Bielefeld Travel Guide

Discover the natural beauty, cultural attractions, food scene, and local customs of Bielefeld, Germany. Plan your visit with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Bielefeld

Bielefeld is a hidden gem located in the Teutoburg Forest, in North Rhine-Westphalia, Central Europe. This peaceful city boasts a blend of rich history, modern architecture, unspoiled nature, and a vibrant cultural scene. It is the perfect destination for those who seek an authentic German experience without the hustle and bustle of the big cities.

List of Places to Visit in Bielefeld

Here are the top must-visit attractions in Bielefeld:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Bielefeld Castle - A magnificent castle that dates back to the 13th century and houses the Historical Museum of the City of Bielefeld.
  • Sparrenburg Castle - A medieval fortress that offers a breathtaking view of Bielefeld and the surrounding area.
  • Kunsthalle Bielefeld - A renowned art museum that exhibits works of contemporary and modern art.
  • Old Market Square (Alter Markt) - A historic square famous for its architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
  • St. Mary’s Church (St. Marienkirche) - A stunning Gothic church that dates back to the 13th century and features impressive stained glass windows.

Natural Attractions of Bielefeld: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Teutoburg Forest - A natural wonder that stretches over 150 km and offers hiking, biking, and scenic drives through its green valleys, rocky ridges, and picturesque villages.
  • Botanical Garden Bielefeld - A peaceful oasis with more than 4,500 plant species from around the world.
  • Ravensberg Park - A vast park that offers leisure activities, stunning views, and cultural events throughout the year.
  • Lake Obersee - A serene lake surrounded by a forest that offers swimming, boating, and picnicking opportunities.
  • Hermannsdenkmal - A monumental statue that commemorates the ancient battle of the Teutoburg Forest and offers a panoramic view of the landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bielefeld

Bielefeld has an extensive network of hiking and biking trails that lead through its forests, hills, and fields. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Hermannsweg - A 156-km long trail that runs from Rheine to Horn-Bad Meinberg and passes through Bielefeld’s most scenic areas.
  • Teuto-Senne Trail - A 156-km loop trail that takes you through the Teutoburg Forest and Senne heathland.
  • Ems Cycle Route - A 375-km long cycling route that passes through Bielefeld and follows the course of the River Ems.

Best Things to Do in Bielefeld: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best activities and tours in Bielefeld:

  • Bielefeld Food Tour - A gastronomic adventure that takes you on a journey through Bielefeld’s culinary scene and introduces you to its unique dishes and drinks.
  • Bielefeld City Tour - A guided tour that takes you through the city’s historic landmarks, cultural institutions, and hidden gems.
  • Teuto-Express - A miniature train that takes you on a scenic tour through the Teutoburg Forest and allows you to enjoy the beauty of the landscape without getting tired.
  • Bielefeld Beer Route - A pub crawl that takes you through Bielefeld’s best breweries and beer gardens and introduces you to the local beer culture.
  • Bielefeld Christmas Market - A festive market that takes place every year in the Old Market Square and offers traditional food, drinks, and handicrafts.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bielefeld

Day 1: Explore the Old Town, visit Bielefeld Castle, and immerse yourself in the history of the city.

Day 2: Hike or bike the Hermannsweg trail and enjoy the scenic views of the Teutoburg Forest.

Day 3: Visit the Kunsthalle Bielefeld and admire the works of contemporary and modern art.

Day 4: Discover the natural beauty of Lake Obersee and go for a swim or boat ride.

Day 5: Take a day trip to nearby cities such as Detmold or Osnabrück and experience their unique culture.

Day 6: Visit the Sparrenburg Castle and enjoy a panoramic view of Bielefeld and the surrounding area.

Day 7: Enjoy a relaxing day in Ravensberg Park and attend a cultural event such as a concert or a theater performance.

Food and Drink Scene of Bielefeld

Bielefeld has a rich culinary tradition that reflects its cultural and historical influences. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bielefelder Pinkel - A type of sausage made of oatmeal, barley, and bacon.
  • Bielefelder Buchweizentorte - A traditional buckwheat cake filled with cream and fruit.
  • Pumpernickel - A type of dark rye bread that is baked slowly for up to 24 hours.

