✓ Handpicked Luxury Stays in Budget on 🏡 booking.com
Welcome, Travelers! Immerse yourselves in Oldenburg, a hidden treasure trove in the heart of Germany.
Welcome to the charming city of Oldenburg, where the streets are lined with possibilities and every turn promises a new adventure.
From the historic castle to the lively marketplace, let yourself be swept away by the vibrant energy and hidden treasures that await you in this enchanting destination.
Let’s explore the best things to do in Oldenburg together.
Oldenburg is a tourist destination known for its charming historic district, featuring picturesque architecture and cobblestone streets.
The city is also famous for its beautiful gardens, most notably the Oldenburg Palace Gardens, which are reminiscent of the famous Gardens of ludenscheid and the mannheim Luisenpark.
1. Schloss Oldenburg
Schloss Oldenburg is a former residence of the Grand Dukes of Oldenburg, now used as a museum and cultural center.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the opulent interiors of the castle, including the impressive state rooms, throne room, and banquet hall.
The museum also features a collection of art and artifacts related to the history of Oldenburg and its former rulers.
Don’t miss: The castle’s spectacular gardens and parklands are not to be missed.
Be sure to take a stroll through the grounds to admire the stunning landscaping, fountains, and sculptures.
Insider travel tips: – The museum offers guided tours in both English and German.
2. Horst-Janssen-Museum
The Horst-Janssen-Museum in Oldenburg, Germany, is a museum dedicated to the life and work of the renowned German artist Horst Janssen.
What to see or do: The museum holds an extensive collection of over 6,000 of Janssen’s artworks, including his famous drawings, prints, and watercolors.
Visitors can also see various exhibits showcasing Janssen’s artistic career, his use of different techniques, his influences and inspirations, and much more.
Additionally, the museum also features changing exhibitions that include artworks by other contemporary artists.
Don’t miss: The museum offers a multimedia station where visitors can learn more about Janssen, his life, and his works.
Don’t miss the special events and workshops that are frequently held here.
Insider travel tips: – Photography is not allowed inside the museum.
3. Oldenburg State Theatre
The Oldenburg State Theatre is a historic venue in Oldenburg, Germany that hosts a variety of performances including theater productions, musicals, concerts, and dance performances.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a diverse range of performances at the Oldenburg State Theatre including classic plays, contemporary productions, and musical performances.
The theater also regularly hosts events and workshops for children, making it a great destination for families.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the theater’s impressive architecture and beautiful interior design, which includes ornate ceilings and intricate details throughout.
The theater is also known for its impressive acoustics, making it a must-visit for music lovers.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to book tickets in advance to guarantee a good seat for your chosen performance.
If you’re looking to save a bit of money, consider attending a weekday matinee or purchasing standing room tickets.
Additionally, the theater is located just a short walk from Oldenburg’s historic city center, so take some time to explore the city’s charming streets before or after your visit.
4. St Lambert’s Church
St Lambert’s Church is an impressive medieval church located in the heart of Oldenburg, Germany.The church dates back to the 13th century and has an incredible history.
What to see or do: Visitors to St Lambert’s Church can enjoy the beautiful Gothic architecture of the building, as well as the stunning stained glass windows.
The church also features intricate sculptures and artwork throughout.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the famous astronomical clock in the choir of the church, which dates back to the late 16th century.
It features an impressive array of dials and hands, as well as a calendar with signs of the zodiac.
Insider travel tips: If you plan to visit St Lambert’s Church, be sure to check the schedule for events and services.
The church often hosts concerts and other cultural events, which can be a great way to experience the space.
Also, consider climbing the tower to get a stunning view of the city.Note that the climb can be steep, so wear comfortable shoes.
5. Elisabeth-Anna-Palais
A historical palace located in the heart of Oldenburg, Germany.
The palace was built in the 18th century and has been home to the Oldenburg State Museum since the 1930s.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the various exhibits of the Oldenburg State Museum, which showcases art, culture, and history of the region.
The palace itself is also a sight to see with its impressive baroque architecture and stunning gardens.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking ballroom, which is adorned with lavish decorations and gold accents, is definitely a highlight of the palace.
Also, make sure to visit the palace gardens, which offer a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Insider travel tips: Visit the palace on Wednesdays, when admission is free.
Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved in exploring the palace and gardens.
You can also enjoy a relaxing coffee or snack at the palace’s cafe after your visit.
6. Landesmuseum für Natur und Mensch
The Landesmuseum für Natur und Mensch is a museum located in Oldenburg, Germany that focuses on natural history and the cultural history of the region.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore a range of exhibits including the evolution of man, the cultural history of Lower Saxony and an extensive collection of taxidermied animals, fossils and minerals.
The museum also has a planetarium, offering visitors the chance to learn more about the galaxies and stars.
Don’t miss: The dinosaur exhibit is a must-see for visitors of all ages, featuring a range of dinosaur skeletons and replicas.
The exhibit also offers interactive activities and displays, making it a fun and educational experience for families.
