Things To Do
in Hatten
Hatten is a tranquilLower Saxony municipality anchored by rural farms, wind farms on the horizon, and a close-knit community. It offers a compact, village-like atmosphere with historic buildings and easy access to the city comforts of nearby Oldenburg. The surrounding countryside invites cycling and nature walks, while a short drive brings the North Sea coast and cultural attractions within reach.
Its practical location between the coast and Oldenburg makes Hatten a peaceful base for day trips, markets, and relaxed weekend escapes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh pastries and coffee. Afterward, embark on a walking tour of Hatten's historic center, where you'll uncover charming half-timbered houses and quaint streets. Don't forget to stop by the St. John's Church to admire its stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
After lunch at a nearby bistro, visit the Hatten Museum to learn about the local history and culture. The exhibits showcase artifacts from the region, providing an immersive experience into Hatten's past. Spend the afternoon strolling through the picturesque parks and gardens, taking in the serene beauty of the area.
As the sun sets, enjoy a traditional German dinner at a local restaurant, savoring dishes like schnitzel and spätzle. After your meal, take a leisurely walk through the town, enjoying the ambiance as the streetlights illuminate the historic buildings. Cap off your evening with a nightcap at a cozy pub, mingling with locals and other travelers.
Begin your day with a visit to the nearby nature reserve, where you can enjoy a tranquil hike surrounded by lush greenery and diverse wildlife. Bring along binoculars for birdwatching as you encounter various species in their natural habitat. The fresh morning air and picturesque scenery will invigorate your senses.
After exploring the trails, have a picnic lunch by one of the serene lakes in the reserve, soaking in the beauty of nature. Spend your afternoon participating in a guided nature tour, where you'll learn about the local flora and fauna from an experienced naturalist. This immersive experience will deepen your appreciation for the environment.
Return to Hatten and unwind at a local beer garden, sampling regional brews and enjoying a relaxed atmosphere. Engage in conversations with fellow visitors and locals, sharing stories about your day's adventures. As night falls, take a peaceful walk back to your accommodation, reflecting on the beauty of the natural surroundings.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🧺Weekly groceries for one person | $40-60 |
| 🚕Local taxi ride (short distance) | $8-15 |
| 🏨Hotel room per night (mid-range) | $70-130 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm, walkable town with quick access to Oldenburg and the coast
- Rich local markets and regional cuisine with seasonal specialties
- Limited nightlife within Hatten itself; more options in Oldenburg
- Smaller town feel means fewer big-city attractions on-site
- "Guten Tag" - Good day / Hello
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Ich verstehe nicht" - I don’t understand
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Hatten
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic castle grounds with formal gardens, reflective ponds, and classic architectural lines for moody or bright photography.
Iconic market square and church spire offering strong lines, people-watching scenes, and colorful market activity.
Scenic river edges and pedestrian bridges ideal for sunset photos and calm water reflections.
Wide horizon shots with wind turbines against open skies, especially at golden hour.
Food in Hatten
Hatten Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditional kale with sausage, a Winter favorite in Lower Saxony, often enjoyed with potatoes and mustard.
Must-Try!
North Sea shrimp on rye bread, a popular seafood snack found at markets and seaside stalls.
Comforting potato soup with sausage, commonly offered in local eateries and taverns.
Raspberry and berry pudding with vanilla sauce, a light, seasonal dessert often available in cafés.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly farmers' market offering fresh produce, regional cheeses, baked goods, and quick bites.
Seasonal markets in the village center with local products, breads, and small street-food stalls.
Seafood stalls offering Krabbenbrötchen and other fresh catches when you’re near the coast.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is standard when meeting someone; use formal address (Sie) with strangers and elders until invited to use the informal Du.
Be on time for appointments and Reservations; Germans value punctuality in social and business settings.
Respect Ruhezeiten (quiet hours) in the evenings; avoid loud activities after 10 PM in residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Hatten
Ensure a smooth experience
In Germany, rounding up or leaving 5-10% is customary if the service is good. For bars, a euro or two per drink is common in addition to the bill.
Card payments (incl. contactless) are widely accepted; cash is still commonly used, especially at markets and smaller eateries.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming countryside; great for outdoor walks, cycling, and market visits.
Warm temperatures with occasional rain. Ideal for outdoor markets, café culture, and longer bike rides.
Pleasant temps and colorful foliage; harvest festivals and scenic countryside photography.
Crisp days with possible snow; kale dishes, hearty stews, and cozy cafés prevail; Christmas markets in nearby towns can be a treat.
Hatten at Night
Hiking in Hatten
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate trails through marshy habitats with birding and scenic boardwalks.
A bit further away but offers scenic lake views, wildlife, and longer hikes around the shore.
Gentle river path ideal for a relaxed hike or a family-friendly stroll with water viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Hatten by plane.
Approximately 60-70 km north-east; convenient for international and domestic flights with rail connections to Oldenburg and surrounding towns.
A longer drive but reachable for international options; good for connections to major European hubs.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A family-friendly area with schools, parks, and community events shaping a welcoming atmosphere.
Nearby Oldenburg hosts universities and colleges, contributing to a youthful cultural scene just a short ride away.
Quieter neighborhoods and accessible amenities cater to long-term residents and visitors seeking a relaxed pace.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular pastime and local club activity, with matches and youth programs common in the region.
Extensive cycling routes along the Hunte River and surrounding countryside attract enthusiasts and families.
Nearby farms and stables offer riding lessons and trail rides through scenic rural areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hatten.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most menus include vegetarian options; ask for vegetable stews, salads, potatoes, and seasonal vegetables. In winter, vegetarian kale dishes can be prepared without meat; inform servers of dietary needs when ordering.