Weekend in Magdeburg

The main public square with the 13th-century Roland statue symbolising city rights. Surrounded by reconstructed Baroque houses and a modern town hall.

Tip: Look for the small brass line embedded in the pavement near the statue marking where the old city walls used to stand. The weekly farmers' market (Wed & Sat morning) adds free atmosphere and cheap snacks.

Germany's first Gothic cathedral, built on the site of Charlemagne's original church. The interior is spare and powerful, with a striking 13th-century statue of the Magdeburg Rider

Tip: Visit around 11am on a clear day to see sunlight hit the choir windows. The crypt is also worth a quick look.

One of the oldest Gothic cathedrals in Germany, dating from 1209. Houses the tomb of Otto the Great and impressive stone carvings.

Tip: Climb the south tower for a view over the city — it's a steep but rewarding 400+ steps and costs a couple of euros. The crypt is free and often quietest just after opening.

One of Germany's oldest Gothic cathedrals, with the tomb of Otto the Great and a striking modern stained-glass window by Johannes Schreiter.

Tip: Climb the south tower for a panoramic view of the city—check at the ticket desk as it's sometimes free with a donation.

A wide, grassy riverside meadow along the Elbe. Perfect for walking, picnics, or watching the sunset behind the cathedral silhouette.

Tip: Walk east from the cathedral along the promenade to reach the old harbour quarter — free outdoor art installations and benches with no crowds.

Germany's first Gothic cathedral, completed in 1520. Houses the tombs of Otto the Great and the original Magdeburg Horseman statue. Entry to the main nave is free.

Tip: Climb the south tower (small fee, €2) on clear days for a panorama of the Elbe river. The crypt is quieter in early mornings.

One of Germany's earliest Gothic cathedrals, with twin spires and the tomb of Otto the Great. The interior has medieval sculptures and modern stained-glass windows by Charles Crodel.

Tip: Climb the south tower (€2) for views over the city and the Elbe. The cathedral itself is free.

A pink Hundertwasser building with wavy floors, a golden onion dome, and a courtyard planted with trees. Walk through the public courtyard for free.

Tip: Go inside the café at ground level—it has the same quirky design and you can use the toilet without paying for anything.

A block-long apartment building designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser, full of wavy lines, bright colours, and rooftop gardens. The courtyard and ground-floor arcade are open to

Tip: Don't pay for the small museum inside. Instead, walk through the courtyard and find the public rooftop terrace (entry free, via the east staircase). It's a quiet spot with views over the old town.

Romanesque monastery now housing a contemporary art museum and a peaceful herb garden. The garden and cloister are free; the art galleries have a charge.

Tip: Head to the garden herb beds—they are labelled and you can smell the different plants. Free entry to the courtyard anytime during opening hours.