Weekend Getaway to Magdeburg: Essential Tips for First-Time Visitors

A weekend trip to Magdeburg? Even though some travellers underestimate this city, it offers an exciting mix of ancient history, modern architecture, and green oases. Known as Otto’s city, Magdeburg is closely associated with Otto I and Otto von Guericke, two historical figures who shaped not only German but also European history. If you’re visiting Magdeburg for the first time, you’ll sure be pleasantly surprised at how diverse and charming the city is.

To make your Magdeburg visit stress-free and truly exceptional, we’ve hand-picked the top 10 Magdeburg attractions, along with practical tips to help you before and during your trip.

Good To Know Before You Go:

• Getting there: Thanks to its strategic location and excellent connections to the A2 and A14 motorways, Magdeburg is easy to reach by car. If you’re traveling by train, a trip from Berlin or Leipzig will take under 1.5 hours. Additionally, Magdeburg is easily reachable from Hanover and Hamburg.
• Getting around the city: Within the city, the tram is the easiest way to commute. An extensive tramline takes you directly to the main Magdeburg attractions. For shorter distances, consider renting a bike. And walking is always a viable option!
• Best time to visit: If you’re looking to connect with the nature and Magdeburg’s multiple parks, consider visiting in spring or summer. In autumn, you’ll be pleasantly surprised with the colourful palette of trees along the Elbe River, while in winter, you’ll get a chance to visit the Christmas market.   

1. Magdeburg Cathedral

Magdeburg Cathedral, dedicated to St Maurice and St Catherine, is Magdeburg’s must-see landmark and Germany’s first Gothic cathedral.

Inside, you will find the tomb of Emperor Otto I, who elevated Magdeburg to imperial palace status. Exquisite sculptures, stained-glass windows, and Romanesque chapels bring the cathedral’s ancient history vividly to life.

2. The Green Citadel

Magdeburg would not be Magdeburg without a touch of extravagance. In the centre of the old town stands the Green Citadel, the last great work of Friedensreich Hundertwasser. Pink façades, golden spheres, irregular shapes, and lush greenery make this building a real eye-catcher.

Inside you will find small shops, a café, and a theatre. And the rooftop terrace offers stunning views over the city. If you are looking for unique Magdeburg attractions, this architectural masterpiece must be on your list.

3. Elbauenpark and Millennium Tower

One of the most popular Magdeburg tourist attractions is the vast Elbauenpark. Covering more than 100 hectares, it features gardens, meadows, playgrounds, and numerous landmarks. Particularly fascinating is the Millennium Tower, the tallest wooden tower of its kind in the world. Inside, you’ll find an exhibition on the history of science and technology – interactive, engaging, and fun.

If you’re travelling with children, be sure to visit a butterfly garden, a summer toboggan run, and adventure playgrounds. In winter, the park transforms into a venue for ice skating and sledging. For varied Magdeburg leisure activities and family fun, Elbauenpark is hard to beat.

4. Kunstmuseum Kloster Unser Lieben Frauen

Another cultural highlight in Magdeburg is the Kunstmuseum Kloster Unser Lieben Frauen, housed in an old monastery building. Dating back to the 11th century, it now serves as a modern art museum. Inside, the combination of Romanesque architecture and contemporary artworks creates a striking and a truly fascinating contrast.

5. Old Market Square

For centuries, the Old Market Square has been the beating heart of the city. Today, it is home to the town hall and the famous statue of the Magdeburg Horseman, regarded as the oldest equestrian statue north of the Alps. While visiting the square, take your time to relax in one of the cafés, browse local shops, or simply enjoy the lively city atmosphere.

6. Rotehornpark

Magdeburg is surprisingly green. Rotehornpark, situated on an island in the Elbe, is one of the largest city parks in Germany. Here, you can enjoy hiking, cycling, or even boating. And a climb up the Albinmüller Tower rewards you with sweeping views over the city and the Elbe River.

The Elbe banks are also perfect for long walks – ideal for a relaxing Magdeburg visit. For families looking for places to visit in Magdeburg with children, Rotehornpark is an excellent choice.

7. Otto von Guericke Museum

Step into the world of science at the Otto von Guericke Museum, dedicated to the city’s famous mayor and physicist. Located in the medieval Lukasklause, it offers fascinating insights into his life and work. Technology enthusiasts will love this museum!

8. Magdeburg Waterway Junction

One of the most unusual Magdeburg tourist attractions is the Waterway Junction, where the Mittelland Canal, the Elbe River, and the Elbe-Havel Canal meet. The Trough Bridge steals the show as the world’s longest canal bridge. This engineering marvel makes an excellent destination for a unique Magdeburg day trip.

9. Magdeburg Zoo

The Magdeburg Zoo is home to more than 200 species of animals. A particular highlight is the Africambo enclosure, where elephants, giraffes, and zebras roam in a setting designed to replicate their natural habitat. The zoo is one of the best family-friendly Magdeburg attractions, combining education with entertainment.

10. Day trips from Magdeburg

If you are planning a long weekend, it is worth exploring Magdeburg surroundings. Some of the most beautiful places to visit near Magdeburg include:

• Gommern Water Castle, guaranteeing a day of fun with a beer garden and a lake for swimming
• Schönebeck and the Solepark, offering greenery
• Jerichow, featuring an ancient brick monastery
• Barby on the Elbe, offering picturesque landscapes of the Elbe River

These destinations are wonderful for day trips and add extra variety to your Magdeburg visit.

Bonus: Culinary tips for Magdeburg

Magdeburg delights visitors not only with its landmarks but also with distinctive regional cuisine. Get a taste of:

• Bötel mit Lehm und Stroh – hearty pork knuckle with sauerkraut and pea purée
• Hochzeitssuppe (wedding soup) – a traditional first course at German wedding receptions
• Magdeburger Bördetopf – a baked casserole made with lamb and mutton, cabbage, onions and potatoes.

Magdeburg is rich in history, culture, and nature. You can easily explore the most important landmarks within a weekend. The city is diverse, green, and full of character – ideal for a spontaneous short break.

Book your hotel in Magdeburg with Leonardo Hotels and start your journey with comfort!