The richly cultural and charming capital of Lower Saxony

Hanover is a city and the state capital of Lower Saxony in Germany. It is best known for hosting commercial expositions such as the Hanover Fair, as well as the world's second largest Oktoberfest, which takes place around the end of September every year. The city was founded on the banks of the River Leine in mediaeval times through the union of several important local dynasties in the Duchy of Brunswick-Lunburg, part of the Holy Roman Empire. It grew to prominence over the centuries, culminating in the union of the royal families of the United Kingdom and Hanover in the 18th century. The city has a strong cultural flavour with over 40 theatres, opera houses and music venues. There are over 60 international trade exhibitions in Hanover every year including CeBIT, the IT and telecommunications trade show.

Why Go? 

One of the main reasons you might book flights to Hanover is its involvement with so many different trade shows throughout the year. If you do find yourself visiting Hanover on business, take some time to enjoy this diverse and historic city with many fascinating cultural attractions.

When to Go? 

Summer in Hanover is warm but not oppressively hot, so the summer is a good time for sight-seeing. The mercury regularly hovers around the twenties, but you can also expect a bit of rain in July and August so be prepared! However, Hanover is a culturally rich city with festivals and events taking place throughout the year, so there is never really a bad time to go.

How to get there? 

There are several options for flights to Hannover- Langenhagen Airport (HAJ) from the UK. Flybe offers the usual low cost option from a number of regional airports including Southampton, Birmingham, Newcastle, Manchester and Exeter. BMI has a Hanover flight from London Heathrow, while three different German airlines compete for business at London Stansted, with low cost carrier germanwings up against Air Berlin and charter flight operator TUIfly.

Must see 

Among the main attractions of Hanover, the impressive neoclassical State Opera House is one of the finest looking buildings, and if you want to catch a performance, the opera season runs from September to June. Hanover Zoo is one of the best in Europe, consisting of several themed areas housing animals from all over the world, from as far afield as Australia and Alaska. The history Museum in Hanover contains exhibitions and artefacts from the mediaeval period right through to the 17th and 18th century when Hanover developed its strong relationship with the United Kingdom’s Royal family.