Located in North Rhine-Westphalia, this university town has a Gothic cathedral from 1143, active student community, and well-preserved medieval center with half-timbered buildings.
Paderborn, in eastern North Rhine-Westphalia, has evolved from a medieval religious center into a modern university city of 144,000 residents. You'll find medieval architecture like the 13th-century cathedral next to the cutting-edge Heinz Nixdorf MuseumsForum. Throughout the city center, 200 natural springs create a network of waterways, feeding into the River Pader, which runs for just 4 kilometers, making it Germany's shortest river.
Exploring the Cathedral Quarter
The 13th-century Paderborn Cathedral rises 92 meters above the Marktplatz with its Romanesque tower. Inside, you can visit the crypt containing Saint Liborius's remains and see the Three-Hares-Window in the cloister - an optical illusion where three hares share three ears. The cathedral museum houses medieval artifacts, including the 11th-century Madonna of Bishop Imad sculpture.
The World of Computing History
At the Heinz Nixdorf MuseumsForum, you can explore 6,000 square meters dedicated to 5,000 years of computing and information technology. Walk through exhibits ranging from ancient writing systems to modern computers, and try out working historical machines. The museum runs English-language tours twice daily, and students can enter at reduced prices with valid ID.
Renaissance Architecture Trail
The city center contains many 16th and 17th-century Weser Renaissance buildings. The town hall (1613-1616) displays the style's characteristic three-gabled design, while the Heisingsche Haus and Adam-and-Eve-House (the city's oldest half-timbered building) retain their original architectural elements. As you walk the narrow streets, look for detailed timber framing and stone carvings on the building facades.
Along the Pader Springs
Over 200 springs emerge through sandy ground in five main groups: Dammpader, Börenpader, Rothoborn, Augenquelle, and Warme Pader. Connected walking paths let you observe the clear water bubbling up from the ground. During warm months, you'll see students and locals reading or relaxing by the water.
University Life and Sports Scene
The University of Paderborn's 20,000 students contribute to the city's cultural calendar with regular events and performances. The campus sits within walking distance of the center. Local sports teams have achieved national recognition - the Paderborn Untouchables have won multiple German baseball championships, while the Paderborn Dolphins compete in American football leagues.
Getting Around
You can reach Paderborn via the A33 autobahn or regular InterCity trains from the main station. Paderborn Lippstadt Airport connects to several European cities. Within Paderborn, frequent buses run between the university, city center, and residential areas. Most central attractions are within a 15-20 minute walk of each other.
