· DE

Goslar

Goslar, Lower Saxony, Germany

Step Back in Time in Goslar, Germany Nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Harz Mountains lies Goslar, a captivating town steeped in over 1,000 years of history. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Goslar offers a…

#Historic Town#UNESCO World Heritage Site#Medieval Architecture#Harz Mountains#Tourist Destination

1/1

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Goslar.

Top Hotels in Goslar

Top Flights to Goslar

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Goslar.

Tours

Sightseeing in Goslar

Explore the historic sites of Goslar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its medieval architecture and beautiful landscapes.

Shopping

Shopping in Goslar's Old Town

Enjoy shopping in the cobblestone streets of Goslar's Old Town, home to unique boutiques and local crafts.

Outdoor

Goslar Hiking Trails

Explore the scenic hiking trails around Goslar with diverse paths through forests and hills.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Goslar.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Goslar, Lower Saxony, Germany is '49,000'.

Languages

German, Low German

Average weather

Goslar

Jan

3°-2°

Feb

4°-2°

Mar

8°0°

Apr

13°3°

May

18°8°

Jun

21°11°

Jul

23°13°

Aug

23°13°

Sep

19°10°

Oct

14°6°

Nov

8°2°

Dec

4°-1°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Goslar.

What people love

Goslar, located in Lower Saxony, Germany, is a charming and historic town that offers a unique travel experience. Here are some pros of traveling to Goslar:

Historical significance: Goslar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its well-preserved medieval old town. Visitors can explore the cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and historic buildings dating back to the Middle Ages.
Imperial Palace: One of the main attractions in Goslar is the Imperial Palace, a stunning Romanesque building that served as a residence for the Holy Roman Emperors. Visitors can tour the palace and learn about its history.
Rammelsberg Mine: Goslar is also home to the Rammelsberg Mine, a historic mine that operated for over 1,000 years. Visitors can take a tour of the mine to learn about its mining history and see the impressive underground chambers.
Nature and outdoor activities: Surrounding Goslar is the beautiful Harz Mountains, offering opportunities for hiking, biking, and skiing depending on the season. The area is known for its scenic landscapes and outdoor recreational activities.
Cultural events and festivals: Goslar hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, providing visitors with the opportunity to experience local traditions and cuisine.

Overall, traveling to Goslar offers a mix of history, culture, outdoor activities, and natural beauty, making it a worthwhile destination for travelers seeking a unique and enriching experience.

Enjoy your trip to Goslar!

What to know

Traveling to Goslar, Lower Saxony, Germany can be a wonderful experience, but there are some potential drawbacks to be aware of:

Weather: Goslar, like much of northern Germany, can experience cold and rainy weather, especially in the winter months. Travelers should be prepared for potentially gloomy and wet conditions during their visit.
Crowds: Goslar is a popular tourist destination, especially during the summer months. This can lead to crowded streets, attractions, and restaurants, making it harder to fully enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the town.
Language Barrier: While many residents and businesses in Goslar may speak English, the predominant language is German. Travelers who do not speak German may encounter some difficulties in communication, especially in more rural areas.
Limited Public Transportation: While Goslar is a relatively small town, public transportation options may be limited, especially for travelers looking to explore the surrounding areas. Renting a car may be necessary for those wanting to travel more freely.
High Cost of Living: Germany, in general, can be an expensive country to visit. Travelers should be prepared for potentially high costs for accommodations, meals, and activities in Goslar.

Overall, while Goslar is a charming and historic town with much to offer visitors, it is important to be aware of these potential drawbacks to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Goslar is a historic town located in Lower Saxony, Germany. It has a rich history, dating back to its founding in the 10th century. Here’s a detailed account of its history, significant events, and landmarks:

Early History

Foundation and Early Development: Goslar was founded in 922 during the reign of Henry I and became prominent due to its proximity to the Rammelsberg ore mines, which provided silver, copper, and lead.
Imperial City: Goslar gained significance as a seat of the Holy Roman Empire. It became an Imperial City in the 11th century under Emperor Henry II, who built the Imperial Palace (Kaiserpfalz), which served as a residence for German kings and emperors.

Middle Ages

Economic Growth: The mining industry in Goslar flourished, contributing to the town's wealth and influence in the region. The town became a member of the Hanseatic League, boosting its trade connections.
Religious Influence: Goslar was an important ecclesiastical center, with several churches and monasteries established during the Middle Ages.

Early Modern Period

Reformation and Religious Conflict: The Protestant Reformation reached Goslar in the 16th century, resulting in religious conflicts. The town eventually embraced Lutheranism.
Thirty Years' War: Goslar, like many towns in Germany, suffered during the Thirty Years' War (1618-1648), with the town's economy and population severely affected.

19th and 20th Centuries

Industrialization: With the decline of mining, Goslar diversified its economy with some industrial development. However, the town retained much of its medieval character.
World War II: Goslar escaped major destruction during World War II, preserving its historical buildings.
Post-war Period: After the war, Goslar became part of the new Federal Republic of Germany. It has since been a tourist destination, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture.

Significant Landmarks

Imperial Palace (Kaiserpfalz): A key landmark in Goslar, it is considered one of the most important secular buildings from the Middle Ages in Germany.
Rammelsberg Mine: This former silver mine is now a museum and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, along with the historic town of Goslar, in 1992.
St. Peter's Cathedral (Goslar Cathedral): Although mostly demolished in 1819, the cathedral's north portal and some remnants still stand.
Market Square (Marktplatz): The historic heart of the town with a beautiful fountain and the town hall, which features the Huldigungssaal (Hall of Homage) with its impressive painted panels.

Notable Historical Figures

Emperor Henry II: Played a significant role in establishing Goslar as a royal seat.
Henry IV: German king and Holy Roman Emperor, who frequently resided in Goslar.

Modern Era

Today, Goslar is known for its picturesque old town, featuring narrow streets and half-timbered houses, which attract tourists from around the world. The town continues to celebrate its rich heritage with various cultural and historical events.