
Old Botanical Garden University of Göttingen
Discover rare plants and historic greenhouses at Göttingen's oldest university botanical garden, a free public oasis since 1736.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Everything in full bloom

Old Botanical Garden University of Göttingen
Best Time
Everything in full bloom

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover rare plants and historic greenhouses at Göttingen's oldest university botanical garden, a free public oasis since 1736.
"Simply beautiful even though it was under construction and some parts were closed to the public when we were there. "

🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy the beauty of the Old Botanical Garden without any cost. It's open to the public during working hours. :ticket:
☕ Cafe at the Entrance
Grab a coffee or a snack at the small cafe located conveniently at the garden's entrance. :coffee:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Greenhouses
Within the garden
Explore the charming, historic greenhouses, showcasing a variety of plants. A must-see for plant enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Medicinal Plant Collection
Designated garden areas
Wander through a fascinating collection of medicinal plants, reflecting the garden's scientific heritage.

Tranquil Arboretum
Garden grounds
Stroll through the arboretum, a peaceful section featuring a diverse range of trees and offering a serene walking experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Green Oasis
Timing is Key for Bloom
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy the beauty of the Old Botanical Garden without any cost. It's open to the public during working hours. :ticket:
☕ Cafe at the Entrance
Grab a coffee or a snack at the small cafe located conveniently at the garden's entrance. :coffee:
🚶♀️ Wander the Paths
Explore the winding paths and discover rare plants and tranquil ponds. Wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:
☀️ Best in Warm Weather
Visit during spring or summer for the best experience when plants are in full bloom. :sunwithface:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy the beauty of the Old Botanical Garden without any cost. It's open to the public during working hours. :ticket:
☕ Cafe at the Entrance
Grab a coffee or a snack at the small cafe located conveniently at the garden's entrance. :coffee:
🚶♀️ Wander the Paths
Explore the winding paths and discover rare plants and tranquil ponds. Wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:
☀️ Best in Warm Weather
Visit during spring or summer for the best experience when plants are in full bloom. :sunwithface:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Old Botanical Garden a beautiful and peaceful green space, especially appreciating the historic greenhouses and diverse plant collections. While some note occasional closures or mixed maintenance, its free admission and tranquil atmosphere make it a recommended spot for a relaxing stroll and a connection with nature.
"Loved walking through the gorgeous plants! In October, the outdoor plants were becoming dormant in many cases, but I was even shocked at how many were still in fantastic shape despite the chill! The indoor plants were of course in prime condition. A couple of the buildings seemed locked but most were accessible."
Charles Martin
"The University’s old botanical garden is beautiful, especially the greenhouses. Paths to walk around and some benches to sit on. Unfortunately we couldn’t explore some as they were locked but I assume that’s because of the weather.
Would love to visit again to explore them!
There are no tickets and it’s open to explore during the working hours. There’s also a small cafe at the entrance."
Tannavi S
"Simply beautiful even though it was under construction and some parts were closed to the public when we were there.
I would definitely recommend visiting in spring/summer when the weather is nice and everything is in full bloom."
Luna Mesečeva
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Old Botanical Garden is easily accessible. You can simply type 'Alter Botanischer Garten' into Google Maps to find its location. It's a well-known spot within the city.
While specific parking details aren't widely shared, Göttingen is a walkable city, and public transport options are available. Consider using local buses or walking if you're staying nearby.
Yes, Göttingen has a public transport system. Check local bus routes that go near the university area, as the garden is closely associated with it.
Absolutely! Göttingen itself is a charming city, and the Old Botanical Garden is a lovely addition to a day trip, offering a peaceful natural retreat.
Using GPS with 'Alter Botanischer Garten' is the most straightforward method. Locals will also be familiar with the university's botanical garden.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to enter the Old Botanical Garden. It is open to the public for free exploration during its operating hours.
The garden is generally open during working hours, aligning with the university's schedule. It's best to check for any specific seasonal or event-related changes.
Admission to the Old Botanical Garden, including access to the greenhouses, is free of charge.
Yes, the garden is typically open on weekends, allowing visitors to enjoy its beauty during their leisure time.
While generally open, some parts might be temporarily closed due to weather or maintenance. Visitors are advised to be respectful of the plants and the environment.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
You can wander through diverse plant collections, including medicinal plants and an arboretum, explore historic greenhouses, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Reviews are mixed, with some finding it beautiful and others suggesting it could be better maintained. It's a free attraction, so expectations should be balanced.
Yes, there are benches scattered throughout the garden, providing spots to sit, relax, and enjoy the surroundings.
The garden offers many picturesque spots, especially the greenhouses and diverse plant life, making it a great location for photography.
The garden features a wide array of plants, including rare species, medicinal herbs, and a variety of trees in its arboretum.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a small cafe located at the entrance of the garden where you can purchase refreshments.
Göttingen has a vibrant food scene. You can find various cafes and restaurants in the city center, including recommendations like 'Café Birds'.
While not explicitly stated, picnicking is generally accepted in public parks. However, it's always good to be mindful of keeping the area clean.
Göttingen offers a range of dining experiences, from traditional German cuisine to international options. The university town has many student-friendly eateries.
For a romantic meal, explore the charming restaurants in Göttingen's medieval center, which is a short distance from the garden.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic greenhouses, the diverse plant collections, and the tranquil ponds offer beautiful photographic opportunities.
Yes, photography is generally allowed. It's a popular spot for capturing the beauty of nature and the historic architecture.
Specific regulations for drone usage in botanical gardens can vary. It's advisable to check local ordinances or contact the garden administration if you plan to use a drone.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light for photography, creating a softer, more atmospheric look.
For commercial photography, it's always best to seek permission from the garden's administration to avoid any copyright issues.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Garden Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Living Legacy: History and Science
The garden continues to play a crucial role in contemporary research and teaching. Its collections are not just for display; they are living laboratories for students and scientists. This deep connection to the university ensures that the garden remains a dynamic space, contributing to our understanding of plant biodiversity and conservation. Visitors can appreciate this dual role, experiencing both the tranquility of a historic garden and the intellectual vibrancy of a working scientific institution.
Exploring the Green Collections
Beyond these, the garden features numerous other plant groups, each contributing to its scientific and aesthetic value. The historic greenhouses are a particular highlight, allowing visitors to experience environments for plants that might not thrive in the local climate. While some areas might occasionally be closed due to weather or maintenance, the accessible parts offer a comprehensive glimpse into botanical diversity.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit