Red Thread City Trail
Follow the Red Thread through Hannover's heart, discovering historic landmarks and enjoying panoramic city views from the New Town Hall dome.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Red Thread City Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Follow the Red Thread through Hannover's heart, discovering historic landmarks and enjoying panoramic city views from the New Town Hall dome.
"The New Town Hall is an absolute must-see, with stunning architecture and breathtaking views from the top!"
Wear comfy shoes! 👟
You'll be doing a lot of walking to follow the Red Thread. Comfortable footwear is a must!
Book New Town Hall elevator
The unique elevator to the dome is popular. Book in advance if possible to avoid long waits.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

New Town Hall Dome
New Town Hall
Ascend to the dome for breathtaking panoramic views of Hannover. The unique elevator ride is an experience in itself.

Marktplatz & Old Town
Old Town
Explore the charming Marktplatz and the historic Old Town, with its picturesque buildings and vibrant atmosphere.

Red Thread Trail Itself
City Center
Follow the iconic red line painted on the ground for a self-guided tour of Hannover's most significant sights.
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Planning Your Visit
Navigate the Red Thread
New Town Hall Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear comfy shoes! 👟
You'll be doing a lot of walking to follow the Red Thread. Comfortable footwear is a must!
Book New Town Hall elevator
The unique elevator to the dome is popular. Book in advance if possible to avoid long waits.
Self-guided exploration
The Red Thread trail is perfect for independent exploration. Take your time and enjoy the city at your own pace.
Capture the views :camera_with_flash:
The panoramic views from the New Town Hall dome are spectacular. Don't forget your camera!
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear comfy shoes! 👟
You'll be doing a lot of walking to follow the Red Thread. Comfortable footwear is a must!
Book New Town Hall elevator
The unique elevator to the dome is popular. Book in advance if possible to avoid long waits.
Self-guided exploration
The Red Thread trail is perfect for independent exploration. Take your time and enjoy the city at your own pace.
Capture the views :camera_with_flash:
The panoramic views from the New Town Hall dome are spectacular. Don't forget your camera!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the New Town Hall's stunning architecture and the breathtaking panoramic views from its dome, accessible via a unique elevator ride. The Red Thread City Trail is praised as an excellent, free way to discover Hannover's highlights, though some mention potential queues for the elevator. The surrounding park and historical models inside also receive positive mentions.
"The New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus) in Hannover is absolutely beautiful, especially when seen from the outside. The architecture is stunning, and it really stands out in the city. The surrounding park adds a lot to its charm, offering a peaceful place to walk and relax.
Even if you only get a chance to admire it from the outside, it’s definitely worth a visit!"
JH
"Beautiful building, inside and out. In the ground floor hall, there are fascinating models of the city from the past and current times.
The views from the top of the building are stunning. We had to wait a while as it is so popular, but it was worth the wait."
Mark Poley
"Amazing place that everyone should visit when visiting Hannover.
A lot of history that can be found here and you’ll get a chance seeing Hannover from the top!"
drakkarama
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Red Thread City Trail starts near the New Town Hall and winds through the city center. Hannover is well-connected by public transport, with trams and buses frequently serving the central areas. You can easily reach the starting point via public transit from Hannover Hauptbahnhof (main station).
Yes, the trail passes through many areas easily accessible by Hannover's extensive public transport network. Many key points are within walking distance of tram and bus stops.
While you can drive to Hannover, parking in the city center can be challenging and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transport or walk once you're in the central area.
The trail is marked by a red line painted on the pavement, making it easy to follow. You can also find maps online or at tourist information centers.
The trail is primarily designed for walking. While some sections might be cyclable, it's best to stick to walking to fully appreciate the sights and follow the marked path.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Red Thread City Trail itself is a free, self-guided walking tour. You simply follow the painted line on the ground.
The New Town Hall building is generally free to enter. However, there is a fee for the unique elevator ride to the dome.
The cost for the elevator ride can vary, but it was around 3 Euros a few years ago. It's advisable to check the current price upon arrival.
The New Town Hall is typically open during regular business hours, but specific times for the dome elevator may vary. It's best to check the official website or inquire locally for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, you can explore the impressive ground floor hall and admire the architecture of the New Town Hall without purchasing a ticket for the dome elevator.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The trail connects many of Hannover's key sights, including the New Town Hall, Marktplatz, Old Town, Maschsee lake, and various historical buildings and parks.
The duration depends on your pace and how much time you spend at each attraction. It can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours to walk the entire trail.
While the trail is designed for self-guided exploration, guided tours focusing on the New Town Hall and its history are often available.
Weekday mornings are often less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed experience. Late afternoons can offer beautiful golden hour lighting for photos.
Restrooms are generally available at major attractions like the New Town Hall and in public areas or cafes along the route.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the trail passes through the city center, which offers numerous cafes, restaurants, and bistros where you can grab a bite to eat.
Hannover offers a range of dining options, from traditional German cuisine to international dishes. You'll find everything from casual cafes to more formal restaurants.
Yes, you can find more affordable options like bakeries, Imbiss (snack stands), and casual cafes, especially if you venture slightly off the main tourist paths.
The New Town Hall has a bistro, and there are likely other establishments in the city center that offer pleasant views while you dine.
Most restaurants in a city like Hannover will offer vegetarian options, and many are increasingly catering to vegan diets. It's always a good idea to check menus or ask staff.
📸 📸 Photography
The New Town Hall, Marktplatz, the Old Town's charming streets, and the panoramic views from the New Town Hall dome are prime photo spots.
Early mornings offer fewer crowds and softer light. Late afternoons provide beautiful golden hour light, perfect for capturing the city's architecture.
Photography is generally allowed in the public areas of the New Town Hall, but it's always good to be mindful of any posted restrictions, especially in administrative areas.
The top of the New Town Hall dome offers the most iconic panoramic view. The Marktkirche bell tower also provides great views of the Old Town.
A versatile camera, whether a smartphone or a dedicated camera, is ideal. A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the grand architecture and cityscapes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on sections with more open spaces like the Maschpark or areas around the Maschsee lake, which offer opportunities for kids to run around. The unique elevator ride to the New Town Hall dome is also a memorable experience for children, though ensure they are comfortable with heights. Pack snacks and drinks, as you'll be doing a fair bit of walking.
🚶 Budget Travelers
To keep costs down, opt for the free exploration of the New Town Hall's ground floor instead of the dome elevator, or choose to picnic in one of the city's parks. Look for affordable eateries like bakeries or snack stands (Imbiss) for meals, rather than sit-down restaurants.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Capture the charm of the Old Town's streets and the bustling Marktplatz. For unique shots, try to photograph the red line itself winding through different urban landscapes. Consider visiting during the golden hour for dramatic lighting on the historic buildings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Red Thread
Following the thread allows you to discover a curated path that connects key sites, from the grandeur of the New Town Hall to the charm of the Old Town and the serene Maschsee lake. It’s an excellent option for independent travelers who want to see the highlights at their own pace. The trail is designed to be comprehensive yet manageable, ensuring you don't miss the essential experiences Hannover has to offer.
Many visitors find the Red Thread to be a delightful and stress-free way to get acquainted with the city. It encourages spontaneous exploration while ensuring you stay on track to see the most important sights. The simplicity of following a painted line makes it an inclusive experience for all ages and fitness levels.
New Town Hall: Architecture and Views
The most thrilling aspect for many visitors is the unique elevator ride to the dome. This isn't a standard vertical lift; it's an angled, curved elevator that ascends through the dome's structure, providing a novel experience. Once at the top, you are rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of Hannover, stretching out across the city and its surrounding landscapes.
Due to its popularity, expect to wait for the elevator, especially during peak tourist seasons. However, travelers consistently report that the wait is well worth the breathtaking vistas and the memorable elevator journey. It's a must-do for anyone visiting Hannover, offering both architectural appreciation and unforgettable cityscapes.
Exploring Hannover's Old Town
Visitors can climb the bell tower of the Marktkirche (Market Church) for excellent views over the Old Town and the surrounding cityscape. Wandering through the cobblestone streets, you'll discover quaint shops, cafes, and historical markers that tell the story of Hannover's past. The area offers a more intimate feel compared to the grander civic buildings.
The Old Town provides a delightful contrast to the modern parts of the city, offering a glimpse into its historical roots. It’s a place where you can easily spend an hour or two, simply enjoying the ambiance and discovering hidden architectural gems.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit