City hopping made easy: In NRW, metropolises are so close together that there are many different city experiences on one trip. Whether by train or by car: be surprised by the cosmopolitan atmosphere of the unmistakable metropolises in North Rhine-Westphalia.
Starting point Münster
Let's start in Münsterland
The young student city with its 1,200 years of history is the first stop on our tour. The 30-year war was once ended here. Today, Münster is considered the most beautiful city in Germany and was even voted the most liveable city in the world in 2004. Even if you only spend a day here, you will quickly get an impression of what makes Münster so liveable - the enchanting old town, the cathedral, the Prinzipalmarkt and the prince-bishop's palace are just a few examples. Münster is also one of the most bike-friendly cities in Germany. So get on your bike and explore the city!
From Münster to the Ruhr region
About an hour by train
A distinctive feature of NRW is its industrial heritage. The Ruhr region is particularly well known for this. Here you will find the Zollverein UNESCO World Heritage Site in Essen and the Duisburg-Nord Landscape Park. They are impressive witnesses to the region's industrial past. Good to know: The Ruhr region has undergone impressive structural change in recent decades. Where steel was once produced and coal mined, there are now green recreational areas and cultural sites that include museums. Visitors can go cycling, walking, climbing or diving here. Concerts and open-air cinemas are organised as well as sporting events. The close-knit cities of the Ruhr region give it the flair of a metropolis and inspire visitors with spectacular events and very different attractions.
From the Ruhr to Bonn
About 1:30 hour by train
From the Ruhr area to Bonn: this elegant, baroque city is not only known as the birthplace of Beethoven, but also for its historic city centre right on the Rhine and delicious regional food. Good to know: Bonn was once Germany's capital, but is still known today for its mix of cultures and international flair. The countryside around Bonn is ideal for easy hikes. If you want to follow in the footsteps of Beethoven, you can visit the museum in the musician's birthplace. Once a year, in September, Bonn celebrates its most famous citizen at the Beethovenfest - music lovers from all over the world come together here.
From Bonn to Cologne
About 30 minutes by train
The most populous city in NRW and the fourth largest in Germany: Cologne should be on everyone's bucket list. If you travel into the city by train, you can already catch a glimpse of Cologne Cathedral. A visit to the cathedral is a must when you are in Cologne. Later, head along the Rhine to the Chocolate Museum. The absolute highlight: the huge chocolate fountain. Wander along Schildergasse, enjoy a Kölsch beer in one of the many breweries and discover hidden corners. Good to know: "Das Herz der Welt, ja das ist Köln" is a well-known carnival song about the good life and tells of the central character of this beautiful cathedral city, which is visited by millions of people from all over the world every year.
From Cologne to Aachen
About 30 minutes by train
The cities of NRW are fascinating and unique in their own way. Aachen is not far from Cologne: This popular city was the centre of Charlemagne's empire. Today, there is much to discover and experience here - yet the city still retains its quiet and relaxed atmosphere. Most of the attractions can be easily marvelled at on a stroll through Aachen's picturesque old town. Aachen Cathedral - a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1978 - is located in the centre of the narrow streets, and Aachen is also famous for its thermal springs. They are said to have been the reason why Charlemagne built his imperial court here.
From Aachen to Düsseldorf
About an hour by train
You will reach the last stop within an hour: Düsseldorf. Whether shopping, architecture, art or the longest bar in the world ... stay tuned!
Good to know: The state capital is located right in the heart of NRW and is the gateway to the world. Business people and tourists from all over arrive at Düsseldorf Airport and spread out in all directions. It is therefore not surprising that Düsseldorf has the reputation of a metropolis. A city where art, fashion lifestyle and the Rhineland joie de vivre come together.
