Oldenburg Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Oldenburg, Germany with our comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, things to buy, local culture and customs, and more!


Introduction to Oldenburg

Oldenburg is a charming city located in Western Plains, Lower Saxony, Germany. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant food and drink scene. Oldenburg offers something for everyone, whether it’s historical landmarks, outdoor adventures, or simply relaxing in a beautiful setting.

List of Places to Visit in Oldenburg

Oldenburg has a wide range of attractions, both cultural and natural. Here are some of the must-visit places in Oldenburg:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Oldenburg Castle
  • Landesmuseum für Kunst und Kulturgeschichte
  • Horst Janssen Museum
  • Oldenburger Schloss
  • St. Lambert’s Church

Natural Attractions of Oldenburg: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Schlosspark
  • Botanischer Garten Oldenburg
  • Lappan Park and Tower
  • Oldenburgischer Staatforst

Hiking/Biking Routes of Oldenburg

Oldenburg has some fantastic hiking and biking trails that take you through beautiful forests, meadows, and along scenic rivers. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Hunte-Wanderweg
  • Fintlandsmoor-Pad
  • Eversten Holz
  • Oldbahnroute

Best Things to Do in Oldenburg: Activities and Tours

Oldenburg offers a wide range of activities and tours to suit all tastes. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day at the spa or an adrenaline-fueled adventure, there’s something for everyone:

  • Oldenburg Sightseeing Tour
  • Oldenburg Escape Rooms
  • Jumphouse Oldenburg
  • Spa Gardens and Thermal Baths

Week-Long Itinerary for Oldenburg

If you’re visiting Oldenburg for a week, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
1 St. Lambert’s Church, Oldenburg Castle, and Oldenburger Schloss
2 Botanischer Garten Oldenburg and Schlosspark
3 Horst Janssen Museum, Landesmuseum für Kunst und Kulturgeschichte, and Kunsthalle
4 Fintlandsmoor-Pad Hike
5 Jumphouse Oldenburg and Escape Rooms
6 Oldenburgischer Staatforst Hike
7 Spa Gardens and Thermal Baths

Food and Drink Scene of Oldenburg

Oldenburg has a vibrant food and drink scene where you can sample local specialties and international cuisines. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Labskaus
  • Pumpernickel bread
  • Westphalian ham
  • Rote Grütze

Local Beverages

  • Jever Pilsener
  • Gilde Ratskeller Dunkel
  • Oldenburg coffee

Where to Stay in Oldenburg: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Oldenburg has several options for accommodation, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Some top choices include:

  • Hotel Sprenz
  • B&B Hotel Oldenburg
  • Best Western Hotel Heide Superior
  • Hotel Aquariente

What to Buy in Oldenburg: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When visiting Oldenburg, you should definitely check out some of the local shops and markets. Here are some items to consider bringing back home:

  • Oldenburg coffee
  • Pumpernickel bread
  • Westphalian ham
  • Book by Horst Janssen

Local Culture and Customs of Oldenburg

Oldenburg has a rich cultural history that is still evident in the city today. Some local customs to be aware of include:

  • It’s customary to greet people with a handshake
  • Smoking is prohibited in most public areas
  • Tipping at restaurants is not common

Best Time to Visit Oldenburg

The best time to visit Oldenburg is from May to October when the weather is mild and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. However, if you’re looking for cheaper accommodation and less crowded tourist attractions, the winter months (November-March) can be a good option.

Do’s and Don’ts of Oldenburg

Do:

  • Explore the city by bike
  • Try the local coffee
  • Take a relaxing day at the spa

Don’t:

  • Smoke in public areas
  • Speak too loudly in public areas
  • Forget to tip at restaurants (it’s not necessary!)

Safety and Health

Safety in Oldenburg

Oldenburg is generally considered a safe city with low crime rates. However, it’s always a good idea to take basic safety precautions, such as locking your doors and windows, especially at night.

Health in Oldenburg

Germany has a good healthcare system, and Oldenburg has no shortage of medical facilities and hospitals. If you’re planning on traveling to Oldenburg, make sure you have adequate health insurance coverage.

Getting to Oldenburg: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Oldenburg

The nearest airport to Oldenburg is Bremen Airport, which is about 40 km away. Other nearby airports include Hamburg Airport (150 km) and Hanover Airport (160 km).

Bus Stations Near Oldenburg

The Oldenburg Bus Station is located in the city center and offers connections to major cities in the region, including Hamburg and Bremen.

Other Options

There are also numerous train connections to Oldenburg from major cities in Germany, including Hamburg and Berlin.

How to Get Around in Oldenburg

Oldenburg is a small city that can easily be explored on foot or by bike. There is also an extensive public transportation system, including buses and trams, that can take you around the city and to neighboring towns.

Where to Go Next from Oldenburg: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several nearby destinations worth exploring if you have extra time in the region. Some options include:

  • Bremen
  • Hamburg
  • Hanover
  • Bremerhaven

Conclusion

Oldenburg is a charming and picturesque city that offers a wide range of activities and attractions for every taste. Whether you’re interested in culture, nature, food, or adventure, Oldenburg has something to offer. Plan your trip today and discover the best this beautiful city has to offer!

Bergstraße ( Bergstraße ("Hill Street") in the old town Main church St. Lambert's Main church St. Lambert's