Münster Profile – The City of Bicycles
This is what awaits you in Münster.
- Bicycle City Number 1 – No other German city has as much cycling as Münster. The “Promenade” is a dedicated bike highway around the city center.
- Historic Old Town – The Prinzipalmarkt with its gabled houses, the Town Hall of the Westphalian Peace, and the Cathedral shape the city’s skyline.
- Student Vibe – Over 50,000 students contribute to a youthful, vibrant city atmosphere.
- Green Oases – The Aasee, the Botanical Garden, and the Castle Garden offer relaxation right in the city.
- Culture and History – From the LWL Museum of Art and Culture to the traces of the Anabaptist movement, there is much to discover.
Exciting data and facts about Münster
- Area: approx. 303 km²
- Population: around 320,000
- Foundation: around 793 by the missionary Liudger
- University City: Over 50,000 students at the University of Münster (WWU)
- Bicycles: Over 500,000 bicycles – more than residents!
- Town Hall of the Westphalian Peace: Here the Thirty Years' War was ended in 1648
- Highest Point: Westerberg (97 m)
- Aasee: 40 hectares of water surface in the middle of the city
- Church City: Over 90 churches shape the cityscape
- Crime Scene Münster: With Thiel & Boerne, one of the most popular crime series in Germany
- Münsterland Pumpernickel: The famous dark bread is a specialty of the region
- Bicycle Paths: Over 450 km of bike paths make Münster the bicycle capital of Germany
The history of Münster – From bishop's city to modern metropolis
Münster has a long and eventful history, characterized by religious conflicts, peace treaties, and academic advancements.
The Beginnings – From Mission Station to Bishop City
The history of Münster begins in the year 793, when the missionary Liudger founded a monastery here. This quickly developed into a significant settlement, which became the seat of a bishop as early as the 9th century. The name "Münster" comes from "Monasterium" (Latin for monastery).
The Anabaptist Rule – A Dark Chapter
One of the most dramatic episodes in Münster's history was the rule of the Anabaptists (1534–1535). This radical religious movement took control of the city and established a kingdom of God. However, after bloody battles, the Anabaptists were defeated – their leaders were executed, and their cages are still visibly mounted on the Lambertikirchturm today.
The Peace of Westphalia – A World-Historical Event
Münster played a central role in European history when the Peace of Westphalia was signed here in 1648, ending the Thirty Years' War. The historic town hall, where the negotiations took place, is now a landmark of the city.
Münster Today – A City with International Flair
After World War II, Münster was rebuilt and developed into a modern yet tradition-conscious city. Today, it is not only a university and administrative city but also an important hub for science and culture.
The landmarks of Münster - Which sights should I not miss?
Münster is a city full of history and impressive architecture. Here you will find medieval buildings, magnificent churches, and idyllic squares, each telling its own story. But which landmarks should you definitely visit?
These landmarks you should see in Münster
- Prinzipalmarkt – The historic shopping street with beautiful gabled houses is the heart of the city.
- Dom St. Paulus – The imposing landmark of Münster with its medieval astronomical clock.
- Rathaus des Westfälischen Friedens – The site where the Thirty Years' War was ended in 1648.
- Lambertikirche & Täuferkäfige – One of the most significant churches in Münster, with a dark past.
- Schloss Münster & Botanischer Garten – A Baroque residence, now home to the university, with a beautiful garden.
- Aasee – The popular city lake with green spaces, cafes, and recreational opportunities.
- Allwetterzoo Münster – A modern zoo with impressive animal worlds and naturalistic enclosures.
- LWL-Museum für Kunst und Kultur – The most important art museum in Westphalia with impressive collections.
The Prinzipalmarkt – The Heart of Münster
The Prinzipalmarkt is Münster's most famous street and a true postcard motif. The magnificent gabled houses with their arcade walkways give the street a unique historical charm. Here you will find exclusive boutiques, cozy cafes, and the impressive town hall.
🗺️ Location: Right in the city center
☔ Features: Arcades for weather-protected strolling, historic flair
🎄 Tip: Especially beautiful during the Christmas season when everything is festively illuminated!
