When it comes to a historical and architectural trip, Bielefeld is a great destination that's full of surprises. Located in the heart of eastern Germany, Bielefeld is an old yet vibrant city with numerous museums, monuments, and other attractions. Whether it’s a relaxing day in the park or a handful of sightseeing destinations, Bielefeld has plenty to offer. Here are some of the must-visit historical and architectural sites in Bielefeld that will make your trip memorable.
Old Town Hall of Bielefeld: This Gothic-style building dates back to 1448 and is located in the center of the city. The building is a mixture of architectural styles and features a richly decorated facade, an astronomical clock, and a garden. Entrance is free and the building is open from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., except for Sundays.
Museum of Modern Art in Bielefeld: Located in the old quarter, this museum is one of the largest of its kind in the region. The museum offers a wide range of contemporary art from different periods. Admission is free and the museum is open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. every day of the week.
Bielefeld Art Gallery: The closely situated art gallery offers works from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Admission is € 5.00 and the gallery is open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. during the summer season. During the winter season, it is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sparkassen Park: This beautiful park, located at the edge of town, features green areas, a lake, and numerous statues. Walking and biking are popular activities here. The park is open from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. in the winter and from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. in the summer.
Bielefeld Cathedral: This imposing building is one of the city’s oldest landmarks and a great example of Gothic architecture. The cathedral was built in 1237 and is still in use as a place of worship. The entrance fee is € 2.00 and the cathedral is open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on weekdays and from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sundays.
Altstaedter Markt: Altstädter Markt is a vibrant market square in the heart of Bielefeld old town. On the weekends, it hosts a lively market where food stalls offer locally grown food, such as sausages, cheese, and freshly baked breads.
Kunsthalle: Kunsthalle Bielefeld is one of the city’s foremost modern art venues. Admission is € 5.00 except for special exhibitions. The Kunsthalle is open from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on weekdays and from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Saturdays.
A visit to Bielefeld should also include a sampling of the regional cuisine. Traditional dishes include Soljanka (a sour-spicy soup), Klöße (dumplings) and Sauerbraten (a marinated roast). Bielefeld also has a wide selection of international restaurants, from Mediterranean to Mexican.
A historical and architectural tour of Bielefeld is truly an unforgettable experience. Whether it’s soaking in the sights of the old town or exploring the city’s numerous museums and galleries, Bielefeld is a great destination for everyone.
