Things To Do
in Oldenburg
Oldenburg is a compact university city in Lower Saxony, Germany, renowned for its elegant Schloss Oldenburg and the expansive Schlossgarten. Its pedestrian-friendly historic center centers on Marktplatz, surrounded by cafés, shops and the town hall. The city blends cultural life with easy access to coast and countryside, making day trips simple.
In every season, Oldenburg feels welcoming, with verdant parks, riverwalks and a relaxed pace that invites exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the historic center of Oldenburg, where charming streets and exquisite architecture await. Visit the majestic St. Lambert's Church, admiring its stunning Gothic design and impressive tower. Stop by a local café for a traditional German breakfast of Brötchen and coffee, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
After lunch, delve into Oldenburg's rich history at the State Museum for Art and Cultural History, which showcases impressive collections of art and artifacts. Spend some time wandering the quaint streets, discovering unique boutiques and artisan shops. Don't miss the chance to relax at the tranquil Schlossgarten, where you can enjoy the serene surroundings and perhaps have a picnic.
As dusk falls, head to the Oldenburg Castle, beautifully lit against the evening sky, and take a guided tour to learn about its fascinating past. Enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, sampling regional dishes like Grünkohl and Pinkel. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk along the canals, listening to the gentle lapping of water as the city lights reflect in the surface.
Start your day with a visit to the Oldenburg Kunstverein, where contemporary art exhibitions showcase both local and international artists. Engage with the thought-provoking installations and perhaps join a guided tour to gain deeper insights. Afterward, grab a quick coffee at a nearby café, discussing your favorite pieces with fellow art enthusiasts.
Continue your artistic journey at the Horst-Janssen-Museum, dedicated to the works of the influential German artist. Spend time exploring the diverse exhibitions and discovering the stories behind his creations. For lunch, indulge in a meal at a local bistro, savoring homemade specialties inspired by the region.
As evening approaches, catch a performance at the Oldenburg State Theatre, where you can enjoy opera, ballet, or a dramatic play. After the show, stroll through the illuminated streets, taking in the lively ambiance of the city. End your night with a nightcap at a cozy bar, reflecting on the day’s cultural experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $40-70 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $90-160 |
| 🚆Public transport day pass | $6-9 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable city center
- Rich cultural life with parks and museums
- University energy and student-friendly atmosphere
- Good value for money and central location in northern Germany
- Smaller city with fewer big-city amenities
- Weather can be rainy and changeable
- "Guten Tag" - Hello / Good day
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Oldenburg
Visit one of these nice places.
Baroque palace with a moat and formal gardens; strong light in the morning and late afternoon, great for symmetrical compositions.
Sprawling park with tree lines, water features and seasonal blooms; ideal for wide-angle portraits and golden-hour photography.
Historic square with pastel façades and a classic German-city vibe; excellent for street photography and architectural detail.
Food in Oldenburg
Oldenburg Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty kale dish with a smoked sausage; a winter staple best enjoyed in regional restaurants during colder months.
Must-Try!
Classic autumn dish of pears, beans and bacon served with potatoes; a comforting regional specialty.
A traditional eel soup from northern Germany, frequently featured on seasonal menus.
German meat patties served with pan-fried potatoes; widely available in many eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant weekly market offering fresh vegetables, cheeses, breads and regional specialties; great for sampling local produce.
Casual stalls around the Pferdemarkt area offering pretzels, sausages and quick bites—perfect for a casual lunch or snack.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A simple Guten Tag or Hallo is common; handshakes are standard in formal settings, while Moin is a friendly regional greeting in northern areas.
Being on time is valued in both business and social settings; plan to arrive a few minutes early.
Use Sie for strangers in formal contexts and switch to du only when invited; maintain polite tone in conversations.
Safety
Tipping in Oldenburg
Ensure a smooth experience
In Germany, rounding up or leaving about 5-10% for good service is customary; leave the tip in cash on the table or add it to the bill when paying by card.
Cash is widely accepted, and debit/credit cards are commonly accepted in restaurants and shops; contactless payments are common in larger venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant temperatures with blooming trees; drizzle possible—pack a light rain jacket and comfortable walking shoes.
Warm days with long daylight; ideal for outdoor markets, parks and riverside strolls; stay hydrated and use sunscreen.
Cooler air and colorful foliage in parks like Schlossgarten; prepare for occasional rain and bring a light layer.
Cold with possible frost or light snow; festive markets appear nearby and indoor cultural venues provide warmth and entertainment.
Oldenburg at Night
Hiking in Oldenburg
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Lakeside loop with woodlands and birdlife; about 25-30 km southwest of Oldenburg in a scenic day trip.
Riverside path offering easy to moderate hiking with urban-to-rural scenery close to the city.
Several short forest hikes and nature trails within a short drive from the city.
Airports
How to reach Oldenburg by plane.
Approximately 50-60 km away with rail and road connections to Oldenburg.
About 140-160 km away; major international hub with good rail links to the region.
Approximately 110-140 km away; well-connected by rail and road for international travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A sizable student population from the University of Oldenburg adds energy to the city center and cultural events.
Many parks, museums and kid-friendly venues make it family-friendly.
Quiet residential areas with accessible services and a slower pace.
Growing number of international students and professionals contributing to cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and amateur leagues are popular; matches and community events are common social outlets.
A regional favorite with several clubs and regular local matches.
A favored activity due to bike-friendly streets and scenic routes nearby.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Oldenburg.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
As a vegetarian in Oldenburg you’ll find plenty of fresh produce, cheeses and egg-based dishes; request meat-free versions of regional staples and opt for salads, grain bowls and vegetable medleys at many cafés and restaurants.