In the city of Muenster (also spelt Münster), history and modern appeal combine to create a fascinating cosmopolitan affair. Here, medieval treasures have been proudly renovated and beautiful architectural gems glisten along every street. Historic character meets contemporary charm around every corner. With a vibrant gastronomical scene, exquisite boutique shopping, and a bustling university, Muenster dazzles at every turn. Hop through the museums to learn more about the history of the area, get a taste of German culture at one of the amazing pubs, or rent a bicycle and explore the countryside like a local. Muenster is an invigorating city to discover. Here is a list of the ten amazing things to do while you are in town.
1. Sail across Lake Aasee
When the sun shines, the waters of Lake Aasee sparkle and reflect the buildings of the city center. Make your way to the banks of the lake to feed ducks and swans or stop for a coffee in one of the shore-side bistros. Watch the shifting hues of blue and green as cyclists and joggers make their way around the lake on their lunch break. This casual recreation spot is a lovely backdrop for a picnic or for a simple stroll along the pleasant promenade. While swimming is not allowed in the lake, you can rent paddleboats or small sailboats to skim across the water’s surface. You can also pop into the open-air museum, the Mühlenhof, or ogle the animals in the Altwetterzoo.
Lake Aasee
Address: Aasee, Münster, Germany
Website: Muenster Places of Interest
2. Stroll through centuries of art at LWL - Westphalian State Museum of Art and Cultural History
This unique museum creates a timeline of 1,000 years of art and spans different movements, styles, and mediums. Across 51 exhibit spaces, there are over 350,000 paintings, sculptures, photographs, drawings and prints, coins and objects, 135,000 books that start from the Medieval Age and range to the present. The museum was founded over 100 years ago, and the collections encompass Westphalian art to create a cultural history of the region. View these works, as well as others from across the world, and discover the evolution of art expression.
LWL - Museum Für Kunst Und Kultur
Address: Domplatz 10, 48143 Münster, Germany
Website: LWL
3. Cycle among the stores and sites of Prinzipalmarkt
There are twice as many bicycles in Muenster as there are people, making the “Leeze,” as it’s called in the city, the most popular form of transport. Tour the town like a local and rent a bicycle to pedal through the Prinzipalmarkt. This part of town was once the historic principal marketplace of Muenster, and remains a lovely shopping area today. World War II caused a lot of damage to the area, but thanks to reconstruction efforts, the buildings are an architectural beauty, modeled after their original facades. Admire the gabled houses as you step into luxurious boutiques and stop at delightful cafes and eateries that are sprinkled along the streets. A day spent cycling through the area provides immediate access to many of Muenster’s historical treasures, including the historical town-hall with its Hall of Peace.
Prinzipalmarkt
Address: Prinzipalmarkt, 48143 Münster, Germany
Website: Stadt Muenster
4. Stop for a pint at Kruse-Baimken
With a name derived from a “center of social life,” Kruse-Baimken takes German hospitality seriously. This traditional guest house is cozy, rustic, and provides stunning views as well as delicious food. Look out over the Aasee as you munch on schnitzel, fresh bratwurst, and regional specialties. The beer garden, which sits under the shade of ancient, overgrown trees, is an idyllic spot to sip on local ales.
Kruse-Baimken
Address: Am Stadtgraben 52, 48143 Münster, Germany
Website: Kruse-Baimken (in German)
5. Explore sites of history in the Rathaus
Dating to the mid 14th-century, Muenster’s Rathaus, or Town Hall, is a historic gem. Its high gable is a prime example of Gothic architecture, and a symbol of peace as the building hosted several treaty signings. In 1648, the Rathaus hosted the peace treaty between Spain and the Netherlands; a treaty that made up the Peace of Westphalia and ended the Thirty Years’ War in Germany and the eighty-year Dutch War of Independence.
Rathaus
Address: Prinzipalmarkt 10, 48143 Münster, Germany
Website: Stadt Munster (in German)
6. Ogle masterpieces by Pablo Picasso
The Pablo Picasso Museum is a celebration of the iconic Spanish artist’s works. This unique attraction is Germany’s only Picasso museum and houses more than 780 lithographs. In addition to Picasso’s state prints and test prints portfolio, you can also admire the works of Picasso’s contemporaries and his friends. Under the skillful hands of the museum’s curators, thematic collections encourage new conversations and prompt new insights about the works.
Pablo Picasso Museum
Address: Königsstraße 1, 48143 Münster, Germany
Website: Pablo Picasso Museum
7. Tap your toes at the Hot Jazz Club
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Ever-changing lineups, amazing concerts, and a wide array of talent will keep jazz aficionados coming back to this wonderful venue in Muenster. Since opening in 2005, the club has welcomed extraordinary talents through its doors, and each year’s program includes sessions and series showcasing several styles of music. In addition to jazz and blues concerts, the Hot Jazz Club has also held performances from funk, soul, rock, pop, reggae, ska and electronic music musicians.
Hot Jazz Club
Address: Hafenweg 26B, 48155 Münster, Germany
Website: Hot Jazz Club
8. Watch the astronomical clock in St. Paulus Cathedral
A relic from the 13th-century, St. Paulus Cathedral (also known as Muenster Cathedral) is a beauty to behold. Today, it serves as the center of the Diocese of Münster, but tourists are welcome to come admire the gorgeous architecture and learn more about the cathedral. The cathedral is home to a spectacular astronomical clock which is a mechanical device from the late Middle Ages that tells the time as well as the date. The clock has been spectacularly maintained despite its ancient age and puts on a show daily.
St. Paulus Cathedral
Address: Domplatz 28, 48143 Münster, Germany
Website: St. Paulus Cathedral
9. Shop like a local at Wochenmarkt
The Wochenmarkt is Muenster’s largest weekly market. Every Wednesday and Saturday stalls take over the Cathedral Square and fill the space with fresh produce, brilliant flowers, and bright fashion accessories. Amble around the stalls and sample regional cheeses and meats, or grab fresh ingredients to prepare your meals with. You can even pick up souvenirs to take back with you, like Dutch licorice or local honey.
Wochenmarkt
Address: Domplatz, 48143 Münster, Germany
Website: Wochenmarkt
10. Check out the architecture of the Schloss
Once belonging to the prince-bishop of the region, the Schloss was built from 1767-1787. After suffering external damages, the building has been restored to its beautiful exterior, originally constructed by Johann Conrad Schlaun. The Schloss now serves as the administration office for Muenster’s university, but the Baroque building is a picturesque backdrop for sightseers and visitors can explore the attached botanical gardens.
Schloss
Address: Schlossgarten 3, 48149 Münster, Germany
Website: Stadt Muenster
Discover the city of Muenster
Muenster is a hub of art, architecture, and museums. Explore this unique city that blends the best of ancient traditions and contemporary development. The coexistence of so many cultural elements creates an enchanting city that should definitely be at the top of your German bucket list.
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