5 minute read
Hildesheim: Cobblestone, Culture, Beauty
Nestled in the heart of Germany’s northern state of Lower Saxony, Hildesheim is one of Germany’s most charming — and underrated — destinations. This city of just over 100,000 people combines the depth of German medieval history with a relaxed, walkable charm that invites slow exploration. From UNESCO wonders and fairytale squares to world-class museums and peaceful riverside strolls, Hildesheim offers visitors a chance to step into history while enjoying the rhythm of modern life. Here are five fun and interesting things to do when visiting this beautiful German city.
1. Step back in time at St. Michael’s Church
One of the crown jewels of Hildesheim is St. Michael’s Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stands as a masterpiece of early Romanesque architecture. Built in the early 11th century, this church is remarkable not only for its symmetry and design but also for the sense of calm that fills its vast interior.
The ceiling alone is worth the visit. It features an extraordinary painted wooden panel from around 1230, depicting the Tree of Jesse, a genealogical representation of Christ’s lineage.
Visitors can take a guided tour to learn more about the church’s symbolism and restoration, or simply sit in quiet reflection, soaking in over a thousand years of history.
2. Marvel at the legendary St. Mary’s Cathedral and the thousand-year-old rose
Just a short walk away, St. Mary’s Cathedral (also known as Hildesheimer Dom) is another UNESCO-listed site, and it’s home to one of the city’s most iconic symbols — the Thousand-Year Rose. Legend has it that as long as the rosebush beside the cathedral’s apse continues to bloom, Hildesheim will prosper. Astonishingly, the rose — a dog rose variety — is believed to be over 1,000 years old, having survived (among other things) bombings in World War II that destroyed much of the cathedral.
Inside, the cathedral’s art treasures are equally impressive. Don’t miss the Bernward Doors, a pair of 11th century bronze doors that depict scenes from the Bible in exquisite detail, or the Bernward Column, a spiraling masterpiece reminiscent of Trajan’s Column in Rome. The entire complex radiates a powerful sense of endurance — a living testament to Hildesheim’s deep roots and ability to rise again.
3. Explore the historic market square
If there’s one place that immediately captures Hildesheim’s charm, it’s the Market Square. Once described as one of the most beautiful squares in northern Germany, it was completely destroyed during World War II but painstakingly rebuilt to its former glory. The result is a fairytale-like scene of timber-framed houses, ornate facades, and cobblestone streets that feel straight out of a storybook.
At the heart of the square stands the Butchers’ Guild Hall, which is one of the most elaborate half-timbered buildings in the world, richly decorated with carvings and colorful painted details. Today, it houses a restaurant and the city museum, offering a great opportunity to dine with a side of history.
The square is especially beautiful in the evening when the buildings are illuminated. During the Christmas season, the square transforms into a glittering market full of festive cheer: this year, Hildesheim’s Christmas market runs from November 24 to December 28.
4. Discover art and culture at the Roemer- und Pelizaeus-Museum
For art and history lovers, the Roemer- und Pelizaeus-Museum is an absolute must. This world-class museum holds one of the most significant collections of ancient Egyptian artifacts outside of Egypt, including mummies, hieroglyphic tablets, and sculptures that tell the stories of pharaohs and daily life along the Nile. Please note, however, that the permanent Egyptian collection is undergoing a minor renovation, and will reopen in December 2025.
Beyond Egyptology, the museum also features impressive collections of ancient Peruvian textiles, Chinese porcelain, and regional archaeological finds from Lower Saxony. Exhibits are well-curated and engaging, making the museum both educational and accessible. Whether you’re traveling solo or with family, it’s easy to spend a couple of hours exploring its fascinating galleries.
5. Stroll through the Hildesheim Cathedral Museum and relax by the Innerste river
For a more contemplative experience, visit the Hildesheim Cathedral Museum, located next to St. Mary’s Cathedral. The museum houses a strong collection of medieval liturgical art, including gold and silver chalices, manuscripts, and reliquaries that reveal the city’s deep religious heritage. Even for non-specialists, the craftsmanship and symbolism behind these pieces are awe-inspiring.
After your museum visit, take a leisurely stroll along the Innerste river, which winds gracefully through the city. The riverside paths and nearby parks are perfect for a picnic, a bit of people-watching, or a quiet moment under the trees. It’s also a popular spot for cyclists and joggers — or anyone who wants to take a breather from sightseeing.
Getting to Hildesheim
By car, Hildesheim is 4 hours from Kaiserslautern, 3 hours from Wiesbaden, and 5 hours from Stuttgart. Excellent options are also available by rail, so check with Deutsche Bahn for timetables and prices.
