A compact city made for cycling
What’s the best way to experience Münster like a local? Hop on a bike. The Mauritzhof is perfectly placed in the heart of the city. Right on the doorstep is the green promenade that circles the old town, also a popular jogging route. Just a short cycle ride from the train station, city centre, and cute shopping alleys around Prinzipalmarkt, with its historic gabled houses.
We share a cycling route with our guests that includes our personal highlights of Münster. Whether you have a whole day or just an hour or two, have fun exploring.
After a fortifying breakfast at the hotel, you’re all set for a city tour on a Mauritzhof rental bike. As a university city, Münster exudes a youthful energy that is easily accessible on a network of excellent cycle paths.
On Wednesdays and Saturdays, the first stop is the weekly farmers’ market. An institution for Münster residents, the market is also a tasty pit stop for visitors. The location on Cathedral Square alone is worth a detour. If the market stalls have whet your appetite, stop for lunch at Mocca d'Or, a great Italian restaurant close to Germany’s only Picasso Museum.
“How to experience the city as a local? By bicycle! How convenient that the Mauritzhof is centrally located in the heart of Münster.”
Enough feasting. Jump on your bike and cycle ten minutes to the Schloss Münster, former palace of the city’s prince-bishop. The bells in this baroque masterpiece chime every hour on the hour. After a tour of the palace, the next destination - five minutes away - involves pedalling of a different kind: a pedal boat ride on Lake Aasee.
Exercise makes you thirsty. The Pinkus Müller Altbier brewery in Kreuzstraße is just the refreshment you need. Five generations have been brewing an impressive range of beers here since 1816. The cosy restaurant serves typical Westphalian fare. Alternatively, check out hip Finne-Bio-Brauerei in Kreuzviertel, which attracts a young crowd of craft beer connoisseurs. The beer menu features seasonal specials, served alongside tarte flambée and other snacks, all produced in an open kitchen behind the lively bar.
A stroll through the creative quarter along the harbour is a peaceful way to end the day. Admire the old barges moored along the quayside from the Hafenweg. Cafés, restaurants and pubs are lined up along the waterfront, in what used to be the cargo docks. Today, the old shipping warehouses are the hub of Münster’s cool, creative scene. In summer, the Coconut Beach Club is one of the city’s most happening hangouts.
All good things come to an end. But there’s still time for a drink or two at our beautiful bar, back home at the Mauritzhof.
“People here know how to enjoy life. That’s why there’s such an exciting range of restaurants, galleries and shops.”
Dr. Stefan Reckhenrich, Owner
