Getting to Harz National Park
Harz National Park sits in Lower Saxony / Saxony-Anhalt, Germany, with Braunlage the nearest town of any size — about 6 km (3.7 mi) out, or roughly 10 min of driving.
Towns to base yourself in
| Town | Distance | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| Braunlage | 6 km (3.7 mi) | 10 min |
| Sankt Andreasberg | 10.4 km (6.5 mi) | 17 min |
| Ilsenburg | 10.5 km (6.5 mi) | 17 min |
| Darlingerode | 10.7 km (6.6 mi) | 18 min |
| Drübeck | 11 km (6.8 mi) | 18 min |
| Bad Harzburg | 12.1 km (7.5 mi) | 20 min |
| Altenau | 12.5 km (7.8 mi) | 21 min |
| Wernigerode | 12.8 km (8 mi) | 21 min |
How to read these numbers
Distances are straight-line between the town and the park centre. Drive estimates add a road factor and an average speed, which is close enough for planning but wrong wherever mountains, ferries, or seasonal closures are involved.
Inside a large park, getting from the entrance to the part you came to see can add another hour or more.
Region pages
Common questions
What is the closest town to Harz National Park?
Braunlage, about 6 km (3.7 mi) away — roughly 10 min of driving.
Where should I stay when visiting Harz National Park?
The practical bases are Braunlage, Sankt Andreasberg, and Ilsenburg — all within a reasonable drive of the park.