Founded in around 1100, the city of Hanover prospered through its membership of the Hanseatic Trading League, and by the 16th century it was a powerful, independent kingdom. In 1714, the kings of Hanover also became the kings of Britain, largely thanks to the latter's determination not to crown the Catholic Prince Charles. The two countries shared monarchs until 1837, when William IV died, leaving Princess Victoria as his heir. Hanoverian law forbade women monarchs, so Victoria's uncle then ruled Hanover while Victoria took charge of Britain and its empire.

In recent times Hanover has become largely known as the host of two massive trade fairs, Cebit and Hanover Messe, but it also has good shopping opportunities, impressive Hanseatic red-brick churches, atmospheric beer halls and well-maintained parks. You can find your way around most of the city's tourist spots by following the Red Thread, a three-mile line that runs from one attraction to another. A good starting point is the Neues Rathaus which has a curving elevator that carries you 98 metres up into the green dome of the building.