Things to do in Bielefeld

Activities, attractions and tours

A cityscape with a prominent church with a tall spire and a green-roofed building.
A modern building with a glass facade and a sign that reads "ISHARA".
A historic square with ornate buildings, a fountain, and people walking.
An ancient stone archway leading to a courtyard with a tree in the center.
A historic castle surrounded by lush green trees and a cityscape in the background.
  • find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
  • calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save % or more when you book activities.

Top places to visit

1. Sparrenberg Castle

Sparrenberg Castle (Sparrenburg) commands a dominant hilltop position in central Bielefeld. Visit the castle to experience the life of the Counts of Ravensberg and medieval traditions such as jousting and minstrel shows. Sparrenberg Castle dates back to around the mid-13th century, although its current appearance was built from the 1500s and onward. Its original purpose was to protect the trade routes that once passed through Bielefeld and the encompassing Teutoburg Forest.
Learn more
A historic building with a tower, surrounded by lush greenery and a cobblestone path.

2. Olderdissen Animal Park

Enjoy a day of family-friendly wildlife encounters at Olderdissen Animal Park (Heimat-Tierpark Olderdissen). The origins of the zoo date back to 1930, when a local forester established a fawn shelter. Today it spreads across a 40-acre (16-hectare) area of the Teutoburg Forest and features meadows, ponds and woodland. Visit Olderdissen Animal Park to discover some 450 animals that represent 90 native species.
Learn more
A deer standing on a grassy hill with trees in the background.

3. Old Town Hall

Bielefeld’s Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus) is a splendid building, an administrative headquarters and the seat of the city’s Lord Mayor. Set at the eastern edge of the historic center, the Old Town Hall replaced an earlier legislative office situated on the Old Market Square. Dedicate some time to studying the Old Town Hall’s range of architectural styles and artistic features.
Learn more
A historic building with a clock tower, a fountain, and a modern building in the background.

4. Theater Bielefeld

Theater Bielefeld (Stadttheater Bielefeld) has been at the forefront of the city’s performing arts scene since its inauguration in 1904. This popular venue for cultural events is a handsome stone building that features a façade decorated with balustrades, friezes and sculpted ecclesiastical characters. Purchase tickets for a show, which could be an adaptation of a Shakespearean play, contemporary dance or philharmonic concert.
Learn more
A historic building with ornate architecture, including a prominent dome and statues.

5. Bielefeld Art Gallery

The Kunsthalle Bielefeld is a contemporary art museum with a focus on international artists from the 20th and 21st centuries. Find exhibits dedicated to paintings and sculptures in addition to a superb sculpture garden. Get insight into the worldwide modern art movement as you wander between the bright and spacious galleries of the Kunsthalle Bielefeld.
Learn more
A modern building with a glass facade, surrounded by a well-maintained lawn and trees.

What to do in Bielefeld

Stay near popular Bielefeld attractions

A historic building with a tower, surrounded by lush greenery and a cobblestone path.

Sparrenberg Castle

9.0/10 (37 reviews)
Capture photos of panoramic views from a watchtower, tour a maze of underground passages and be part of a medieval festival at this fortress that has a history dating back seven centuries.
See properties
A brick wall with neon signs spelling "Ich Verla" and a red heart.

Verl

A yellow castle with three towers and a central archway.

Schloss Holte-Stukenbrock

A small white aircraft on a grassy airstrip with a forested hill in the background.

Oerlinghausen

A traditional half-timbered house with a red-tiled roof, surrounded by a grassy area and a gravel path.

Spenge

Frequently asked questions

Is Bielefeld worth visiting?
One of the most common things to do in Bielefeld is explore Olderdissen Animal Park. Tick this top attraction off your list, then experience more of the area's walking trails and views.
How do I spend a day in Bielefeld?
Olderdissen Animal Park and H2O Herford Sports and Water Park are two great places to kick-start your getaway adventures. Be sure to check out the dining and shopping options in Bielefeld while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Bielefeld?
The top tourist attraction in Bielefeld is Olderdissen Animal Park, so make sure to include it on your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Bielefeld?
Three days in Bielefeld is enough to visit the city's main attractions. Many travellers book for two days on average. Olderdissen Animal Park, Theatre Bielefeld and Bielefeld Art Gallery are among the most popular sights. Want to see more? Stick around a while longer to explore nearby hotspots such as Osnabrueck.
Is Bielefeld a walkable city?
With attractions like Olderdissen Animal Park close by, Bielefeld is very much a place to see on foot. Want to discover some exciting neighbourhoods a walkable distance from downtown? Brackwede is about 5 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Bielefeld with kids?
Planning what to do in Bielefeld with kids has never been easier. Whether you're holidaying with teenagers or toddlers, there are loads of family-friendly attractions to keep everyone happy here.

What to do in Bielefeld for adults?
Adults of all ages will have lots of things to do in Bielefeld. Whether you're into traditional cuisine, outdoor pursuits or just love discovering new places, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Bielefeld?
From visiting parks to wandering around exciting neighbourhoods, it's simple to find free things to do in Bielefeld. If you're in need of ideas, get some tips from a local tour guide. Olderdissen Animal Park is a great spot for anyone wanting to save on their travel adventures.