Paderborn, Germany: The Perfect 4-Day Getaway

Discover the historical charm of Paderborn in Germany.

22 April 2023

As a tourist, a visit to Paderborn takes you through a blend of history, culture, and modernism. The city is home to significant monuments such as the Paderborn Cathedral, the Heinz Nixdorf Museum, and the imposing Renaissance Town Hall. From strolling the picturesque streets to indulging in local cuisines, a trip to Paderborn is a pleasant and enchanting experience.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival and Explore

  • Check into Hotel Aspethera, a chic boutique hotel with a cozy vibe
  • Head to the Paderquellen, a natural spring that feeds the Pader river, for a serene walk in nature
  • Visit the Paderborn Cathedral, a stunning Romanesque-style structure that dates back to the 8th century
  • Enjoy a traditional German meal at Brauhaus Sasse, known for their hearty cuisine and extensive beer selection
  • Finish the day with a drink at Bar Rossi, a stylish bar that's perfect for people watching
Day 2

Culture and Cuisine

  • Start the day with a visit to the Heinz Nixdorf Museum Forum, the world's largest computer museum
  • Explore the city with a walking tour, led by a local guide who will give you an insider's perspective on the history and culture of Paderborn
  • Have lunch at Cafe Knigge, a charming cafe that serves delicious homemade cakes and pastries
  • Discover the art scene at the Kunstverein Paderborn, showcasing contemporary art by local and international artists
  • Treat yourself to a fine dining experience at Vino e Cucina, an Italian restaurant known for using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients
Day 3

Day Trip to Detmold

  • Take a day trip to the nearby town of Detmold, only a 30-minute drive away
  • Visit the stunning castle of Detmold, a fairy-tale castle nestled in the lush greenery of the Teutoburg Forest
  • Explore the Open-Air Museum of Detmold, an outdoor museum showcasing the rural history and traditions of the region
  • Have lunch at Kornblume, a cozy restaurant that serves seasonal dishes made with ingredients from their own garden
  • Visit the Hermannsdenkmal, a massive statue of Hermann the Cheruscan, a hero of Germanic tribes in the 1st century AD
Day 4

Shop and Relax

  • Spend the morning shopping at the popular Libori Galerie shopping mall, with a wide range of shops and cafes
  • Take a stroll in the beautiful Arminiuspark, a peaceful park with a lake and great views of the city
  • Treat yourself to a spa day at the VitaSol Therme, a spa complex that features saunas, pools, and treatments for ultimate relaxation
  • Have a late lunch at Restaurant Haxterpark, a modern restaurant that serves delicious international cuisine with a view of the park
  • End the trip with a drink at Brauhaus Im Keller, a popular brewery that's known for their refreshing beers and lively atmosphere. Cheers!

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Paderborn, Germany by plane is to fly into Paderborn Lippstadt Airport (PAD) which is located just over 10km away from the city centre. Multiple airlines offer direct flights from major European cities such as London, Munich, and Vienna.

Car

The best way to get to Paderborn, Germany by car would be to take the A33 motorway which runs directly to Paderborn. From Berlin, it would take around 4.5 hours to reach Paderborn by car, but it is recommended to check traffic and weather conditions beforehand.

Train

The best way to get to Paderborn, Germany by train would be to take a high-speed train to the Paderborn main station which is well connected to multiple German cities such as Berlin, Cologne, and Hamburg. The ICE train from Berlin Hauptbahnhof takes just over three hours to reach Paderborn.

Boat

There is no direct way to get to Paderborn, Germany by boat as it is not a coastal city. The nearest port is in Bremen which is over 200km away from Paderborn.

Bus

The best way to get to Paderborn, Germany by bus is to book a coach service such as Flixbus, which offers regular services from various German cities including Berlin, Frankfurt, and Hamburg to Paderborn.

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Paderborn, Germany offers a fantastic family-friendly trip with plenty of activities for everyone. Explore the fascinating Paderborn Cathedral, one of the oldest religious buildings in Germany, and let the kids marvel at its stunning architecture. Take a leisurely stroll along the Pader River, known for its picturesque landscapes and charming walking paths that are perfect for a family outing. Lastly, don't miss a visit to the Heinz Nixdorf MuseumsForum, the world's largest computer museum, where kids can immerse themselves in the history and evolution of technology.