Paderborn

High tech & Middle Ages

Paderborn

Paderborn, the lively city in the center of the Paderborner Land, combines history, culture, and innovation. The city is known for its cathedral, whose impressive architecture dominates the cityscape. Paderborn offers a rich cultural landscape with museums, theaters, and regular events that attract visitors throughout the year. As a center for science and technology, Paderborn is also a hub for education and research. 

Historic Town Hall

Paderborn City Hall is an architectural gem in the heart of the city. With its magnificent 17th-century Renaissance façade, it is one of the city's most important landmarks alongside the cathedral. The building impresses with its ornate decorations and historical details that reflect Paderborn's rich history.

Today, the town hall serves not only as the seat of the city administration, but also as a venue for cultural events and official receptions.

The Pader

The Pader rises in the heart of Paderborn from more than 200 springs. The numerous spring channels emerge in the area of the Pader Springs and converge as they flow through the citys parks. At around four kilometres in length the Pader is considered Germanys shortest river.

The Pader Springs are a popular destination for walks and offer insights into the citys unique spring landscape. The water and riverbanks provide habitats for various animal and plant species.

Schloss Neuhaus

“Schloss Neuhaus” (Neuhaus Castle) is an eye-catching building and a prime example of the Weser Renaissance style. Surrounded by a large Baroque garden, the castle was once the residence of the prince-bishops of Paderborn. Today, it houses cultural institutions and is a popular venue for concerts and exhibitions.

The well-tended gardens invite visitors to take relaxing strolls and offer a picturesque backdrop. Neuhaus Castle combines historical splendor with lively culture and is a highlight for visitors to the region.

Computer history

In the world's largest computer museum—the "Heinz Nixdorf MuseumsForum" — you can discover 5,000 years of history as you embark on an exciting journey through the history of information and communication technology.

Across 6,000 square meters of exhibition space, more than 2,000 exhibits showcase inventions and developments from ancient times to the present day.

Many of the exhibits are interactive, inviting visitors to try them out for themselves. The permanent exhibition is enriched by a variety of special exhibitions, events, and activities throughout the year.

Events

Libori is known as Paderborn’s “fifth season”, a time when the entire city comes alive with excitement. This nine-day festival draws over a million visitors to Paderborn each year. Its unique blend of fairground fun, church traditions, art, and culture makes it an unforgettable experience.

Other traditional events — such as the Luna Park, the Spring Festival, the Schützenfest (a traditional German festival), and the Christmas Market set around the beautifully illuminated cathedral and historic town hall — also invite visitors to experience Paderborn’s charm and the warmth of its people.

Further information

Find out more about leisure activities in Paderborn:

Tourist-Information Paderborn

Königsplatz 10 | D - 33098 Paderborn | Tel. +49 5251 8812920