Eilenriede City Forest Hannover
Hannover's vast urban forest, offering a true escape with trails, playgrounds, ponds, and a unique labyrinth.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful strolls, fewer people
Eilenriede City Forest Hannover
Best Time
Peaceful strolls, fewer people

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hannover's vast urban forest, offering a true escape with trails, playgrounds, ponds, and a unique labyrinth.
"I'd rather be lost in the woods than lost in the crowds."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking or cycling! Explore the extensive trails of this vast urban forest.
🚲 Rent a Bike
Cover more ground and enjoy the scenic paths by renting a bicycle. Perfect for exploring the vastness.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Lawn Labyrinth
Eilenriede
A unique, mysterious labyrinth made of manicured hedges. Get lost in its intriguing design!

Eilenriede's Wildlife
Eilenriede
Spot local birds, like the famous wood pigeon Jaspar, and enjoy the natural habitat.

Playgrounds & Ponds
Eilenriede
Fantastic playgrounds for kids and serene ponds offer relaxation and fun for all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Green Lung
Timing is Key for Tranquility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking or cycling! Explore the extensive trails of this vast urban forest.
🚲 Rent a Bike
Cover more ground and enjoy the scenic paths by renting a bicycle. Perfect for exploring the vastness.
🌳 Discover Hidden Spots
Don't just stick to main paths; wander off to find quiet ponds, sculptures, and unique spots.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
With numerous trails and open spaces, a picnic is a perfect way to enjoy the natural surroundings.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking or cycling! Explore the extensive trails of this vast urban forest.
🚲 Rent a Bike
Cover more ground and enjoy the scenic paths by renting a bicycle. Perfect for exploring the vastness.
🌳 Discover Hidden Spots
Don't just stick to main paths; wander off to find quiet ponds, sculptures, and unique spots.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
With numerous trails and open spaces, a picnic is a perfect way to enjoy the natural surroundings.
🐦 Birdwatching Delight
Listen to the birdsong and keep an eye out for local avian life, including resident pigeons.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Eilenriede being a vital green lung for Hannover, offering a true forest experience within the city. Its vastness, peaceful atmosphere, and excellent amenities like playgrounds and cafes are highly praised. Some note that while beautiful, it can feel a bit bare in early spring before leaves fully return.
"A great spot for nature lovers. You can stroll or ride a bicycle through the forest trails. There are parks in the middle of the forest. There is an old labyrinth around a tree which looks really nice. Also there is a cafe. Toilet facility is also available."
Arathi Variar
"We enjoyed it very much! Surprisingly it's quite big and the playgrounds for kids are awesome. The animals looked happy as well."
Petko Hadzhiyski
"I'd rather be lost in the woods
Than lost in the crowds.
Rather wander where I belong
Than wonder where I belong.
I grew up next to the forest, still live near it, wouldn't want to miss it. And it is indeed a forest, not a park. An original forest, once probably part of the extensive northern forest, it's origins dating back thousands of years. Eventually gifted to the citizens of Hanover in 1371 by the dukes Wenceslaus and Albrecht of Saxony. Also referred to as the green lung of Hanover. Within, one does not need to wander far to go on a journey."
Thorsten Becker
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Eilenriede is conveniently located right next to the city center. You can easily reach its entrances by walking, taking public transport (trams and buses stop nearby), or cycling. Many visitors find it a pleasant walk from the main train station.
Yes, there are several parking areas around the perimeter of the Eilenriede. However, it's a vast forest, so parking availability can vary. Cycling or public transport is often recommended to avoid any parking hassles.
While public transport can get you to the edges of the forest, the best way to explore Eilenriede is by walking or cycling within the park itself. Several bus and tram lines run along its borders, offering access points.
Many of the main paths are paved and relatively flat, making them accessible. However, as it is a natural forest, some smaller trails might be uneven. It's best to stick to the wider, well-maintained paths for easier navigation.
Eilenriede is quite close to the city center, and thus not too far from the airport. You can take public transport (S-Bahn) from the airport to Hannover Hauptbahnhof (main station) and then proceed to the forest.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Eilenriede City Forest is completely free! It's a public urban forest for everyone to enjoy.
Eilenriede is open 24/7, as it's a natural forest. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate its beauty.
While there aren't official daily guided tours, local organizations or private guides might offer them. It's worth checking local Hannover tourism websites for any scheduled events or tours.
Yes, dogs are welcome in Eilenriede, but they must be kept on a leash at all times to respect other visitors and wildlife.
The forest itself is free. Any specific attractions like cafes or potential event venues within the forest might have their own charges, but general access to the trails and natural areas is free.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the unique Lawn Labyrinth, the serene ponds, and the various playgrounds. Keep an eye out for sculptures and monuments scattered throughout the forest.
Yes, there are cafes located within the forest where you can grab a bite or a drink. It's also a popular spot for picnics.
You can enjoy walking, jogging, cycling, rollerskating, birdwatching, picnicking, and simply relaxing in nature. It's a versatile space for recreation.
Eilenriede is generally considered safe, especially on the main paths during daylight hours. It's well-used by locals for exercise, creating a sense of security.
The forest has an extensive network of paths. Using a map app on your phone or picking up a park map (if available) can be helpful, but getting a little lost can also be part of the adventure!
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light. Spring and summer provide lush greenery, while autumn offers stunning foliage colors.
The Lawn Labyrinth, the tranquil ponds, majestic trees, and any art installations or monuments offer great photographic subjects.
Drone usage regulations can be strict in urban areas and parks. It's advisable to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can capture the vastness, and a telephoto lens is useful for wildlife.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming might require permission. Always be respectful of other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Explorers & Nature Lovers
🚴♀️ Active Adventurers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Eilenriede
Walking through Eilenriede, you can still feel this ancient presence. The forest is described as an 'original forest,' not merely a landscaped garden. This means it retains a wilder, more natural feel, with majestic deciduous trees and a sense of untouched wilderness. The community's appreciation for this resource is evident, with many locals growing up with it and considering it an indispensable part of their lives. The presence of monuments and sculptures with inscriptions further highlights its role in community experience and expression over time, adding layers of cultural significance to its natural beauty.
Exploring Eilenriede: Paths, Activities, and Wildlife
Beyond the general recreational paths, Eilenriede offers unique points of interest. The Lawn Labyrinth, with its intriguing structure, provides a fun and slightly mysterious diversion. Scattered throughout the forest are also various monuments and sculptures, some with seating areas, inviting visitors to pause and appreciate the art and inscriptions that offer insight into the community's history and expression. For families, the playgrounds are a major draw, offering ample space for children to play and explore. The ponds add a touch of tranquility, providing scenic spots for relaxation amidst the greenery.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit