The 10 BEST Free Walking Tours in North Rhine-Westphalia
Hello, this is North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW), a country within Germany which is beautiful with various scenic features, cities and historical backgrounds. There can be no better way to explore NRW than through tourisms through walking which covers these areas of interest. Whether you are an admirer of excellent nature, an enthusiast of historical landmarks, or a stroller, NRW has something to offer. Here in this blog post, we will be discussing some of the finest walking tours that one can undertake in the NRW region and some facts which will be helpful in such tours.
Nature Trails
For those who like hiking, there is a variety of outstanding trails in NRW that you would be willing to take. Here, are a few of the options that can be considered:
Eifel National Park
Eifel National park is one of the popular national park that attracts many hikers and is found in the southwestern of North Rhine-Westphalia. This has endowed the park with thickets of trees, undulating terrains and valley like structures. Probably the most known and used walking trail is the “Wilderness Trail”, it is 15 km long trail and you can walk to the centre of the park actually. On your journey through the plains, you will be blessed by the typical African wildcats, black storks among the other wild birds that you will sight.
Sauerland Höhenflug
If scenic beauty trip is what you are looking for then Sauerland Höhenflug is going to become the best part of your tour. They include this long-distance trail that covers over 240 kilometers and passes through the Sauerland country. It contains breathtaking moments of elaborate views of the mountains, and beautiful lakes, as well as the attractive villages. It is also recommended that you take your camera along to take photographs of the views.
City Walks
NRW is also full of active cities that combine the traditions of the past with those of the present. These are the following walking tours that offer the possibility to experience the urban appeal of this area:
Cologne Old Town
Begin your adventure with the subject of North Rhine-Westphalia with help of the biggest city of this area – Cologne. The Cologne Old Town walking takes one through some of the old tiny Renaissance and terrace houses, and important places of interest including Cologne Cathedral. Before leaving you should also consider visiting at least one of the beer hal, a local food establishment that primarily serves beer.
Düsseldorf Rhine Promenade
Take a leisurely walk through the Rhine Promenade in Düsseldorf is one of the most famous promenades that is located at the river bank. Visiting some parts of the city such as Media Harbor offers spectacular views of buildings’ modern architectural design; taking a spin through the Altstadt of which will offer a historical experience. It is without a doubt that this walking tour hits the roof in giving you the feel of Düsseldorf.
Historical Walks
It is astonishing to know that NRW is rich in history with a number of sites where one could possibly unravel some or the other historical events that occurred. It might interest you to know that there are few historic walking tours with specifics as follows;
Aachen Old Town
They stayed in Aachen that boasts of a historical background that dates from the Roman era. ’s tourist attractions include the Aachen Cathedral, the Town Hall and many more which I was privileged to see when I took a walking tour around the Aachen Old Town. Nowhere is this delight more evident than in the pleasant Market Square where leisure can be taken to sample some of the local cuisine.
Königswinter and Drachenfels
It is safe to start the tour to Königswiter, namely, the birth place of the famous Drachenfels Castle. The walk takes you right through actual structures of the town; dotted with well-lit streets as well as attractive parks. Ascend the stalwart and lofty Drachenfels Mountain to get a vantage point of the Rhine River views, before proceeding to the castle ruins.
Tips for Walking Tours in NRW
Below are a few tips to help in increasing your interest in the below fantastic walking tours in NRW.
- Take water: Please be advised that walking tours burn calories and hence it is important to take water along with you on the tour.
- Carry an umbrella or other protective gear: Due to unpredictable weather changes, always carry an umbrella or any other protective gear to shield yourself from any climax of weather conditions during your walking tour.
- Take water and some food: It is pertinent especially when trecking for long distances since one may get exhausted. It is recommended to have a refillable water bottle, a snack, and some energy to go round.
- Adhere to the tourism etiquette: As a visitor, it is only appropriate that you respect the customs of the community or area you are visiting with most especially the rules and regulations governing the walking tour you choose.
Therefore, no matter if you are a keen hiker, culturally curious or simply looking for a new kind of tour through NRW, walking definitely is an extensive opportunity to get in touch with nature, history and the lively towns of this area. Shoe on your walking shoes, gather you questions and be prepared to go on a wonderful tour through North Rhine-Westphalia.
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