Everyone here is very open and welcoming. I really like the “everyone knows everyone” vibe that you’ll find in many places across Saxony-Anhalt.
MagdeburgScoreswithaSlowerUrbanPaceandPlentyofSports
The ability to simply bike to work instead of sitting in traffic for hours – just one of the reasons Lukas decided to stop commuting by car. In this interview, he shares why Saxony-Anhalt is the perfect place for sports enthusiasts like him and where to find the best coffee in Magdeburg.
Whether it’s hiking in the Harz Mountains, rowing on the Elbe, or heading out into the greenery for a spontaneous evening bike ride, Lukas makes the most of the many ways to stay active in his adopted home of Saxony-Anhalt. As he says: “If you’re into sports, this is the place to be.” But for this native of Lower Saxony, Magdeburg has more to offer than just a great sports scene – its culinary variety and the perfect blend of city vibes and nature won him over, too.
After completing his studies in Magdeburg, he initially took a job in Wolfsburg, which meant regularly commuting across state lines. But after getting stuck in a full road closure for the third time in a row, Lukas decided to move his professional life to Saxony-Anhalt as well. As a sales engineer at HORIBA FuelCon, he’s now helping shape the hydrogen industry – without the long commutes. A career with outstanding prospects and nature just around the corner after work – for Lukas, it’s the perfect match.
Who supported you most when you first arrived in Saxony-Anhalt?
I originally moved to Magdeburg for university. I found all the information I needed about my degree program on the university’s website. The university’s many events and mentoring programs also helped me settle in quickly and meet new people. Right from the start, I felt well taken care of, so I didn’t really need much additional support. Regardless of whether you’re still at university or already working, I highly recommend attending job fairs and similar events to make new connections.
What does Saxony-Anhalt offer you that you wouldn’t find elsewhere?
Saxony-Anhalt strikes the perfect balance between city life and nature. No matter where you are, you’re always just a short ride away from green spaces. In Magdeburg, I can get everywhere by bike, and if I want to go a bit farther, I can take it with me on regional trains free of charge. In general, the state is fantastic for anyone who loves sports and being active. Whether it’s water sports, handball, or soccer – sports are a huge part of everyday life here. In Magdeburg, for example, there’s an almost festive atmosphere on days when 1st FC Magdeburg, the local soccer team, or SC Magdeburg, our top-tier handball team, have games. You’ll see lots of people walking around in team jerseys – you can really feel how strongly they support their teams, which I think is great. There’s also a strong sense of sports culture in Saxony-Anhalt’s many local sports clubs. These are great places to meet new people, since everyone here is very open and welcoming. I really like the “everyone knows everyone” vibe that you’ll find in many places across Saxony-Anhalt.
Where do you like to spend your free time?
There are quite a few places! Magdeburg’s green spaces, like the city park, are perfect for unwinding after work. I’m also a regular at the soccer stadium or the handball arena, cheering on our teams. My girlfriend and I also love heading out to the Harz Mountains – there’s so much to explore, whether by bike or on foot. We especially enjoy hiking with the Harzer Wandernadel trail stamp system. There are over 220 scenic spots throughout the Harz where you can collect stamps in your own hiking stamp book, earn badges, and discover the region along the way. This has led us to discover several places in the region that we might not have found if we hadn’t been on the hunt for stamps.
What does a perfect weekend in Saxony-Anhalt look like for you?
On Friday after work, I start with a relaxed coffee at Café KRÖM, then hop on my bike and head out of Magdeburg – whether along the Elbe River or into the forest, but definitely somewhere green. After that, I meet up with friends for pizza – Basta has the best pizza in town, by the way. Saturday afternoon usually means cheering on 1st FC Magdeburg at the stadium or watching an SC Magdeburg handball match. In the summer, I’ll head to one of the many beautiful lakes in the region afterward and later enjoy a drink at a beer garden. One of the nicest spots is Milchkuranstalt, with its view of the Elbe. On Sunday, my girlfriend and I head to the Harz for a full day of hiking. Back in Magdeburg, we relax and enjoy what’s left of the weekend at Datsche, a venue for arts and culture. That’s my idea of a perfect weekend.
He used to get stuck in traffic jams, but now he cycles to work: Lukas was born near Hanover and moved to Magdeburg to study. For his first job, he commuted between Wolfsburg and Magdeburg – until he decided to relocate his entire life here.
What’s still on your personal Saxony-Anhalt bucket list?
So far, I haven’t seen much of the Saale-Unstrut region, but I definitely want to change that soon. In fact, I’ve already got plans: I’m taking part in the Cycle Tour in September 2025. This is a multi-day cycling event that takes you from Magdeburg to the Saale-Unstrut wine region and back again. Three days of biking, spending the night at a vineyard, exploring the region, and tasting a bit of local wine – I’m really looking forward to it.
