Hildesheim City Guide

Traditional German food is common. You also find Italian, Turkish, Asian, and Greek options. Vegetarian and vegan choices are growing but not widespread. Late-night options are limited.

Nightlife is modest, mostly bars and pubs around the city center. Few clubs exist but no big party scene.

Growing coffee scene with traditional cafes and some specialty shops. Not many local roasters.

Tipping round up or 5-10% is common in restaurants and taxis but not mandatory.

SIM cards can be bought at Telekom, Vodafone, O2 stores, and electronics shops. German law requires ID registration for SIM cards.

The city is clean with efficient waste management and recycling.

Limited 24/7 services. Few late-night shops; emergency pharmacies rotate on call. Hospitals provide 24/7 care.

Supermarkets like Edeka, Rewe, Aldi, and Lidl offer a good range of products including some international items. Weekly markets sell fresh local produce. Shops close on Sundays.

Card payments are accepted widely in supermarkets and big shops. Smaller stores and bakeries might prefer cash.

ATMs from Sparkasse, Deutsche Bank, and Commerzbank are common across the city. Foreign card fees vary, so check with your bank first.

Mostly German language public schools. International schools are in nearby larger cities like Hanover.

Small digital nomad presence; no dedicated meetups or co-living. Some cafes offer suitable workspaces.

Good green spaces like Magdalenengarten and parks along the Innerste river offer shade and places to relax or run.

Good running routes along Innerste river and Hohnsensee lake. Generally safe and popular among locals.

Several gyms offer good facilities for fitness and training.

Several tennis clubs with indoor and outdoor courts. Equipment rental and coaching are available.

Padel tennis is not common, might be available at some sports centers.

Multiple yoga studios offer various classes. English-speaking instructors possible but not guaranteed.

Several schools teach Karate, Judo, Taekwondo, and some boxing or BJJ. Local competitions occur.

Small ski resorts in the Harz Mountains reachable within an hour. Mostly beginner to intermediate slopes with rental gear available.

Limited water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding available on local rivers and lakes during warmer months.

No surfing opportunities; city is inland.

No diving spots nearby.

Good hospitals with some English-speaking staff, especially at Helios Klinikum. Pharmacies are well stocked and professional. Germany has high healthcare standards.

Tap water in Hildesheim is clean and safe to drink.

Family-friendly with playgrounds, parks, and local attractions like Magdalenengarten and the wildlife park. Baby supplies are easy to find.

Generally safe and accepting environment with strong legal protections and inclusive venues.

Pet-friendly with parks and veterinary clinics. Some hotels and restaurants accept pets.