It’s worth exploring Göttingen as a university town with its old streets and leafy spots. You don’t need a packed museum itinerary for your first day. Stroll through the centre at your own pace, leaving time to explore the side streets.
Where to start your walk
The market square and the ‘Goose Girl’ fountain provide a recognisable starting point. From there, you can continue your architectural tour to St James’s Church. Don’t limit your exploration to just one landmark: the city’s atmosphere is best felt in the everyday transitions between streets.
How to continue the route
The university’s old botanical garden offers a change of pace after the stone-built city centre. Check the accessibility of the grounds and individual areas on your chosen date. A stroll through the garden and a special event may not necessarily have the same entry rules.
A local detail worth bearing in mind
University buildings may still be in use. Do not assume you’ll be granted free access inside simply because of tourist interest in the façade.
Plan after the bus route
This itinerary is designed for exploring the city at your own pace, rather than a guided tour with a fixed timetable. First, check the arrival address against your ticket and find somewhere to leave your luggage. Mark your accommodation, the first sightseeing spot and the return pick-up point on an offline map. Count the time for your city walk from the moment your luggage has been left and you’re ready to set off.
On the day of arrival, plan just one main sightseeing stop. If your flight is delayed, cut back on the extra part of your itinerary, whilst still allowing time for a meal and the journey back. Before paying for entry, check the official opening hours, access conditions and any ongoing works. A view of the building from the outside does not mean that its interiors are accessible without restrictions.
What to keep before leaving
- the drop-off address and the transport provider’s contact details;
- an offline map showing the return route;
- confirmation of your chosen museum or guided tour session;
- contact details for your accommodation and the arrangements for collecting any left-behind luggage.
You may find the following helpful: How to plan your first day after a long coach journey, How to find a hotel from the coach station, Offline maps for travelling in Europe: how to set up your phone. Check available bus journey options on RedRay; this guide does not confirm the availability of a direct service to every city.
Resources for preparation
General information about the city and attractions: Gänseliesel, Old Botanical Garden of Göttingen University, Göttingen. The suggested walking route is the editorial team’s recommendation; please check with the relevant venues for current access details.
Image credits
- Goettingen Marktplatz Oct06 Antilived.jpg — Daniel Schwen; CC BY 2.5. The image has been resized and converted to WebP. Licence terms are available on the original page.
- Alter Botanischer Garten der Universität Göttingen 006.jpg — Valérie Chansigaud; CC BY-SA 3.0. The image has been resized and converted to WebP. The licence terms are available on the original page.
- St Johannis Church Goettingen memming.jpg — Memming; CC BY-SA 3.0. The image has been resized and converted to WebP. The licence terms are available on the original page.
Questions and Answers
Can this route be used on the day of arrival?
Yes, by selecting the central section and one main sightseeing spot. After travelling through the night, it is more convenient to leave the strenuous climbs and longer journeys until the following day.
What is the most important thing to bear in mind for the walk?
University buildings may still be in use as workspaces. Do not assume you have free access inside simply because the façade is of interest to tourists.
What should I do with my suitcase?
Before you set off, arrange for your luggage to be stored at your accommodation or in a secure left-luggage facility, including the time for collection. Keep your documents, ticket and a fully charged mobile phone with you.
Do you need to buy all your admission tickets in advance?
First, choose your main attraction and check its rules. Do not book several time slots in quick succession until you have confirmed the route between them. Keep your city walk flexible.