Understand

Step back in time and discover the rich history of Magdeburg, once a thriving medieval city at the heart of Europe. Throughout the Cold War era, this city experienced rapid growth, becoming a socially and economically important center of the GDR. However, following the German reunification, Magdeburg faced significant challenges. Many of its industries came to a halt, leading to a decline in population as residents sought more enticing job opportunities in western Germany. Yet, Magdeburg has emerged as a modern city, continuously undergoing a transformation process. Its cityscape has evolved rapidly, showcasing a mix of old and new. Although remnants of the division between East and West Germany can still be seen, this vibrant city boasts a multitude of captivating sights with high cultural significance and uniqueness. Explore the numerous parks that make Magdeburg the third greenest city in Germany. Dive into a world of retail therapy as you stroll through the city's extensive shopping malls, making Magdeburg the proud home of the largest retail area in Germany relative to its overall size. Education plays a vital role here, with two top-ranking universities attracting students from across Europe. Not only is Magdeburg a hub for academic excellence, but it also houses prestigious scientific institutions like the Max-Planck-Institut and one of the largest sites of the Fraunhofer Institut, making it a city of international research importance. When it comes to industry, Magdeburg boasts a diverse range of traditional and emerging sectors. Savor the rich flavors of "Rstfein," one of the finest coffee brands in eastern Germany. Additionally, experience the tradition and uniqueness of vodka production at the renowned "Abtshof" company. Did you know that the world's first artificial sweetener was created right here in Magdeburg and is still being produced? Moreover, the wind energy industry has also found its place in this dynamic city, adding to its modern charm.

Get in

Magdeburg, located in central Germany, is best accessed by car or train. The city is conveniently situated near two major freeways, with the A2 passing to the north and the A14 passing to the west. These freeways provide easy access to different parts of the city. When traveling by train, you can reach Magdeburg Hauptbahnhof (Hbf), the main railway station in the city. This station has 8 platforms to cater to the train traffic. To find a train connection to Magdeburg Hbf, you can visit www.bahn.com for more information and schedules. If you prefer to travel by plane, you have a few options. The closest airport is Leipzig/Halle (LEJ), which is directly located at the freeway. From there, you can rent a car and take the A14 freeway towards Magdeburg. Alternatively, the Leipzig/Halle airport has an integrated train station, and you can conveniently use an hourly IC-train connection to reach Magdeburg. Another option is the Berlin Brandenburg International Airport (BER), which is now open and located at the site of the closed Berlin-Schnefeld. You can use the train service to travel from Berlin-Brandenburg Flughafen to Magdeburg Hbf. Lastly, Hannover (HAJ) is another airport you can consider. By car, you can take the A2 freeway towards Berlin to reach Magdeburg in about 2 hours. If you prefer to travel by train, you can search for a connection from Hannover Flughafen to Magdeburg Hbf on www.bahn.com. Explore the beautiful city of Magdeburg and choose the most convenient mode of transportation for your journey!

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Schnitzel - Traditional German breaded and fried meat cutlet, typically made with pork or veal. It is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, often served with potatoes and a side of sauce, such as tartar sauce or gravy.

Currywurst - A German fast food staple consisting of a sausage (usually a Vienna sausage) covered in a curry ketchup sauce, typically served with fries or a roll. This dish is known for its unique blend of flavors, combining German sausage with a hint of Indian spices.

Sauerkraut - Fermented cabbage dish that is a staple in German cuisine. It features cabbage that has been salted, shredded, and allowed to ferment, resulting in a tangy, slightly sour taste. Sauerkraut is often served as a side dish, accompanying meats and sausages.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing