Things To Do
in Hildesheim
Hildesheim is a historic city in Lower Saxony, Germany, perched along the Leine River. It is celebrated for its UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Dom St. Mariae and St. Michael's Church, which showcase rich Ottonian and Romanesque craftsmanship. Strolling the Markt and its timber-framed houses reveals a living medieval quarter with cafés, markets, and museums.
Today the city blends ancient heritage with a vibrant university atmosphere and a friendly, walkable center.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site of St. Mary's Cathedral, known for its stunning Romanesque architecture and intricate wooden ceilings. As you wander through the lush gardens surrounding the cathedral, take a moment to enjoy the tranquility and historical significance of this sacred space. Afterward, stroll to the Market Square to admire the beautiful half-timbered houses that date back to the Renaissance period.
Post-lunch, head to the Historic Market Square to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere filled with local vendors. Explore the charming shops and cafes, then visit the stunning Town Hall, which combines Gothic and Renaissance styles and offers an insight into Hildesheim's rich history. Don't miss the opportunity to view the remarkable artifacts displayed at the Roemer- und Pelizaeus-Museum.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant along the Market Square to savor authentic German cuisine, such as bratwurst or schnitzel. Enjoy the lively ambiance as locals gather to unwind after a busy day. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets, soaking in the enchanting atmosphere of Hildesheim at night.
Begin your day at the Roemer- und Pelizaeus-Museum, which features an impressive collection of Egyptian artifacts and ancient art. You can spend hours marveling at the exhibits that showcase the rich history and culture of various civilizations. After immersing yourself in art, head to the nearby St. Jacob's Church, known for its stunning stained glass windows crafted by artist Hermann Nitsch.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby café, trying out local specialties like Hildesheimer pudding. Then, make your way to the historic 'Kunstverein' gallery to experience contemporary art exhibitions from both local and international artists. Take your time to engage with the thought-provoking pieces and perhaps even attend a workshop if available.
In the evening, catch a performance at the Hildesheim Theatre, famous for its diverse programming ranging from classic plays to modern performances. The atmosphere in the theatre is electric, filled with anticipation for the show. After the performance, unwind at a nearby bar with a drink, discussing your favorite moments from the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕️Coffee | $3-4 |
| 🚇1-day transit pass | $5-7 |
| 🍺Beer in a bar | $3-5 |
| 🏨1 night in mid-range hotel | $110-160 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich UNESCO heritage and compact city to explore on foot
- Pleasant café culture and approachable local cuisine
- Smaller nightlife compared to big cities
- Weather can be changeable, so bring layers
- "Guten Tag" - Hello / Good day
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Vielen Dank" - Thank you
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
Places to Visit in Hildesheim
Visit one of these nice places.
A UNESCO-listed Ottonian-Romanesque masterpiece with impressive façade and interior lighting.
The other UNESCO site with the famous Bernward Doors and tranquil surroundings.
One of the town's iconic half-timbered houses on Markt, great for architectural photography.
Colorful gabled houses and the historical Market Square, especially picturesque at dawn or sunset.
Food in Hildesheim
Hildesheim Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditional kale and sausage dish, typically enjoyed in the colder months and found in many local pubs.
Must-Try!
A classic North German dish of pears, beans, and bacon that showcases regional comfort food.
A berry-based dessert often served with vanilla sauce or cream.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly farmers market with local produce, cheeses, bread, and seasonal specialties.
Seasonal events in the old town featuring regional snacks and city bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Guten Tag or Hallo; handshake is common in formal settings.
Address strangers with Sie unless invited to use du; punctuality is valued.
Keep noise reasonable after 10 pm in residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Hildesheim
Ensure a smooth experience
In Germany, tipping around 5–10% in restaurants if service is not included; round up for good service.
Cash (Euro) and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments and EC cards are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with budding trees; carry a light jacket for cool mornings and showers.
Warm, sunny days with occasional rain; outdoor cafés thrive and local festivals appear.
Crisp air and colorful foliage; ideal for strolling the old town and countryside walks.
Cold with possible snow; markets, festive lights, and hearty regional dishes are highlights.
Hildesheim at Night
Hiking in Hildesheim
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking and cycling area with rolling hills and forest trails near Hildesheim.
A small hill range offering scenic trails and viewpoints within a short drive.
Airports
How to reach Hildesheim by plane.
The nearest major international airport, about 1 hour by rail or car; frequent connections to European cities.
Smaller regional airport with limited flights, accessible by road from Hildesheim.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The city hosts a university and several colleges, contributing to a youthful, international vibe.
A mix of long-term residents and commuters from surrounding towns.
Visitors drawn to UNESCO sites and regional history.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular sport at local clubs and on TV; matches in regional leagues.
Local residents enjoy bike rides along the Leine and footpaths in nearby nature parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hildesheim.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places in the city center offer vegetarian options; ask for local vegetable dishes or cheese-based plates.