Hanau is a regal city set on the River Main. The Old Town is filled with half-timbered houses while the New Town is defined by elegant Baroque buildings. Visit a beautiful 18th-century palace, discover the city’s connection to the Grimm brothers and shop at the bustling market.
Things to do in Hanau
Hanau Old Town, also known as Steinheim, will charm you with its cobbled streets and half-timbered houses. The main plaza is lined with historic buildings. Many house atmospheric cafes where you can sit in the sunshine and sip a glass of “apfelwein” German cider.
Hanau is famous as the birthplace of Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm, also known as the Grimm brothers. The siblings were born in Hanau in the 1700s and went on to write beloved fairy tales like Cinderella, Snow White and Little Red Riding Hood. In the New Town is a larger-than-life bronze statue dedicated to the brothers. It towers over the main plaza, which hosts a twice-weekly market where you can buy fresh produce, farmhouse cheese, artisan bread and baked goods.
Wilhelmsbad State Park is a former royal estate reimagined as a recreational park. Wander around the English-style gardens, take a spin on the vintage carousel and explore the ruins of a centuries-old castle. The royal buildings have been beautifully restored and house cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy lunch.
Schloss Philippsruhe enjoys a picturesque setting on the River Main. The Baroque palace dates back to the 18th century and features lavish interiors and manicured grounds. On the lower level is a museum dedicated to the local history and heritage of Hanau. The gardens are enchanting and feature rolling green lawns and a lake surrounded by maple, beech and chestnut trees.
Getting around Hanau
Hanau is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. The town is a 30-minute drive from Frankfurt and 15 minutes by train. Frankfurt International Airport is a 30-minute drive away.