is almost 1,000 kilometres long, and starts in Prague, ending at the Elbe’s mouth in Cuxhaven on the North Sea.

If you’re up for a proper trip you could ride to Dessau-Roßlau or Tangermünde, which can both be done in three hours or so.

You’ll ride through woodland, meadows, past medieval towers and villages, and can stop at restaurants and beer gardens as you go.

15 Best Things to Do in Magdeburg (Germany):

• Magdeburg Cathedral
• Kloster Unser Lieben Frauen
• Jahrtausendturm
• Rotehorn Park
• Johanniskirche
• Grüne Zitadelle von Magdeburg
• Kanalbrücke Magdeburg (Water Bridge)
• Alter Markt
• Magdeburger Reiter
• Kulturhistorisches Museum Magdeburg
• Faunenbrunnen
• Herrenkrugpark
• Otto-von-Guericke-Museum
• Magdeburg Zoo

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Magdeburg: City of Otto the Great on the Elbe

At 1,200 years old, Magdeburg is one of the oldest cities in Germany's eastern federal states. Its moving past as well as its present are reflected in the many attractions the major city on the Elbe has to offer.

The city's most significant cultural and historical building can be seen for miles around: the Cathedral of Saints Maurice and Catherine with its imposing towers. It is one of the most spectacular architectural monuments in central Germany, the city's most famous landmark and Germany's first Gothic cathedral. It is also the burial site of Emperor Otto I, who is depicted on the Alter Markt square in the Magdeburg Horseman, a bronze replica of the first free-standing equestrian statue to be found north of the Alps. The original is on display at the Museum of Cultural History.

Cathedral of St. Maurice and Catherine

Green citadel, art museum in the monastery of our lady.

Another highlight is the Green Citadel, a work by artist and architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser, while the Museum of Natural History, the Art Museum in the Monastery of Our Lady and the Cultural History Museum are all exhibitions of international standing. The city's theatre, literature and music scenes are extensive and varied, as are Magdeburg's many shopping spots. The Millennium Tower is the world's largest wooden construction of its kind. With a little muscle power, visitors can climb it in Magdeburg's glorious Elbauenpark. The Hasselbachplatz square and the surrounding streets are lined with dozens of pubs, bars and restaurants. There's no better place to be of an evening.

Discover more

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• 1.1 Tourist information
• 2.1 By train
• 2.2 By plane
• 3.1 By tram
• 3.3 By ferry
• 3.4 By taxi
• 3.5 By S-Bahn
• 3.6 Public transportation at night
• 3.7 On the street
• 4.1 Churches
• 4.2 Other important buildings
• 4.3 Museums
• 5.2 River cruises
• 7.1.1 City centre
• 7.1.2 East Magdeburg
• 7.2 Mid-range
• 7.3 Splurge

Magdeburg is the capital city of the Bundesland of Saxony-Anhalt , Germany , with a population of 240,000 (2018). Magdeburg has become a modern city with numerous interesting sights of high importance and uniqueness, as well as many parks, which make Magdeburg the third greenest city in Germany. New shopping malls and other attractions have changed the cityscape enormously. Today Magdeburg has the largest retail area in relation to its overall area of whole Germany.

Understand [ edit ]

Magdeburg was one of the most important medieval cities in Europe. It served as a more or less de facto "eastern capital" of the Ottonian dynasty in the 10th and 11th century and stayed one of Germany's most important cities until the early modern era. As a centre of the reformation and a town that refused to bow to the emperor's authority in the Thirty Years War , Magdeburg became a target of one of the most horrific battles of this war with more than 25,000 dead at the hand of the Catholic forces under Tilly and Pappenheim in the employ of the imperial forces. Tilly christened the event "Magdeburger Hochzeit" or Magdeburg marriage, based on the fact that the "maiden" Magdeburg (Magd is an old German word that can be translated as maid, Magdeburg also has a woman in its coat of arms) had defied the emperor for over a hundred years and was to be "married" and thus made to obey again. While the whole ordeal was seen as a horrible breach of the laws of military conduct even back then, and most buildings were destroyed by the flames, Magdeburg was soon rebuilt, but never gained the strength and importance it once had. In 1631 — the year of the battle — the permanent population temporarily dropped to barely a few hundred. During that time the mayor of Magdeburg was one Otto Gericke who is known even to this day for scientific experiments about vacuums, that some German schoolchildren read about in their textbooks. Thus and because of the Ottonian dynasty, Magdeburg is sometimes called the "city of Ottos". During the Cold War, Magdeburg's population increased rapidly and the city became a socially and economically important centre of East Germany.

After the German reunification, however, most of the city's economy was shut down. Although Magdeburg is in a continuous modernization process and its cityscape changed rapidly, it has to face the same problems like almost all mid-sized cities in eastern Germany: a decline of population due to more attractive jobs in western Germany or in Berlin. The division of Germany is still visible in some ways.

Magdeburg is home of two of Germany's top ranking universities, which make it attractive to college students from all over Europe. Other scientific institutions, like the Max-Planck-Institute, and one of the largest sites of the Fraunhofer Institut, make Magdeburg an important city for international research.

Today's industry includes traditional and also new branches. The company "Röstfein" is one of the best coffee brands in eastern Germany, and the company "Abtshof" is known for its traditional and unique vodka production. The world's first artificial sweetener was produced in Magdeburg and is still in production. The production of wind energy is one of the newer industry branches.

Tourist information [ edit ]

• Magdeburg tourism website

Get in [ edit ]

By train [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

If you travel by plane, you can use one of the following airports:

• 51.42012 12.22138 3 Leipzig/Halle ( LEJ  IATA ) ( This is the closest airport, directly located at the freeway. If you rent a car, take the freeway A14 heading towards Magdeburg (about 50 minutes) ). The airport also has an integrated train station, from where you can use an hourly IC-train connection directly to Magdeburg (about €21, 1 hour). You can buy train tickets on the platform, at the counter, or online at www.bahn.com (search for a connection from "Leipzig/Halle Flughafen" to "Magdeburg Hbf.") ( updated Aug 2019 )
• Berlin Brandenburg Airport ( BER  IATA ): This international airport replaced Berlin-Schönefeld and Berlin-Tegel airports in 2020. By train, search online for a connection from "Berlin-Brandenburg Flughafen" to "Magdeburg Hbf." (about 2 hours, €30)
• Hannover ( HAJ  IATA ): By car, use the freeway A2 heading towards Berlin (about 2 hours). By train, use www.bahn.com to search for a connection from "Hannover Flughafen" to "Magdeburg Hbf." (about 2 hours, €30)

By car [ edit ]

Magdeburg is situated in central Germany. It is best accessible by car or train. The east-west freeway (motorway) A2 passes just to the north of Magdeburg, and the A14 passes just to the west, with exits leading into several parts of the city.

