Characterized by its redbrick gothic and medieval timber buildings, the Mitte district is the center of Hannover, the capital city of Lower Saxony. Museums, galleries and historic buildings complement the zoo and the park in this varied area. Visit Mitte to piece together the rich past of the city through this district’s extraordinary sights.

The oldest secular building in the area is the Old Town Hall, with its remarkable redbrick façade and gothic elements. Dine in the restaurant of this 15th-century palace in central Hannover and admire the period décor for a glimpse of earlier styles.

Across a square, visit the Market Church, whose spire rises high above the Old Town surroundings. Marvel at the gothic architecture of the building, which was constructed in the 1300s.

Check out the nearby Leineschloss, a majestic palace where Hanoverian dukes and kings historically resided. Stroll along the banks of the adjacent Leine River, taking time to study the various sculptures and the Göttingen Seven Monument, which commemorates a group of liberal professors.

Delve into the exhibits of the Hannover Historic Museum and the Lower Saxony State Museum to learn about the area’s development and past.

Among the city’s highlights is the New Town Hall, a castle whose architecture belongs in a fairy tale. It overlooks the Maschpark and its adjacent Maschsee lake. Walk through the leafy setting in the heart of Hannover and head east for the large forested Eilenriede City Park where you’ll also find the Hannover Congress Centrum and the Erlebnis Zoo.

The Mitte area comprises the central part of the city of Hannover, running along the banks of the Ihme and Leine rivers. Arrive in the heart of the district by train at the Hannover Hauptbahnhof station. Travel around the area by taking the U-Bahn metro to some of the many stations in this region. Move through the city center on foot.