Are you searching for some exciting things to do in Munster? If you have a few days in this beautiful German city, here’s what you can try out.
Is Munster Germany worth planning for and visiting? Absolutely yes! Here, you will get a feel of artificial lakes, fantastic events and festivals, a bike-friendly environment, and other great vibes.
Munster is a city that sits on the western side of Germany. It had been under the rulership of a Catholic Prince-Bishopric for quite some time.
When visiting Munster, you will see cathedrals, historical malls, museums, and other great historical monuments. Additionally, get to enjoy their scrumptious dishes and learn a thing or two from different people.
So, if you are looking for things to do in Munster and surrounding areas, this article is definitely for you.
Fun & Best Things to Do in Munster, Germany
1. Tour Prinzipalmarkt
This is a great place to begin when visiting Munster. It has an eye-catching secular Gothic architecture designed buildings. The city was rebuilt following mass destruction during World War II. They built better and more stylish buildings as compared to before.
In the center here, you will catch a glimpse of top Munster attractions as well as luxurious cafes, shops, alleys, small sculptures, and fountains.
It is the landmark of the town that is; St. Lambert’s Church, Townhouse Tower, the cathedral, and City Hall. With the help of the tourist center, behind the town hall, you will find valuable information on the history of this city.
It is important to note that they have an info desk during the high-peak season if you want to learn more about stories and dates from the horse’s mouth.
See Related: Popular Landmarks in Germany to Visit
2. Visit St. Lambert’s Church
It is one of the things to see in Munster. The church is located on the northern side of the main market square, and it’s a Roman Catholic structure. This church was built in the 14th century, and after World War II, it has been renovated and repaired.
Get to view the Gothic tower, which is the most famous known thing in the church. And from the tower, you will see three iron baskets or cages hanging.
This is because back in 1536, Bernd Krechting, Bernd Knipperdolling, and Jan van Leiden were tortured and killed for leading the famous Munster rebellion. Their bodies were hanged in these cages for over 50 years. And while the cages are currently empty, they are a clear reminder of one of the most fierce protestant revolutions in the world’s history.
The tower has a watchman guiding it at night as a tradition that has been there for more than 630 years.
Other churches you can pay a visit to include;
- St Clemen’s church- enjoy the quiet space and sit on the benches of the church surrounding it. This beautiful church was established between 1745 and 1753. The architect behind the beautiful structure was none other than Johann Conrad Schlaun.
- Überwasserkirche- this is a Gothic Catholic church that is beautifully designed among trees.
- St Ludgeri church- it is another incredible structure to see in Munster. It has impressive architecture and a metallic sculpture.
3. Sail through Lake Aasee
If you want a peaceful and tranquil place to chill, this is definitely the space for you. It is a large man-made lake with walking paths outside, making it ideal for physical body exercises.
For those who love boat riding, you can hire a pedal boat and self-navigate around the lake. The front side of the lake is cushioned by public art and trees. Satisfy your hunger at their cafes and restaurants at regular intervals.
On the north shore of the modern complex, there is a raised terrace. Basically, on a sunny day, just head for the lake and enjoy.
There is a solar-powered boat known as SOLAARIS that carries people to the west shore.
4. Allwetterzoo Munster
Allwetterzoo is a perfect place to be for a fun-filled day with your family. It is a zoo that was founded in 1875 and is near lake Aasee. If you have tagged your children along, this is a nice stop as they will enjoy seeing the animals on site. There are around 3000 animals from 300 different species.
The zoo also has indoor attractions like a laboratory for research, Bio City, a turtle conservation center, and an interactive exhibition that touches on biodiversity.
There are large panes that help you have a glimpse of ape species like gorillas. The green space is ample for picnics, and families can enjoy their playground.
Children can enjoy the petting zoo with chickens, dwarf goats, lambs, and guinea pigs. It also has an aquarium and a huge greenhouse. So, looking for some good stuff to do in Munster? Try out this zoo.
See Related: Best Things to Do in Mainz, Germany
5. Munster Cathedral
This is known as the most important church structure in Germany. There is a lot to know here if you create ample time to study more about the cathedral.
Get to see the tomb of the famous Clemens August Graf, who passed on in 1946, found in the southern chapel. This tomb was later beautified in the year 2005 by Pope Benedict XVI.
The cathedral also takes pride in one of the greatest and finest Astronomical Clocks, which is a beautiful sight to behold. The clock is well-maintained to date. You will literally get to see the murals, amazing porches, and magnificent sculptures of the 12 Apostles and Jesus.
Fixing this on your list of things to do in Munster is a choice you’ll not regret.
6. Tour the Burg Hulshoff
You cannot be in Munster and fail to visit this place. This is because it is the birthplace of the famous author and poet Annette von Droste.
The first mention of this water castle was in the 11th century. Since then, it has been restored quite a number of times. It is worthy mentioning that today, it is a museum.
For the interest of history, it is loaded with palaces and castles. There are also colorful blooms in the park’s castle that will certainly blow your mind.