By bus [ edit ]

There are several domestic bus lines going to Magdeburg.

Get around [ edit ]

There are S-Bahn trains, trams, buses and ferries in Magdeburg. Since they are all unified in a linked transport system called Marego they all use the same tickets. Within the Marego area Magdeburg makes up 1 zone. For getting around in Magdeburg you need to buy a ticket for Zone 010 (Magdeburg). There are several types of tickets you can use in this zone, depending on how often you want to use public transportation.

You can purchase tickets from MVB (Magdeburger Verkehrsbetriebe) , the operator of trams and buses in Magdeburg. They have box offices throughout the city, as well as vending machines outside and inside all trams and buses (in the front part of the vehicle). Most box offices are closed on weekends. Outside vending machines will only take coins, whereas the vending machines inside the vehicles will take notes up to €10. You can also purchase your ticket at vending machines of Deutsche Bahn , which operates the S-Bahn in Magdeburg. No matter where you buy your ticket all tickets are valid for S-Bahn, buses, trams, and ferry services throughout the city.

Here are the types of Marego tickets that you most likely want to use within Magdeburg (Zone 010):

• Single ticket: Ticket for 60 min: adults €2.00 ( Einzelkarte ), children €1.50 ( Ermäßigte Einzelkarte )
• One day ticket: Ticket valid until 04:00 the following day: adults €4.60 ( Tageskarte ), children €3.50 ( Ermäßigte Tageskarte ), probably the cheapest option
• Ticket strips: Four 60-minute tickets: €7.60 for adults ( 4er-Karte ), €5.70 for children ( Ermäßigte 4er-Karte )
• Short trip ticket ( Kurzstrecke ): Valid for 3 stops in one direction: €1.40 (can only be bought inside the tram/bus!)
• Weekly ticket ( Wochenkarte ): €17.30 for one person, valid until 04:00 on the 8th day from the time of purchase.

If you buy your ticket outside a vehicle you need to punch your ticket inside the vehicle to make it valid. Tickets sold inside the vehicle are valid immediately.

You can search online to find specific connections within the city.

By tram [ edit ]

Using the tram is probably the easiest way for tourists to get around, since most stops are located near busy places or main attractions. Magdeburg has 10 tram lines plus the additional line number 15, which is used in times of heavy traffic, or for special events. Waiting times vary widely and depend on location, time, and day. Within the centre, you will rarely wait more than 5 min (even on Sundays), but at stops that serve only one or two lines, you may have to wait 10-20 min. You will find timetables at every stop. Within the city center electronic timetables are used. Night schedules are different.

Buses serve all areas of the city. Busses usually run every 20 min. The 11 bus line numbers are 51, 52, 54, 55, 56, 57, 59, 61, 69, 71 and 73. Buses 41-44 operate only in times of heavy traffic or for special events. You will find timetables are every stop. Night schedules are different.

By ferry [ edit ]

There are two ferry services that cross the river Elbe. One is the Fähre Westerhüsen and the other one is the Fähre Buckau . Ferry services are offered from March to October, Tuesdays-Sundays 10:00 to 18:00. Other river services are listed in the freetime section.

By taxi [ edit ]

Most taxis are operated by the Taxi-Genossenschaft Magdeburg eG . When you are in town call 737373 (0049-391-737373 on a mobile phone) to request a taxi at any time.

By S-Bahn [ edit ]

There is one S-Bahn line that crosses Magdeburg from south to north. S-Bahn train stations are shown as a white S on a green filled circle. Trains are running every 30 Minutes. Night schedules are different. If you need to cross the city from south to north or north to south this might probably be the fastest option rather than taking buses and trams. S-Bahn stations are also often connected to DB train stations.

Public transportation at night [ edit ]

Night schedules for trams and buses apply from 21:00 and go until 04:45 Monday-Friday, 06:30 on Saturdays, and 09:00 on Sundays. Only three tram lines and three bus lines are in service during this time. The night trams are 92, 94 and 95. The night bus lines are 91, 93 and 96. If you plan to go downtown at night, you should check schedules before you go, since not all outer parts are served at night. S-Bahn service at night is limited. Trains usually run every hour.

On the street [ edit ]

The Magdeburger Ring (road B71 ) crosses Magdeburg and is the most important road. It is like an "innercity highway". In order to get into another part of the town quickly, you may use the B71 and get off at the exit you want. Using the B71 might be better if you want to avoid traffic lights and long ways through the city.

See [ edit ]

Churches [ edit ]

Other important buildings [ edit ].

Museums [ edit ]

Do [ edit ].

• Football: FC Magdeburg play soccer in 2. Bundesliga, Germany's second tier. Their home ground MDCC-Arena (capacity 26,000) is east of the river 4 km from city centre.

Bike [ edit ]

Magdeburg is one of the greenest cities in Europe and the second greenest city in Germany.

Riding your bike in Magdeburg is a perfect freetime activity. Since most of the streets have cycle tracks on the sides you will not have any problems with taking your bike into the city. Streetcars, busses, ferries and S-Bahn trains allow you to take your bike with you, however, you may have to purchase an extra ticket for your bike.

A very nice way to explore the idyllic nature in and around Magdeburg is using the Elberadweg . This cycle path leads you all the way along the river Elbe and invites you to explore the unique biosphere reserve around Magdeburg. The cycle path's symbol is a white "e" on a blue ground. Signs guide you along the path and show you directions and distances to other towns, villages, and attractions.

Many restaurants and beer gardens are right next to the river, as well as some nice hotels, playgrounds and parks. The web site for the Elberadweg is www.elberadweg.de (partly in English).

River cruises [ edit ]

There are several river cruises offered by the Magdeburger Weiße Flotte GmbH. Here are some of the offers:

• Panoramafahrt : A 1½-hour cruise along the skyline of Magdeburg. Starts and ends at the mooring Petriförder . Adults €8, children €4
• Große Acht : A cruise along the biggest waterway cross of Europe. Starts and ends at the mooring Petriförder . Adults €19.90, children €12
• Kleine Acht : A cruise along the biggest waterway cross of Europe. Starts and ends at the mooring Rothensee . Adults €14, children €8
• Trogbrückenüberfahrt : A short cruise over the waterway cross. Starts and end at the mooring Rothensee . Adults €5, children €3
• Kaffeefahrt : River cruise from the city center out to the town Schönebeck . Starts and ends at the mooring Petriförder . Adults €12, children €6
• Fahrt in den Abend : River cruise in the evening. Starts and ends at the mooring Petriförder . €15 for everyone

Times and current special prices can be found directly at the moorings or in the tourist information centre (Ernst-Reuter Allee 12, ☏ +49 391 19433 ). Tickets can be purchased on board. Reservations are not necessary most of the time if you come early enough. If you want to reserve tickets, contact the tourist information centre in the city centre (address and phone above)! Also contact the tourist information centre for day-trip offers.

