Half-timbered and natural idyll
The “Venice of Westphalia” is an insider tip for Cologne residents
Mar 21, 2026 – 7:54 a.mReading time: 2 min.
Lippstadt is a worthwhile alternative to the big city: lots of water, lots of peace and a charming old town. A real insider tip for Cologne residents looking for a relaxing day trip.
Anyone who wants to get out of Cologne and into the countryside will find a surprisingly idyllic destination about two hours’ drive east: Lippstadt in the Soest district. The city is nicknamed the “Venice of Westphalia” – and that is no coincidence. Around 750 watercourses run through the city area, and many small bridges and canals characterize the old town.
The heart of a day trip is the “Lippstadt Treasure Route”. The approximately 65 kilometer long circular tour starts at Jahnplatz and connects nature, small districts and sights.
Particularly pleasant: the route is largely flat and therefore also suitable for less trained cyclists. The tour can be completed in half a day – perfect for a spontaneous weekend trip from Cologne.
Water is a constant companion along the way: the route leads through the Lippeaueue, to the lake district and into the “Green Angle”, a park in the middle of the city. If you don’t want to cycle, you can of course do the tour on foot as an alternative.
In addition to the old town, the route primarily shows the surrounding area: meadows, fields and small villages line up along the route. Views of river landscapes and nature reserves continually open up.
The mix of nature, historical buildings and quiet paths makes the tour particularly varied.
By car, the journey from Cologne to Lippstadt takes around 1.5 hours via the A1, A2 or A44, depending on traffic. Alternatively, the train is also an option – ideal if you rent a bike on site or take it with you. To do this, you should first go to Hamm main station. Then we continue with the RB89. Get off at the “Lippstadt, Bustreff Bahnhof” stop. The destination can be reached from there in just a few minutes on foot.