Local Beverages

  • Bielefelder Bier - A light, refreshing beer that is brewed locally and can be found in most bars and restaurants.
  • Korn - A strong, clear alcoholic spirit that is distilled from wheat or rye.

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

Bielefeld offers a wide range of accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences. Some of the best places to stay include:

  • Radisson Blu Hotel Bielefeld - A modern hotel located in the city center that offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a fitness center.
  • Jugendherberge Bielefeld - A hostel located in a historic building that offers affordable accommodation, a courtyard, and a game room.
  • Légère Hotel Bielefeld - A stylish hotel located in a quiet area that offers spacious rooms, a restaurant, and a lounge.

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

Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring back from Bielefeld:

  • Loom Bielefeld - A shopping center that offers a wide range of local and international brands, as well as souvenirs and handicrafts.
  • Leineweber Market - A market that takes place every Saturday and offers local products such as cheese, honey, and handicrafts.
  • Bielefelder Zigarren - A brand of cigars that is produced locally and is known for its high quality.

Local Culture and Customs of Bielefeld

Bielefeld has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its traditions, festivals, and everyday life. Here are some of the most important customs and norms:

  • Punctuality - Germans are known for their punctuality, so make sure to arrive on time for any appointments or events.
  • Tipping - Tipping is common in Germany, and the usual amount is 10% of the total bill.
  • Cycling - Bielefeld is a bike-friendly city, so don’t be surprised to see many people commuting by bike.

Best Time to Visit Bielefeld

The best time to visit Bielefeld is from May to September, when the weather is mild and the nature is at its best. The city also hosts many festivals and events during this period, such as the Sparrenburgfest and the Bielefelder Nachtansichten.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bielefeld

Do:

  • Do try the local dishes and beverages.
  • Do explore the nature and countryside of Bielefeld.
  • Do visit the cultural landmarks and institutions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t be late for appointments or events.
  • Don’t take photos of people without their permission.
  • Don’t litter or damage the nature or cultural sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bielefeld

Bielefeld is a safe city with low crime rates. However, it is always advisable to take basic precautions such as locking your doors, not leaving your belongings unattended, and avoiding dark and isolated areas at night.

Health in Bielefeld

Bielefeld has a well-developed health care system that provides high-quality services to residents and visitors. There are several hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies in the city. It is also recommended to have travel insurance before visiting Bielefeld.

Getting to Bielefeld: Transportation Options and Logistics

Bielefeld is easily accessible from different parts of Germany and Europe. Here are some transportation options and logistics:

Airports Near Bielefeld

The nearest airports to Bielefeld are Paderborn-Lippstadt Airport (PAD) and Hanover Airport (HAJ).

Bus Stations Near Bielefeld

Bielefeld has a main bus station (ZOB) that is connected to many cities in Germany and Europe.

Other Options

Bielefeld is well-connected by train to other parts of Germany and Europe. There are also several car rental companies in the city.

How to Get Around in Bielefeld

Bielefeld has an efficient public transportation system that consists of buses, trams, and trains. It is also a bike-friendly city that offers many bike rental options.

Where to Go Next from Bielefeld: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions that you can visit from Bielefeld:

  • Detmold - A historic town that is known for its castle, museums, and parks.
  • Osnabrück - A charming city that offers a blend of history, culture, and nature.
  • Münster - A vibrant city that is known for its lively culture, art, and nightlife.

Conclusion

Bielefeld is a city that offers something for everyone. With its rich culture, beautiful nature, and charming atmosphere, it is the perfect destination for those who seek a unique and authentic German experience. Plan your visit to Bielefeld and discover its hidden gems and treasures.

Old City Hall ''(Altes Rathaus)'' Old City Hall ''(Altes Rathaus)'' City Theatre at Niederwall (1904) City Theatre at Niederwall (1904) Central station ''(Hauptbahnhof)'' Central station ''(Hauptbahnhof)'' The Bielefeld Stadtbahn The Bielefeld Stadtbahn