Don't let the name fool you. This delightful sea life aquarium combines the underwater world with the realm of tropical rainforests. Some 30 different enclosures house all kinds of fishy attractions at Hanover's Sea Life Grossaquarium, including a deep-water tank which has a glass tunnel through the centre, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with sharks and other daunting creatures. Its location within the Herrenhausen Gardens makes it an ideal indoor alternative should the weather dampen conditions within the royal park itself.
Many of the city's big events happen within the Hanover Congress Centrum, making this sprawling compound well worth a look. The City Hall (Stadthalle), with its classic domed top, hosts everything from city celebrations to music concerts. Inside is the Kuppelsaal, which is renowned for having near-perfect acoustics. Several other imposing buildings ring the site, being backed by an attractive park called the Stadtpark, which is filled with gardens, pavilions, ponds and artwork. Be sure to check what cultural events are planned here during your visit.
This better-than-average Hanover Zoo makes a valiant attempt to present exotic animals in their native habitat. There are five distinct sections to explore, each with their own set of animal attractions - the Alaskan wilderness of Yukon Bay, Gorilla Mountain, Zambezi, Meyer's Farm and Jungle Palace. Each recreates the feel of its home environment. If you want to see which animals live in northern Germany, the free-range concept of Meyer's Farm lets you mingle among the creatures. Well worth an afternoon, especially if you have kids with you.