Lippstadt's compact old town rewards a half-day on foot. The Große Marienkirche anchors the historic core, and a short walk south takes you to the atmospheric ruins of the Stiftskirche. The town's network of Lippe branches earns it the nickname "Venice of Westphalia" — paddles and bikes are practical, and canoe hire is available near the Grüner Winkel. Peters SchokoWelt, the large chocolate experience centre on the edge of town, gives the place an unlikely draw for families.