Magdeburg Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do and see in Magdeburg, Germany, a hidden gem in Saxony-Anhalt, with our in-depth travel guide.


Introduction to Magdeburg

Welcome to Magdeburg, a hidden gem in the heart of Germany! Located in Saxony-Anhalt, this historic city is known for its diverse cultural scene, beautiful natural surroundings, and fascinating history. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie looking to sample local cuisine, Magdeburg has something for everyone.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan your perfect trip to Magdeburg. From the city’s top attractions and must-see sights to the best places to stay, eat, and shop, we’ll give you insider tips and expert recommendations to help you make the most of your time in this beautiful city.

List of Places to Visit in Magdeburg

Magdeburg is a city full of rich history and culture. Here are the top places to visit in Magdeburg:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Magdeburg Cathedral: Also known as the Cathedral of Saints Catherine and Maurice, this beautiful Gothic cathedral is one of the city’s main landmarks. Admire its stunning architecture and intricate details, including the intricate statues and stained glass windows.
  • Monument to Otto von Guericke: Erected in honor of one of Magdeburg’s most famous scientists, this monument is dedicated to Otto von Guericke, a physicist who is famous for his work on vacuum and air pressure.
  • Kunstmuseum Kloster Unser Lieben Frauen: This modern art museum features contemporary paintings and sculptures, and is the perfect place to discover new and emerging artists.
  • Elbauenpark: This park offers stunning views of the Elbe River, and is home to several impressive landmarks such as the Millennium Tower and the ‘Sea of Flowers’.

Natural Attractions of Magdeburg: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Buckau Weir: This amazing hydraulic structure provides stunning views of the Elbe River, and attracts visitors from all over the world.
  • Magdeburg Water Bridge: A must-see engineering marvel, this bridge connects the Elbe-Havel Canal and the Middle Elbe, and is the longest navigable aqueduct in the world.
  • Elbe Cycle Path: The Elbe Cycle Path is one of the most beautiful bike routes in Europe, and takes cyclists through several scenic towns and villages that are full of historic significance.
  • Botanical Garden: This small but beautiful botanical garden is home to over 3,000 species of plants and flowers from around the world, and provides visitors with a tranquil respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Magdeburg

Magdeburg offers some of the most beautiful and scenic hiking and biking trails in Germany. Here are some of the best routes:

  • The Elbe Cycle Path: This 1220 km long route takes cyclists along the Elbe River, from the Czech Republic to the North Sea. Along the way, you’ll be able to experience beautiful landscapes and stunning scenery, with plenty of opportunities to explore historic towns and villages.
  • The Green Belt Trail: This 930 km long trail takes hikers through some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in Germany. From the charming Swabian Jura to the majestic Alps, this trail offers something for everyone.
  • The Harz Witches Trail: This trail leads hikers through the Harz Mountains, and is full of history and legend. Along the way, you’ll pass by old castles, crystal-clear lakes, and scenic vistas.

Best Things to Do in Magdeburg: Activities and Tours

Magdeburg has plenty of fun and exciting things to see and do, no matter what your interests are. Here are some of the top activities and tours to check out:

  • City Walking Tour: Take a guided walking tour of the city and discover its rich history, culture, and architecture.
  • Boat Tour: Take a scenic boat tour of the Elbe River and discover the beauty of Magdeburg from the water.
  • Outdoor Adventure: Go kayaking, canoeing, or hiking in the Harz Mountains and enjoy the beauty of nature.
  • Bauhaus Museum: Discover the history of the famous Bauhaus art school at this museum, which features exhibitions by some of the movement’s most important artists.

Week-Long Itinerary for Magdeburg

If you’re planning to spend a week in Magdeburg, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 City Walking Tour, Magdeburg Cathedral, Kunstmuseum Kloster Unser Lieben Frauen
Day 2 Boat Tour of the Elbe River, Monument to Otto von Guericke
Day 3 Elbe Cycle Path, Buckau Weir
Day 4 Harz Witches Trail, Harz Mountains
Day 5 Magdeburg Water Bridge, Bauhaus Museum
Day 6 Botanical Garden, Elbauenpark
Day 7 Shopping, Food Tour, and Souvenir Hunting

Food and Drink Scene of Magdeburg

Magdeburg is a city with a rich culinary tradition. Here are some of the best dishes and drinks to try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Halberstaedter Wuerstchen: These sausage links are a local favorite, and are flavored with caraway, nutmeg, and coriander.
  • Lebkuchen: This spiced cake is a local specialty, and is made with honey, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and aniseed.
  • Asparagus Soup: Made with fresh asparagus, this creamy soup is a popular dish during the spring season.

Local Beverages

  • Magdeburger Bier: This local beer is brewed according to traditional methods, and is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
  • Apfelschorle: This refreshing drink is a mix of apple juice and sparkling water, and is perfect for hot summer days.
  • Local Wines: Magdeburg is located close to some excellent wine-growing regions, such as Saale-Unstrut and Elbe Valley, and is known for its high-quality wines.

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

Magdeburg has a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Here are some top recommendations:

  • Hotel Ratswaage: Located in the heart of Magdeburg, this hotel features comfortable rooms, modern amenities, and a great location.
  • Hostel Magdeburg: A budget-friendly option in the city center that offers basic amenities, comfortable rooms, and a friendly atmosphere.
  • City-Pension Magdeburg: This guesthouse is located in the historic district of Magdeburg, and offers cozy rooms, a charming atmosphere, and great value for money.

