City of Brusnwick

As the famous German, Albert Einstein once uttered, 'The only source of knowledge is experience'. This notion epitomises my time as an intern at the outstanding and traditional city of Brunswick; a city that lies in the heart of Lower Saxony, as well as deep within my heart. During my stay, I was able to not just see and do a vast spectrum of things, but also eat, drink, and most importantly feel various things. Although many of these activities are recommended by Erasmus forums as well as Study Abroad blogs, I came across many experiences by myself. There were numerous occasions where I enjoyed the company of other Erasmus students as well as seeing sights or frequenting the local cuisine. This post will give a detailed and complex, yet friendly and informal account of my journey.

What to see

During your stay as a student in Brunswick, there will be plenty of opportunities for you to interact with all the various cultures and languages, and plenty to see to fill up your spare time.

The most important sight to behold is the Brunswick Lion, a major part of the city’s identity. So much so, Brunswick is even referred to by the locals as the ‘Lion City’. There is a monument dedicated to the Lion in the city centre, an ideal place to take pictures on the designated selfie point!

There are several areas of simply outstanding beauty in and around the city of Brunswick. Firstly, there are several public gardens and parks, including the famous Bürgerpark, Botanical Garden and Staatstheater park. These open parks are perfect for revising, relaxing and meeting new people. The parks give students the freedom to walk and admire the stunning scenery - little pockets of nature amongst the bustling city! The famous ‘Oker’ River that runs through most of these parks provides some beautiful photo opportunities.

In company with these parks there are lakes situated all around Brunswick, as well as open swimming pools, known here as ‘Freibads’. These are often free or cost a minimal amount, meaning that anybody and everybody can not only get fit, but enjoy their evenings sat in the sun. As they are located far and wide, there is something for everyone, even if you prefer the quieter spots!

Besides the more calming and chilled sights, Brunswick has a range of museums on offer. This allows you as a student to develop your cultural knowledge and experiences here. The museums in Brunswick offer a range of content. So, whether you prefer art, natural science or dinosaurs, there is without a doubt a museum for you in Brunswick!

Maintaining the culture theme, there are a few famous landmarks in Brunswick that are essential to an Erasmus student’s bucket list. Firstly, there is the Oldest Timber Building located near the equally important John F. Kennedy Platz transport stop. This attraction is very much off the beaten track; therefore, several students are unaware of its importance or even existence. Another landmark that is often unknown by foreign students is the Happy Rizzi House. This is located very close to the Timber building, and again receives little recognition by students. These are merely two examples of the breath-taking landmarks that can be found here!

Lastly, there are several historical and cultural sights to see. Although Brunswick itself is a historical attraction, and one that I would highly advise any students to visit, it contains several palaces and buildings that are beyond the imagination. For instance, Schloss Richmond, an outstanding stately home, rich with amazing views and noteworthy history just on the outskirts of the Bürgerpark. It is frequently home to talks, events and palace balls. Another sight is the cathedral in Brunswick. The cathedral is typical of the 18th-century buildings in Brunswick and provides the opportunity for serval beautiful pictures and views!

What to visit

As well as offering several sights, Brunswick also has an endless list of places and things to visit. As previously mentioned, there is the opportunity for Erasmus students to see the parks, museums and various quarters of the town that are home to these sights. However, there is more that students can interact with and experience!

If you are feeling particularly active and fresh, there is the Brunswick town hall. As well as being able to view and explore the building's courtrooms and information, there is the opportunity to climb 160 steps to reach the beautiful bird's eye view of Brunswick. Students can see this vibrant place in its element and enable you to see all the attractions and really get a feel for the city as a whole!

Additionally, there are the various districts and quarters of Brunswick. Many of these have been outlined already, yet as a keen student with lots of time and enthusiasm, there are several more to discover. These can be visited by foot, including the Bankplatz, the historic and architectural Domplatz, and the eating and drinking capital Kohlmarkt. All of which are among key areas for shopping, eating and most importantly picture taking! However, if you are feeling adventurous, there is the opportunity to hire boats and pedalos on the ‘Oker’ River. Here you will be able to experience some incredible views and, if you are a nature lover, plenty of wildlife including river otters, herons, ducks and much more!

Furthermore, Brunswick hosts several festivals and fairs in its picturesque surroundings. These range from music events and street food markets, to crafts fairs and educational festivals. Many of these are free of charge and often aimed at young, cultural and diverse students!

Lastly because of Brunswick’s ideal location in Germany, you can easily visit nearby towns and cities, including Hannover, Bad Hazburg, Wolfsburg, Hamburg, and for the very adventurous there is the capital Berlin!

Where to eat/drink

Eating and most importantly drinking is a vital part of any student’s life in Brunswick. Of course, it offers a wide range of shops and markets that provide these. However, it also has a number of cafes, bars and restaurants that offer both fantastic, local and international food. The place where the majority of these can be found by students is the Kohlmarkt. These naturally range in price, but not when it comes to quality. They are all outstanding and are must-tries for any foreign student!

My survival tips

• There are several accommodations and living facilities in and around the city
• Students can download transport apps for smartphones to help with travelling on the local transport
• Brunswick has several offices and points of contact for advice, assistance or concerns
• Students are also entitled to discounts- in particular with travel cards for buses or trains, including a monthly pass that covers every type of transport in the city- (not that you would ever want to leave!)