North Rhine-Westphalia: Culture, Nature and Routes

Cologne Cathedral brings together a long construction history and a clear architectural identity: construction began in 1248 and was completed in 1880. As a Gothic masterpiece, it bears witness to the strength and endurance of European Christianity. Augustusburg Palace and Falkenlust Hunting Lodge in Brühl offer a different focus. Both are among the earliest and most significant examples of 18th-century Rococo architecture in Germany. Those planning their trip around culture and architecture can choose from a variety of historical themes.

Industrial Heritage and Art Along Distinct Routes

Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex in Essen represents European primary industry in the 19th and 20th centuries. The “NRW Sculpture” project adds another perspective: it brings together public sculptures in North Rhine-Westphalia along cycling routes and includes eleven suggestions for art-focused bike rides. Each option has its own focus—industrial history or the connection between art and cycling.

Wilderness, Exhibitions and Starry Skies

In Eifel National Park and its surroundings, extensive forests and open landscapes are returning to the wild. Rare species such as black storks, eagle owls and wildcats find important refuges there. At the Eifel National Park Centre in the Forum Vogelsang IP, the 2,000-square-metre “Wildnis(t)räume” experience exhibition explores this natural environment: it is interactive, multisensory, accessible and multilingual. Check the centre’s current operating details before your visit.

Eifel National Park and its surroundings are recognised as an International Dark Sky Park. Bookable stargazing tours are available for groups of up to 15 people, while designated stargazing spots also allow for independent observation. As tour booking options may vary, it is advisable to check before making specific plans.

Hiking Routes with Different Highlights

The Roman Canal Hiking Trail follows a Roman aqueduct and runs in seven stages from Nettersheim to Cologne. Its stages make it an option for a hiking itinerary based on a historic route. The Three Valleys Tour offers a different experience: the approximately 30-kilometre hiking trail follows various waterways and passes remnants such as mills and forges from the region’s industrious past.

For those considering a longer route, the Sauerland-Höhenflug is a hiking trail of more than 190 kilometres. It runs through the Sauerland Rothaargebirge Nature Park from Altena to Korbach in Hesse. The seven stages of the Roman Canal Hiking Trail and the more than 190 kilometres of the Sauerland-Höhenflug describe different planning measures; the Three Valleys Tour is listed as approximately 30 kilometres long. Shorter routes have their own character, too: the Velmerstot Route leads to the highest point of the Egge Hills and then descends through the Silberbach Valley.

Cycling Routes and Landscapes

In North Rhine-Westphalia, the Rhine Cycle Route runs for more than 226 kilometres along the Rhine. It mostly follows well-developed, cycle-friendly routes with consistent signage; the river can be crossed by bridges and ferries. Check local conditions for each stage, especially if you plan to cross the river. The Möhne Valley Cycle Route uses former railway tracks, making cycling through the Sauerland less strenuous.

Another route connects a variety of regional impressions: the Ruhr Valley Cycle Route runs from the Sauerland through the Ruhr region, linking industrial heritage, idyllic half-timbered scenery, towns and natural attractions. Those looking for a cycling tour with expansive views and village stops can also consider the Medebach Mountain Trail: this panoramic circular route connects nine half-timbered villages and offers sweeping views across the Sauerland.

Regional Traditions and a Distinctive Route

In the Bergisches Land, many hosts serve the Bergische coffee table in cosy restaurants. It includes freshly brewed coffee from a Dröppelmina, yeast cake, dark and rye bread, sweet spreads, savoury toppings, and Bergische waffles with hot cherries or rice pudding. Which establishments serve the coffee table and whether reservations are required varies.

The Wuppertal Suspension Railway is also distinctive for its route: it runs mostly above the River Wupper, is 13.3 kilometres long and has 20 stations. Check the current timetable when planning your ride. If you are looking for a hotel for your trip, first decide which attraction, route or regional experience will be your main focus; then tailor your search to your specific destination or planned stage.

Discover more destinations: Bottrop, Duisburg, Dortmund, Bochum, Gelsenkirchen, Herne, Oberhausen, Essen, Mülheim an der Ruhr, Remscheid, Bonn, Mönchengladbach, Solingen, Wuppertal, Hamm, Krefeld, Cologne, Warendorf, Wesel, Viersen, Unna, Soest, Steinfurt, Rhein-Sieg District, Rheinisch-Bergischer District, Recklinghausen, Paderborn, Olpe, Oberbergischer District, Neuss District, Minden-Lübbecke, Mettmann, Märkischer District, Lippe, Kleve, Höxter, Hochsauerland District, Herford, Heinsberg, Gütersloh, Euskirchen, Rhein-Erft District, Ennepe-Ruhr District, Coesfeld, Düren, Borken, Aachen, Siegen-Wittgenstein, Ruhr region, Leverkusen, Düsseldorf, Bielefeld, Bonn, Hagen, Oberhausen, Münster.

Back to the main travel overview: Germany.