Buy [ edit ]

There are numerous shopping malls all over the city. In the centre you have Karstadt, which used to be a mall during the Cold War. It is the oldest of the city, and its building represents socialist architecture. After the reunification the city centre got several new shopping malls. The biggest of them is called Allee Center and has 3 floors. Also in the city centre are the Ulrichshaus and the City Carré . You will also find many stores (as well as bars and cafés) along the road Breiter Weg , which used to be one of the largest shopping streets in Europe before World War II and has now regained most of its popularity with modern architecture.

Some malls were also established in the suburbs of Magdeburg like the Elbe-Park, Flora-Park, Börde-Park and Pfahlberg. You will find pretty much all kinds of goods at any of the named places.

For the most part stores are open from 08:00 to 20:00 (22:00 in some cases) from Monday to Friday. On Saturdays only the large malls open until 20:00, smaller stores are open until 12:00 or 18:00. On Sundays stores are usually closed apart from stations and petrol stations.

Eat [ edit ]

Budget [ edit ], city centre [ edit ].

• 52.121371 11.627239 1 Curry 54 , Otto-von-Guericke-Straße 54 , ☏ +49 391 4021963 . Su-Th 11:00-22:00, F Sa 11:00-00:00 . Here you can find the hottest sauce in the world with 1.5 million Scoville. ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 52.128832 11.635245 2 Fish 2 Go Backfischstube , Breiter Weg 17 , ☏ +49 391 40595471 . M Sa 11:00-14:00, Tu-F 11:00-17:00, Sundays closed . Restaurant specialized in fried fish. ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 52.121379 11.628647 3 Bingöl-Grill , Breiter Weg 231 , ☏ +49 391 5557913 . M-Th 10:00-03:00, F 10:00-05:00, Sa 11:00-05:00, Su 11:00-03:00 . Offers Turkish fast food, such as kebab. Located close to the main station. ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 52.134501 11.638396 4 Leo's Schlemmer Café , Breiter Weg 30a . ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 52.137622 11.638029 5 Suppenkaspar , Erzbergerstraße 2 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 52.121658 11.629384 6 Flinke Pfanne (Hasselbachplatz) , Breiter Weg 254 . Asian ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 52.135706 11.63905 7 Fatira restaurant - Arabic cuisines , Breiter Weg 35 . ( updated Feb 2023 )

East Magdeburg [ edit ]

• 52.129648 11.671196 8 Solo Food , Berliner Chaussee 53 , ☏ +49 391-811 69 83 . Indian/Pakistani cuisine, e.g., chicken curry, chicken karahi, chicken vindaloo, chicken jalfrezi. ( updated Feb 2023 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

• 52.128503 11.631307 9 Qilin , Otto-von-Guericke-Straße 86c . Asian ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 52.12832 11.63261 10 Wenzel Prager Bierstuben , Leiterstraße 3 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 52.124519 11.628884 11 Botanica • Speiselokal , Otto-von-Guericke-Straße 66 . Vegan ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 52.130809 11.616308 12 Linharts , Gerhart-Hauptmann-Straße 32 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 52.124313 11.636374 13 Hoflieferant , Fürstenwall 3B . German restaurant ( updated Feb 2023 )

Splurge [ edit ]

• 52.125418 11.633369 14 Bralo House , Domplatz 12 . Steakhouse ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 52.103415 11.675107 15 Restaurant "Die Kirche" , Alt Prester 86 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 52.121299 11.632073 16 Franx , Hegelstraße 39 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 52.123071 11.635756 17 Toro Grosso , Schleinufer 50 . Steaks ( updated Feb 2023 )

Drink [ edit ]

• 52.11874 11.627644 1 The Hyde , Sternstraße 29 , ☏ +49 391-58243383 , [email protected] . daily from 18:00 . Brilliant bar, good prices and friendly staff.  

Sleep [ edit ]

For anybody coming and going, the "Zimmervermittlung" of the TouristInformationMagdeburg (TIM) should be the first address. Their Telephone number is 0391/5404904 and their email [email protected].

• International Youth Hostel , Leiterstr 10 ( directly behind the Maritim hotel ).  
• Maritim Hotel , Otto-von-Guericke-Str. 87 , ☏ +49 391 5949-0 , fax : +49 391 5949-990 , [email protected] .  
• Hotel Stadtfeld , Maxim-Gorki-Straße 31/ 37 , ☏ +49 391 506660 , fax : +49 391 5066699 , [email protected] .  
• ibis budget Magdeburg Barleben , Gewerbegebiet, Lindenallee 16 .  
• NH Magdeburg Hotel .  
• Classik Hotel Magdeburg .  
• Best Western Hotel Geheimer Rat .  
• Ratswaage .  
• InterCity Hotel Magdeburg .  
• 52.152183 11.677422 1 Dorint Herrenkrug Parkhotel Magdeburg ( Herrenkrug Parkhotel ), Herrenkrug 3 , ☏ +49 391-85080 , [email protected] . In the Herrenkrug district, east of the Elbe river. from €160 per room/night . ( updated Mar 2018 )

Go next [ edit ]

• Helmstedt , former German-German border town during the Cold War, 55 km west (25 min by intercity, 45 min by regional train)
• Halberstadt in the foothills of the Harz mountains, old town rich in history, with a church playing a musical piece that's scheduled to end in the year 2640, 55 km southwest (45 min by train)
• Stendal , biggest town in the Altmark region, well-preserved old town with many medieval buildings, birthplace of J.J. Winckelmann, 65 km to the north (40–50 min by train)
• Dessau , with the Bauhaus school of modern architecture, Dessau-Wörlitz Garden Realm (World Heritage sites), 65 km southeast (45–55 min by train)
• Halle , Saxony-Anhalt's most populous city, rich in history with an interesting old town, birth place of George Frideric Handel, 85 km south (50 minutes by train)
• Brandenburg an der Havel , 85 km east (45–50 minutes by train; about halfway between Magdeburg and Berlin)
• Berlin , 155 km northeast (1 hr 40 min by regional express train)

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The Top Things to See and Do in Magdeburg, Germany

The German city of Magdeburg is one of contrasts. Known for being the historic city of Emperor Otto, it’s also a hub of science and research – a similar striking difference can also be seen in its architecture, where ancient structures sit alongside imaginative futuristic buildings. Read on to unravel the many wonders of this lesser-known but immensely interesting city.

1. the hundertwasser building.

The Hundertwasser Building (or Grüne Zitadelle , or Green Citadel) is the most eye-catching architecture of Magdeburg ‘s skyline. The building stands out from the historic buildings of Magdeburg because of its unusual, contemporary and super-imaginative style of architecture. The Green Citadel, symbolizing the relationship between human beings, nature and architecture, houses ‘dancing windows’, undulating floors, roof meadows and a whole lot of greenery. It consists of individually-designed residential apartments, a hotel, shops, restaurants, cafés and courtyards, and offers guided tours. Thanks to the gleaming golden globes on its roof, the building can be spotted from miles away.

2. Magdeburg Cathedral

The soaring Magdeburg Cathedral defines the skyline of Magdeburg and is known as the very first Gothic cathedral in Germany. Travelers are drawn to this cathedral for its stunning facade, the lavish stonework of its interior and its vast treasure trove of paintings and sculptures from various eras. This cathedral is also the final resting place of Emperor Otto. To understand its history and architecture in depth, try signing up for a guided tour by emailing the cathedral.

3. Magdeburg Old Town

Magdeburg old town was almost completely razed to the ground during World War II , and consequently, several beautiful late Renaissance and Baroque buildings that once adorned this square were lost forever. Today, this square is the liveliest section of the city, with locals and tourists filling the rows of shops and restaurants with merry chatter. Situated in the northwestern corner of the market place is the Buttergasse, a medieval guild house and one of the biggest Romanesque buildings in the country. Other noteworthy landmarks of this square are the sculpture of a horseman (believed to be Emperor Otto the First) and the Rathaus.

5. The Elbauenpark

This spot, known as the 90-hectare ‘green lungs’ of Magdeburg, was the proud winner of the prestigious title of Germany ’s second most attractive park in 2005. The park has enough attractions to keep families happily occupied all day long. The most popular landmarks here are the wooden Millennium Tower (the world’s tallest structure of its kind) and the ‘Seebühne’ Lake Stage, alongside a Green Path that has been designed to educate young visitors about the environment in an interesting, engaging way. Additionally, Elbauenpark boasts sports centers, flower beds, playgrounds, lounging and sunbathing areas, themed gardens, artworks and sculptures, and more.

6. Monastery of Our Lady

The Art Museum housed in the Monastery of Our Lady is not only the favorite destination for art lovers in Magdeburg, but is also deemed to be among the most significant venues for contemporary art and sculpture in the German state of Saxony-Anhalt. Moreover, the elegant monastery itself, the oldest surviving landmark in Magdeburg, is considered to be a jewel of German Romanesque architecture. In addition to the splendid permanent exhibition of sculptures ranging from medieval to modern times, the museum also hosts temporary exhibitions on a regular basis.

7. Magdeburg Cultural History Museum

The reputation of Magdeburg Cultural History Museum as a splendid museum of art has transcended the boundaries of Saxony-Anhalt and spread all across the country. Though the building itself suffered heavy damage during World War II, the artwork escaped destruction as it was stashed away in a safe storage space. Currently, the museum houses paintings ranging from the 15th to the 20th centuries, alongside furniture, ceramic items and artefacts from various eras. The museum also hosts temporary and touring exhibitions.

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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Top Things to Do in Magdeburg, Germany

Places to visit in magdeburg, explore popular experiences, tours in and around magdeburg.

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What travellers are saying

• Gruene Zitadelle
• Jahrtausendturm im Elbauenpark
• Magdeburger Dom
• Kanalbruecke Magdeburg
• Stadtpark Rotehorn
• Herrenkrug Park
• Gruson Gewaechshaeuser
• Zoologischer Garten Magdeburg
• Alter Markt Magdeburg

Erleben Sie Magdeburg

• Sehenswürdigkeiten
• GrünesMagdeburg
• Wissenschaft

Gelato Mio Magdeburg

Café Domschatz

Wenzel Prager Bierstuben

ALEX Magdeburg

Berner & Brown

Telemann-Zentrum

Johanniskirche

Technikmuseum

Haus der Romanik

Jahrtausendturm

Theater in der Grünen Zitadelle von Magdeburg

Figurenspielsammlung in der villa p.

Puppentheater

Otto-von-Guericke-Zentrum in der Lukasklause

Theater Magdeburg - Schauspielhaus

Theater Magdeburg - Opernhaus

NEMO Bade-, Sauna- & Wellnesswelt Magdeburg

Literaturhaus

Herrenkrugpark

Kunstmuseum Kloster Unser Lieben Frauen

Dommuseum Ottonianum

Der Kalimandscharo von Zielitz

Schönebeck/Bad Salzelmen

Allee Center

Forschung, Wissenschaft & Wirtschaft

Zoo Magdeburg

Wasserstraßenkreuz

Moritzplatz

DomplatzOpenAir

Rathausplatz

Kirschblüte & Insta-Spots

Klosterbergegarten mit Gruson-Gewächshäusern

Stadtpark Rotehorn

Museum für Naturkunde

Dom St. Mauritius und Katharina zu Magdeburg

Grüne Zitadelle von Magdeburg

Kulturhistorisches Museum Magdeburg

Elbauenpark Magdeburg

Tourist’s guide to Magdeburg – the greenest city of Germany

Magdeburg, Germany is one of the greenest cities in the country. Unfortunately, only a few really valuable historical sights have been preserved, of which there used to be a lot. Today, Magdeburg is known as a city of parks and futuristic buildings.

General information

Magdeburg is a city in central Germany, the capital of Saxony. It covers an area of ​​201 square meters. m. Population – 238 thousand people. It stands on the river Elba. Magdeburg is divided into 40 urban areas.

The first information about the city as a trading place dates back to 805. The heyday of the city occurred after the construction of the Benedictine monastery in 937.

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In world history, Magdeburg is known as a place in which in the 13th century one of the most famous systems of city law – Magdeburg Law. The princes and kings who granted this right to a number of cities gave them the right to self-government, and hence freedom. Magdeburg Law was especially popular in the territory of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania.

Today, Magdeburg is very different from Magdeburg 1800 or 1900. Unlike other German cities, he was unable to preserve his rich historical heritage, and is known, for the most part, by large green parks and modern business centers.

