
Goslar Old Town
Step back in time in Goslar's UNESCO-listed Old Town, a medieval marvel of timber-framed houses and imperial history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

Goslar Old Town
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time in Goslar's UNESCO-listed Old Town, a medieval marvel of timber-framed houses and imperial history.
"A truly enchanting medieval town with stunning architecture and a rich history."

👟 Comfortable Shoes are Key
Cobblestone streets abound! Pack your comfiest walking shoes for exploring the historic old town.
📸 Capture the Charm
Every corner is photogenic! Allow ample time to wander and snap photos of the picturesque timber-framed houses.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Imperial Palace (Kaiserpfalz)
Palace Hill
A magnificent Romanesque palace, a symbol of imperial power and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Market Square (Marktplatz)
Town Center
The heart of Goslar, featuring the stunning Town Hall and the iconic Gose fountain.

Hanseatic Museum
Old Town
Explore Goslar's rich history as a powerful Hanseatic League city.

Timber-Framed Houses
Throughout the Old Town
Admire the intricate architecture of hundreds of beautifully preserved medieval buildings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Medieval Charm
Navigating Goslar's Treasures
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Shoes are Key
Cobblestone streets abound! Pack your comfiest walking shoes for exploring the historic old town.
📸 Capture the Charm
Every corner is photogenic! Allow ample time to wander and snap photos of the picturesque timber-framed houses.
🕰️ Check Opening Hours
Some smaller museums or attractions might have limited hours, especially off-season. Always check ahead!
📍 Get Lost (Intentionally!)
The best discoveries are often off the main path. Wander down side streets to find hidden courtyards and unique shops.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Shoes are Key
Cobblestone streets abound! Pack your comfiest walking shoes for exploring the historic old town.
📸 Capture the Charm
Every corner is photogenic! Allow ample time to wander and snap photos of the picturesque timber-framed houses.
🕰️ Check Opening Hours
Some smaller museums or attractions might have limited hours, especially off-season. Always check ahead!
📍 Get Lost (Intentionally!)
The best discoveries are often off the main path. Wander down side streets to find hidden courtyards and unique shops.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Goslar Old Town for its stunning medieval architecture, particularly the well-preserved timber-framed houses and the impressive Imperial Palace. The charming atmosphere and walkable nature of the historic center are frequently highlighted as major draws. However, some reviews mention issues with specific accommodations, including dishonest owners and misleading descriptions, which can detract from the overall experience.
"We love the flat. It is so sparkling clean that it looks we are first guests ever here:) I wish I knew how to clean my own apartment like this ha ha...Kitchen is perfectly equiped you just need to bring your salt oil and food and you can cook. You can log in to Netflix...bathroom is spacious and comfortable. When we arrived flat was a bit cold but we could warm it up quickly it didn t appear heating was centrally operated like one review suggested. Matraces on the softer side but that is quite common in Germany ...also leather couches are common here and I m not at all a fan of them but still its 5*"
Livie G.
"Brutal and dishonest owner. After I had to cancel for health reasons and already had paid, he refused to help me with providing documents for my Travel Insurance, saying “you are so annoying, ... it’s all there”. But the terms and conditions are not available on the owner’s page nor on the booking agreement. As a result I was not reimbursed by the Insurance.
Tourist Office, although friendly and polite, couldn’t help me and said that owner should not reimburse me because the owner told them the apartment was not rented out again for that period. Which was a plain lie because I have hard evidence that he did rent it out again.
So he cashed the rental amount twice and I lose more than 500 Euros. This place is a scam.
UPDATE: The owner filed a complaint to Google claiming that he doesn't know me and that there was no business between him and me, and contradicts the allegation. So he lies again and puts a false accusation on me.
Google asked me for proof and I gladly send them the e-mails, invoice and proof of payment."
J. V.S.
"Clean, comfortable and conveniently located."
Ögmundur Eiríksson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Goslar is accessible by train, with direct connections from major German cities. If driving, there are several parking garages available around the old town perimeter. Many visitors find it convenient to park outside the pedestrian zone and walk in.
Yes, the historic center is very compact and best explored on foot. Most attractions are within a short walking distance of each other.
While the old town is walkable, local buses serve areas outside the immediate center. For most tourists staying within the historic district, walking is the primary mode of transport.
Absolutely! Goslar Old Town is a popular day trip destination, especially from cities like Hanover or Brunswick. You can easily spend a full day exploring its highlights.
The most convenient way is by train, taking approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Direct trains run frequently throughout the day.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Old Town itself is a public area and free to enter. Tickets are only required for specific attractions like the Imperial Palace or museums.
