Things to do in North Münster

Overlooked by some of Münster’s most regal and historic buildings, the Prinzipalmarkt is a long and lively pedestrian avenue. Here, you’ll find high-end boutiques and cafés sheltered by elegant colonnades. Meet friends in this central square and explore the sights of the Old Town quarter.

The Muenster Cathedral, first built in 1225, is one of the most iconic buildings in all of Germany’s Westphalia region. Dedicated to St. Paul, the cathedral is famous for its varied architecture ranging from Carolingian to Gothic, as well as its rich artwork and religious artifacts.

The Westphalian State Museum for Art and Cultural History has a collection that spans the history of Westphalia, from its Roman days to the present. From coins to religious objects to sculpture, painting and graphic design, this museum provides great insight into the art and culture of Muenster and the surrounding region.

St. Lambert’s Church is an impressive Gothic addition to Muenster’s main square. The spires and stone work, now blackened with time, are beautiful and engaging. Look up, however, to spot the famous addition to the facade: three metal cages attached to the steeple of the church.

Rising splendidly over Muenster’s main square, the Historisches Rathaus (Historical Town Hall of Muenster) has born witness to some of the most significant events in European history. Muenster was where the Peace of Muenster was negotiated in the Friedenssaal (Hall of Peace). This event ended the Thirty Years’ War and forced Spain to acknowledge the independence of the Netherlands. Although the building was destroyed during World War II, many of its treasures were spirited away and it was lovingly rebuilt in the 1950s. Visit to be awed by the history of this magnificent landmark.

Foodies of all ages will find much to excite their tastebuds at the Wochenmarkt Muenster. This food and crafts market dominates the area in front of Muenster Cathedral. Rain or shine, summer or winter, the people of Muenster spend their mornings sampling the many goods on offer, from traditional bratwurst to Greek antipasti, to Chinese noodles.

Elaborate sculptures, statues and landscaped gardens create a majestic setting for the Münster Castle. It was built as the prince bishop’s residence and is today an important part of the city’s university. Be sure to take a camera with you when you visit Münster Castle as the red-and-white stripes adorning the majestic frontage, as well as the green bell tower, make for striking photos.

Maintained by the University of Münster, the Münster Botanical Garden is a stunning leafy haven beside the Prince Bishop’s Castle. It was founded at the beginning of the 19th century and has an array of greenhouses containing flora from exotic parts of the globe. Visit Münster Botanical Garden with family or friends to stroll along the banks of the stream, appreciating the serenity in this 11-acre (4.6-hectare) garden.