Despite the rich and interesting history, the city did not have a large number of ancient buildings – most were destroyed during the Second World War.

The Green Citadel is the main architectural symbol of the city of Magdeburg in Germany. The building was erected in 2005 according to the project of the Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser (he is very popular in Western Europe). The Citadel is located near Cathedral Square in the heart of Magdeburg. It is impossible to pass by this building – against the background of red-brick and concrete buildings, a bright pink structure in a gray strip stands out strongly.

On the ground floor of the citadel there are several cafes and restaurants, there is a shop. On the second and third floors there is a hotel (42 rooms), a small theater, a kindergarten and several offices. The upper floors are adapted for apartments (55).

All interior spaces are also decorated in an interesting and, in some places, fanciful. For example, in all apartments (they, by the way, have a round shape), you can see “puffed” pillars, bright mosaics on the walls and unusual “painted” bathtubs. The interiors of the cafe and restaurant will also surprise: the painted walls in the toilet are combined with oriental carpets and huge crystal chandeliers.

In the courtyard you can see no less bizarre designs: curved pillars that support the citadel, a mosaic fountain and stone paths that seem to flow down from the top of the building. On the four towers that are at the top of the complex, trees and flowers grow (hence the name of the building).

Interestingly, the Magdeburg authorities are not going to paint or repair this house anymore. According to the artist’s plan, he should naturally grow old, and, gradually, from a bright and modern building, turn into a more “refined” and “seasoned”.

Location: Breiter Weg 10A, 39104 Magdeburg, Saxony-Anhalt, Germany.

Elbaouenpark (140 hectares) is the main resting place for both local residents and visitors. Located in the north-east of the city, near the Elbe River.

It is interesting that 20 years ago there was a large dump on this place, but local residents, in anticipation of the Federal Exhibition in Magdeburg, decided to improve the appearance of the city by creating a large park in this place, which has:

• Butterfly House. This is a small greenhouse in which about 200 species of butterflies from around the world live. There are both small species and those butterflies whose sizes are larger than the human palm.
• Exhibition pavilions. They have both temporary and permanent exhibitions.
• Hundreds of beautiful flower beds, as well as about 1000 species of flowers and trees.
• Concert hall.
• Green labyrinths in which it is easy to get lost.
• Rock climbing tower. Its height is 25 meters.

• The Millennium Tower (as well as the Peace Tower or “Millennium”) is a wooden building, the height of which reaches 60 meters. This is the third tallest wooden building in the world. There is a museum on six floors, where you can learn everything about the history of human development. There are exhibits from the Paleolithic era, as well as modern technical innovations. The museum is allowed to touch everything and even conduct their own experiments. You can also look at the stars through a powerful telescope, which is located on the 6th floor.

It is worth saying that it is thanks to the futuristic sculptures and the Millennium Tower that the park looks very modern and unusual. This is especially true of the dark: the construction of the building is brightly illuminated by LED flashlights and decorates the city.

As for infrastructure, the park has a bistro, 2 cafes and a beer garden. A few km from Elbauenpark, a number of modern hotels were built, which are very popular.

• Location: Tessenowstr. 5a, 39114 Magdeburg, Saxony-Anhalt, Germany.
• Opening hours (Elbauenpark): 10.00 – 18.00.
• Opening hours of the Millennium Tower: 10.00 – 18.00 (does not work in winter).
• Cost: 3 euros.

Magdeburg Cathedral is the oldest Gothic cathedral in Germany, built in the 13th century. Like all temples built at that time, it is distinguished by lancet arches, large window stained-glass windows and ivory walls. Interestingly, also in the cathedral there are many antique columns and “heavy” sculptures (this is very rare for European architecture of the 13-14th century).

Many tourists note that, in their opinion, one can see some of the most beautiful frescoes in Germany in the cathedral. The main value of the temple are sculptures of the first emperor of the Holy Roman Empire, Otto the Great (he is buried right there) and his wife.

• Where to find: Am Dom 1, 39104 Magdeburg, Germany.
• Opening hours: 10.00 – 18.00.

The Monastery of Our Lady is one of the largest and oldest representatives of the Romanesque architecture of Magdeburg. Located in the city center. The monastery (it belonged to premonstrants) was erected in 1017, and since 1976 the museum has been located here.

In the former monastery you can see:

• a collection of small plastics (the basis of the exposition);
• ancient sculptures;
• relics of various German temples;
• monastery library (about 3000 scientific and fiction books).

There is also a sculpture park near the museum.

• Address: Regierungsstr. 4-6, 39104 Magdeburg.
• Open: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Cost: 4 euros.

The Old Market is a district of the city located in the heart of Magdeburg. Here are the main historical attractions:

• Town Hall After granting Magdeburg law to the city, the Town Hall was erected here, which, after frequent fires and wars, had to be rebuilt in the 1960s.
• Monument to the Magdeburg Horseman. It is considered the first separate sculpture to be installed in Germany.
• The Ulenspiegel Fountain is dedicated to an old storyteller who once lived in Magdeburg.
• Monument to Otto von Guericke. This man was not only the burgomaster of Magdeburg, but also an outstanding scientist (he invented the vacuum).
• Braitestrasse is an old German street, where today you can see a number of houses in the Baroque style.

St. John’s Church is an important historical landmark of Magdeburg in Germany, built in the Romanesque style. During the Middle Ages, the temple survived 2 fires, so throughout history it has changed its appearance more than once. Today, the Church of St. Johann is no longer used for its intended purpose.

You can get to the attraction by buying a ticket for an organ concert or exhibition. They pass regularly, 2-3 times a week.

Location: Germany, Sachsen-Anhalt, Magdeburg, Neustadter Strase, 4.

Transport connection

If you look at the location of the city of Magdeburg on a map of Germany, it will become obvious that it is located in a very favorable and convenient location. The closest major cities to Magdeburg are: Braunschweig (89 km), Hanover (131 km), Berlin (128 km), Halle (86 km).

The closest major airports to Magdeburg are:

• Kochstedt (CSO) – Kochstedt, Germany (47 km);
• Braunschweig (BWE) – Braunschweig, Germany (93 km).

Getting to Berlin, which is less than 130 km from Magdeburg, is easy. You can do this at:

• The train. You need to catch a train heading south-west (Berlin, Magdeburg, Braunschweig, Wolfsburg) at the Berlin Central Station. Trains run every 40-50 minutes. You can go either by direct train or with transfers in Stendal. The fastest and most convenient are high-speed double-decker trains Regional-Express (RE). Travel time is 1 hour 30 minutes. Cost – 22-35 euros (there are economy and business class tickets). Tickets are purchased either online (www.bahn.de) or at the box office of the train station.