The interior design of the museum gives you a glimpse of the extravagant lifestyle of the merchant nobility in Munster. There is also a well-kept park that benefits from the moats.
7. Tour the Historic City Hall of Munster
The city hall is one of Munster’s top attraction sites and landmarks, only second to Munster Cathedral. You cannot be in the city center and fail to notice this building because of its gorgeous beauty. The pinnacles, windows, gables, and arches offer a sight to never forget, making it one of the loveliest structures there is in Germany.
This hall has played a vital role hence the name “Hall of Peace.” The Peace of Westphalia was made in one of the theaters of this hall. It is certainly a predominant landmark in Munster that you can’t assume.
During the Second World War, it was destroyed but later rebuilt between 1950 and 1958. This gave the hall back its glory and charm.
Inside the hall, you will find a desk for different halls and visitor information. You can enjoy meals from the Ratskeller Restaurant, which is beside the town hall – a true taste of German delicacies.
8. Visit Stadtmuseum Munster
It was started in 1979, covering 1200 years in history. Its main focus is on architecture, culture, history, and art. Admission to the museum is absolutely free of charge. You can also request audio guides in English and pay a small fee for them.
You can make a prior call and get a one-on-one live tour guide that is done in English. On the ground floor of the museum, you will find a fleet of different shops.
Additionally, there are different models of the city in the outline of the exhibition. You can access more information about the museum via interactive displays and exhibits.
See related: Best Things to Do in Wolfsburg, Germany
9. Botanisher Garden Munster
This wouldn’t miss our list of best things to do in Munster. Found right behind Prince Bishop’s castle, the garden is undoubtedly something you want to see. It does not charge anything and is opened daily.
This botanical garden is under the management of the University of Munster, and you can pop in and have a look at what is going on inside. In front of the building, there’s a perfectly landscaped square that is mostly used for occasions and events.
In the early 1990s, a meadow, moor, and artificial steam were introduced, while a medicinal garden was added in 2005.
Although the gardens were destroyed during the second world war, it was later restored in 1952 and an extra five greenhouses were rebuilt.
10. Museum for Lacquer Art
The museum is also known as Museum für Lackkunst and tops many tourist lists of things to do in Munster. You will find objects that are from the Islamic world, Asia, and Europe, which are done in the lacquer style.
Two collectors named Kurt Herberts and Erich Zschocke are the main characters in the history of this museum. The oldest objects in this museum came from Korea and China. And, the local lacquer tree was used to make decorations.
Visiting the museum while in Munster not only gives you a chance to see beautiful and rare items but also helps you learn more about German history through art. It’s one of the many amazing museums in Germany.
11. Munster Cycling
You may be feeling like unwinding and having some quality me-time. Well, consider cycling since it is therapeutic. In Munster, there are more than half a million bicycles in total.
The city has set up three stations for safe parking hence encouraging cycling. And, the stations also offer repair and washing services.
Do not worry about the protective gear since there are cycle paths all over the city. If you want to visit the forests and castles on a day trip, you can do so since there is a network of sign-posted trails that have been set up.
12. Dance the Night Away at the Hot Jazz Club
The famous Jazz club started operations in 2005. It presents one of the most fulfilling things to do in Munster at night. Here, you can attend amazing concerts and get to enjoy a wide range of different talents.
Every year, this club opens its doors to different talents to showcase the various genres of music. You can have a taste of various performances from reggae, pop, rock, and soul from different artists.
This means that a boring evening in Munster is never an option. There is so much to enjoy and make your evenings awesome here.
13. Take a Look at the Pablo Picasso Museum
This museum is dedicated to the world-famous musician known as Pablo Picasso. Here, you will see more than 800 works done by Picasso. There are also documents and photos that are related to the artist.
This museum opened its doors in the late 1990s and has an old historic structure. Today the museum also showcases other artists’ works such as 208 by Georges Braque, 137 prints by Marc Chagall, and also French artists collections by Picasso, Aristide Maillol, and Matisse.
It boasts of having both temporary and permanent exhibitions. Additionally, this museum was once an aristocratic estate.
Also, if you are looking for a touch of history and culture, the museum offers an incredible option. Include it in your list of things to do in Munster, and thank me later.
See Related: Things to Do in Frankfurt, Germany
14. Visit the LWL Westphalian State Museum of Art and Cultural History
This startling museum was founded in 1908 and is a common stop in Munster. It has a massive collection of Gothic art and exhibits certain movements.
Another eye-catching piece is the family portrait by Hermann tom Ring, founded in 1562. It has over 450,000 displays and exhibits in over 50 rooms.
Other things that you expect to find here include cultural artifacts, sculptures, and art. They have been there since the middle ages up to date.
With all this information in hand, you can make Munster your final destination as to places you want to visit. However, there is a long list of other places you can make a point of visiting during your stay.
All in all, your list of things to do in Munster will always have incredible options.