Things To Do
in Greven

Greven is a charming town located in the North Rhine-Westphalia region of Germany. It is known for its picturesque countryside, with rolling hills and meandering rivers. The town has a rich history, with many well-preserved historic buildings and landmarks to explore.

Greven also offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and boating, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.

  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Bitte" - Please/You're welcome
  • "Guten Morgen" - Good morning
  • "Auf Wiedersehen" - Goodbye

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $100
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
  • Coffee: $2 - $4
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Greven
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the St. Martin's Church, a beautiful architectural gem. After exploring the interior, take a leisurely stroll around the surrounding park.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local cafe, trying authentic German cuisine. Post-lunch, visit the Greven Town Museum to learn about the local history.

evening
:

Dine at a popular restaurant in town known for its delightful ambiance. End the day with a peaceful walk along the banks of the Ems River.

day 2
Nature Day in Greven
morning
:

Begin with a hike in the nearby Emsland Nature Park, enjoying the scenic views and fresh air. Look out for local wildlife along the trails.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the park's designated areas. Spend some time relaxing and soaking in the natural beauty around you.

evening
:

Return to Greven and enjoy a casual dinner at a restaurant with outdoor seating. Consider catching a local music performance if available.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich history and culture, with several historical buildings and sites.
  • Scenic parks and green spaces for outdoor activities.
  • Strong community spirit and local events.
  • Good access to nearby larger cities like Münster and Osnabrück.
  • Affordable cost of living compared to larger urban areas.
  • Limited job opportunities in certain sectors compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation options may be less frequent.
  • Less vibrant nightlife and entertainment options than metropolitan areas.
  • Fewer shopping and dining options relative to bigger cities.
  • Potential isolation for those used to bustling city life.

Best Activities in Greven

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Bike riding along the Ems River

Enjoy a scenic bike ride along the beautiful Ems River, taking in the picturesque natural surroundings and charming countryside of Greven.

Hiking in the Baumberge Hills

Explore the Baumberge Hills on foot, with plenty of well-marked trails offering breathtaking views and opportunities to experience the region's diverse flora and fauna.

Canoeing on the Dortmund-Ems Canal

Paddle along the peaceful waters of the Dortmund-Ems Canal, taking in the tranquil atmosphere and admiring the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Places to Visit in Greven

Visit one of these nice places.

Bagno-Park

A picturesque park with beautiful gardens, pathways, and scenic views of the Ems River.

Burgmannshof

A historic courtyard with charming architecture and a scenic backdrop for photos.

Stiftskirche St. Martin

A stunning church with a striking exterior and impressive views from its vicinity.

Food in Greven

Greven, Germany, offers a delightful culinary experience with a mix of traditional and contemporary dishes. The cuisine is influenced by the rich agricultural abundance of the region, leading to hearty and fulfilling meals with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Greven Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pumpernickel Bread with Westphalian Ham

This iconic dish combines dense, dark rye bread with thinly sliced ham, creating a rich and savory flavor profile. Enjoy it at traditional bakeries like Backhaus Hackfort.

Must-Try!

Sauerbraten

A classic German pot roast, Sauerbraten features marinated and slow-cooked beef, typically served with red cabbage and potato dumplings. Visit Gasthof Waldesruh for an authentic taste.

Baumkuchen

Indulge in layers of sweet, moist, and slightly caramelized cake at Konditorei Münsterland, where this dessert is a local specialty.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Greven Market

Explore Greven Market for an array of fresh produce, local meats, artisanal cheeses, and baked goods. The market also features stalls offering delicious street food such as bratwurst, pretzels, and fresh pastries.

Weather

The climate in this region is classified as temperate oceanic, characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures in the winter months typically range from around 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F), while summer temperatures can reach between 20°C and 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Precipitation is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly higher amounts during the summer months. Rain is common, and there might also be occasional snowfall in the winter. The area experiences moderate humidity and is often influenced by Atlantic air masses, which contribute to the generally mild weather patterns. Overall, the climate allows for a variety of seasonal changes, making it a suitable environment for both agriculture and outdoor leisure activities throughout the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greet with a handshake

In Greven, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, particularly in formal and business settings.

Respect personal space

Germans generally value their personal space, so it is important to maintain a comfortable distance when interacting with others.

Punctuality is key

Being on time is highly valued in German culture, so it's important to be punctual for appointments and social gatherings in Greven.

Safety

Safety in this city is generally considered to be high, with low crime rates typical for smaller towns in the region. Residents and visitors can expect a peaceful environment. The local police force is active in maintaining security and addressing any issues promptly. Emergency services are reliable, and there are community programs aimed at ensuring public safety. While petty crimes such as pickpocketing may occur, they are rare, and violent crime is uncommon. The community is also engaged in safety awareness, with various initiatives promoting neighborhood watch programs and citizen involvement in safeguarding their environment. Overall, it is viewed as a safe place to live and visit, with a strong sense of community among the residents.

Tipping in Greven

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Greven, Germany, it is customary to leave a tip of around 5-10% of the total bill at restaurants, cafes, and bars if the service was satisfactory. Tipping is usually done in cash.

Payment

Most establishments in Greven, Germany accept major credit and debit cards such as Visa and Mastercard. However, it is advisable to carry some cash as smaller shops and restaurants may not accept cards. Contactless payment methods are also becoming increasingly popular.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring is an ideal time to visit Greven, Germany, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. You can expect to see beautiful landscapes and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.

Summer

Summer in Greven brings warm weather, perfect for outdoor recreation and exploring the city. Visitors can expect lively outdoor events and festivals, as well as opportunities for boating and swimming in the nearby lakes and rivers.

Autumn

Autumn is a picturesque time to visit Greven as the foliage turns vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold. The weather is crisp and cool, making it an excellent time for scenic drives and leisurely walks through the changing landscapes.

Winter

Winter in Greven, Germany, offers a festive atmosphere with Christmas markets and holiday decorations. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor activities such as ice skating and cross-country skiing, while cozying up in cafes and pubs to savor traditional winter treats.

Greven at Night

Nightlife in Greven offers a mix of cozy local pubs, intimate bars, and occasional live music venues that reflect the town's welcoming and laid-back atmosphere. While it may not have the bustling nightlife scene of larger cities, the charm lies in its friendly establishments and approachable social environment. Local favorites include traditional German beer gardens where you can enjoy a variety of regional beers and hearty dishes. These spots often become lively social hubs, especially during weekends or local festivals. For those who enjoy live music, small stages in some local venues feature performances by regional bands and artists, offering an intimate setting and a chance to discover local talent. There are also several modern bars and lounges where residents and visitors can enjoy cocktails in stylish surroundings. These places often attract a more diverse crowd and provide a contemporary twist to the town's nightlife. In the warmer months, outdoor terraces and patios become the preferred spots for socializing, allowing patrons to enjoy the mild evening air. Events like local festivals and cultural nights add an extra layer of vibrancy to the nightlife, making these times particularly lively and engaging. Overall, the nightlife in Greven provides a delightful blend of tradition and modernity, ensuring a pleasant evening for both locals and visitors.

Hiking in Greven

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Teutoburg Forest

A large forested area offering numerous hiking trails, scenic views, and rich flora and fauna.

Feldmark

A popular hiking area with well-marked trails that offer a tranquil environment and beautiful landscapes.

Münstermann Park

This park provides several walking trails and links to larger hiking routes, ideal for both casual strolls and more vigorous hikes.

Dörenther Klippen

A series of cliffs that are part of a nature reserve, featuring trails that lead to stunning viewpoints.

Sauerland

A mountainous region south of Greven, known for its extensive hiking paths, picturesque villages, and rich local culture.

Aiports

How to reach Greven by plane.

Munich Airport (MUC)

Located approximately 150 km southeast of Greven, Munich Airport is the second busiest airport in Germany and a major international hub.

Hamburg Airport (HAM)

Situated about 200 km north of Greven, Hamburg Airport is the fifth largest airport in Germany and serves numerous international flights.

Düsseldorf Airport (DUS)

Located around 110 km south of Greven, Düsseldorf Airport is one of the largest international airports in Germany and serves many destinations.

Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN)

Approximately 140 km southwest of Greven, Cologne Bonn Airport is a significant airport serving domestic and international flights.

Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER)

Around 460 km southeast of Greven, Berlin Brandenburg Airport is the main international airport serving the Berlin metropolitan area.

Walkability

Walkability in Greven can be characterized by its compact urban layout, which encourages pedestrian movement throughout the town. The infrastructure is generally designed to support walkers, with a range of sidewalks, pathways, and pedestrian crossings that enhance safety and accessibility. The town center is amenable to foot traffic, featuring a mix of shops, cafes, and services that are easily reachable on foot. Public spaces often include benches and green areas, making it pleasant for residents and visitors alike to stroll and enjoy the surroundings. Moreover, Greven has a well-connected network of residential areas that leads to essential amenities, promoting a lifestyle that minimizes reliance on cars. The presence of local parks and recreational areas also contributes to a walkable environment, providing residents with opportunities for outdoor activities. Overall, the combination of compactness, accessibility to amenities, and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure makes Greven a walkable town, appealing to those who appreciate walking as a mode of transport and leisure.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

German Nationals

The primary demographic group, comprising citizens of Germany who reside in Greven.

Immigrants from Eastern Europe

A significant group of residents with roots in Eastern European countries, including Poland and Lithuania.

Turkish Community

Individuals of Turkish descent, constituting a notable part of the immigrant population in Greven.

Other European Nationals

Residents from various other European Union countries, including but not limited to Italy, Spain, and France.

Asylum Seekers and Refugees

A diverse group including individuals from various conflict zones, seeking asylum and resettlement.

Others

Residents from non-European countries as well as mixed heritage families.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is extremely popular in Greven, with local clubs and community involvement in both youth and adult leagues.

Handball

Handball has a strong following in Greven, with local teams and tournaments attracting significant interest.

Tennis

Tennis is a popular recreational sport in Greven, with several clubs and courts available for residents.

Volleyball

Volleyball enjoys popularity in both recreational and competitive formats, with various clubs hosting events.

Running

Running is widely practiced in Greven, with local running clubs and regular events such as fun runs and marathons.

Traffic

In this small town, traffic is generally manageable, reflecting its population of around 35,000 residents. The road network is well-developed, with a mix of residential streets and main roads facilitating movement throughout the area. The presence of the A1 autobahn nearby provides quick access to larger cities, making it a convenient stop for travelers. Local traffic involves a mix of personal vehicles, bicycles, and public transportation. Biking is popular due to dedicated lanes, encouraging a more eco-friendly mode of transport. Public buses operate regularly, connecting residents to neighboring regions and cities effectively. Rush hour can see an increase in congestion, particularly during mornings and evenings, as commuters travel to and from nearby larger urban areas. However, traffic jams are typically short-lived compared to larger cities. Parking is available, but as with many places, there are peak times when finding a spot can be challenging. Overall, the town maintains a balance between residential tranquility and accessibility, making it a pleasant place to drive or cycle through.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Greven.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Many restaurants in Greven offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, with some, like Café-Restaurant Himmelreich, specifically catering to these dietary preferences.

Gluten-Free Choices

Visitors with gluten intolerance can find accommodating options at various restaurants and cafes in Greven, including gluten-free pastries and carefully prepared meals.

Healthcare

Located in North Rhine-Westphalia, this town benefits from a well-regarded healthcare system that integrates various services to meet the needs of its residents. The healthcare framework includes local hospitals, outpatient clinics, and general practitioners who provide comprehensive medical care. In addition to general healthcare services, the region has specialized facilities and practitioners in areas such as pediatrics, orthopedics, and internal medicine. Access to healthcare is typically supported by the German health insurance system, which ensures that residents have coverage for a wide range of medical services. Pharmacies also play a vital role in the community, offering prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and health consultations. Emergency services and urgent care options are available, ensuring prompt attention in case of acute medical needs. Overall, the healthcare system in this part of Germany emphasizes accessibility, quality care, and a patient-centered approach, contributing to the overall well-being of the population.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2024 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide