Arriving in Cologne, history buffs and culture vultures won’t believe their luck. The city offers a brilliant mix of attractions, especially on the museum front. But visitors mainly come here for the cathedral — it’s a big deal.
Seriously ornate architecture, with two iconic spires and 533 steps to the top. And then there’s the rest of the city. Light-hearted and high-spirited, Cologne knows how to live well, as you’ll see if you time your visit to coincide with the city’s riotously fun carnival.
What else does the first stop on your western Germany road-trip itinerary have to offer? Well there’s Museum Ludwig with its vast art collection. Then perhaps treat yourself to a show at the Kölner Philharmonie. Or the Rheinpark hosts outdoor concerts if you prefer your music standing up and sweaty.
Be sure to try Kölsch, a hoppy beer served in tall glasses called Stangen. Pair it with Kölsche Kaviar, a type of sausage, or Hämmche, a pig’s trotter. Apologies in advance to vegetarians.
Koblenz is a 2,000-year-old city in the UNESCO-listed Upper Middle Rhine Valley. It sits at the confluence of the Moselle and the Rhine and is best known for the monument at Deutsches Eck or "German Corner".
The whole city is a testament to a unified Germany, showing off some of the country’s most renowned attractions, from riverside promenades and castles to regional Rhine-Moselle wine.
Though it may seem small, Koblenz has plenty to offer. An 11th-century fortress gives stunning views over the city, and the area is dotted with picturesque squares and beautiful churches.
The city is also a great base for exploring the Rhine castles and the Moselle with its picturesque vineyards and villages. Whether you’re into good food or brilliant sights, there’s something for everyone in Koblenz.
Siegen is located in the south-Westphalian part of North Rhine-Westphalia in the district of Siegen-Wittgenstein in the Arnsberg region. It’s the birthplace of the world-renowned Baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens. As a result, the city is often nicknamed the “Rubens City”.
Although not as well known as other German cities, Siegen is nonetheless a beautiful, up-and-coming tourist destination that’s worth a visit. It has a range of unique things to do and places you can explore, including museums, galleries and even an abandoned mine.
A university town, its locals are a mix of young and old. They all have one thing in common though: they’re incredibly friendly.
If you’re looking for a smaller German city to explore off the beaten track, you can’t go past Siegen.
Düsseldorf, in western Germany, is known for its art scene and fashion industry. Divided by the River Rhine, its Altstadt (Old Town) is on the east bank while the west is taken up by modern commercial areas.
A highly regarded university town, it’s a city of wide streets lined with elegant shops, with a ring of gardens and parks surrounding its lively city centre.
Visitors to the city can experience its stunning old-world architecture, incredible museums, lush inner-city greenery and Europe’s most luxurious shopping street. The city is also a great base for exploring the surrounding area, including the River Rhine and its picturesque castles and villages.
Whether you’re after great shopping or want to explore some culturally significant museums, you’ll find something for you in this vibrant German city.