• The bus. There are hardly any problems with the bus, like with the train. Landing is carried out at the Berlin central bus station. Travel time is 1 hour 45 minutes. You can get either on the state bus number 164 (runs 2 times a day) or on the bus carrier Flixbus (runs 3 times a day). The cost varies from 7 to 20 euros, and depends on the class of the place and time of the trip. Tickets can be purchased online on the carrier’s website: www.flixbus.de or at the box office.

Interesting Facts

• The longest water bridge in Europe is located in Magdeburg. It crosses the Elba River, and its length is just over 918 m.
• The first emperor of the Holy Roman Empire, Otto I, is buried in the Gothic Magdeburg Cathedral.
• Magdeburg was the first in the world to receive the right to self-government (Magdeburg Law). It happened in the 13th century.
• The first Gothic temple in Germany, the Magdeburg Cathedral, was erected in Magdeburg.
• Magdeburg is second in the list of the greenest cities in the country.

Magdeburg, Germany is a modern German city, which is very different from the usual small and cozy medieval towns of the central part of the country. It is worth going here for those who do not chase historical sights, but love futuristic buildings and nature.

Magdeburg Hemispheres and other interesting facts about the city:

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• Maritim Hotel Magdeburg
• Dorint Herrenkrug Parkhotel Magdeburg
• Arthotel Magdeburg
• Classik Hotel Magdeburg
• Motel One Magdeburg
• Hyaku Mizu - Asian Restaurant
• Highkitchen
• Flair - Restaurant & Café
• Mademoiselle Cupcake
• Da Nino Dolce Vita
• Gruene Zitadelle
• Jahrtausendturm im Elbauenpark
• Magdeburger Dom
• Gruson Gewaechshaeuser
• Alter Markt Magdeburg
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• 11/24/2022 - 42nd B-DAY Business Breakfast in the Elb - Boardinghouse Magdeburg
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• Guided tour including tower access

10 Best Places to Visit in Magdeburg in 2023

Welcome to Magdeburg, a hidden gem nestled on the banks of the Elbe River in Germany, filled wiht great attractions and beautiful landmarks. With a rich history dating back over a thousand years, this captivating city offers a perfect blend of ancient landmarks, modern architecture, and vibrant cultural experiences.

From exploring its medieval roots to immersing yourself in its thriving arts scene, Magdeburg promises an unforgettable journey filled with historical discoveries, scenic beauty, and warm hospitality. Get ready to uncover the secrets of this enchanting destination and create memories that will last a lifetime. Welcome to Magdeburg, where the past meets the present in a truly unique way.

In a nutshell: Ten reasons why a holiday in Magdeburg is worthwhile

• Cultural Hub: Magdeburg, the state capital of Saxony-Anhalt, offers a vibrant mix of attractions and cultural offerings.
• University Town: With its bustling student population, Magdeburg exudes a youthful energy and a lively atmosphere.
• Green Oasis: Experience the abundance of green spaces in Magdeburg, with numerous parks and nearby excursion destinations that create a relaxed environment.
• Historic Charm: Explore the rich history of Magdeburg through its well-preserved architecture, including the iconic Magdeburg Cathedral and the historic Old Town.
• Elbe River Promenade: Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Elbe River Promenade, offering scenic views and a tranquil atmosphere.
• Millennium Tower: Visit the impressive Millennium Tower, an observation tower offering panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.
• Art and Culture: Immerse yourself in Magdeburg’s thriving art and cultural scene, with museums, galleries, and theaters showcasing a diverse range of works.
• Green Citadel of Magdeburg: Admire the unique architecture of the Green Citadel, designed by renowned artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser.
• Magdeburg Water Bridge: Witness the engineering marvel of the Magdeburg Water Bridge, the longest navigable aqueduct in the world.
• Gruson-Gewächshäuser: Explore the Gruson Greenhouses, home to a stunning collection of plants from different climatic zones, offering an educational and serene experience.

1. Magdeburg Cathedral (Magdeburger Dom)

Magdeburg Cathedral is the oldest Gothic building in Germany and serves as the city’s landmark. With a history spanning over a thousand years, the cathedral offers public tours that allow visitors to climb the North Tower and enjoy a breathtaking view of Magdeburg and the Harz Mountains.

2. Millennium Tower (Jahrtausendturm)

The Millennium Tower, standing 60 meters tall in Elbauenpark, showcases the technological advancements of human history. Spread across six levels, it presents the developments from ancient times to the present day. Highlights include the Foucault pendulum and the opportunity to read the time on the Cathedral Clock.

3. Old Market Square (Alter Markt)

The Old Market Square, the heart of the city, is home to several attractions. The gleaming Magdeburg Rider, a bronze replica of the first freestanding equestrian statue north of the Alps, and the beautifully restored Old Town Hall with its impressive bronze door are just two of them.

4. St. John’s Church (Johanniskirche)

St. John’s Church, one of the oldest churches in Magdeburg, was built in the 10th century and gained prominence through Martin Luther’s sermon in 1524. Today, it serves as an event venue and offers an impressive view of the city from the South Tower.

5. Elbauenpark

The 90-hectare Elbauenpark, created for the 1999 Federal Garden Show (Bundesgartenschau), offers a variety of recreational and leisure activities. With themed gardens, a sports area, a butterfly house, a summer toboggan run, and much more, there’s something for every visitor.

RELATED: Famous Landmarks in Germany You Must Visit  Best Cities to Visit in Germany 5 Days in Germany The Perfect Itinerary

6: Rothensee Ship Lift (Schiffshebewerk Rothensee)

The historic Rothensee Ship Lift in Magdeburg was an engineering masterpiece when it was inaugurated in 1938. Today, it is mainly used for tourism purposes and allows visitors to watch ships navigate the height difference between the Mittelland Canal and the Elbe River.

7: Our Lady Monastery (Kloster Unser Lieben Frauen)

The thousand-year-old monastery now houses an art museum showcasing contemporary art and sculptures from various eras. The Romanesque monastery building is one of the most significant Romanesque sites in Germany.

8: Hundertwasser House “Green Citadel” (Grüne Zitadelle)

Designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser, the building was opened in 2005 posthumously. It stands out with its vibrant colors, irregular shapes, and lush greenery, housing apartments, shops, offices, and a hotel. It is a true architectural gem.

