Things To Do
in Soest

Soest is a charming town in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and rich history. With its picturesque half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and beautiful parks, the town offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. The historic center is particularly appealing, featuring landmarks like the St. Patrokli Cathedral and the ancient city walls.

Visitors can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, vibrant local markets, and a variety of outdoor activities in this delightful town.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historic Soest
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the St. Patrokli Cathedral, marveling at its stunning architecture and intricate stained glass windows.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the historic old town, visiting the charming market square and sampling local delicacies at the weekly market.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional German restaurant, followed by a leisurely walk along the banks of the Möhne river.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start with a hike in the nearby Arnsberger Wald, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful scenery.

afternoon
:

Visit the local museum to learn about Soest's history, then relax in the serene Stadtpark.

evening
:

Experience the nightlife by visiting a local bar for some drinks and live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at Inexpensive Restaurant$10
Cup of Coffee$3
🍺Local Beer (0.5L)$4
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2
🏨Hotel (Mid-range)$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings ideal for outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming local community.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport options may be less frequent.
  • Language barrier for non-German speakers.
  • "Guten Tag" - Good day
  • "Danke schön" - Thank you
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ich hätte gerne..." - I would like...

Places to Visit in Soest

Visit one of these nice places.

St. Patrokli Cathedral

This stunning cathedral offers incredible photo opportunities both inside and out, with its impressive tower and intricate details.

Historic Market Square

Capture the essence of Soest with vibrant shots of the market square, surrounded by half-timbered houses and bustling market stalls.

Möhne River

The riverside path provides beautiful views and perfect spots for sunset photography, especially during the golden hour.

Culinary Guide

Food in Soest

Soest's culinary scene is a delightful mix of traditional German dishes and local specialties that reflect the region's rich agricultural heritage.

Soest Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Soester Pumpernickel

A dark, dense rye bread that is a local specialty, often enjoyed with butter and cheese.

Must-Try!

Westfälischer Schinken

A type of cured ham from the Westphalia region, known for its rich flavor and tenderness.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Soest Market Square

A vibrant market held weekly, offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and street food options, including bratwurst and pretzels.

Climate Guide

Weather

Soest experiences a temperate oceanic climate, with mild summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around -1°C to 5°C (30°F to 41°F). Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly wetter months in summer, making it advisable to carry an umbrella regardless of the season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is highly valued in German culture, so it's important to arrive promptly for meetings or events.

Greeting Etiquette

A firm handshake is the common greeting, and it's polite to address people using their titles and surnames.

Quiet Hours

Respect quiet hours in residential areas, especially during the night and on Sundays, to avoid disturbing neighbors.

Safety Guide

Safety

Soest is generally a safe town with low crime rates. However, it's always wise to take common precautions such as safeguarding personal belongings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and local hospitals are equipped to handle most situations.

Tipping in Soest

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to round up the bill or leave a 5-10% tip for good service in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash for small purchases and local markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring parks.

Summer

Summer is warm and lively, with numerous festivals and outdoor events, making it a great time to visit the local markets.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful fall colors, perfect for hiking and enjoying the outdoors before winter sets in.

Winter

Winter can be cold and snowy, but the town is beautifully decorated for the holidays, making it a cozy time to enjoy local traditions.

Nightlife Guide

Soest at Night

Soest offers a relaxed nightlife scene with a mix of cozy pubs, lively bars, and occasional live music events. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it a great place to socialize with locals. Popular spots include traditional beer gardens and modern lounges, where you can enjoy local beers and cocktails. While not as bustling as larger cities, the nightlife here provides a charming experience.

Hiking in Soest

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Möhne Dam Trail

This scenic trail around the Möhne Dam offers beautiful views of the water and surrounding nature, suitable for hikers of all levels.

Rothaarsteig Trail

A part of the famous Rothaarsteig Trail starts near Soest, providing a longer hiking option through stunning landscapes and forests.

Airports

How to reach Soest by plane.

Paderborn/Lippstadt Airport

Located approximately 30 km from Soest, Paderborn/Lippstadt Airport serves both domestic and international flights, providing a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Soest is a highly walkable town, with most attractions located within a short distance from each other. The historic center features pedestrian-friendly streets, allowing visitors to explore at a leisurely pace. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and many paths are accessible for strollers and those with mobility issues.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Soest is home to many families who appreciate the town's safe environment and access to parks and recreational activities.

Retirees

A significant demographic group in Soest comprises retirees who enjoy the town's peaceful atmosphere and cultural offerings.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in the region, with local clubs and matches drawing enthusiastic support from residents.

Handball

Handball is also widely played in Soest, with many clubs offering opportunities for both youth and adult participation.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Soest is generally manageable, with main roads well-maintained and not heavily congested. Public transportation options include buses that connect different parts of the town and surrounding areas, making it easy to navigate without a car. Biking is also popular, with designated bike paths available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Soest.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Soest offer vegetarian dishes, though it's advisable to check with staff regarding specific ingredients.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options are available at some restaurants, but it's recommended to inform the staff about dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Soest is accessible with several clinics and a local hospital providing medical services. Emergency services can be reached quickly, and many doctors speak English. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance to cover any medical expenses.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide