Things to do in NRW: The most exciting activities

Things to do in NRW: The most exciting activities

Germany is a country full of diverse landscapes, rich cultural treasures and culinary delights. North Rhine-Westphalia is no exception, offering its visitors a wealth of outdoor adventures, cultural explorations and culinary discoveries. From breathtaking hiking and cycling trails to fascinating museums and historic sites to the best restaurants and regional specialties, NRW has something to offer for every visitor. In this article we will take a closer look at the three most important aspects of this diverse state and help you get the most out of your trip to North Rhine-Westphalia.

Outdoor adventure: The best hiking and cycling trails in NRW

North Rhine-Westphalia is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking for breathtaking hiking and cycling trails. The region offers a variety of scenic routes suitable for both experienced adventurers and beginners. Here are some of the best hiking and cycling trails in NRW that you should definitely explore.

Hiking trails:
– The Rothaarsteig: This long-distance hiking trail stretches over 154 km and leads through the picturesque Rothaar Mountains landscape.
– The Eifelsteig: A 313 km long hiking trail that leads through the varied Eifel landscape and offers spectacular views.
– The Hermannsweg: This 156 km long hiking trail leads through the Teutoburg Forest and offers breathtaking views of the green backdrop.

Cycle paths:
– RuhrtalRadweg: This 230 km long cycle path leads along the Ruhr and offers a relaxed ride through idyllic landscapes and charming towns.
– The AhrtalRadweg: A picturesque cycle path along the Ahr, which leads through vineyards and picturesque villages and is perfect for leisure cyclists.
– The Schwalm-Nette Nature Park Cycle Path: A 131 km long circuit that leads through idyllic river landscapes and picturesque nature parks.

So if you want to experience the beauty of nature in NRW, you should definitely explore one of the first-class hiking and cycling trails. The diverse landscapes and well-developed trails make NRW a paradise for outdoor adventurers.

Cultural explorations: museums, castles and historical sites

When visiting North Rhine-Westphalia, cultural exploration should not be missed. The region offers a wealth of museums, castles and historic sites that delight visitors of all ages. From impressive art collections to well-preserved castles, there is a lot to discover in NRW.

One of the most popular museums in the region is the Museum Ludwig in Cologne. Here, visitors can admire an extensive collection of modern artworks, including works by Picasso, Warhol and Lichtenstein. The museum is a must for art lovers and also offers regularly changing special exhibitions.

For those interested in history, Wissen Castle in Weeze is a worthwhile destination. The well-preserved moated castle from the 14th century offers insights into life in times past and regularly organizes guided tours and events. Visitors can stroll through the magnificent halls and the idyllic castle park and enjoy the historical atmosphere.

In addition to museums and castles, there are also a variety of historical sites to explore in NRW. This includes the Zollverein mine in Essen, a former hard coal mine that now serves as a cultural site and museum. The UNESCO World Heritage site impresses with its impressive architecture and provides insights into the region's industrial past.

Another highlight is the Cologne Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece and one of the most famous landmarks in Germany. Visitors can tour the impressive cathedral and enjoy the breathtaking views from the top of the cathedral.

In addition to the museums, castles and historical sites, North Rhine-Westphalia also offers a variety of events that enrich the cultural life of the region. From art exhibitions to theater performances to historical festivals, there is something to discover for every taste. The diverse cultural scene makes NRW an exciting travel destination for those interested in culture from all over the world.

Culinary discoveries: The region's best restaurants and specialties

The North Rhine-Westphalia region offers a variety of culinary discoveries, from traditional dishes to modern delicacies. Here are some of the best restaurants and specialties you should definitely try:

1. Haxenhaus: Dieses gemütliche Restaurant in Köln ist bekannt für seine köstlichen Schweinshaxen, die traditionell im Ofen gebraten werden. Die knusprige Kruste und das zarte Fleisch machen dieses Gericht zu einem absoluten Muss für Fleischliebhaber.
2. Düsseldorfer Senfrostbraten: In Düsseldorf sollten Sie unbedingt den Senfrostbraten probieren, ein saftiges Rindersteak, das mit einer einzigartigen Senfsauce serviert wird. Dieses Gericht ist eine lokale Spezialität und wird in vielen traditionellen Gaststätten der Stadt angeboten.

3. Aachen print: For those who like sweets, the Aachener Printen are an absolute highlight. These spicy gingerbread cookies are popular throughout the region and are often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or mulled wine.

4. Botanical Garden Rombergpark Restaurant: In Dortmund you will find the Rombergpark Restaurant, which is located in the middle of the beautiful Botanical Garden. Here you can enjoy regional dishes and international specialties in an idyllic atmosphere.

5. Bergdolt-Reif & Nett winery: For wine lovers, the Bergdolt-Reif & Nett winery in the Palatinate offers a variety of exquisite wines that can be tasted directly on site. The picturesque surroundings and first-class wines make this place a real insider tip.

6. Café Extrablatt: This popular café chain restaurant offers a diverse selection of international dishes, from hearty breakfasts to delicious burger creations. The relaxed atmosphere and extensive menu make Café Extrablatt a popular meeting place for locals and visitors alike.

When visiting North Rhine-Westphalia, you should definitely explore the region's diverse cuisine and try local specialties to enjoy an authentic taste experience.

Conclusion

There are a variety of exciting activities in North Rhine-Westphalia that delight both locals and tourists. From breathtaking hiking and cycling trails to fascinating museums, castles and historic sites, the state offers a wide range of things to do. Furthermore, the culinary diversity of the region cannot be underestimated, and there are numerous first-class restaurants and local specialties to discover.

No matter whether you are interested in nature, culture or cuisine, North Rhine-Westphalia has something to offer for everyone. So get out there and explore the fascinating activities this diverse region has to offer.