Weekend in Wolfsburg

A medieval moated castle in the city centre, now a museum and event space. Free entry to the castle grounds and some exhibitions; the main museum costs €5.

Tip: Visit the free 'Bastion' tower for panoramic views. The courtyard is a good spot for a picnic.

The landscaped grounds around the castle, with formal gardens, sculptures, and a small lake. Free to wander at any time.

Tip: Walk up the hill behind the park for views over the city. The rose garden blooms best in June.

A 16th-century moated castle now housing a museum of local history and art. The courtyard and outer grounds are free year-round.

Tip: The free audio guide (available at the ticket desk) is excellent and covers the castle's role in the Volkswagen story. Best photo spot is the wooden bridge at dusk.

Modern art museum with a striking glass-and-steel building. Free entry to the permanent collection; temporary exhibitions cost about €8.

Tip: The rooftop café has great views over the city and a cheap daily soup option (€4.50). Free guided tours run every Saturday at 3pm.

A large lakeside park with walking/cycling paths, public BBQ areas, a beach, and a free outdoor fitness circuit. Connects to the Mittellandkanal towpath.

Tip: Bring your own food – the park's only kiosk is expensive. The designated BBQ zone by the lake has free charcoal grills; arrive before 11am on weekends to get one.

Self-guided walk around the exterior of VfL Wolfsburg's football stadium. The fan shop and public plaza with player statues are free to access.

Tip: Match-day tours are free but crowded – go on a Tuesday morning when it's empty. The 'Autogrammstunde' (autograph session) happens monthly; check the club website for dates.

A large lakeside park with walking paths, playgrounds, and a sandy beach. Free entry; you can swim or rent paddleboats cheaply.

Tip: Bring your own towel and snacks. The cafe near the beach is overpriced for basic fare.

Modern art museum with changing exhibitions and a striking glass facade. Entry €8 adults, free for under 18s. Tuesdays 10:00-14:00 entry is free.

Tip: Go on a Tuesday morning for the free slot. The museum cafe has good coffee and is reasonable.

VW's visitor park with pavilions, car exhibits, a large park, and a glass car tower. Low-cost entry at €18 adults, free under 6s. Worth it for the architecture and gardens alone.

Tip: Buy tickets online in advance to skip queues. Go on a weekday afternoon for fewer crowds.

A large park-like complex with car-themed pavilions, a lagoon, and a viewing tower. Entry costs about €15 but the outdoor areas and much of the architecture are free to wander.

Tip: Skip the indoor exhibitions if you're on a budget; the outdoor 'ZeitHaus' car museum facade is visible from the park. Visit after 5pm for discounted twilight tickets in summer.