Things To Do
in Selm

Selm is a charming town located in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, known for its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It offers a mix of historical architecture, green spaces, and modern amenities, making it an attractive destination for travelers. The town features several parks, recreational areas, and a vibrant local community.

With its convenient location near larger cities like Dortmund and Münster, Selm provides a peaceful retreat while still being accessible to urban attractions.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Heart of Selm
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the charming town center where you can explore local shops and enjoy breakfast at a cozy café.

afternoon
:

Visit the St. Lambertus Church, a beautiful historical landmark, followed by a stroll through the nearby Stadtpark, perfect for some relaxation.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant offering traditional German cuisine, and enjoy a leisurely walk along the streets to take in the town's evening ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a hearty breakfast at a local bakery, then head to the local farmers market to experience fresh produce and regional specialties.

afternoon
:

Explore nearby nature trails, taking advantage of the scenic surroundings and possibly spotting local wildlife.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a visit to a local brewery for a taste of Selm's craft beers and a light dinner.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🏨Hotel night$80
🚌Public transport ticket$2
🍺Local beer$4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming small-town atmosphere with friendly locals.
  • Access to beautiful nature and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural history with lovely architecture.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Less public transportation connectivity.
  • Fewer international dining options.
  • "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 restroom?

Places to Visit in Selm

Visit one of these nice places.

St. Lambertus Church

A stunning example of Gothic architecture, this church features intricate stained glass and a beautiful façade, perfect for capturing architectural details.

Stadtpark

With its lush greenery, flowerbeds, and tranquil lake, the park offers numerous picturesque spots for nature photography.

Historic Town Center

The charming streets lined with traditional German houses provide a perfect backdrop for capturing the essence of Selm.

Culinary Guide

Food in Selm

Selm offers a delightful culinary experience with a range of local dishes and beverages that reflect the region's rich agricultural heritage.

Selm Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Rheinischer Sauerbraten

A traditional pot roast, marinated in a mixture of vinegar, water, and spices, often served with red cabbage and dumplings.

Must-Try!

Westfälische Pumpernickel

A dense, dark rye bread that is a staple of the region, often enjoyed with various spreads or cheeses.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Selm Farmers Market

Held every Saturday, this market features fresh produce, homemade goods, and local delicacies, creating a vibrant atmosphere for food lovers.

Climate Guide

Weather

Selm experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures range from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F), while winter temperatures can drop to -1°C to 5°C (30°F to 41°F). Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with slightly wetter months in late spring and autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is the norm when meeting someone. Using titles and surnames until invited to use first names is appreciated.

Punctuality

Germans value punctuality; being on time for appointments or social gatherings is considered respectful.

Dining Manners

Wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat, and it's polite to keep your hands on the table, but not your elbows.

Safety Guide

Safety

Selm is generally a safe town with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's advised to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in busy areas or when out at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Selm

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is customary in Germany, typically rounding up the bill or adding about 5-10% for good service.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying cash is advisable for small purchases or in local markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild weather, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and enjoying local parks.

Summer

Summer in Selm is warm and vibrant, perfect for festivals and outdoor dining. Expect longer days and plenty of sunshine.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful fall foliage, ideal for hiking and photography. It’s a great time for local harvest festivals.

Winter

Winter can be cold and occasionally snowy. The town is beautifully decorated for the holidays, making it a cozy time for visiting cafés.

Nightlife Guide

Selm at Night

Selm's nightlife is relatively low-key, focusing on cozy bars and local pubs rather than nightclubs. The town offers a few bars where you can enjoy local beers and socialize with residents. Special events and seasonal festivals often bring life to the streets, especially during summer evenings.

Hiking in Selm

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hiking Trail in the Hohe Mark Nature Park

This scenic trail offers varied terrain, from forests to open fields, ideal for a day of hiking in nature.

Borkenberge Nature Trail

A well-marked trail through beautiful landscapes, perfect for hiking enthusiasts looking for a moderate challenge.

Airports

How to reach Selm by plane.

Dortmund Airport (DTM)

Located about 30 km from Selm, this airport offers flights to various European destinations, making it the most accessible option for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Selm is quite walkable, with most attractions located within a short distance of each other. The town center is pedestrian-friendly, with sidewalks and crosswalks that make exploring on foot convenient and safe.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Selm has a strong family-oriented community, with many parks and recreational facilities catering to children and parents.

Retirees

The town is also home to a significant number of retirees who enjoy the peaceful lifestyle and community-oriented activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a major sport in the region, with local clubs and teams representing Selm in various leagues.

Handball

Handball is also popular, with many local clubs and an enthusiastic fan base supporting the sport.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Selm is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or by foot. Public transportation includes buses that connect Selm to nearby towns and cities, although schedules may be limited during off-peak hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Selm.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to inquire about specific ingredients.

Gluten-Free Choices

While gluten-free options may not be widely available, some establishments cater to dietary needs if requested.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Selm is good, with several local clinics and pharmacies available for basic medical needs. For more serious health issues, patients can visit larger hospitals in nearby cities like Dortmund or Münster.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide