Osnabrück Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Osnabrück with this comprehensive tour guide, featuring must-see attractions, activities, food and drink scene, local culture, and more.


Introduction to Osnabrück

Located in Western Plains, in Lower Saxony, in Germany, in Central Europe, Osnabrück is a vibrant city that boasts a rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural landscapes. Founded in the 8th century, the city was once a hub for trade and commerce, and today, it offers visitors an array of fascinating attractions, delicious food and drink, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re interested in exploring museums and historical sites, hiking or biking through scenic routes, or savoring local delicacies, Osnabrück has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Osnabrück

Here’s a list of must-visit places in Osnabrück:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Felix Nussbaum House and Museum: This museum is dedicated to the life and work of Felix Nussbaum, a Jewish painter who died in Auschwitz during World War II. The museum houses a collection of his paintings and sketches and offers insight into his life and the time he lived in.

  • Osnabrück Castle: Built in the 17th century, this castle is now home to the city’s administrative offices. Visitors can explore the castle’s courtyard and surrounding gardens.

  • Kalkriese Museum and Park: This outdoor museum commemorates the Battle of the Teutoburg Forest, a significant event in German history. Visitors can explore the battlefield and learn about the tactics used by the Roman army and the Germanic tribes.

  • St. Peter’s Cathedral: Located in the heart of Osnabrück, this historic cathedral features a stunning Baroque interior and is the burial site of the city’s bishops and dukes.

Natural Attractions of Osnabrück: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Heger Tor: This gate is located on the outskirts of the city and offers a stunning view of the surrounding landscape.

  • Botanischer Garten: Osnabrück’s botanical gardens feature a variety of plants from around the world and are perfect for a leisurely stroll.

  • Piesberg: This rocky hill is ideal for hiking or biking, with numerous trails offering stunning views of Osnabrück and the surrounding area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Osnabrück

Osnabrück boasts a network of scenic hiking and biking routes that cater to all levels of experience. Some popular routes include:

  • Piesberg Circuit: This 6.5 km route offers stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside.

  • Kinderwag Route: This relatively easy 12 km route is ideal for families with younger children and offers great views of Osnabrück.

  • Rubbenbruchsee Route: This 7.5 km route takes you through beautiful forests and parks and around the picturesque Rubbenbruch lake.

Best Things to Do in Osnabrück: Activities and Tours

From visiting museums and historic sites to outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, Osnabrück offers a wide range of activities and tours. Here are some of the best things to do in Osnabrück:

  • Guided City Tour: Learn about the rich history and culture of Osnabrück on a guided city tour.

  • Wine Tasting Tour: Sample some of the region’s finest wines on a guided tour of local wineries.

  • Bike Adventure Tour: Get off the beaten path and explore Osnabrück’s scenic countryside by bike.

Week-Long Itinerary for Osnabrück

Day 1: Explore the city center, including St. Peter’s Cathedral and Osnabrück Castle.

Day 2: Visit the Felix Nussbaum House and Museum and spend the afternoon at the Botanischer Garten.

Day 3: Take a scenic hiking or biking route, such as the Piesberg Circuit or Rubbenbruchsee Route.

Day 4: Visit the Kalkriese Museum and Park and learn about the Battle of the Teutoburg Forest.

Day 5: Take a wine tasting tour and sample some of the region’s finest wines.

Day 6: Join a guided city tour and learn about the history and culture of Osnabrück.

Day 7: Explore the city’s food and drink scene, trying local delicacies such as Kasebrot.

Food and Drink Scene of Osnabrück

Osnabrück boasts a vibrant food and drink scene, with a range of local delicacies to try. Here are some must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kasebrot: This locally produced cheese bread is a must-try for cheese lovers.

  • Bratwurst: Osnabrück’s version of this classic German sausage is delicious and worth a try.

  • Rote Grütze: This sweet dessert is made with a mix of berries and cream and is a real local favorite.

Local Beverages

  • Osnabrücker Bär: This local beer is brewed with hops from the surrounding hills and is a popular choice among locals.

