The top 10 top list of the best sights in Bielefeld
Bielefeld is a city in the northeast of North Rhine-Westphalia that is often labeled as boring and uninteresting. But that's not fair, because Bielefeld has a lot to offer. In this blog post I present you the top 10 list of the best sights in Bielefeld that you shouldn't miss on your next visit.
1. Sparrenburg: The Sparrenburg is the landmark of Bielefeld and a medieval fortress that towers on a hill above the city. From here you have a great view of the city and the surrounding area. The castle is also a museum where you can learn more about the history of Bielefeld and the castle's role in the Thirty Years' War. You can also climb the 37 meter high tower or walk through the underground casemates.
2. Kunsthalle Bielefeld: The Kunsthalle Bielefeld is a museum for modern art housed in an impressive concrete structure. The museum shows works by international artists such as Picasso, Klee, Warhol, Beuys and many more. The Kunsthalle also regularly offers special exhibitions, guided tours and workshops.
3. Olderdissen Zoo: The Olderdissen Zoo is a free zoo where you can see over 450 animals from 90 different species. The zoo specializes primarily in domestic and European wild animals, such as bears, wolves, lynxes, wild boars, deer and owls. The zoo is also a nature reserve where you can walk and enjoy nature.
4. Botanical Garden: The Botanical Garden is a green oasis in the city where you can admire over 2,500 species of plants from all over the world. The garden is divided into different themed areas, such as the Alpinum, the Heath Garden, the Cottage Garden or the Japanese Garden. The Botanical Garden also offers guided tours, events and educational opportunities.
5. Farmhouse Museum: The Farmhouse Museum is an open-air museum where you can view historic farmhouses from different regions of Westphalia. The museum shows how people lived and worked in the past and offers an insight into rural culture and traditions. The museum also hosts markets, festivals and craft demonstrations.
6. Leineweber market: The Leineweber market is the largest folk festival in Bielefeld and takes place every year in May. The market offers a colorful mix of music, art, culture and cuisine. Local and national bands perform on several stages, while original products are on sale at the craft market. Numerous stands with regional and international specialties ensure your physical well-being.
7. Dr. Oetker World: The Dr. Oetker Welt is a world of experience all about the well-known brand for bakery and dessert products. Here you can see the history and products of Dr. Discover Oetker, take part in a factory tour or get creative in the bakery. The Dr. Oetker Welt also offers a café, a shop and a play area for children.
8. Old Town: The old town of Bielefeld is the historical core of the city and invites you to stroll and linger. Here you will find many beautiful half-timbered houses, churches and monuments from different eras. The old town also offers many shops, cafes and restaurants to suit every taste.
9. Teutoburg Forest: The Teutoburg Forest is a low mountain range that extends south of Bielefeld and is a popular destination for hikers and cyclists. The forest is known for its legendary battle between the Germanic peoples and the Romans in 9 AD, which is immortalized on the Hermannsdenkmal. The forest also offers many other attractions, such as the Externsteine, the Adlerwarte or the Detmold open-air museum.
10. Bielefelder Alm: The Bielefelder Alm is the stadium of the Arminia Bielefeld football club and a must for all sports fans. The stadium holds over 27,000 spectators and offers a great atmosphere at home games. The stadium also offers tours, a fan project and a museum.