Things To Do
in Herford
Herford is a historic market town in North Rhine-Westphalia along the Werre River, blending medieval charm with a modern cultural scene. Its compact center is lined with half-timbered houses, cozy cafés, and a lively weekly market. The city is home to contemporary art at MARTa Herford and a range of museums and theaters.
Visitors can explore the riverfront, enjoy local Westphalian specialties, and use Herford as a gateway to the wider East Westphalia region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Herford and check into your hotel. Take a leisurely stroll through the historic center to get a feel for the city and admire the charming half-timbered houses. Stop by a local café for breakfast and try some traditional German pastries.
Visit the Marta Herford Museum, an architectural masterpiece that showcases contemporary art and design. Engage with the interactive exhibits and enjoy the gallery space. Afterward, have lunch at a nearby restaurant serving regional dishes.
Explore the vibrant nightlife of Herford by dining at a cozy German bistro. After dinner, take a walk along the banks of the river, enjoying the tranquility of the evening. End your night at a local pub, sampling some of the finest German beers.
Start your day with a visit to the Herford Museum to learn about the city’s rich history and culture through engaging exhibits. Immerse yourself in the local heritage while enjoying a guided tour. Grab a light breakfast at a nearby café with local specialties.
Head to the Herford Botanical Garden to explore the diverse flora and peaceful landscapes. Take a leisurely walk through the gardens, capturing the natural beauty with your camera. Enjoy a packed lunch while relaxing in a picturesque spot within the garden.
Attend a traditional German folk dance event if available, or enjoy live local music at a bar. Sample some hearty local dishes at dinner, and share stories with fellow travelers. Wrap up the evening with a nightcap at a nearby cocktail lounge.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🚆One-way public transit ticket | $2-3 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two | $40-70 |
| 🧺Milk (1L) | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable city with a charming historic core
- Strong cultural offerings including MARTa and local markets
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to bigger cities
- Some attractions may operate on limited hours on Sundays or holidays
- "Guten Tag" - Hello
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Ich möchte das, bitte." - I would like that, please.
- "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the restroom?
- "Zahlen, bitte." - Check, please.
- "Können Sie mir den Weg zum Bahnhof zeigen?" - Can you show me the way to the train station?
Places to Visit in Herford
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic square framed by timber-framed houses and the town hall, ideal for atmospheric shots.
Scenic riverside path with reflections and boats, great for golden-hour photography.
Contemporary art museum and surrounding courtyards with modern architecture and sculptures.
City-center church tower and adjacent quarters provide skyline views.
Food in Herford
Herford Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Westphalian potato-based pancake, usually served with applesauce and butter.
Must-Try!
Dark, dense rye bread from Westphalia, often enjoyed with butter, cheese, or cured meats.
Kale stew with Pinkel sausage; a winter staple in the region.
Cured ham typical of the region, excellent in sandwiches or warm plates.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering regional produce, cheeses, breads, and seasonal snacks.
Street food stalls and small vendors around the Old Town on market days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a polite 'Guten Tag' and be punctual for appointments; use Sie for strangers and avoid overly familiar forms unless invited.
Keep hands visible; wait to be seated in some establishments; small talk is common.
Keep noise modest in residential areas; speak in a calm tone, and queue politely.
Safety
Tipping in Herford
Ensure a smooth experience
In Germany, tipping is customary but not mandatory; round up the bill or leave 5-10% for good service. Cash tips are common, though many places accept cards.
Cash and cards (EC/debit, credit) are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; some smaller places may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with long daylight hours; great for markets, outdoor dining, and river walks.
Mild temperatures with colorful foliage; harvest events and fewer crowds.
Cold weather; Christmas markets and cozy cafés; some outdoor attractions may have reduced hours.
Blooming gardens and mild temperatures; ideal for city strolls and photography.
Herford at Night
Hiking in Herford
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle riverside hikes and flat trails suitable for all ages.
Forest trails offering longer hikes and rich scenery within a short drive from Herford.
Airports
How to reach Herford by plane.
Regional airport about 60-70 km from Herford; easy road and rail connections.
Larger international airport about 90-110 km away; good for longer international trips.
Further away but accessible by rail; more flight options depending on the season.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in and around Herford; good schools and parks nearby.
Students commute to nearby universities in Bielefeld and Paderborn; presence of vocational schools.
Active senior communities with accessible facilities and healthcare support.
A diverse population including EU and international residents contributing to local culture and cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Very popular across North Rhine-Westphalia; local and regional matches draw crowds.
Popular for leisure rides along the Werre and surrounding countryside; clubs and routes nearby.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Herford.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian mains and sides; look for egg/cheese options and ask for vegetables or salads if needed.