7 Places to Visit in Magdeburg: Top Tourist Attractions | Germany

In this post, we’ll show you places to visit in Magdeburg, Germany, highlighting the city’s must-see attractions. This travel guide will help you discover what to see and do in Magdeburg from start to finish during your trip.

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Recommendations for Your Trip to Magdeburg

Before diving into the city’s attractions, here are some recommendations for tours, excursions, and hotels in this fascinating destination to make your visit easier and more enjoyable.

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Visiting Magdeburg, Germany

Magdeburg is a city full of history, arguably one of the most historic cities in Germany, though not widely known today. Located in eastern Germany in the Saxony region, this city offers a mix of fascinating history and modern attractions. In this guide, we’ll share its historical background and the best places to visit in Magdeburg.

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The History of Magdeburg

Magdeburg played a major role during the Thirty Years’ War. In 1631, the city suffered the tragic Sack of Magdeburg, when imperial and Catholic League forces killed around 20,000 residents and burned the city to the ground.

Magdeburg is also famous for being the location where Otto von Guericke conducted his public experiment with the Magdeburg Hemispheres, demonstrating the power of atmospheric pressure. Additionally, the city is the burial place of Otto I of Germany, the first emperor of the Holy Roman Empire.

Today, Magdeburg is lively, modern, and attractive, with the Elbe River flowing nearby—a must-see during your visit.

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What to See and Do in Magdeburg

Magdeburg offers plenty for tourists. Let yourself be charmed by one of Saxony’s most historic cities. Here are some of the top places to visit in Magdeburg:

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1. Magdeburg Cathedral

The Magdeburg Cathedral, or St. Maurice and St. Catherine Cathedral, is one of the city’s main symbols and one of Germany’s first Gothic cathedrals. Its tallest tower reaches 100 meters, visible from almost anywhere in the city. Visitors can climb to the viewpoint, though it requires climbing many steps.

The first church on this site was built in 937, while construction of the current cathedral began in 1209 and continued for nearly 300 years. Despite being looted several times throughout history, the cathedral boasts rich architecture and an art collection ranging from the Middle Ages to contemporary works.

Note: The cathedral houses the tomb of Otto I of Germany, known as “The Great,” King of East Francia and emperor of the Holy Roman Empire.

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2. Cathedral Square

In front of the cathedral lies Cathedral Square, which comes alive at night with impressive lighting and a large fountain projected from the ground. It’s a key stop on any trip to Magdeburg.

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3. Green Citadel (Grüne Zitadelle)

The Green Citadel of Magdeburg (Grüne Zitadelle) is one of the most unique buildings in Germany. Designed by Austrian artist and architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser, the structure features whimsical curves, a pink façade, and a colorful design that captivates visitors.

Opened in 2005, the building houses shops, cafés, a birdhouse, apartments, the Art Hotel, and a garden accessible on the last Sunday of each month with prior reservation. The building also plays children’s stories over speakers—don’t be alarmed if you hear them!

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4. Millennium Tower (Jahrtausendturm)

The Millennium Tower, located in Elbauenpark on the outskirts of Magdeburg, is a 60-meter-tall cone-shaped structure. Inside, the Science Museum showcases objects representing 6,000 years of human history. Its unique spiral architecture makes it a must-see among places to visit in Magdeburg.

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5. Magdeburg Town Hall Square (Alter Markt)

The Town Hall Square, or Alter Markt, is one of the city’s main public spaces. Though destroyed during World War II, it was rebuilt to reflect its original charm. The square once hosted a market in the 12th century and today features shops, cafes, and cultural events.

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6. Walk Along the Elbe River

A walk or bike ride along the Elbe River is essential when visiting Magdeburg. The city is connected by excellent pedestrian and cycling paths, forming part of a network extending to Dresden and Hamburg—over 400 kilometers of trails!

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7. Magdeburg Art Museum

Housed in the former Monastery of Our Lady, the Magdeburg Art Museum is the city’s oldest building. The former monastery church is now a concert hall, while the museum displays religious objects, sculptures, and artworks. It’s a cultural highlight among places to visit in Magdeburg.

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Magdeburg in One Day

If you only have a day to explore the city, focus on these highlights:

• Magdeburg Cathedral
• Cathedral Square
• Green Citadel (Grüne Zitadelle)
• Millennium Tower (Jahrtausendturm)
• Town Hall Square (Alter Markt)
• Walk along the Elbe River

These stops cover the essential places to visit in Magdeburg, giving you a full experience of the city’s history and culture.

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Best Time to Visit Magdeburg

The ideal time to visit Magdeburg is during the summer months, from May to August, when the city is lively, and the weather is perfect for walking and sightseeing. July is particularly recommended.

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Cost of Visiting Magdeburg

Magdeburg is relatively affordable compared to Germany’s larger cities. Located in eastern Germany, prices for accommodation, food, and activities are generally lower than in the western part of the country.

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Magdeburg in Winter and Christmas

During winter and Christmas, Magdeburg becomes magical. Key attractions include:

• Magdeburg Christmas Market
• Enjoying wine at the Christmas market
• Magdeburg Cathedral
• Cathedral Square
• Green Citadel (Grüne Zitadelle)
• Millennium Tower (Jahrtausendturm)
• Town Hall Square (Alter Markt)
• Walking along the Elbe River

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Conclusion: Places to Visit in Magdeburg

Magdeburg is a city that combines history, modernity, and charm. These places to visit in Magdeburg ensure a complete and memorable experience, whether you’re visiting for a day, a weekend, or longer.

What else to see in Germany?

If you’re interested in discovering more about what to see in Germany, here’s a link to our travel articles about this country: Things to do In Germany