Things To Do
in Soest
Soest is a well-preserved medieval town in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, famous for its intact city walls and half-timbered houses. The historic center centers on Markt square with the St. Patrokli Cathedral and a network of cobbled lanes that invite wandering. The town sits along the Soest River and offers green spaces, cafés, and rich Westphalian culture just a short train ride from Dortmund and other Ruhr cities.
Throughout the year Soest hosts markets and cultural events that showcase local crafts, food, and music, making it a warm base for exploring the region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the impressive Soest Town Hall, a beautiful example of medieval architecture. Wander through the charming cobblestone streets, taking in the colorful half-timbered houses that line the way. Don't forget to stop by the St. Patrokli Cathedral, where you can marvel at its stunning Romanesque architecture.
After a hearty lunch at a local café, head to the Old City Wall for a leisurely walk along the historic fortifications. Explore the various gates, such as the Mühlentor and the Wassertor, while learning about their significance in Soest's history. Take some time to relax at the nearby Botanical Garden, where you can enjoy the peaceful surroundings and vibrant plant life.
As evening falls, dine at one of Soest's traditional German restaurants, sampling local specialties like Westfälischer Schinken. After your meal, take a stroll along the banks of the river Soeste, where you can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and beautiful views of the city lit up at night. End your evening with a nightcap at a cozy pub, mingling with the friendly locals.
Begin your day at the Museum of Soest, where you can learn about the rich history and culture of the region through fascinating exhibits. Explore artifacts from the prehistoric era to the modern age, giving you insight into the daily lives of Soest's residents throughout the centuries. Afterward, visit the nearby Jakobskirche, a beautiful church with stunning stained glass windows.
Grab lunch at a local bistro before heading to the Westfälisches Museum für Naturkunde, where you can explore the natural history of Westphalia. Engage with interactive displays and see a variety of exhibits that showcase local flora and fauna. Spend some time at the nearby historical market square, where you can enjoy the lively atmosphere and perhaps pick up some local crafts.
In the evening, attend a cultural performance at the Stadthalle Soest, where you can enjoy a concert or theater show featuring local talent. This venue often showcases a mix of classical and contemporary performances, making it a vibrant part of the local arts scene. After the show, unwind at a nearby café with a cup of coffee or a slice of cake, reflecting on your cultural experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🚌Public transit trip (single ride) | $2-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (one night) | $90-150 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $3-5 |
| 🎟️Movie or museum entry | $8-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Historic charm of a preserved medieval town
- Compact center that's easy to explore on foot
- Good base for exploring Westphalia and the Sauerland region
- Strong local cuisine and welcoming atmosphere
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Smaller selection of international eateries in some parts
- Occasional crowds during market days and events
- Weather can be unpredictable; plan for rain
- "Guten Tag" - Good day / Hello
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Danke schön" - Thank you very much
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
Places to Visit in Soest
Visit one of these nice places.
Impressive Gothic facade and spire set against the Markt and old town walls; early morning light is ideal.
Cobblestones, pastel facades, and flower boxes provide classic Westphalian street photography opportunities.
The preserved ramparts and towers offer dramatic angles for skyline and detail shots.
Green spaces and water reflections provide serene compositions, especially at sunset.
Food in Soest
Soest Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A slow-braised peppery beef stew, typically served with mashed potatoes or pumpernickel bread and onions.
Must-Try!
Kale simmered with sausages (Pinkel) or smoked meats, a classic winter dish often enjoyed in hearty portions.
A rustic pancake made from potatoes and flour, typically served with butter, syrup, or fruit compote.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering cheeses, sausages, fresh bread, fruit, and seasonal specialties.
Casual bites like pretzels, sandwiches, and local pastries in charming courtyards.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite Guten Tag or Hallo; handshake is common in formal meetings.
Formal address 'Sie' for strangers; switch to 'du' only with consent or in casual settings.
Be punctual; respect quiet hours in residential areas in the evenings.
Safety
Tipping in Soest
Ensure a smooth experience
In Germany, rounding up or leaving about 5-10% for good service is customary in restaurants and cafes; cash is often appreciated, but cards are widely accepted.
Cash is always useful; most places accept EC cards (debit) and major credit cards; contactless payments are common for smaller amounts.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with occasional showers; long daylight hours allow for extended strolls and photo walks.
Colorful foliage along the Markt and in the Soest Wald; cooler air and festive markets in late season.
Christmas markets in the old town; cozy cafés and mild to cold conditions; plan for potential rain or snow.
Blooming courtyards and fresh produce markets; comfortable temperatures for walking and cycling.
Soest at Night
Hiking in Soest
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A forest loop with scenic viewpoints over the town and surrounding countryside.
A longer trail along the Möhnesee reservoir with water views and picnic spots.
A nearby ridge trail offering sweeping views of the valley and town.
Airports
How to reach Soest by plane.
About 50-70 km away by road; easy rail connections or car transfer to Soest.
Approximately 60-90 km away; regional flights and road connections.
A longer transfer (90-120 km) but options exist for international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in and around Soest with good schools and parks.
Due to proximity to universities in the region, there are students and commuters.
A sizable portion of residents are retirees who value quiet neighborhoods and local culture.
Some international residents and expats due to regional employment and exchange opportunities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and amateur leagues are active; watch a game at a community stadium.
Flat to gently rolling routes around the town and in nearby forests; popular for day trips.
Scenic forest trails and ridge viewpoints in the surrounding countryside.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Soest.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian versions of regional classics; look for seasonal vegetables, baked potatoes, and mushroom dishes; ask for vegetable-based soups and salads; most places are accommodating if you plan ahead.