What is Braunschweig actually like? If you have never been there, you will probably have very few answers to this question, because Lower Saxony’s second-largest city is not exactly world-famous. That is a shame, because it has a lot to offer: over 1000 years of city history that shines through everywhere, exciting employers in the surrounding area, top-class education, and high recreational appeal.
In the lion’s den – the mysterious beauty in the north: Braunschweig is full of natural, cultural, and recreational surprises. Henry the Lion left Braunschweig Dankwarderode Castle with the beautiful castle square and the cathedral – and the lion in the city’s coat of arms, which also gave it the nickname “Lion City”. Even though much was destroyed by the bombs of the Second World War, Braunschweig’s historical origins are still evident in the cityscape. The avenues and the River Oker, which flows completely around the city center and creates oases of greenery, are also characteristic.
For every 250,000 inhabitants, there are over 20,000 students who leave their mark on the city. There is plenty on offer for young people: pubs, cafés and clubs attract people with moderate prices. If you are used to Munich, Düsseldorf, or Hamburg, you will be surprised how cheap a weekend of partying can be. There are also summer festivals, such as the summer sports festival at the Technical University or the festival at the University of Fine Arts.
The people of Braunschweig celebrate the Magnifest in the eponymous district with lots of music and wine. Every year, one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in northern Germany takes place on Burgplatz. Former DMSB members meet here for the first Sunday of Advent after the annual specialist seminar. The Burgplatz Open Air and “Klassik im Park” offer live music. Culture enthusiasts can also visit the “Theaterformen” international festival and the “Braunschweig Film Festival”. Other events include the “Raffteich Open Air”, the legendary Blauhaus parties, the student film competition “durchgedreht24” and the “Battle of the Year”, the world championship in breakdancing.
It is not just the recreational activities that are exciting
At over 260 years old, the Technical University is the oldest of its kind. It regularly ranks among the top ten universities in Germany. Almost 20,000 students study here on 71 degree courses. The TU is particularly well known for its courses in mechanical engineering, architecture, electrical engineering, computer science and civil engineering. Well-known companies in the surrounding area such as Volkswagen, Intel and Siemens offer students practical experience. Numerous research institutes also cooperate with the university.
Braunschweig is still comparatively affordable to live in. In this compact city, most journeys can be made by bike, as the cycle paths are well developed. Braunschweig has the advantages of a large city, but retains the charm of a small town. And for those who absolutely need those big-city vibes: the ICE takes two hours to Hamburg or Berlin. But there are no lions there.