Opening hours for the Imperial Palace can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Goslar tourism website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Sometimes, the tourist information office offers combined tickets or city passes that can provide savings if you plan to visit multiple paid attractions. Inquire locally.
The Market Square is a public space and is free to access. You can admire the Town Hall and the Gose fountain without any charge.
Admission fees vary per museum. The Imperial Palace typically has a moderate entrance fee, while smaller museums might be less. Check individual attraction websites for current pricing.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Imperial Palace, Market Square with its Town Hall and Gose Fountain, and the numerous well-preserved timber-framed houses are absolute must-sees. Don't miss exploring the charming side streets!
Yes, guided walking tours are highly recommended. They offer fascinating insights into the history and architecture, often led by knowledgeable local guides.
The Gose fountain is a unique historical landmark on the Market Square, where the local Goslar beer (Gose) used to be dispensed. It's a popular photo spot.
While the historic nature means some cobblestones and inclines, many main areas are manageable. The Imperial Palace has some accessible routes. It's advisable to check specific accessibility for individual attractions.
You'll find traditional crafts, local honey, Harz specialties, and miniature replicas of the timber-framed houses. The shops around the Market Square offer a good selection.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Numerous traditional restaurants (Gasthäuser) in the Old Town serve hearty German cuisine. Look for places offering local Harz specialties like 'Harzer Grünkohl' (kale with sausage).
Gose is a traditional, sour, and salty beer that originated in Goslar. While not as common as it once was, you can still find it in some local pubs and breweries.
While traditional German cuisine can be meat-heavy, many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan dishes. It's always a good idea to ask or check menus beforehand.
Yes, Goslar has many charming cafes perfect for a coffee and cake break. They are ideal spots to rest your feet and soak in the atmosphere.
While specific recommendations change, look for well-rated Gasthäuser near the Market Square for authentic experiences. Reviews often highlight places with good local beer and traditional dishes.
📸 📸 Photography
The Market Square, the narrow alleys with timber-framed houses, the Imperial Palace, and the view from the Town Hall tower (if accessible) offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) provides beautiful light and fewer crowds, making for more atmospheric shots of the historic architecture.
Drone usage is generally restricted in historic city centers and near public buildings due to privacy and safety regulations. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is great for capturing both wide street scenes and architectural details. A wide-angle lens is excellent for the narrow alleys.
Photography rules inside the Imperial Palace can vary. Generally, non-flash photography is permitted in most areas, but it's wise to check signage or ask staff.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for the Gose Fountain as a fun photo opportunity. Many cafes offer kid-friendly snacks. Consider a guided tour that might be tailored for younger audiences, or simply let the kids lead the way through the charming alleys, discovering hidden nooks and crannies. Comfortable shoes are essential for everyone!
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Consider joining a guided walking tour to meet other travelers and gain local insights. The friendly atmosphere of the town makes it easy to strike up conversations. Don't hesitate to try the local Gose beer for a truly authentic experience.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For the best light and fewer crowds, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. Explore the narrow side streets to find unique perspectives and details. The Imperial Palace also offers dramatic architectural shots and panoramic views of the town.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Imperial Palace (Kaiserpfalz)
Inside, you'll find the Imperial Palace Museum, which houses artifacts and exhibits detailing the palace's past. The sheer scale and preservation of the palace make it a highlight for history buffs and anyone interested in medieval Germany. The surrounding grounds also offer a pleasant space for a stroll.
Pro-tip: Consider joining a guided tour of the palace to gain deeper insights into its historical significance and architectural details. The guides often share fascinating anecdotes that bring the past to life.
Exploring the Timber-Framed Houses
The Market Square (Marktplatz) is a prime location to admire these architectural gems, but the real magic lies in exploring the smaller lanes like the Breite Straße and Rosental. These streets offer a more intimate glimpse into the town's medieval past. Look out for the distinctive 'overhanging' upper stories, a common feature designed to maximize living space.
Tip: Take your time to simply wander and get lost. The best way to appreciate the charm of Goslar's timber-framed architecture is to explore at your own pace, discovering hidden courtyards and picturesque corners that aren't always on the main tourist routes.
The Gose Fountain and Local Brews
While Gose is not as widely produced as it once was, you can still find it in select pubs and breweries in Goslar. Trying a glass of authentic Gose is a must-do for beer enthusiasts and a way to connect with the town's culinary history. It's an acquired taste, but a truly local experience.
Experience: Seek out a traditional 'Kneipe' (pub) in the Old Town to sample Gose. It's often served with a slice of lemon, which complements its unique flavor profile.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit