Things To Do
in Greven

Greven is a charming town located in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, known for its rich history and picturesque landscapes. With a population of around 36,000, it serves as a gateway to the Teutoburg Forest and has a thriving local culture. Visitors can explore the historic old town, featuring beautiful half-timbered houses, and enjoy various outdoor activities along the banks of the River Ems.

The town is also known for its friendly atmosphere and community events that celebrate local traditions.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Greven
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Greven Town Museum to learn about the local history and culture. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling fresh pastries and coffee.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the historic old town, visiting sites like St. Martin's Church and the charming market square. Stop for lunch at a traditional German restaurant, where you can try local specialties.

evening
:

Take a leisurely walk along the River Ems during sunset, and then enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant, followed by a nightcap at a nearby bar.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a bike rental to explore the scenic paths around the town and the surrounding countryside. Stop for brunch at a local eatery that offers hearty German fare.

afternoon
:

Visit a nearby vineyard for a wine tasting experience, learning about local wine production. Enjoy the afternoon exploring the lush green spaces and parks in Greven.

evening
:

Return to the town center for dinner at a cozy restaurant, followed by a visit to a local brewery to sample craft beers and socialize with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍺Local beer$4
🚍Public transport ticket$2
🏨Night in a hotel$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical heritage.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings ideal for outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming local community.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Some restaurants may have limited vegetarian/vegan options.
  • Public transport may not be as frequent as in larger urban areas.
  • "Guten Morgen" - Good morning
  • "Danke schön" - Thank you
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Ich hätte gerne..." - I would like...
  • "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Greven

Visit one of these nice places.

St. Martin's Church

A stunning example of Gothic architecture with beautiful stained glass windows, perfect for capturing historical ambiance.

Market Square

The heart of Greven, featuring charming half-timbered houses and vibrant market activity, ideal for street photography.

River Ems Promenade

A picturesque riverside path that offers stunning views, especially during sunset, making it a great spot for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Greven

Greven offers a delightful culinary experience, highlighting traditional German flavors and local specialties. Visitors can savor hearty dishes and enjoy the warm hospitality of the town's eateries.

Greven Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Westfälischer Schinken

A local cured ham that is dry-cured and often served with bread and mustard.

Must-Try!

Grünkohl

A traditional kale dish, often served with sausages and potatoes, especially during the winter months.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Greven Weekly Market

Held every Wednesday, this market features fresh produce, local cheeses, and baked goods from regional vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Greven experiences a temperate maritime climate with four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold with temperatures ranging from -1°C to 6°C (30°F to 43°F), while summers are warm, averaging between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with the wettest months occurring in late summer and early autumn. Spring and autumn bring mild temperatures and are generally pleasant for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Germans value punctuality highly, so it is important to arrive on time for meetings or social gatherings.

Greetings

A firm handshake is the common greeting, and it's polite to make eye contact during the introduction.

Recycling

Germany has a strong recycling culture; be mindful to sort your waste according to local recycling guidelines.

Safety Guide

Safety

Greven is considered a safe town with low crime rates. However, it is always advisable to take standard precautions such as securing valuables and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and local hospitals provide quality healthcare services.

Tipping in Greven

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to round up the bill or add 5-10% as a tip in restaurants. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit and debit cards, but it’s advisable to carry some cash, especially in smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers. Spring is an ideal time for outdoor activities and local festivals.

Summer

Summer brings warm temperatures and vibrant community events, perfect for enjoying outdoor dining and festivals.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful foliage and is a great time for hiking. Local harvest festivals celebrate regional produce.

Winter

Winters can be cold and snowy, making it perfect for seasonal festivities. Traditional Christmas markets add to the charm.

Nightlife Guide

Greven at Night

Greven's nightlife is relatively low-key but offers a variety of pubs, bars, and a few nightclubs. Local breweries often host events, and the atmosphere is friendly and welcoming. Many venues feature live music on weekends, providing a great opportunity to experience local talent. For a more energetic night out, head to nearby cities with larger entertainment options.

Hiking in Greven

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Teutoburg Forest Trail

A popular hiking trail that winds through the picturesque Teutoburg Forest, offering stunning views and well-marked paths.

Emsauen Trail

This trail follows the River Ems and provides a scenic route through diverse landscapes, suitable for hikers of all levels.

Airports

How to reach Greven by plane.

Munster Osnabrück International Airport (FMO)

Located approximately 15 km from Greven, this airport offers both domestic and international flights, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Greven is a walkable town with pedestrian-friendly streets, especially in the town center. Most attractions, shops, and restaurants are within a short walking distance, making it easy to explore on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and there are plenty of parks and green spaces to enjoy along the way.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Greven has a strong family-oriented community, with numerous parks and activities geared towards children.

Young Professionals

An increasing number of young professionals are moving to Greven, attracted by its quality of life and proximity to larger urban centers.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Greven, with several local clubs and a passionate fan base.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored outdoor activity, with many residents enjoying the extensive bike paths in and around the town.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic conditions in Greven are generally light, with most residents using bicycles or walking for short distances. Public transportation includes buses that connect to nearby towns and cities, though services may be limited during off-peak hours. Parking is available in the town center but can be busy during peak times.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Greven.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it’s advisable to check menus beforehand. Vegan options may be limited.

Gluten-Free Options

Some eateries provide gluten-free alternatives, but it's best to inform staff of dietary needs when ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Greven is generally good, with several clinics and a hospital providing a range of medical services. Emergency services can be accessed by calling 112. EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for necessary medical treatment, while travelers from outside the EU should ensure they have suitable travel insurance.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide