10 Things You Can Only See and Do in Goslar, Germany

The unique secular structure of the Imperial Palace, built between 1040 and 1050, is not only the top attraction of Goslar but one of the most famous sights in the entire Harz Mountains. The palace is open to public tours, during the course of which you can experience the stunning artwork and murals in the upper floors. The ground floor houses an interesting museum with a wide range of artifacts related to the glorious history and imperial rule of the palace.

Huldigungssaal im Rathaus, built between 1505 and 1520 as a meeting location for the council, is an outstanding example of late Gothic spatial art. The simple exterior might underwhelm you, but the interior is sure to drop your jaw. The walls, ceilings and even the window-niches are covered with gorgeous, intricate paintings.

The Zwinger Tower is a remnant of the ancient fortifications of Goslar. This battery tower made of sandstone was used to keep an eye out for the approaching enemy and prevent attacks on the city. Today, it houses a restaurant, a guest house and a small museum with a good collection of medieval weapons.

The Rammelsburg Mine was in operation for over 1,000 years before it closed in 1988, making it one of the largest continuously-mined ore deposits in the world. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today, visitors can enter the cold bowels of the mine on a rattling mine train, led by a guide, and experience this fascinating mine that has been preserved in an authentic condition.

Goslar Old Town is one of the best-preserved city centers in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This region is lined with 1,500 impeccably-conserved half-timbered houses spanning several centuries. A guided walk through the Old Town along the romantic cobbled alleys would make you many times wiser about the glorious 1000-year-old history of the mining town of Goslar.

Every day, at 09.00, 12.00, 15.00 and 18.00, you will find flocks of people craning their necks to look up at the Glocken building in the historic market square of Goslar. These are the times when three little doors open and a series of figures come out to sing the story of Goslar and Rammelsburg, with the accompaniment of music. Additionally, at 8.30 am and 6.30 pm daily, the song is played, but without the moving figures.

The Mönchehaus-Museum für Moderne Kunst (Museum of Modern Art) is housed in a beautiful farmhouse. It has a great collection of artwork by Franz Gertsch, Nam June Paik, Robert Longo, Richard Serra, Victor Vasarely, and many others. In the sculpture garden, you will find beautiful sculptures by famous artists. The Pine Cellar four rooms deal with themes from Greek mythology, the Jewish Kabbalah and Christian folk beliefs.

The first mention of Market Church can be traced back to 1151. The church, towering over the market square, stands out because of its unusual architecture of two mismatched steeples. The church houses nine beautiful medieval stained-glass windows and ancient murals, a library and a 17th century wooden altar. It also offers a great view over town from its tower.

Stabkirche Hahnenklee, constructed in 1907-08, is a stave church built from spruce trunks, adding up to a truly unique sight. Its magnificent interior, with an amazing organ and a unique four-octave carillon, truly befits its breathtaking exterior.

Come winter, Goslar welcomes crowds of winter sports enthusiasts. The County of Goslar promises 16 ski resorts, 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) of ski slopes and 32 ski lifts. Wurmberg – Braunlage is the largest, highest and most popular ski resort in Goslar.

Planning a trip to Germany? Whether that be embracing the festivities at traditional Christmas markets, discovering cutting edge culture in Berlin or road tripping through the Black Forest, you’re best off booking a multi-day package for an authentic slice of Germany.