Arriving in Cologne, history buffs and culture vultures won’t believe their luck. The city offers a fantastic mix of attractions, especially on the museum scene. But visitors mainly come here for the cathedral. It's 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 enjoy life — as you’ll see if you plan 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 huge 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 and sweaty.
Be sure to try Kölsch, a hoppy beer drunk in tall glasses called Stangen. Pair it with Kölsche Kaviar, a type of sausage, or Hämmche, pigs' trotter. Sorry in advance, vegetarians.
Head to the next stop on your western Germany road-trip itinerary, into the Eifel region and onwards 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 past, you wouldn’t be remotely 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 hiking trails through the Eifel area, leading you past volcanic crater lakes and through moorland and forests. And, before you leave, make sure to try the Aachener Printen — a traditional gingerbread-style biscuit.
You’ve trekked city streets and hiked up hills. Now it’s time to treat yourself. And the next stop on your western Germany road trip is, let’s be honest, all about the wine.
The vineyards surrounding Rüdesheim have thrived for a thousand years, and its famous drinks include Riesling, brandy and Sekt, a sparkling wine. And what a setting to enjoy it all in: the Rhine winding past mountains and dotted with islands, and charming Rüdesheim itself.
Take a cruise along the Rhine for plenty of photo opportunities. Visit the Niederwald Monument — you can get there on foot or by cable car. You can even go at night when the landscape is lit by 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 comically small castle on an island that used to charge boats as they passed, showing that size really doesn’t matter.
Worried about hitting your daily step count during this western Germany road trip? Marburg has you covered.
This historic town feels entirely made of steps. Winding alleys thread their way up and down steep slopes, and some houses have back doors five storeys above the front doors.
But that isn’t Marburg’s main selling point. This university town buzzes with youthful energy, has affordable, delicious food, and is home to 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. High above it all is Landgrave Castle with panoramic views. And when evening comes, the Schlosspark hosts concerts and open-air films in summer.
