Things To Do
in Soest
Soest is a charming medieval town located in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. It is known for its well-preserved old town with half-timbered houses and picturesque cobblestone streets. Soest also boasts a rich history, with the impressive St. Patrokli Dom cathedral standing as a prominent landmark.
The town's annual Allerheiligenkirmes festival, one of the oldest and largest in Germany, is a highlight for visitors and locals alike.
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please/You're welcome
- "Guten Morgen" - Good morning
- "Auf Wiedersehen" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic town center of Soest, where you can admire the well-preserved medieval architecture. Stroll through the charming streets and visit the notable St. Patrokli Cathedral.
Enjoy lunch at a local café and then explore the Soest Museum to learn about the town's rich history. Afterward, take a leisurely walk in the nearby Stadtpark, which offers beautiful views and fresh air.
Dine at a traditional German restaurant to experience local cuisine and enjoy a refreshing drink. End your day by taking a peaceful evening walk alongside the beautiful Möhne River.
Begin your day hiking through the picturesque Soest forest trails. The fresh air and nature will rejuvenate your spirit as you enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Head to a local café for lunch before visiting the nearby Möhnetalsperre, a scenic dam perfect for photos. You can take a relaxing boat tour if available or simply enjoy the lakeside views.
Savor a light dinner at a riverside restaurant where you can enjoy stunning sunset views over the water. Finish your evening with a cozy nightcap at a local bar.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural history and heritage, including historical sites and architecture.
- Beautiful natural surroundings with parks and nearby forests for outdoor activities.
- Community-oriented atmosphere with friendly residents and local events.
- Good access to public transportation for commuting to nearby cities like Dortmund and Hagen.
- Lower cost of living compared to larger German cities.
- Limited job opportunities in certain industries compared to larger urban areas.
- Fewer entertainment and dining options compared to big cities.
- Public transport may be less frequent and less comprehensive than in larger cities.
- May experience a slow pace of life that some may find unappealing.
- Weather can be unpredictable with cold winters and rain.
Best Activities in Soest
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a peaceful hike through the scenic countryside of the Soester Börde, with its rolling hills and picturesque landscapes.
Explore the beautiful surroundings of Soest by taking a cycling trip along the idyllic Möhne River, where you can enjoy the tranquility of nature.
Immerse yourself in nature and discover the diverse plant life at the Soest Botanical Garden, a perfect place for a relaxing and educational outdoor experience.
Places to Visit in Soest
Visit one of these nice places.
Burgberg offers a stunning panoramic view of Soest and its surroundings, including the historic city center and the picturesque landscape.
The City Wall Promenade provides excellent vantage points for capturing the medieval city walls and towers along with scenic views of the surrounding area.
Teichsmühle Park features beautiful ponds and green spaces, offering tranquil settings for photography and enjoying the natural beauty of Soest.
Food in Soest
Soest Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Soest specialty, Pumpernickel bread topped with slices of Pfeffersack sausage is a delightful combination of earthy flavors and a must-try for visitors. Visit the Altstadt bakery for an authentic taste.
Must-Try!
Originating from Soest, this spicy meat dish is a local favorite. Prepared with various spices and slow-cooked to perfection, Höllenpfeffer can be savored at Brauhaus Zum Schlüssel, a popular brewery and restaurant in the city center.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Every Wednesday and Saturday, the Soest Weekly Market offers a captivating array of local produce, cheeses, and freshly baked goods. Don't miss the opportunity to indulge in some traditional street food such as bratwurst and crepes while exploring the market.
This charming market square is bustling with food stalls serving delectable treats like currywurst, freshly made pretzels, and sugar-roasted almonds. It's a great place to sample street food and experience the local atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Soest, it's customary to greet people with a handshake and maintain direct eye contact. Using titles such as Herr (Mr.) or Frau (Mrs.) followed by the person's last name shows respect.
Germans value punctuality, so it's important to be on time for social and business appointments in Soest. Arriving a few minutes early is considered respectful.
When dining in Soest, it's polite to wait until everyone is served before starting to eat. It's also customary to say 'Guten Appetit' (enjoy your meal) before beginning the meal.
Safety
Tipping in Soest
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Soest, Germany is generally not mandatory as a service charge is often included in the bill at restaurants and cafes. However, leaving a small amount as a gesture of appreciation for good service is common, typically rounding up the total bill or leaving a 5-10% tip.
In Soest, Germany, cash is widely accepted for transactions, especially in smaller establishments. However, credit and debit cards are also commonly used for payments, and contactless payment methods are increasingly popular. It's advisable to carry some cash for purchases in local markets or small shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Soest, Germany is in the spring (March to May) when the weather is mild and the city comes alive with blooming flowers and greenery. Visitors can enjoy traditional Easter markets and festivals during this time.
Summer (June to August) is also a great time to visit Soest, with longer days, pleasant temperatures, and outdoor activities such as music festivals, open-air concerts, and beer gardens.
Autumn (September to November) brings beautiful fall foliage to Soest, making it a picturesque time to visit. The weather is still pleasant, and visitors can experience the local harvest festivals and cultural events.
Winter (December to February) in Soest can be magical with traditional Christmas markets, festive decorations, and a cozy atmosphere. Although it's cold, the holiday spirit and seasonal events make it a charming time to visit.
Soest at Night
Hiking in Soest
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A mountain region near Soest that offers numerous hiking trails with breathtaking views and lush forests.
A scenic area with a variety of hiking routes, rich in natural beauty and historical sites.
A beautiful lake with surrounding trails, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.
A large forested area offering various trails for hiking, cycling, and experiencing diverse flora and fauna.
A popular hiking trail near Soest, known for its picturesque landscapes and accessibility.
Aiports
How to reach Soest by plane.
Dortmund Airport is located approximately 30 kilometers northwest of Soest and offers a range of international flights.
Paderborn Lippstadt Airport is situated about 25 kilometers northeast of Soest, providing various domestic and European flights.
Cologne Bonn Airport is approximately 80 kilometers southwest of Soest and is one of the largest airports in the region, serving numerous international destinations.
Düsseldorf Airport is located around 90 kilometers to the southwest of Soest and is a major international airport with extensive flight options.
Frankfurt Airport, situated approximately 190 kilometers to the south of Soest, is one of the world's busiest international airports.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Soest, consisting of individuals who are German citizens.
A significant demographic group in Soest, consisting of individuals of Turkish descent or origin.
Includes individuals from various Eastern European countries, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
A smaller demographic group that includes Italian nationals and descendants living in Soest.
Includes various other nationalities and ethnic groups that have settled in the area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Soest, with numerous clubs and leagues for all age groups.
Handball enjoys a strong following in Soest, with local teams competing in regional leagues.
Basketball is growing in popularity, with various youth programs and adult leagues in the city.
Volleyball is a favored pastime in Soest, with clubs offering both indoor and beach volleyball options.
Cycling is popular for both recreation and sport, with many scenic routes around Soest for cycling enthusiasts.
Running events and clubs are prevalent in Soest, encouraging community participation in fitness activities.
Athletics is promoted through local clubs that provide training and competitive opportunities for various disciplines.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Soest.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most eateries in Soest are accommodating to vegetarians and vegans, offering tasty alternatives such as vegetable tarts, lentil soups, and falafel wraps. Look out for ‘V’ symbols on menus indicating vegetarian or vegan dishes.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can breathe easy in Soest, as many restaurants and cafes provide gluten-free choices such as quinoa salads, rice bowls, and flourless chocolate cake.