Münster lies in the Westphalian Lowland at an average elevation of 68 meters above sea level. The Aa flows at 55–60 m; the city center at 57–75 m. Münster is Germany's cycling capital – with over 500,000 bicycles for 310,000 residents, the highest bike-to-resident ratio in Germany. The Peace of Westphalia was signed here in 1648.
That works out to roughly 223 feet above sea level. The nearby cities compared on this page average 92 m, putting Münster about 24 m lower.
Quick Facts
| Elevation (above sea level) | 68 m |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 51.9607° N, 7.6261° E |
| Country | Germany |
| Continent | Europe |
Compare elevations – nearby cities
| City | Elevation (m) | Country |
|---|---|---|
| Dortmund | 94 | Germany |
| Bielefeld | 124 | Germany |
| Hanover | 58 | Germany |
Cities with a similar elevation
The following cities sit at an elevation similar to Münster (68 m above sea level):
| City | Elevation (m) | Country |
|---|---|---|
| Bonn | 64 | Germany |
| Manchester | 60 | United Kingdom |
| Cologne | 59 | Germany |
| Mönchengladbach | 59 | Germany |
| Magdeburg | 56 | Germany |
Frequently Asked Questions
How high is Münster above sea level?
Münster averages 68 m above sea level. The Aa flows at 55–60 m; the city center at 57–75 m; the Baumberge hills west of the city reach up to 188 m.
Why is Münster Germany's bicycle capital?
Münster has Germany's highest bike-to-resident ratio: over 500,000 bicycles for 310,000 residents. Flat terrain, an extensive cycle network and a large student population (70,000 students) explain the cycling culture.
What was the Peace of Westphalia?
The Peace of Westphalia (1648) ended the Thirty Years' War. Negotiations took place in two cities: the treaty with the Holy Roman Empire was signed in Münster, the treaty with Sweden in Osnabrück. It is considered the foundation of modern international law.