Hannover guide: When the ‘Best of’ is just outside your front door...

The themes for the changing exhibits are varied and include, for example, the fields of science, art and music – and often everyday life. What other museums hide in display cases are offered here as a hands-on experience. There is also plenty of scope for creativity in the open workshops. The ideas for future exhibitions are developed here, among other things. But this certainly doesn’t mean that the Zinnober isn’t suitable for adults. Factual information is provided for them, for example.

The site is split into various theme worlds: Zambezi, Afi Mountain, Yukon Bay, Jungle Palace, Outback and Meyer’s Farm, where domestic animals live. Life at the zoo revolves both around the animals themselves and the experience of interacting with them. You can, for instance, take part in a boat trip; stroll along the discovery trail; participate in animal presentations and commentated feedings; meet polar bears, penguins and seals underwater; and enjoy the local cuisine and regional dishes in each of the theme worlds.

His son renamed the village of Höringehusen as Herrenhausen and had a palace and pleasure garden built. Further additions, redesigns and its restoration after the Second World War now contribute to the landscape architecture. The large baroque garden, with fountains, garden theatre, rose garden and striking waterworks, remains almost unchanged. In addition, the complex includes the Berggarten, with more than 12,000 plants; the idyllic Georgengarten and Welfengarten; historic buildings with orangery; the historic grotto following redevelopment plans by Niki de Saint Phalle; and the restored palace.

The magnificent Wilhelmine building in historicist style – with turrets, bay windows, columns, arches and an almost-100-metre-high square tower with striking dome – was built on 6,026 beech piles. This construction method was crucial in preventing the building from subsiding into the swampy ground. But this came at a cost: city leaders paid more than ten million Deutschmarks. Emperor Wilhelm II personally inaugurated the New Town Hall in 1913. Those who take the curved lift to the town hall’s dome will be rewarded with a fantastic view.

The food is modern Italian, with classics such as minestrone, lasagne, saltimbocca and tiramisu served alongside reinterpreted favourites like tomato soup with gin; spaghetti with truffle butter, truffle and Parmesan; pikeperch fillet with white risotto; and ‘Crema Nuovo’ with fresh berries and caramelised nuts. The selection of pinsas is also very popular here – including among vegetarians. You should treat yourself to a Nuovo cocktail either before or after your meal. You can pick and choose your favourites from 43 creations or allow an expert to guide you. The evening acquires an even-more-Italian feel if you sit outside on warm, sunny days.

The pairing of food and premium wines is varied; among the producers, Roy Stache and his team have remained loyal to one in particular: the Zeni vineyard cultivates its wines in the heart of Bardolino on the beautiful moraines around Lake Garda. The characterful wines pair wonderfully with Roy’s Italian cuisine. The menu features bruschetta and vitello tonnato, as well as various pasta dishes, fish and meat. And, of course, the banquet can be rounded off with tiramisu, panna cotta or chocolate tartufo. You can enjoy your meal either in the elegant interior or on the beautiful terrace on sunny days.

The way to a man’s (or woman’s) heart is through the stomach, and the proof of that is the many regulars as well as new customers who are invariably greeted as family friends. Seating in the shop may be limited, but there are no limits to the taste experience of the southern specialities in this daytime bistro. The menu includes a variety of antipasti, a delicious selection of pasta dishes – from spaghetti al pomodoro to spaghetti con salsiccia and spaghetti calamari – as well as delicious desserts, with tiramisu taking pride of place. Tips on wine pairing are also freely provided by the Lo Cacciatos.

Since 1954, its ruins have been a memorial to the Second World War and a symbol of the desire for peace. In 1958, the stump of the tower acquired a 15-metre-high steel construction on top. Twenty-five bronze bells hang inside the structure. These are struck with magnetic hammers, which, in turn, are connected to the playing cabin on the first floor of the tower. The installation has been computer-controlled since 1988, however. The ruins of the Aegidienkirche provide space for art, concerts and memorial services.

The architecture is spectacular, making the castle one of the most impressive neo-Gothic buildings in Germany and a popular filming location. Inside, the elaborate living space is a fascinating juxtaposition of English and German neo-Gothic styles. Depending on the time of year, you can visit this magical place with or without taking a guided tour. Separate tours around the castle grounds are offered too. You can even dine like royalty at the delightful Pink Royal Café & Pub.