- Goslar served as a temporary capital of the Holy Roman Empire due to the proximity of the Rammelsberg silver and ore deposits.
- The city's collection of half-timbered houses is one of the largest in Germany, with buildings dating back to the 15th century.
- Goslar holds a 'Copper Seal' from the Harzer Wandernadel project, identifying it as a central hub for regional hiking trails.
- During the medieval period, the city enjoyed the status of a Free Imperial City, granting it autonomy and the right to mint its own coinage.
- The town was historically known as the 'Rome of the North' due to its high density of churches and religious influence in the Middle Ages.
About Goslar
Goslar is a historic mining town located at the foot of the Harz Mountains, distinguished by over 1,500 half-timbered houses and a UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town. Its medieval significance as a seat of Holy Roman Emperors is solidified by the Imperial Palace of Goslar, a focal point of imperial power during the 11th century. Beyond its architectural legacy, the city serves as a gateway to the Harz landscape, featuring surrounding sights like the Steinbergturm Goslar HWN 111 and the scenic Granestausee HWN 110. The town's economy was historically dominated by the Rammelsberg mine, which operated for over a millennium until the late 20th century.
Highlights of Goslar
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Historical places
Explore the grand 11th-century great hall and intricate Romanesque architecture of the former imperial residence.
Places of interest
Climb the observation tower for a panoramic view over the town rooftops and the northern Harz mountains.
Natural attractions
Walk or cycle around the expansive reservoir waters managed by the Harzer Wandernadel trail system.
Historical places
Pass through this well-preserved medieval city gate, a remnant of the town's defensive fortifications.
Natural attractions
View the dramatic rock formations and geological remnants left by centuries of mining activity at Rammelsberg.
Historical places
Visit this historical watchtower site to experience a strategic vantage point overlooking the Harz foothills.
Museums
Browse the extensive collection of miniature figures depicting historical scenes and regional mining life.
Top things to do in Goslar
The 55 highest-rated places in Goslar, ranked by travellers.
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The Imperial Palace of Goslar (Kaiserpfalz) is a restored 11th-century Romanesque building originally commissioned by Em...
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Goslar on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Goslar
May through September, when mild temperatures allow for optimal exploration of the surrounding Harz nature reserves and hiking trails.
2-3 days, allowing sufficient time to explore the historic town center and nearby nature attractions.
The historic center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, while regional bus lines and the Harz narrow-gauge railway connections serve the surrounding mountain areas.
The Altstadt (Old Town) offers proximity to major historical sites and restaurants, while the districts near the Rammelsberg provide easier access to hiking paths.
Mid-range; accommodation and dining prices are generally consistent with standard German medium-sized cities.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 55 curated attractions in and around Goslar, ranked by traveller ratings.
Imperial Palace of Goslar is the highest-rated place to visit in Goslar right now.
The largest category is historical places, with 18 places to explore.
Travellers also explore Berlin, Munich, Hamburg.
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