Discover North Rhine-Westphalia

North Rhine-Westphalia is a stage in west Germany, with as its capital Düsseldorf. It is the largest state of the country in terms of population. The most important river is the Rhine river. The Rhine has a long history. The Romans, Teutons and the Nobles were connected with the Rhine. On both sides of the river banks you can find traces of this. The two largest cities of the state are located on the Rhine; Cologne and Düsseldorf. North-Rhine Westphalia is a holiday region, perfect for hiking, biking and culture.

Hiking

There is a large number of signposted routes in the area, including the famous Rothaarsteig route which leads you over picturesque hills of the central mountain range. Another premium walking route is the Rheinsteig trail. This 320km long route offers spectacular views and takes you along the banks of the famous Rhine river.

Culture

North Rhine-Westphalia has numerous famous artists, such as Ludwig van Beethoven, Heinrich Heine or Joseph Beuys, and is one of the largest cultural regions of Europe. It’s proportionately the most cultural institution in Europe with ca. 700 museums. Many millions of visitors come annually to the musicals, events, orchestras, museums, theatres and concert halls. There is also the Cologne Cathedral, the Aachen Dom, Augustusburg and the former coal mine Zeche Zollverein in Essen; four beautiful Unesco world heritage monuments. The Cologne Cathedral is the most visited attraction in all of Germany! In terms of events there are a number of annual highlights such as the carnival celebrations and the firework display on the Rhine, called “Rhein in Flammen” and “Kölner Lighter”. There are, among other things, events around the industrial heritage such as the ‘Extra Flash’. In Bonn you will find the Beethoven festival. You will not be bored in the North Rhine-Westphalia.

Gourmet

There are more than 40 star restaurant in the North Rhine-Westphalia area. You can also taste the regional specialties, such as the Westphalia ham and Aachen printing. Accompanied with the food you can get a Kölsch, Alt or Lager – depending on where you are exactly.

The numerous resorts of spas in the area offer you enough possibilities to relax after all the activities.  

Planning a trip to North Rhine-Westphalia? Make your trip complete with an overnight stay in one of the Van der Valk hotels. You can also choose for one of the offers listed below.