The Dom St. Paulus – A Masterpiece of Gothic Architecture
The Cathedral of Münster is one of the most significant cathedrals in Germany. Particularly worth seeing is the astronomical clock from the 16th century, which performs its show daily at noon.
🗺️ Location: Domplatz, Münster
⏰ Opening hours: Daily from 7:30 AM to 7:00 PM
🎟️ Admission: Free
🔔 Tip: Come at 12 PM to experience the chime of the astronomical clock!
The Lambertikirche and the Dark History of the Anabaptists
Three iron cages still hang from the towers of the Lambertikirche – a mute witness to Anabaptist rule. Here, the leaders of the radical movement were displayed posthumously for deterrence.
🗺️ Location: Prinzipalmarkt
🎟️ Admission: Free
🚪 Tip: The tower is still guarded by a watchman – one of the last traditions of its kind in Germany.
A Perfect Route for Your Sightseeing Tour in Münster
Münster is perfect for an exploration tour on foot or by bicycle. This route will take you to the most important highlights:
Start: Münster Central Station
- Prinzipalmarkt & Lambertikirche (10 min. walk)
- Dom St. Paulus (5 min. walk)
- Rathaus des Westfälischen Friedens (3 min. walk)
- Schloss Münster & Botanischer Garten (15 min. walk or 5 min. by bike)
- Aasee for a relaxing break (10 min. walk)
- LWL-Museum für Kunst und Kultur (15 min. walk back to the city center)
🚴♂️ Tip: If you have a bicycle, use the promenade – the green bike ring around the old town!
Rivers and bodies of water in Münster
Münster has a beautiful body of water in the city center, the Aasee. In addition, there is the Dortmund-Ems Canal and small rivers that shape the city's landscape.
| Water Body | Length | Special Features |
|---|---|---|
| Aasee | 2.3 km | Leisure lake with boat rentals & parks |
| Dortmund-Ems Canal | 265 km | Main waterway of Münster, ideal for walks |
| Werse | 67 km | Popular area for canoeing trips |
⚓ Tip: A boat tour on the Aasee is a must-do in Münster!
Events, events and more – What's happening in Münster?
Münster is a city that captivates with exciting events all year round. From historical festivals to sports events and music and cultural festivals - there’s always something happening here.
Don’t miss these events in Münster
- Send (Spring, Summer, and Autumn Send) – The largest fair in the Münsterland at the castle square.
- Münster Marathon – One of the most beautiful city marathons in Germany, passing many sights.
- Flea Market at the Harbor – One of the most popular flea markets in North Rhine-Westphalia right by the water.
- Christmas Markets in Münster – Five atmospheric markets with a festive ambiance.
- Skulptur Projekte (every 10 years) – A globally significant exhibition for modern art in public spaces.
- Carnival in Münster ("Rosenmontagszug") – Not Cologne, but Münster also celebrates exuberantly.
- Harbor Festival – Music, culture, and cuisine at the Kreativkai with a view of the city harbor.
The biggest events in Münster at a glance
| Event | Time Period | Information | Entry Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flea Market at the Harbor | Several times a year | One of the largest flea markets in North Rhine-Westphalia | Free |
| Skulptur Projekte | Every 10 years | International art exhibition | Free |
| Harbor Festival | June | Music and cultural festival at the city harbor | Free |
| Send (Spring, Summer, Autumn) | March, July, October | Largest fair in Westphalia | Free |
| Münster Marathon | September | Running event through the city | Registration required |
| Christmas Markets | End of November – December | 5 markets with different focuses | Free |
🎉 Tip: If you are in Münster at the right time, a visit to Send is worth it – especially on Wednesday is family day with discounted rides!
Our recommendations for your visit to Münster.
Münster offers the perfect highlights for every type of visitor. Whether you're a tourist, with family, or traveling solo – here are the best recommendations!
Five Excursion Destinations in Münster
🚴♂️ 1. Bike Tour Along the Promenade
The "Promenade" is a green belt around the city center designed exclusively for cyclists and pedestrians. A perfect route to explore the city by bike!
🏰 2. Burg Hülshoff
The water castle in Havixbeck is the birthplace of the poet Annette von Droste-Hülshoff and a fantastic place for walks and cultural experiences.
🦁 3. Allwetterzoo Münster
A family-friendly zoo with modern, animal-friendly enclosures and the popular elephant park.
