Things To Do
in Goslar
Goslar is a beautifully preserved medieval town in Lower Saxony, Germany, renowned for its UNESCO-listed historic center and imperial past. Its narrow lanes, half-timbered houses, and the imposing Kaiserpfalz give a palpable sense of centuries of history. Nestled at the northern edge of the Harz Mountains, Goslar serves as a charming base for mining heritage and hill country explorations.
A stroll through the Marktplatz reveals cafés, markets, and a timeless German town atmosphere that invites lingering curiosity.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in the picturesque town of Goslar and check into your cozy accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll through the historic Old Town, where you'll be captivated by the half-timbered architecture and charming cobblestone streets. Grab a coffee at a local café to fuel up for your explorations.
Visit the Imperial Palace of Goslar, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore its fascinating history. Spend some time at the nearby Kaiserworth Hotel, where you can admire gorgeous Gothic architecture. Don't forget to explore the quaint shops around the palace for some unique souvenirs.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at a traditional German restaurant, sampling local specialties such as bratwurst and sauerkraut. After dinner, take an evening walk under the stars along the historic streets, soaking in the charm of the town. End your day with a drink at a local pub, where you can mingle with friendly locals.
Embark on a day trip to the Harz Mountains, starting with a hearty breakfast before heading out. Enjoy the stunning landscapes and fresh mountain air as you make your way to the Brocken, the highest peak in northern Germany. Take a scenic train ride on the historic Harz Narrow Gauge Railway.
Once at the peak, explore the walking trails and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding region. Visit the Brocken Museum to learn about the area's natural and cultural history. If time allows, take a leisurely hike through the enchanting forests to experience the beauty of the Harz.
Return to Goslar in the evening and treat yourself to a relaxing dinner at a local tavern. Reflect on the day's adventures while enjoying a hearty meal and sampling local wines or beers. Spend a leisurely evening exploring the nightlife, perhaps visiting a live music venue if available.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-16 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-4 |
| 🛏️Hotel room (per night) | $70-130 |
| 🚆Local transport (one-way ticket) | $2-3 |
| 💇Haircut | $15-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Well-preserved medieval center with UNESCO status
- Easy access to the Harz Mountains for nature trips
- Can be crowded in peak tourist seasons
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- "Guten Tag" - Hello / Good day
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please / You're welcome
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Ich verstehe nicht" - I don’t understand
Places to Visit in Goslar
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic early-medieval square framed by colorful fachwerk façades; ideal for sunrise and golden-hour shots.
Ruins and surrounding walls offering dramatic stonework and scenic town views.
Tower perspectives over the old town with intricate rooflines and narrow streets below.
Gothic-to-Romanesque church façades and tranquil interiors with soft light.
Quiet passages and intimate courtyards perfect for street photography and candid portraits.
Food in Goslar
Goslar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic North German dish of pears, green beans, and smoky bacon.
Must-Try!
A tangy sour cheese often enjoyed with onions and dark rye bread.
Kale with smoked sausage, a traditional Harz winter staple.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal produce, regional products, and local treats on market days near the town center.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be punctual; greet with 'Guten Tag' or 'Moin' in northern regions and make polite small talk when appropriate.
Keep voices moderate in public and respect queues and shared spaces; tipping and dining are courteous but not overly formal.
Follow signs, stay on designated paths, and refrain from touching delicate old structures.
Safety
Tipping in Goslar
Ensure a smooth experience
In Germany, rounding up the bill or adding 5–10% for good service is customary and appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted, and cards (debit/credit) are increasingly common in restaurants and shops; contactless payments are popular.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with occasional rain showers; enjoy outdoor cafés and longer daylight hours for sunset photos along the Marktplatz.
Colorful foliage and cooler temperatures; ideal for scenic walks and moody, golden-hour photography.
Cold and possibly snowy; Christmas markets in season, cozy interiors, and quiet streets—great for atmospheric urban shots.
Mild temperatures with blooming trees and gardens; pleasant for outdoor exploration and light outdoor dining.
Goslar at Night
Hiking in Goslar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Trail loop around the Rammelsberg area offering scenic town and valley views.
Easy to moderate riverside hike with forested sections and viewpoints toward Goslar.
Airports
How to reach Goslar by plane.
Major international airport about 1.5–2 hours by train or car from Goslar; good flight connections and onward rail access to the Harz region.
Large international hub about 3–4 hours by train; convenient for flying in from abroad and continuing by rail to Goslar.
Smaller regional airport offering limited routes; alternative gateway to the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily local German residents with families and retirees; a steady stream of domestic visitors shapes the town’s rhythm.
Tourists from across Europe and beyond, attracted by mining heritage and Harz scenery.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed with local clubs and public viewings; facilities available around towns and schools.
Seasonal opportunities on Harz slopes; cross-country and some downhill trails depending on snow cover.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Goslar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for vegetable plates, cheese-based dishes, or request veggie versions of local specialties. In German: 'Ich bin Vegetarier/in.'