Herford

Half-timbered houses, leafy parks, and a compact historic centre shape Herford, a small city in North Rhine-Westphalia with plenty of culture tucked into its streets. Set between the Teutoburg Forest and the Wiehen Hills, it combines medieval heritage with modern art, independent cafés, and easy access to the surrounding countryside. You can spend your time exploring the old town, visiting galleries, or heading into the nearby landscape for a walk or cycle. Herford suits you if you like smaller German cities with a mix of history, culture, and nature.

1. Explore the historic centre

Herford’s old town is easy to explore on foot, with historic churches, traditional buildings, and lively squares around the centre. You can visit the Herford Minster, one of Westphalia’s oldest hall churches, before wandering through the surrounding streets and stopping at a café. The Remensniderhaus, one of the city’s best-preserved half-timbered buildings, offers a glimpse into Herford’s medieval past.

2. Visit the Marta Herford

For something more contemporary, head to Marta Herford, a striking museum of modern art and design. The building itself is worth seeing, with its angular architecture designed by Frank Gehry. Inside, rotating exhibitions bring together contemporary art, architecture, and design, making it one of the city's main cultural draws.

3. Get outdoors

Herford’s location makes it easy to escape into the countryside. You can follow walking and cycling routes through the surrounding hills and forests, with the Teutoburg Forest and Wiehen Hills both within easy reach. Back in the city, parks and riverside paths offer a gentler way to spend an afternoon outdoors.