Uelsen(Germany) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

For first-time visitors, staying in the Old Town (Altstadt) area of Uelzen is ideal. This historic district centers around the St. Martinus Cathedral and offers easy access to cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and local cafés. The Hotel am Dom is a top choice here—located just steps from the cathedral, it blends Gothic architecture with modern comfort, featuring locally crafted wooden interiors and regional breakfasts like rye bread with duck liver pâté.

Another excellent option is Burgers Hof Hotel, nestled within the preserved medieval city wall. Its proximity to the Town Hall and the Hanseatic Festival venues makes it perfect for cultural immersion. Both hotels offer authentic Lower Saxony hospitality and are highly recommended during seasonal events like the annual Hansa Festival, when demand surges—book early to secure a room in this charming, well-preserved Hanseatic town.

The best time to visit Uelzen for cultural events is during the Hansa Festival in mid-July, when the entire town transforms into a vibrant medieval marketplace. Locals don costumes from the Hanseatic era, and you can enjoy live folk music, artisan markets, traditional crafts, and local delicacies like Uelzener Wurst and dark rye beer. The festival celebrates Uelzen’s historical role as a member of the Hanseatic League, offering an immersive experience in Northern German heritage.

Additionally, autumn (late September to October) brings stunning foliage along the Haver River, making it ideal for scenic walks and photography. With mild temperatures and fewer crowds, this period offers a peaceful yet picturesque alternative for travelers seeking natural beauty and quiet charm.

Must-visit landmarks in Uelzen include the St. Martinus Cathedral, a striking Gothic structure with an 85-meter-high spire and exquisite 15th-century stained glass windows. Inside, you’ll find a Baroque altar and ancient religious artifacts.

Another highlight is the Medieval City Wall, where preserved sections form part of the Old Town Walkway, offering panoramic views of the Haver River and the historic quarter. Don’t miss the Town Hall (Rathaus), a red-brick building with a prominent clock tower housing a local history museum that traces Uelzen’s legacy as a key member of the Hanseatic League. Together, these sites create a living timeline of Northern Germany’s rich civic and architectural past.

Signature dishes in Uelzen reflect Lower Saxony’s rural heritage. Try Uelzener Wurst, a smoked pork sausage made with rye flour and seasoned with juniper—often served with sauerkraut or mustard. Another staple is Schwarzbrot (Black Rye Bread), dense and slightly sour, traditionally enjoyed with duck liver pâté or local cheese.

During summer, sample Haver River Beer, brewed by small local breweries using traditional methods and featuring subtle caramel notes. At the annual Hansa Festival, you can also taste roasted chicken with honey wine, served on wooden platters in rustic ceramic bowls—authentic flavors straight from the Hanseatic era. Each dish tells a story of farming, trade, and regional pride.

The easiest way to travel from Hamburg to Uelzen is by Deutsche Bahn regional express trains (RE 10), departing regularly from Hamburg Hauptbahnhof (Hbf). The journey takes about 1 hour 15 minutes, with tickets priced between €25–35. Enjoy scenic views of the Lower Saxony countryside, including the Weser Forest and the Haver River Valley.

For more flexibility, rent a car via major providers at Hamburg Airport or central stations. Drive along the A2 highway—approximately 110 km, taking around 1 hour 10 minutes. Upon arrival, Uelzen’s city center is just 1.5 km from the train station, easily accessible on foot or by local bus. Use the DB Navigator app for real-time schedules and transfers.

Uelzen is ideal for families. Visit Uelzener Kinderland, a dedicated children’s park featuring a mini train, climbing nets, and outdoor play zones perfect for kids aged 3–12. Along the Haver River Promenade, families can picnic at shaded benches, let children play in sand pits, and observe ducks and fish in the wild river setting.

During the annual Hansa Festival, special workshops are offered for families—such as building paper castles or learning traditional weaving techniques—making history fun and interactive. Nearby, St. Martinus Cathedral has a family-friendly audio guide with scavenger hunt-style quests, encouraging kids to explore the church through playful challenges. With wide, safe sidewalks and low traffic, Uelzen is stroller- and bike-friendly, making it a welcoming destination for all ages.

Most hotels in Uelzen provide free parking, especially those located in the city center and near the train station. Hotels like Hotel am Dom and Burgers Hof Hotel feature underground or on-site parking spaces included with bookings. Some boutique guesthouses may not have private spots but often partner with nearby public garages to offer discounted rates for guests.

During the Hansa Festival (mid-July), demand spikes—so it’s wise to confirm whether your HopeGoo includes parking. Alternatively, park at the Südpark Garage south of the city center and walk into the Old Town in under 10 minutes. Overall, Uelzen is very traveler-friendly for self-drive visitors, with well-planned infrastructure and low parking costs across the region.