9: Magdeburg Water Bridge (Kanalbrücke Magdeburg)

The Magdeburg Water Bridge is an impressive engineering marvel that connects the Elbe-Havel Canal and the Mittelland Canal, making it the longest navigable aqueduct in the world. Visitors can witness the seamless transition of ships from one waterway to another, offering a unique sight and an opportunity to appreciate human ingenuity.

10: Gruson-Gewächshäuser (Gruson Greenhouses)

The Gruson Greenhouses, named after the botanist and entrepreneur Hermann Gruson, house a diverse collection of plants from different climatic zones. With stunning tropical flora and a beautiful palm house, these greenhouses offer a peaceful and educational environment for visitors to explore and admire nature’s diversity.

Magdeburg in Germany is filled with great landmarks and attractions ready to be discovered . Magdeburg is a hidden gem that offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From its captivating historical landmarks and architectural marvels to its vibrant arts scene and tranquil green spaces, Magdeburg has something for every traveler. Whether you’re exploring the city’s rich heritage, strolling along the scenic river promenade, or immersing yourself in the local art and culture, Magdeburg promises an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to discover this underrated travel destination and create lasting memories in the heart of Saxony-Anhalt. So pack your bags and embark on an adventure to Magdeburg, where history, charm, and relaxation await.

About the Author: Elle Johnson, travel writer living in Germany, an avid explorer fueled by wanderlust, uncovers Germany's hidden treasures. From mountains to luxury hotels, spontaneous trips to meticulous planning, she embraces diverse experiences. Join her in unraveling Germany's wonders and creating lifelong memories.

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Magdeburg is the state capital of Saxony-Anhalt. The city lies at the intersection of the Elbe, Elbe-Havel and Mittelland Canal and has transformed itself from a rather unattractive industrial city into a green city attractive to tourists, ideal for a city trip to Magdeburg.

Visitors to Magdeburg are mainly drawn to the city centre with its imposing cathedral and the Green Citadel Grüne Zitadelle), which was designed by Hundertwasser. A trip to the green lungs of the city, such as the Elbauenpark or a boat trip on the Elbe, should not be missed on a city trip to Magdeburg.

Attractions in Magdeburg

You can get a very good first overview of the city on a city tour of Magdeburg. It's not a tour where you can hop on or off at will, but a leisurely drive through the city.

In front of Magdeburg's city hall lies the Old Market Square. A tour of the square takes you past some landmarks and small discoveries that are easy to overlook.

Who does not know them, the beautiful buildings of Friedensreich Hundertwasser. The Green Citadel Magdeburg is the last project he worked on before his death.

"Waterway crossing Magdeburg - what's so special about that? It's just the crossing of two rivers or canals. "That was my first thought when we decided to stop there briefly on our way back from Magdeburg to Berlin.

If you leave Magdeburg city centre and cross to the other side of the Elbe bank, you can visit the viewing platform on the Albinmüller Tower in Rothehorn Park and enjoy a completely different view of the city from there.

In the heart of Magdeburg you cannot miss the Magdeburg Cathedral, which bears the official name Dom zu Magdeburg St. Mauritius und Katharina. A visit is not to be missed during a stay in Magdeburg - there is much to discover here.

As in every city we visit, we set out to find breweries, beer gardens and brewpubs. Finding a beer garden in Magdeburg where we felt comfortable and the beer tasted good was done quickly.

Magdeburg calls itself the Otto City. The name comes not only from the most famous Otto in German history, Otto I, but also from a "second Otto" who was born and worked in the city.

In Magdeburg's old town, almost on the banks of the Elbe, stands Johanniskirche. Today the building is no longer used as a church, but as a venue for events. Visitors are welcome and the view from the church tower is unique.

According to legend, Till Eulenspiegel was in Magdeburg, and there are even two stories about him. So it's not surprising that you also meet Till Eulenspiegel in Magdeburg.

The Elbauenpark in Magdeburg covers a good 100 hectares and we had 100% relaxation, 100% fun and 100% surprise factor during our visit.

Magdeburg calls itself the "Otto City". During a visit to the Ottonianum Cathedral Museum in Magdeburg, you can search for traces of one of the two "Ottos" who had so much influence on the development of the city.

City trip to Magdeburg – Travel information

By plane Magdeburg does not have its own airport. The nearest larger airports are in Leipzig/Halle (110 km away), Hannover-Langenhagen (150 km away) and Berlin-Brandenburg (150 km away). From there you can reach the city easily by car or train.

By train Magdeburg’s main railway station is on the route of several Intercity lines. ICEs coming from Berlin, Cologne or Munich do not stop so frequently in the city. There is a RegionalExpress to Berlin and numerous regional trains to the region.

The station is about 10 minutes’ walk from the city centre.

By bus The central bus station (ZOB Magdeburd) is located at Damaschkeplatz, directly at the main railway station. Bus companies from all over Germany travel to the city regularly. International connections, such as to Amsterdam or Prague, are also served from Magdeburg.

By car To the north of the city runs the A2 east-west motorway towards Berlin and Hanover. To the west of the city is the A14 coming from Leipzig.

By ship There are mooring facilities for river cruise ships at the Petriförder jetty.

By bike Magdeburg is located on the Elbe Cycle Route, which is part of the National Route D 10. Magdeburg is an ideal stop on a cycling tour.

By car An environmental zone has been introduced in Magdeburg in accordance with the fine dust ordinance. Vehicles in groups 1,2,3 are not allowed to enter this zone. In the city centre around Magdeburg Cathedral there are only limited parking facilities.

Local public transport The local public transport network is very well developed. During the day, 9 trams and 13 bus lines run through the city. The service is limited from 9-6 pm. Tickets are available from ticket machines at many stops and on tram trains.

The S-Bahn Mittelelbe runs from Stendal to Schönebeck through the city.

By ship Boats of the Magdeburg White Fleet depart from the Petriförder pier for various tourist tours.

There is no free parking in the city centre. There are some paid parking garages in the large shopping centres. There is paid parking on Schleiufer/Petriförder and Erzbergerstr./Virchowstraße.

In public car parks, parking tickets can be purchased using a mobile phone app and paid for without cash. The advantage is that you can conveniently extend your parking time while on the move.

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Magdeburg — One Of Europe’s Top Medieval Cities

Magdeburg is a German city that lies on the Elbe River and was one of the most important medieval cities of Europe. It is the capital city of the Bundesland of Saxony-Anhalt ( Sachsen-Anhalt ) and a vital part of the Romanesque Route , or Straße der Romanik .

Records suggest that Emperor Otto I, the first Holy Roman Emperor, stayed throughout his reign in this city and was buried in the cathedral after his death.