🌳 4. Aasee & Mühlenhof Open-Air Museum
A perfect combination: first a walk around Aasee, then dive into the Münsterland of the 18th century at the open-air museum.
🎨 5. LWL Museum for Art and Culture
One of the best art museums in Germany with impressive collections from medieval art to modernity.
3 Recommendations in Münster for Couples
💑 1. Romantic Boat Tour on the Aasee
Rent a pedal or rowing boat and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere on the Aasee together – perfect for a date.
🌅 2. Enjoy the Sunset at the Harbor
The city harbor has developed into a trendy district. Especially in the evenings, the atmosphere by the water is ideal for a romantic dinner.
🎥 3. Joint Visit to One of the Cozy Independent Cinemas
The "Cinema & Kurbelkiste" or the "Schloßtheater" show lovingly selected films off the mainstream – a lovely alternative to the classic cinema night.
3 Recommendations in Münster for Singles
🍻 1. Bar Hopping in the Kuhviertel
The Kuhviertel is Münster's pub district. Here you can find everything from cozy pubs to modern cocktail bars – perfect for a social night out.
📚 2. Literary Café at the House of the Netherlands
Here you can read in a relaxed atmosphere, enjoy coffee, and maybe meet new people.
🎶 3. Concerts and Events at Gleis 22
"Gleis 22" is one of the hottest venues for indie and alternative concerts – perfect for a laid-back evening with good music.
3 Recommendations in Münster for Families
🦓 1. Allwetterzoo with Petting Zoo
Especially for children, the zoo is a real highlight, particularly with the walk-through petting zoo and the "Affricaneum".
🏰 2. Münster Castle & Botanical Garden
The botanical garden behind the castle is a green oasis, perfect for a relaxed family outing.
🎡 3. Children's Fair at the Send
The Send features many rides specifically for children, as well as game booths and treats like roasted almonds and cotton candy.
Three Hotel Recommendations in Münster
🏨 1. H4 Hotel Münster – Modern hotel in the city center with views of the Prinzipalmarkt.
🏨 2. Mövenpick Hotel Münster – Upscale hotel right by the Aasee with an excellent restaurant.
🏨 3. Factory Hotel – A stylish design hotel in the former Germania Brewery building.
Conclusion: Münster – The perfect city for cyclists and culture enthusiasts
Events, Activities and More – What’s Happening in Münster?
Münster is a city that excites with thrilling events all year round. From historical festivals to sports events and music and cultural festivals – there’s always something going on here.
Events You Shouldn't Miss in Münster
- Send (Spring, Summer, and Autumn Fair) – The largest funfair in the Münsterland, held in the Schlossplatz.
- Münster Marathon – One of the most beautiful city marathons in Germany, passing by many sights.
- Flea Market at the Harbor – One of the most popular flea markets in NRW right by the water.
- Christmas Markets in Münster – Five atmospheric markets with a festive atmosphere.
- Sculture Projects (every 10 years) – A globally significant exhibition for modern art in public spaces.
- Carnival in Münster (“Rosenmontagszug”) – Not Cologne, but Münster celebrates just as exuberantly.
- Harbor Festival – Music, culture, and culinary delights at the Kreativkai with views of the city harbor.
The Biggest Events in Münster at a Glance
| Event | Time Frame | Info | Admission |
|---|---|---|---|
| Send (Spring, Summer, Autumn) | March, July, October | Largest funfair in Westphalia | Free |
| Münster Marathon | September | Running event through the city | Registration required |
| Flea Market at the Harbor | Several times a year | One of the largest flea markets in NRW | Free |
| Christmas Markets | End of November – December | 5 markets with different themes | Free |
| Harbor Festival | June | Music and culture festival at the city harbor | Free |
| Sculture Projects | Every 10 years | International art exhibition | Free |
🎡 Tip: If you're in Münster at the right time, a visit to the Send is worthwhile – especially on Wednesdays, it's family day with discounted rides!
Our Recommendations for Your Visit to Münster
Münster offers suitable highlights for every type of visitor. Whether you're a tourist, with your family, or traveling solo – here are the best recommendations!
