Arriving in Cologne, history buffs and culture-vultures won’t believe their luck. The city offers an incredible mix of attractions, especially on the museum scene. But visitors mainly come here for the cathedral. It really is a big deal.
Seriously ornate architecture, 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 with the city’s uproariously 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’d rather enjoy your music standing and sweaty.
Be sure to try Kölsch, a hoppy beer drunk in tall glasses known as Stangen. Pair it with Kölsche Kaviar, a type of sausage, or Hämmche, a pig’s trotter. Sorry, vegetarians.
Head to the next stop on your western Germany road-trip itinerary, into the Eifel region and on to the town of Monschau. Here you get a two-for-one: a beautiful historic town and a stunning landscape.
Monschau, known as the ‘Pearl of the Eifel’, feels like a step back in time. Or a leap. Back to a world of cobbled streets, half‑timbered houses and over 300 listed buildings. It’s proper fairy‑tale material. If you saw Hansel and Gretel run by, you wouldn’t be the least bit surprised.
Stroll the Altstadt, the dreamily historic old town. Visit the 13th‑century castle, or the Rotes Haus, an 18th‑century mansion whose unassuming exterior conceals a wonderfully over‑the‑top interior of antiques and tapestries.
Then head out to explore the 240 km (about 149 miles) of walking routes through the Eifel, leading you past volcanic crater lakes and through moorland and woodland. And before you leave, make sure to try the Aachener Printen — a traditional gingerbread biscuit.
You’ve wandered city streets and climbed hills. Now it’s time to treat yourself. And the next stop on your road trip through western Germany is, let’s be honest, all about the wine.
The vineyards surrounding Rüdesheim have thrived for a thousand years, and its acclaimed drinks include Riesling, brandy and Sekt, a German sparkling wine. And what a setting to enjoy it all in: the Rhine winding past hills and dotted with islands, and charming Rüdesheim itself.
Take a cruise along the Rhine for plenty of photo opportunities. Visit the Niederwald Monument — reached on foot or by cable car. You can even make the trip at night when the landscape is bathed in moonlight. Visit the taverns on Drosselgasse, nicknamed "the smallest but happiest street in the world."
And for something a bit different, there’s Pfalz Castle, a delightfully tiny castle on an island that used to exact tolls from passing boats, showing that size really doesn’t matter.
Worried about getting your daily step count during this western Germany road trip? Marburg has you covered.
This historic town feels entirely made of steps. Winding alleys weave their way up and down steep slopes, and some of the houses have back doors five storeys above the front doors.
But that's not Marburg’s main selling point. This university town has a lively, youthful energy, affordable and delicious food, and the Philipps-Universität – the world’s oldest Protestant university, whose alumni include the Brothers Grimm.
Wander the crooked streets up and down. Then there’s the Elisabethkirche, built by the knights of the Teutonic Order to commemorate Saint Elisabeth, a pilgrimage site that brought fame and fortune to the town.
If you’re a morning person, head to the south side of the church for sunrise. Then high above it all there’s Landgrave Castle with its panoramic views. And when evening comes, the Schlosspark hosts concerts and open-air films in summer.