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

If you’re looking for a unique souvenir or gift from Magdeburg, here are some top recommendations:

  • Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is a local specialty, and can be found at many markets and grocery stores.
  • Lebkuchen: This spiced cake is a local favorite, and makes a great gift or souvenir.
  • Pottery and Ceramics: Magdeburg is known for its beautiful pottery and ceramics, which are often handcrafted by local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Magdeburg

Magdeburg is a city with a rich history and cultural heritage. Here are some customs and traditions that are unique to the city:

  • Fountain Traditions: Magdeburg is known for its many fountains, and locals believe that throwing a coin into a fountain can bring good luck or fulfill a wish.
  • Harz Mountains Legend: The Harz Mountains are full of legends and folklore, and visitors can learn about these stories by visiting the area’s many museums and attractions.
  • Bauhaus Art and Design: Magdeburg played an important role in the history of the Bauhaus art and design movement, and visitors can learn about this history at the Bauhaus Museum and other cultural institutions around the city.

Best Time to Visit Magdeburg

The best time to visit Magdeburg is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is mild and the city is bustling with activity. Late spring and early summer are especially beautiful, when the parks and gardens are in full bloom and the city is filled with colorful flowers and blooming trees.

Do’s and Don’ts of Magdeburg

Here are some customs and traditions to keep in mind when visiting Magdeburg:

Do:

  • Recycle: Magdeburg is a city that takes recycling seriously, so be sure to separate your waste and dispose of it properly.
  • Take part in outdoor activities: Magdeburg is a city that is surrounded by nature, so take advantage of this by going hiking, biking, or taking a boat tour of the Elbe River.
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions: Magdeburg is a city with a rich cultural heritage, so be respectful of local customs and traditions, and try to learn as much about the local culture as possible.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Magdeburg is a beautiful city, and locals take pride in their surroundings. So be sure to dispose of your waste properly and keep the city clean.
  • Be ignorant of history: Magdeburg has a long and fascinating history, so be sure to take the time to learn about this history and be respectful of it.
  • Be intolerant of others: Magdeburg is a diverse and welcoming city, so be kind and respectful to everyone you meet, regardless of their background or beliefs.

Safety and Health

Magdeburg is a safe and healthy city to visit. Here are some tips to ensure you have a safe and healthy trip:

Safety in Magdeburg

  • Watch your belongings: Magdeburg is generally a safe city, but it’s always a good idea to keep your belongings close and be aware of your surroundings.
  • Use common sense at night: Like any city, it’s a good idea to be cautious and use common sense when walking around at night. Stick to well-lit areas and avoid dark alleys or deserted streets.
  • Stay informed of current events: Magdeburg is a safe city, but it’s always a good idea to stay informed of current events and any potential safety threats.

Health in Magdeburg

  • Stay hydrated: Magdeburg can get quite hot and humid during the summer months, so be sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and other fluids.
  • Pack a first-aid kit: It’s always a good idea to pack a basic first-aid kit when traveling, just in case of minor injuries or illnesses.
  • Protect your skin: Magdeburg can be quite sunny during the summer months, so be sure to protect your skin from the sun by wearing sunscreen or a hat.

Getting to Magdeburg: Transportation Options and Logistics

Magdeburg is easily accessible by a variety of transportation modes. Here are some options:

  • By Plane: The nearest major airport is Leipzig/Halle Airport, which is located about 1.5 hours away by car or train. Alternatively, you can also fly into Berlin Tegel or Berlin Schonefeld airports, both of which are about 2 hours away by car or train.
  • By Train: Magdeburg has a central train station, which is served by several regional and national train lines. You can take a train to Magdeburg from most major German cities, as well as from other countries in Europe.
  • By Car: Magdeburg is located near several major highways, including the A2 and A14. Driving to Magdeburg is a good option if you’re coming from nearby cities or towns.
  • By Bus: Magdeburg is also served by several bus companies, including Flixbus. Buses connect Magdeburg to other major cities in Germany and Europe.

How to Get Around in Magdeburg

Magdeburg is a relatively small city, and it’s easy to get around on foot or by bike. The city also has a good public transportation system, which includes buses and trams. Here are some options:

  • Walking: Magdeburg is a city that is easy to explore on foot, especially if you’re staying in the city center. Most of the main attractions and landmarks are within walking distance of each other.
  • Biking: Magdeburg is a bike-friendly city, and there are many bike rental companies that offer affordable rentals. You can also bring your own bike and explore the Elbe Cycle Path or other scenic routes.
  • Public Transportation: Magdeburg has a good public transportation system, which includes buses and trams. You can purchase tickets at the train station or at any ticket machine in the city center.

Where to Go Next from Magdeburg: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Magdeburg is located in a beautiful region of Germany, and there are plenty of nearby destinations and excursions to explore. Here are some recommendations:

  • Berlin: Germany’s capital city is just a couple of hours away from Magdeburg by car or train. Visit the city’s museums, landmarks, and historical sites, or simply enjoy its vibrant cultural scene.
  • Naturpark Drömling: This beautiful nature reserve is located just outside of Magdeburg, and is home to several rare bird species and other wildlife. Go for a hike or bike ride and explore the beautiful nature trails.
  • Quedlinburg: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located about an hour away from Magdeburg, and is home to a well-preserved medieval city center, complete with beautiful timber-framed houses and winding cobblestone streets.

Conclusion

Magdeburg is a fascinating and beautiful city that is well worth a visit. From its rich history and culture to its beautiful natural surroundings and modern amenities, Magdeburg has something for everyone. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your perfect trip to this hidden gem in the heart of Germany!

Panorama on the Elbe river Panorama on the Elbe river The Millennium Tower in Elbauenpark The Millennium Tower in Elbauenpark Green Citadel Green Citadel