Insider travel tips: The museum offers free audio guides in both German and English, providing additional information about the exhibits and the history of the region.
Visitors can also check the museum’s website for special events and temporary exhibitions.
7. Botanischer Garten Oldenburg
Botanischer Garten Oldenburg is a 16-hectare botanical garden located in Oldenburg, Germany.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore a variety of themed gardens, including a heath garden, Japanese garden, rock garden, and Mediterranean garden.
The garden also features a glasshouse, which houses tropical and subtropical plants from around the world.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the Rhododendron collection, which boasts over 1,000 cultivars in various colors and sizes.
Insider travel tips: • The garden is best visited during spring and early summer when most plants are in full bloom.
8. Oldenburgisches Staatstheater
The Oldenburgisches Staatstheater is a historic theater in the city of Oldenburg, Germany.
What to see or do: The theater offers a diverse range of productions including plays, operas, ballets, musicals and concerts.
Don’t miss: If you are visiting during the holiday season, don’t miss the annual Christmas concert which is a highlight of the theater’s program.
9. Oldenburgisches Staatstheater
The Oldenburgisches Staatstheater is a performing arts theater located in Oldenburg, Germany.
What to see or do: The theater offers a variety of productions including opera, ballet, theater, and musical performances.
Visitors can enjoy classic works by composers such as Mozart, Beethoven, and Puccini, as well as contemporary pieces.
Don’t miss: The Oldenburgisches Staatstheater is known for its annual Open Air Opera, where visitors can enjoy world-class opera performances in an outdoor setting.
The theater also features a popular Christmas production of the ballet “The Nutcracker.”
Insider travel tips: Tickets for the Oldenburgisches Staatstheater can often be purchased online in advance.
Visitors should arrive early to explore the theater and its surrounding area, which features a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants.
10. Eversten Holz
Eversten Holz is a nature reserve located in the city of Oldenburg, Germany.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, bird watching, and exploring the natural beauty of the forest.
The reserve offers several marked trails that range in difficulty and length, making it easy to customize your visit to your fitness level and interests.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the Biotop Wildfeuchtfläche, a wetland area that is home to a variety of plant and animal species, including rare orchids and dragonflies.
You can also visit the nearby Everstenmoor, a bog nature reserve with boardwalks that allow visitors to walk safely through the unique wetland environment.
Insider travel tips: Bring comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather.If you plan on biking, the reserve offers several bike rental options nearby.
Also, be on the lookout for wildlife, such as deer and hares, which can often be spotted throughout the forest.
11. Augusteum and Prinzenpalais
Augusteum and Prinzenpalais are two historic buildings located in Oldenburg, Germany.
The Augusteum was originally built as a palace in the 17th century and later became a university.
The Prinzenpalais was built in the 18th century and served as a residence for princes.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the beautiful architecture of both buildings, including the intricate details and grand facades.
The Augusteum now houses the Oldenburg State Museum of Art and Cultural History, which features a collection of art and artifacts from the region.
The Prinzenpalais hosts various exhibitions and events throughout the year.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the impressive collections at the Oldenburg State Museum, which include paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.
Don’t miss the chance to see the works of renowned artists such as Caspar David Friedrich and Max Liebermann.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the summer months to take advantage of the beautiful gardens and outdoor spaces surrounding the buildings.
Keep an eye out for special events and concerts held at the Prinzenpalais throughout the year.
It’s also worth booking a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of these historic buildings.
12. Oldenburg State Museum of Art and Cultural History
The Oldenburg State Museum of Art and Cultural History is a museum in Lower Saxony, Germany that showcases the region’s art and cultural history.
What to see or do: – Admire the diverse collection of over 30,000 exhibits ranging from paintings, sculptures, handicrafts, and historical objects.
Don’t miss: – The famous works of German Expressionist artists such as Ernst Ludwig Kirchner and Emil Nolde.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is closed on Mondays but allows free entry on the first Sunday of every month.
13. Oldenburgisches Stadtmuseum
The Oldenburgisches Stadtmuseum is a local history museum in the city of Oldenburg, Germany.
What to see or do: The museum showcases the history of the city of Oldenburg and its people.Visitors can explore a range of exhibits including artifacts, photographs, and artwork.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the museum’s collection of Oldenburg earthenware, which includes over 1,000 pieces of pottery and porcelain.
Another must-see is the museum’s exhibit on the history of Oldenburg’s Jewish community.
Insider travel tips: – Visitors should consider taking a guided tour for a more in-depth look at the museum’s exhibits and history
14. Niedersächsische Landesbibliothek
The Niedersächsische Landesbibliothek is the state library of Lower Saxony located in the city of Oldenburg in Germany.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the vast collection of books, manuscripts, maps, and archives in the library’s reading rooms.
The library also holds regular exhibitions of historical artifacts and documents.
Don’t miss: The library’s stunning main hall, featuring an impressive vaulted ceiling and intricate woodwork, is a must-see for visitors.
The extensive collection of music scores and recordings is also worth checking out.
Insider travel tips: • Entry to the library is free, but visitors must register for a library card to access the collections.