Things To Do
in Gießen
Gießen is a compact university town in Hesse, set along the Lahn river and known for its vibrant student scene. It blends research-driven culture with a historic town center and easy access to nature. The Marktplatz and timber-framed streets give the city a welcoming, approachable feel.
From here you can quickly reach the Vogelsberg region and pleasant countryside for day trips.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the historic center of Gießen, where you can admire the beautiful architecture of the Old Botanical Garden. Visit the impressive St. Jacob's Church, which dates back to the 13th century, and take some time to appreciate its stunning stained glass windows. Stop by a local café for a traditional German breakfast, complete with fresh bread, cheeses, and local jams.
After lunch, explore the Stadtmuseum Gießen to learn about the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Take a walk to the nearby Bismarck Tower, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area and the Lahn River. As the afternoon unfolds, relax at the banks of the river, watching the boats drift by and perhaps enjoying a small picnic.
As the sun sets, head to one of Gießen's charming restaurants to indulge in traditional Hessian cuisine. Try local specialties such as Handkäse mit Musik and Apfelwein, while soaking in the lively atmosphere. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets, enjoying the combination of history and modernity that Gießen offers.
Start your day with a visit to the Botanical Garden of the University of Gießen, where you can explore a diverse collection of plants from around the world. The peaceful surroundings and well-maintained paths make it an ideal spot for a morning walk. Take your time to appreciate the exotic flowers and tranquil ponds.
After a morning in the gardens, head to the nearby Stadtpark for a leisurely picnic lunch. The park's expansive greenery and beautiful landscaping provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation. Spend your afternoon walking along the trails or renting a paddleboat on the small lake to enjoy a unique perspective of the park.
As evening falls, return to the city center and visit a local brewery to sample some regional beers. Engage with locals at the brewery's beer garden, learning about the brewing process and the unique flavors of Hessian brews. Cap off the night with live music at a nearby venue, immersing yourself in the local music scene.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-60 |
| 🏠Monthly utilities for apartment | $100-180 |
| 🚆One-way ticket (local transit) | $3-4 |
| 🏥GP visit or basic medical consultation | $70-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong university-driven culture and a lively student scene
- Good access to nature and easy day trips to Vogelsberg and Lahn valley
- Walkable city center with charming architecture and markets
- Reasonable costs for a university town and solid public transport
- Smaller nightlife scene compared with bigger cities
- Fewer big-city amenities on a daily basis
- Some services may feel spread out outside the center
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Guten Tag" - Good day
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please / You're welcome
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Ich verstehe nicht" - I don't understand
- "Die Rechnung, bitte" - The bill, please
Places to Visit in Gießen
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful historical buildings, timber-framed façades, and a lively market backdrop, especially photogenic at dusk.
Architectural details and the church tower provide classic city photography with atmospheric light.
Calm water reflections, tree-lined banks, and pedestrian paths ideal for sunset shots.
Heritage façades and university buildings offer a scholarly, historic vibe for candid and posed shots.
Lush greenery and glass structures provide vibrant nature photography and close-ups.
Food in Gießen
Gießen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
AHerb-forward cold sauce traditionally served with potatoes and eggs or fish. In Gießen you’ll often find a fresh, locally sourced version to accompany potato dishes.
Must-Try!
Marinated cheese served with onions and bread; a classic Hessian starter or light meal, especially popular with a beer.
Crisp apple cider typical for the region, enjoyed in a glass from a glass or ceramic stein; best paired with regional snacks in a relaxed setting.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly farmers market on the Marktplatz offering fresh produce, regional cheeses, bread, and seasonal specialties.
Seasonal food stalls and mobile vendors occasionally set up along the riverfront, especially in warmer months.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Address people with Sie in formal settings; a simple Guten Tag goes a long way. Punctuality is appreciated in appointments and social gatherings.
Be mindful of quiet hours in apartment buildings and public spaces late at night; avoid loud conversations in residential areas after 10 pm.
Safety
Tipping in Gießen
Ensure a smooth experience
In Germany, rounding up the bill or tipping around 5-10% for good service is common. Do so in cash or by adding it to the card payment and noting it on the receipt.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with occasional thunderstorms; long daylight hours enable late-evening strolls along the Lahn. Bring a light rain jacket for sudden showers.
Mild to cool temperatures with colorful foliage; ideal for outdoor photography and relaxed café evenings.
Cold with possible snow; shorter days; enjoy Christmas markets in nearby cities and warm interiors to retreat to after sightseeing.
Pleasant temperatures and fresh greenery; ideal for botanical gardens and riverside walks as the city comes alive.
Gießen at Night
Hiking in Gießen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A prominent volcanic highland offering expansive trails, scenic viewpoints, and nature experiences within a short drive from Giessen.
Rugged forests and river scenery with multiple trails suitable for day hikes and longer forest walks.
Airports
How to reach Gießen by plane.
Major international hub about 70-90 km from Giessen; frequent rail connections (ICE) to Giessen, making day trips convenient.
Smaller international airport roughly 120-150 km away; more limited routes but potential budget options.
Regional airport about 90-110 km away; fewer direct international flights, but useful for certain connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large and active student population from Justus-Liebig-University, contributing to cultural events, nightlife, and research activities.
Residents who value schools, parks, and safe neighborhoods; demand for family-friendly activities and services.
Cultures converge due to university programs and exchange students, adding diversity to the city life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and national-style matches are common; public viewing and small stadiums are part of the community culture.
Popular in regional sports facilities with community and school events.
Active outdoor culture supported by tennis clubs and the nearby hills and rivers for cycling.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gießen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Grüne Soße variants can be prepared without meat; aim for potato-based meals, eggs, and local cheeses; inform staff of dairy or egg restrictions when ordering.
Many bakeries and restaurants can prepare gluten-free options; choose potatoes, meat or fish dishes with vegetables, and gluten-free bread when available.