Attractions and Places To See around Kreis Paderborn - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Kreis Paderborn include a diverse landscape of historical landmarks, significant natural features, and extensive outdoor activity options. The region is characterized by its unique natural springs, such as the Pader and Ems, and features like the Teutoburg Forest/Egge Hills Nature Park. Visitors can explore ancient castles, impressive cathedrals, and modern museums, alongside numerous hiking and cycling routes. This area offers a blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty for exploration.
Best attractions and…
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Lippesee
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South Observation Tower at Steinhorster Becken
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Neuhaus Castle
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Ems River Source (Emsquelle)
Highlight • River
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View of the Schlosspark and Neuhaus Palace
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Steinhorster Becken Nature Reserve
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The Steinhorster Basin is considered to be the largest human-made biotope in North Rhine-Westphalia. Here native, but also many migrating waders and water birds find undisturbed areas for breeding, …
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Neuhaus Castle and Baroque Garden
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Lippesee Circular Overflow Weir
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Heathland in the Moosheide Nature Reserve
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Ems Springs
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Popular around Kreis Paderborn
European Divide Trail — 7,600 km across the continent
LandesGartenSchau Route – Westphalian Dream Parks
Römer‑Lippe Route – Water and history – 6 days
Egge Trail – Hiking through the Lower Saxon hills in Germany
The Paderborn Land Route – 250 kilometers through the middle of Westphalia
Römer‑Lippe Route – Water & history, 6 days
The Ems Cycle Route – in 7 stages from the Senne to the North Sea
The Paderborn Land Route – 250 kilometers through the middle of Westphalia
Discover Germany's diversity on enchanting cycling routes
Nature, culture and fun – day Tours in the Paderborn region
Other adventures around Kreis Paderborn
Tips from the Community
Very nice castle with great grounds. Definitely worth seeing.
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Coming from the main street, the front promises a lot. However, you should definitely go further into the palace gardens. The size is gigantic and forms a great backdrop.
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This is where the river rises, on which later Aida and Co from the Meyer shipyard are on their way to the North Sea
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It's hard to believe that ocean giants swim 300 kilometers away on this creek.
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The seepage springs of the Ems, which pour out all year round, are located in the Moosheide nature reserve. The first sources are in the district of Stukenbrock-Senne. The source creek arises from a large number of water outlets, which are not only in the urban area of Schloß Holte-Stukenbrock (Gütersloh district) but also in the area of the municipality of Hövelhof (Paderborn district). Source: emsradweg.de
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The Steinhorster basin is very beautiful and offers a great habitat for animals and plants that we humans also enjoy on a walk or a bike tour. The pools are very beautiful and offer a home to many species of birds. The 2 observation towers are also very good and offer a great view and overview of the pools. Really highly recommended.
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The Steinhorst basin is a very nice place for animal watchers and water watchers. Very exemplary and very very beautiful and idyllic.
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The castle park is always worthwhile. E.g. when there are theme days, such as wine festivals, beer festivals or bicycle days. The green area is always well maintained.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I explore in Kreis Paderborn?
Kreis Paderborn is rich in history. You can visit Neuhaus Castle, a stunning moated palace that once housed prince-bishops, or the magnificent Paderborn Cathedral with its unique "Three-Hares-Window." Other notable sites include Wewelsburg Castle, the reconstructed Imperial Palace, and the Weser Renaissance-style Paderborn Town Hall.
Where can I experience nature and scenic landscapes?
For nature lovers, the region offers diverse landscapes. Explore the Lippesee, a popular spot for relaxation, or discover the source of the Ems river at Ems River Source (Emsquelle) in the Moosheide nature reserve. The Teutoburg Forest/Egge Hills Nature Park also provides impressive natural experiences with extensive hiking and cycling trails.
Are there any family-friendly attractions in the area?
Yes, many attractions are suitable for families. Neuhaus Castle and its park are great for strolls, while Padersee offers a recreation area with a playground and café. The South Observation Tower at Steinhorster Becken is excellent for wildlife viewing, and the Heathland in the Moosheide Nature Reserve has accessible paths for all ages.
What outdoor activities, like hiking or cycling, are available?
Kreis Paderborn boasts an extensive network of hiking and cycling routes. You can find numerous trails around the Lippesee, or explore the Altenbeken Viaduct area. For more options, check out the dedicated guides for Hiking around Kreis Paderborn or Road Cycling Routes around Kreis Paderborn.
Are there any unique museums to visit?
Absolutely. The Heinz Nixdorf MuseumsForum is the world's largest computer museum, showcasing 5,000 years of information technology. The Diocesan Museum Paderborn, adjacent to the cathedral, displays sacred artworks, and the Museum in der Kaiserpfalz exhibits archaeological findings from Charlemagne's palace. You can also find the German Tractor and Model Car Museum in the area.
What are some notable natural springs in Kreis Paderborn?
The region is famous for its natural springs. The Pader Springs are the source of Germany's shortest river, rising from over 200 springs in Paderborn's heart. Further afield, the Ems River Source (Emsquelle) marks the origin of the Ems river, flowing from a seepage spring in the Moosheide nature reserve.
Can I find any accessible attractions for visitors with mobility needs?
Yes, some natural areas offer accessible paths. The Ems River Source (Emsquelle) area is well-developed with maintained paths, and the Heathland in the Moosheide Nature Reserve also features wheelchair-accessible routes, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty.
Where can I observe wildlife, especially birds?
The South Observation Tower at Steinhorster Becken is an excellent spot for birdwatching. Steinhorster Becken is the largest man-made biotope in North Rhine-Westphalia, providing a habitat for numerous wading birds, water birds, and migratory birds. The Moosheide nature reserve is also popular with birdwatchers.
What makes the Altenbeken Viaduct special?
The Altenbeken Viaduct is a remarkable railway bridge, 482 meters long with 24 arches, making it the longest limestone bridge in Europe. It's an impressive architectural feat and a popular highlight for cyclists and hikers in the area.
Are there any dog-friendly places to visit?
Yes, several outdoor areas are suitable for walks with dogs. The Lippesee is a dog-friendly lake with paths perfect for a stroll. Many of the hiking trails throughout the Teutoburg Forest/Egge Hills Nature Park and other natural reserves also welcome dogs, though it's always good to check local regulations for specific areas.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions in Kreis Paderborn?
Visitors frequently praise the blend of historical grandeur and natural beauty. Many enjoy the picturesque grounds of Neuhaus Castle and its park, finding it a wonderful place to linger. The recreational opportunities around lakes like Padersee, with its paths and amenities, are also highly appreciated for walks and activities.
Are there any impressive viewpoints in the region?
Yes, Kreis Paderborn offers several viewpoints to take in the scenery. The South Observation Tower at Steinhorster Becken provides excellent views over the biotope. Many trails within the Teutoburg Forest/Egge Hills Nature Park also lead to elevated spots offering panoramic vistas of the hilly landscapes and forests.
Where can I find relaxing spots for a walk or picnic?
The grounds of Neuhaus Castle offer a beautiful park perfect for leisurely strolls and picnics. The areas around Lippesee and Padersee are also ideal for relaxing walks by the water, with benches and green spaces available.
Most popular routes around Kreis Paderborn
Most popular attractions around Kreis Paderborn
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