  • Korn: A type of distilled spirit made from rye, Korn is a popular local drink that is often served with a slice of lemon.

Where to Stay in Osnabrück: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Osnabrück offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are some recommendations:

  • Vienna House Remarque Osnabrück: This four-star hotel is centrally located and offers comfortable rooms and excellent amenities.

  • Ibis Budget Osnabrück City: This budget-friendly hotel is located in the heart of the city and offers clean, comfortable rooms at an affordable price.

  • BAUHAUS Gästezimmer: This guesthouse is located in a historic building and offers cozy, comfortable rooms and a welcoming atmosphere.

What to Buy in Osnabrück: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in Osnabrück, consider picking up some of these local souvenirs and products:

  • Korn: This local distilled spirit makes a great gift for friends or family back home.

  • Handmade pottery: Osnabrück has a rich tradition of pottery-making, and there are plenty of shops selling locally made pottery.

  • Cheese: Osnabrück is well-known for its delicious cheese, and there are plenty of cheese shops where you can pick up some of the region’s finest.

Local Culture and Customs of Osnabrück

Osnabrück has a rich cultural heritage, and locals are proud of their city’s history and traditions. Visitors should respect local customs and be aware of cultural differences when traveling in Osnabrück.

Best Time to Visit Osnabrück

The best time to visit Osnabrück is from May to October, when temperatures are mild and outdoor activities are at their best. However, the city is worth visiting year-round, and there are plenty of indoor attractions to enjoy during the cooler months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Osnabrück

Do:

  • Do try local delicacies such as Kasebrot and Rote Grütze.

  • Do respect local customs and traditions.

  • Do take advantage of the city’s excellent outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or disrespect the city’s natural spaces.

  • Don’t ignore local customs or cultural differences.

  • Don’t be loud or disruptive in public spaces.

Safety and Health

Osnabrück is a safe and healthy city, but visitors should take the usual precautions when traveling. Here’s what you need to know:

Safety in Osnabrück

  • Petty theft can be an issue in tourist areas, so be aware of your surroundings and keep valuable items secure.

  • The city’s outdoor areas can be slippery or uneven, so wear appropriate footwear and use caution when hiking or biking.

Health in Osnabrück

  • Osnabrück has a good healthcare system, and visitors can access medical care if needed.

  • Tap water in Osnabrück is safe to drink.

Getting to Osnabrück: Transportation Options and Logistics

Osnabrück can be reached by plane, train, or bus. Here’s what you need to know:

Airports Near Osnabrück

  • Münster-Osnabrück International Airport is the closest airport to Osnabrück, with regular flights to destinations around Europe.

Bus Stations Near Osnabrück

  • Osnabrück has a central bus station with regular connections to major cities in the region.

Other Options

  • Osnabrück is well-connected by train, with regular services to major cities in Germany and beyond.

How to Get Around in Osnabrück

Osnabrück is a relatively small city, and most attractions can be easily reached on foot or by bike. However, there are also public transportation options, including buses and trams, that connect different parts of the city.

Where to Go Next from Osnabrück: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Osnabrück is a great base for exploring other parts of Lower Saxony and beyond. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Bremen: This historic city is just a few hours away by train and is home to a stunning cathedral and a picturesque old town.

  • Hanover: The capital of Lower Saxony is a cultural hub with plenty of museums, theaters, and galleries to explore.

  • Münster: Just a short drive from Osnabrück, Münster has a beautiful old town and a rich cultural heritage.

Conclusion

Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s rich cultural history or getting out into nature, Osnabrück is a fantastic destination that offers something for everyone. With excellent outdoor activities, a vibrant food and drink scene, and plenty of cultural attractions, it’s a must-visit city in Lower Saxony.

Aerial view of Osnabrück with focus on St. Catherine's Church (Katharinenkirche) Aerial view of Osnabrück with focus on St. Catherine's Church (Katharinenkirche) City hall City hall Osnabrück marketplace Osnabrück marketplace Lagerhalle entrance Lagerhalle entrance