Things to do in Paderborn

Activities, attractions and tours

Paderborn which includes street scenes as well as a small group of people
Rathaus showing a city, heritage architecture and a square or plaza
Paderborn Cathedral featuring interior views, heritage elements and a church or cathedral
Paderborn featuring a garden as well as a couple
Paderborn featuring heritage elements, a square or plaza and street scenes

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What to do in Paderborn

Popular places to visit

Neuhaus Castle featuring heritage architecture

Neuhaus Castle

This former residence of bishop princes from the Renaissance era has a Baroque garden, an open-air theater and a nature museum and art gallery in its former stables.

Neuhaus Castle
Paderborn Cathedral showing street scenes and heritage elements as well as an individual female

Paderborn Cathedral

See the most important religious building of Paderborner Land and browse the mosaic vault chambers in the crypt of this Romanesque-Gothic cathedral.

Paderborn Cathedral
Marienplatz Paderborn showing a statue or sculpture and a fountain as well as a small group of people

Marienplatz Paderborn

Stroll over this cobblestoned square in the heart of Paderborn to see its ornamental Maria statue, attend a market or enjoy the sunshine on a café terrace.

Marienplatz Paderborn
Theater Paderborn featuring modern architecture

Theater Paderborn

Whether you like musicals, opera or classic comedy and theater, Theater Paderborn introduces young and old to the tradition of Westfälische Kammerspiele.

Theater Paderborn
Rathaus which includes heritage architecture

Rathaus

Paderborn’s fairytale-like formal city hall with its three gables has seen multiple uses over the years and has become a symbol for this historic river city.

Rathaus
Paderborn which includes a square or plaza and heritage elements

Diocesan Museum

You can spend time studying the exhibits at Diocesan Museum during your trip to Paderborn. Experience the theatre scene and museums in this walkable area.

Diocesan Museum

University of Paderborn

Explore the campus of University of Paderborn during your trip to Paderborn. You'll find more to see and do in this walkable area.

University of Paderborn

Adam and Eve House

You can learn about the history of Paderborn with a trip to Adam and Eve House. Experience the theatre scene and museums in this walkable area.

Adam and Eve House

Heinz Nixdorf MuseumsForum

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Heinz Nixdorf MuseumsForum during your travels in Paderborn. You'll find more to see and do in this walkable area.

Heinz Nixdorf MuseumsForum

Frequently asked questions

Is Paderborn worth visiting?
One of the most common things to do in Paderborn is visit Neuhaus Castle. Tick this major attraction off your itinerary, then discover more of the area's history and family-friendly attractions.
How do I spend a day in Paderborn?
Once you've visited popular attractions like Neuhaus Castle and German Tractor and Model Car Museum, spend the rest of your day exploring Paderborn's retail and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Paderborn?
Don't go home without visiting Neuhaus Castle, rated the top tourist attraction in Paderborn.
Is three days enough to stay in Paderborn?
Three days will be enough time to check out the leading city highlights, including Neuhaus Castle, Theatre Paderborn and German Tractor and Model Car Museum. The average stay in Paderborn is two days. If you have the urge to extend your break, Bielefeld isn't far away.
Is Paderborn a walkable city?
With vibrant neighbourhoods and top sights within walking distance of the city centre, Paderborn is a good destination to visit on foot. Wander between Neuhaus Castle and Theatre Paderborn. Then take a stroll through Kernstadt, located 0.64 kilometres from downtown, and Schloß Neuhaus, which is about 5 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Paderborn with kids?
Deciding what to do in Paderborn with kids has never been simpler. Whether you have teenagers or toddlers, there are lots of family-friendly sights and activities to keep them entertained here.

What to do in Paderborn for adults?
Malts of Scotland and Westfalen-Therme are just two of the things to do in Paderborn. With lots of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Paderborn?
From relaxing in parks to wandering around exciting neighbourhoods, it's a breeze to find free things to do in Paderborn. If you need new ideas, get some tips from a local tour guide. Diocesan Museum is a top spot for anyone wanting to save on their travel adventures.