Five Excursions in Münster
🚴♂️ 1. Cycling Tour Along the Promenade
The "Promenade" is a green belt around the city center, designed exclusively for cyclists and pedestrians. A perfect route to explore the city on a bike!
🏰 2. Burg Hülshoff
The moated castle in Havixbeck is the birthplace of poet Annette von Droste-Hülshoff and a great place for walks and culture.
🐅 3. Allwetterzoo Münster
A family-friendly zoo with modern, animal-friendly enclosures and the popular elephant park.
🦆 4. Aasee & Mühlenhof Freilichtmuseum
A perfect combination: first a walk by the Aasee, then dive into the Münsterland of the 18th century at the open-air museum.
🎨 5. LWL Museum for Art and Culture
One of the best art museums in Germany with impressive collections spanning from medieval art to modern times.
3 Recommendations in Münster for Couples
💑 1. Romantic Boat Tour on the Aasee
Rent a pedal or rowing boat and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere on the Aasee together – perfect for a date.
🌅 2. Enjoy the Sunset at the Harbor
The city harbor has developed into a trendy area. Especially in the evening, the atmosphere by the water is ideal for a romantic dinner.
📽️ 3. Visit One of the Quaint Programm Cinemas Together
The "Cinema & Kurbelkiste" or "Schloßtheater" show lovingly selected films off the mainstream – a beautiful alternative to a classic movie night.
3 Recommendations in Münster for Singles
🍸 1. Bar-Hopping in the Kuhviertel
The Kuhviertel is Münster's pub district. Here you'll find everything from quaint pubs to modern cocktail bars – perfect for a social evening.
📚 2. Literature Café in the House of the Netherlands
Here you can read in a relaxed atmosphere, enjoy coffee, and perhaps meet new people.
🎶 3. Concerts and Events at Gleis 22
The "Gleis 22" is one of the hottest venues for indie and alternative concerts – perfect for a laid-back evening with good music.
3 Recommendations in Münster for Families
🐻 1. Allwetterzoo with Petting Zoo
For children, the zoo is a real highlight, especially with the interactive petting zoo and the "Affricaneum."
🏰 2. Schloss Münster & Botanical Garden
The botanical garden behind the castle is a green oasis that's perfect for a relaxing family outing.
🎠 3. Children's Funfair at the Send
The Send has many rides specifically for kids, and there are also game stalls and treats like candied almonds and cotton candy.
Three Hotel Recommendations in Münster
🏨 1. H4 Hotel Münster – A modern hotel in the city center with views of the Prinzipalmarkt.
🏨 2. Mövenpick Hotel Münster – An upscale hotel right by the Aasee with an excellent restaurant.
🏨 3. Factory Hotel – A stylish design hotel in the former Germania Brewery building.
Important Information for Your Visit to Münster
🚲 Bicycle City Münster – What You Need to Know!
- Münster has more bicycles than residents – pedestrians should be prepared for bike traffic!
- The "Promenade" is a car-free bike path – ideal for quick routes through the city.
- There are many bike rental stations around if you don't have one with you.
🚫 No-Gos in Münster:
- Driving in the city center is often complicated – it's better to use a bike or public transport.
- Don't ride your bike at night without lights – there are strict controls here!
- Crossing the Prinzipalmarkt by bike is prohibited – high fines await.
How to Get to Münster
🚗 Traveling by Car:
- Münster is located on the A1 and A43, easily accessible from Dortmund or Osnabrück.
- Parking spaces are scarce and expensive – it's better to use P+R places.
🚆 Traveling by Train:
- The main train station in Münster is well connected to the German ICE network.
- Direct connections exist to Hamburg, Cologne, Berlin, and Frankfurt, among others.
✈️ Traveling by Plane:
- The nearest airport is Münster/Osnabrück (FMO), about 30 minutes away by bus.
- Larger airports in Dortmund and DüD?sseldorf are also easily accessible.
Conclusion: Münster – The Perfect City for Cyclists and Culture Enthusiasts
Münster is a city that stands out for its high quality of life. Whether you stroll through the old town, enjoy the Aasee, or visit the university – here history meets a young, vibrant atmosphere. Particularly as a bicycle city, Münster is unique and perfect for exploration. So, what are you waiting for? Grab a bike and discover Münster!
