Things To Do
in Magdeburg
Magdeburg is the capital of Saxony-Anhalt, situated on the Elbe River. The city blends medieval landmarks with bold modern architecture, including Hundertwasser's Green Citadel. It has a long industrial and scientific heritage, evident in historic experiments by Otto von Guericke.
Visitors can explore the cathedral and Alter Markt, stroll along the river, and enjoy green parks and museums.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the iconic Magdeburg Cathedral, known for its stunning Gothic architecture and intricate stained glass windows. Spend some time wandering through the nearby Alter Markt, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and observing the historic buildings surrounding the square. Don't forget to stop by the famous Green Citadel, a whimsical building designed by the artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser.
After lunch at a local café, head to the Elbe River for a leisurely stroll along the waterfront. Take in the scenic views and perhaps stop for a boat tour to appreciate Magdeburg from the water. As the afternoon unfolds, visit the Museum of Cultural History to learn about the city’s rich heritage and artifacts.
As night falls, enjoy a traditional German dinner at a local restaurant, sampling dishes like currywurst and schnitzel. After dinner, take a leisurely walk to the historic bridge, the Magdeburger Drehbrücke, to appreciate its illumination against the night sky. Wind down your evening with a drink at a cozy pub, where you can chat with locals and reflect on the day's adventures.
Begin your morning at the Kunstmuseum Kloster Unser Lieben Frauen, where contemporary art meets historical architecture. Engage with the diverse exhibitions and consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the artworks. Afterward, stroll through the museum's beautiful gardens, offering a peaceful escape in the heart of the city.
For lunch, seek out a nearby bistro serving local cuisine, then head to the Magdeburg Cultural Center to explore its various art installations and performances. You might catch a rehearsal or even a workshop in progress, providing a unique behind-the-scenes experience. As the afternoon continues, visit the Elbauenpark, where you can enjoy the beautiful landscapes and perhaps ride the cable car for stunning views of the city.
As evening approaches, enjoy dinner at a restaurant with a view of the Elbe, where you can savor local wines and dishes. After your meal, check if there are any performances at the Schauspielhaus or the Magdeburg Opera, and immerse yourself in the local performing arts scene. End your day with a nightcap at a trendy bar, reflecting on the artistic experiences you’ve had.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🧃Soda/Water at cafe | $2-4 |
| 🚇Public transit fare (single ride) | $2-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $70-140 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and architecture
- Central location with easy access to the Harz and Berlin
- Industrial outskirts can feel less scenic
- May have limited green spaces inside certain neighborhoods
- "Guten Tag" - Good day / Hello
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Zahlen bitte" - The check, please
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please / You're welcome
Places to Visit in Magdeburg
Visit one of these nice places.
A landmark Gothic cathedral set on Domplatz with dramatic spires and a grand interior, ideal for wide shots.
Hundertwasser’s whimsical, color-soaked building—a signature photo opportunity in the city center.
A towering wooden structure with viewing platforms and striking architecture in a park setting.
A monumental canal crossing that links two waterways, offering dramatic angles for architectural and landscape shots.
Food in Magdeburg
Magdeburg Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A tangy, crumbly cheese from the Harz region often served with rye bread and onions; great with beer.
Must-Try!
A hearty potato soup that appears on many menus, sometimes with sausage or bacon.
Marinated roast beef served with red cabbage and dumplings; a classic German dish you’ll find in many taverns.
Grilled sausages served with pickled cabbage, a common street and pub dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly markets and seasonal stalls with local produce, cheeses, breads, and ready-to-eat bites.
Casual options along the Elbe with snacks, pretzels, and quick meals when the weather is nice.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Punctuality is valued; arriving a few minutes early is common for appointments and tours.
Greet with 'Guten Tag' or 'Hallo'; use formal 'Sie' with strangers, and switch to 'Du' only with friends or family.
Be mindful of residential quiet hours in the evenings; avoid loud parties in mixed residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Magdeburg
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common. Tipping in cash is appreciated, but cards are also acceptable.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments, debit cards (EC/Girocard), and mobile wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay are common in shops and restaurants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, spring blossoms in parks, and fewer crowds. Dress in layers and carry a light rain jacket.
Warm days with long daylight hours; occasional thunderstorms. Great for riverfront strolls and outdoor dining.
Cooling temperatures and colorful foliage. Perfect for city walks and harvest markets.
Cold, with possible snow and festive Christmas markets in December. Warm clothing is essential.
Magdeburg at Night
Hiking in Magdeburg
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The highest peak in the Harz with forest trails and panoramic views; a popular day trip from Magdeburg.
Gentle hikes and nature trails within a short drive, suitable for all levels.
Airports
How to reach Magdeburg by plane.
Major international gateway about 1.5-2 hours by train from Magdeburg.
Regional international hub about 1.5-2 hours by train.
Eastern gateway about 2.5-3 hours by train.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large student population due to Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg.
Families attracted by parks, riverside spaces, and affordable housing.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local passion with 1. FC Magdeburg and other clubs active in regional leagues.
Popular indoor team sport with active local teams and fans.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Magdeburg.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetarian options; ask for vegetarian schnitzel, potato-dishes, or salads. In pubs you’ll often find cheese plates, vegetables, and dumplings.