This city boasts of its glorious past and also faced the fury of wars. Subsequent to the wars, several of the remaining pre- World War II city buildings were destroyed, with only a few buildings near the Cathedral restored to their pre-war state.

Magdeburg — Top Areas Of Interest

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From the time of 1949 to the time of German reunification on October 3rd, 1990 the city belonged to the German Democratic Republic (GDR). It was only in the year 1990 when it became the capital of the new state of Saxony-Anhalt within reunified Germany.

Magdeburg offers numerous sights and a culture to its visitors. Here, you might discover spell of buildings. The city’s most remarkable building, the Cathedral of Saints Catherine and Maurice, has a height of 104m (341ft). It is considered to be the highest church building of eastern Germany and is distinguished for its stunning and unique sculptures, especially the “Twelve Virgins” at the Northern Gate.

Along with these sights, the depictions of Otto I the Great, and his wife Editha as well as the statues of St Maurice and St Catherine, will put forward a delight to watch. The statue of St Maurice is a strange sight, as it is the place where Maurice is displayed as a black man with African features, holding a sword and wearing chain mail. This is astonishing when we come to know that Maurice was an Egyptian!

You might take delight by seeing the place in front of the cathedral which is sometimes called “New Marketplace.” This place was engaged by an imperial palace. Unser Lieben Frauen , which is also known as Our Beloved Lady, is an 11th century Monastery, containing the church of St. Mary.

Town hall building is equally mesmerizing as this building stood on the marketplace since the 13th century. It was smashed in the Thirty Years’ War . Later, the new town hall was put into place in a Renaissance style influenced by Dutch architecture.

The Magdeburg Water Bridge is a spectacular set to watch as it is Europe’s longest water bridge.

In the field of literature, particularly in fiction, Magdeburg has earned its reputation. This city has witnessed the works of authors like David Weber , Eric Flint , and many others.

In later years, Magdeburg became the capital of the Confederated Principalities of Europe.

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Mit dem ältesten gotischen Dom in Deutschland, dem riesigen Wasserstraßenkreuz Magdeburg und dem letzten Bauwerk Hundertwassers gehört Magdeburg zu den interessantesten Städten in Deutschland. Gruppenreisende sollten unbedingt eine Stadtführung , einen Nachtwächterrundgang oder eine Stadtrundfahrt in Magdeburg erleben!

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Deep Beneath London, Onetime Bomb Shelters Will Become a Tourist Attraction

Used for spying, a phone exchange and more over the years, a semi-secret web of tunnels in central London could open to the public in 2027.

By Claire Moses

Reporting from 98 feet below street level in London

There’s a locked door on the eastbound platform of the Chancery Lane station of the London Underground. The door is unassuming, sturdy and white.

Behind it is a wide set of stairs leading to a roughly mile-long maze of tunnels built in the 1940s that were first intended to serve as a World War II shelter and later used for espionage, the storage of 400 tons of government documents and telecom services.

Welcome to the Kingsway Exchange tunnels, set roughly 100 feet below street level in the center of London, sprawling beneath the Underground’s Central Line. Soon they could enter a new chapter: Angus Murray, the owner of the complex, who bought the tunnels last summer, has applied for planning permission to the local authorities together with the architecture firm WilkinsonEyre to turn the tunnels into a tourist destination that could handle millions of people a year.

Mr. Murray’s London Tunnels is planning to invest a total of 220 million pounds (about $275 million) on restoring and preserving the tunnels, as well as adding technology for art installations and other attractions. Mr. Murray hopes to open the complex in 2027, and said that it would be able to host temporary art exhibitions, fashion shows and more.

At the moment, entering the tunnels requires riding a small elevator tucked behind a side door in an alleyway off a wide street in central London. (Visitors to the attraction would use a different, bigger entrance, Mr. Murray said.)

When the elevator doors open, you step into a World War II-era tunnel — one of 10 civilian shelters proposed by the British government after the beginning of the Blitz, the eight-month bombing of London by the Germans that started in September 1940. The tunnels were never used as shelters. By the time they were completed in 1942, the Blitz was over.

During the Cold War, the British government instructed its telephone department, which later became British Telecom, to set up a secret communications system in the tunnels that could survive a nuclear attack. The famous hotline between the Kremlin and the White House ran through the complex, according to the project’s website. Some of the phone exchange’s equipment in the tunnels still survives today, even though it hasn’t been used since at least the 1980s.

“The idea was that it would provide a degree of protection,” said Martin Dixon, a trustee for Subterranea Britannica , a charity that documents and tries to preserve underground spaces.

“If the Cold War had turned into something more serious, it would have allowed communications on some level to continue,” Mr. Dixon, who joined Subterranea Britannica about 40 years ago, said.

The tunnels under the Chancery Lane station of the tube are more than a mile long and in some places have a diameter of almost 25 feet. Those dimensions make them among the largest sets of tunnels built for people in a metropolitan city, Mr. Murray said.

“They have a fascinating history,” he said.

For a group of Post Office and telecoms workers in the decades after World War II, the tunnel complex became a workplace, some aspects of which have survived. In one room, the stuffy smell of an old carpet is inescapable. Another still holds the remnants of a canteen. Yet another has fake windows framing images of nature as decorations. There are still offices, as well as rooms where workers could spend the night.

Some parts of the tunnels are lined with fake walls, and doors with nothing behind them. The effect is not unlike watching a scene from the dystopian Apple TV+ show “Severance .”

A bar where postal workers could drink is also still there, and Mr. Murray said he hoped to revive it and make it London’s deepest underground bar.

The tunnels’ communication operation became obsolete in the 1980s, and in 2008 British Telecom put the tunnels up for sale . BT employees used to go down into the complex up until the 1990s to inspect for fire safety and other conditions. The tunnels were otherwise vacant.

Many details of the new attraction still need to be ironed out, but Mr. Murray said the cost of the experience would probably be in the same price range as that of other major tourist sites in London. (The Tower of London’s entry fee is about $40, and Westminster Abbey’s is about $36.)

Mr. Dixon, of Subterranea Britannica, said he was excited about the prospect of the Kingsway Exchange turning into an attraction — provided it’s safe and the history is preserved.

“I’ve seen thousands of underground spaces, from the mundane to the spectacular,” he said. The Kingsway Exchange is particularly interesting, he added, because of all the different functions it had. “It played its part in World War II, and was ready to play its part in the Cold War.”

Claire Moses is a Times reporter in London, focused on coverage of breaking and trending news. More about Claire Moses