Prinzipalmarkt is in the heart of Münster’s Old Town; paths by Lake Aasee lead through green spaces, and sculptures around the lake were created specifically for four major sculpture exhibitions held from 1977 to 2007. This blend of city history, activity and art offers different ways to shape a stay in Münster. If you’re looking for accommodation, consider whether the Old Town, cycling or time by Lake Aasee will be the focus of your stay.
Old Town, market and city history
With around 150 stalls, the weekly market on Domplatz is the largest market in Münster; the number of stalls may vary. The City Museum Münster presents the city’s history from its beginnings to the present day in 33 themed galleries. This offers a choice of different ways to explore the city: Prinzipalmarkt as a specific place in the Old Town, the market, and a thematically organised presentation of the city’s history. The museum’s historical span runs from Münster’s beginnings to the present day.
Green belt and cycling routes
The Promenade forms a green belt around the Old Town and follows the former city wall for 4.5 kilometres from Lake Aasee to the Old Town. Its double row of lime trees is car-free and an important route for pedestrians, cyclists and inline skaters. It is a clearly defined green corridor with named endpoints. For longer cycling plans, cyclists can use the node-based route system throughout the city and beyond; it connects the city, region and state. Signage and route details may change, so check the latest information before setting out.
Lake Aasee: paths, art and water
Lake Aasee is Münster’s most central recreational area. Paths by the lake lead through green spaces and are used by walkers, cyclists and inline skaters. The art in the area has a distinct historical connection: the sculptures around Lake Aasee were created specifically for the four major sculpture exhibitions held from 1977 to 2007. The paths and art make the lake a destination where you can enjoy some activity while taking in the artworks.
A boat rental service at Lake Aasee makes it possible to explore the lake from the water. Check the latest operating details before your trip. During the summer months, the SOLAARIS solar-powered boat takes passengers from the city centre to four attractions at Lake Aasee. As this is a seasonal service and operating dates may change, check them before making plans.
Other ways to experience Münster
The outdoor grounds of the University of Münster Botanical Garden are open Monday to Sunday and on public holidays. Opening hours may change, so check the latest details before visiting. For a city tour, the MÜNSTERBUS runs hourly trips in a hop-on/hop-off format. The red open-top double-decker bus stops at twelve stops along its route and passes the palace, cathedral, Prinzipalmarkt and Erbdrostenhof. The route brings several named sights together in one city tour. As operating details may change, check the timetable and route in advance.
Choose accommodation based on your interests
When choosing a hotel or other accommodation in Münster, your planned priorities can help guide you: city history, paths through green spaces, art by Lake Aasee or cycling. Consider which of these themes matter to you and take your planned destinations into account when choosing where to stay. This way, you can tailor your search to your own trip instead of choosing accommodation without regard to the activities you have planned.
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