Bonn, located on the banks of the Rhine River, is Germany’s 19th largest city and was its capital from 1949 to 1990. The wealthy and beautiful city that played an important role in the creation of modern Germany is a center of international cooperation. Bonn is a preferred European tourist destination and this is an overview of its main sites.
The magnificent Alter Zoll which was used as a castle in the 16th and 17th centuries is a major tourist site. The structure offers the most beautiful views of the city, including the breathtaking view of the Siebengebirge mountains and the nearby picturesque areas. Showcasing more than 3,000 animals in their natural environment, the Alexander Koenig Museum is the country’s most acclaimed natural history museum. The museum housed in an attractive early 20th century neoclassical building also has an incredible bird collection of 70,000 specimens and eggs in its ‘World of Birds’.
Clearly representing the country’s remarkable artistic and cultural heritage, the Federal Republic of Germany Art and Exhibition Hall is one of Bonn’s most famous sites. The huge museum showcasing many impressive global exhibits has several highlights, such as the wonderful artifacts from the tomb of Pharaoh Tutankhamen. Other exhibits include “Art in the GDR”, which shows the history of art in the German Democratic Republic and “Faces from the East”, among others.
Without visiting the Beethoven House, which holds the everlasting memories of Bonn’s most celebrated son, Beethoven, no trip to Bonn would be complete. The well-preserved house and museum in the center of town feature many of the legendary composer’s personal belongings, including musical instruments, including his latest purpose-built piano, handwritten manuscripts for several symphonies, and renowned letters. Altes Rathaus, the former town hall, which has been the center of urban administration for 700 years, is one of the city’s best-known historical landmarks. The magnificent building and the surrounding Old Market Square are favorite areas to relax and people watch.
Wander through the Bonn Altstadt (Old Town), Poppelsdorf and Sudstadt areas which have many medieval buildings, charming houses, basilicas, beautiful walking paths and vibrant markets. Most of these beautifully preserved regions have plenty of great pubs, restaurants and cafes to enjoy. The beautiful Octan Park is the city’s favorite place to walk or relax in nature. This open oasis with fantastic gardens and a stage in the center often doubles as a concert venue.
Doppelkirche Schwarzrheindorf built in the 12th century is a splendid “double church” located in the suburbs. The cathedral portrayed by the series of Old Testament frescoes in the lower church is also notable for its fantastic Romanesque architecture. Rigalsche Kapelle, built in 1858, is the oldest evangelical church and another important religious site. With gardens in the classical English style redesigned in 1819, the University of Bonn Botanical Gardens are a serene place in the city center to relax. Explore its amazing variety of plants, including Amazonian orchids, towering North American trees, and more.
The Rhine Promenade in Bonn, the longest promenade along the Rhine River, is perfect for biking, skating or walking pleasure. The 29 km long promenade has many pretty beer gardens, the Rheinaue leisure park and many impressive views on both sides. Home to the best collections of 20th-century German art, particularly Expressionism and post-war German art, the architecturally triangular-shaped Kunstmuseum Bonn (Art Museum Bonn) is a great place for art lovers . Walk the Museum Mile that stretches from the Südstadt to Bad Godesberg to visit Bonn’s famous museums and cultural centers.
Bonn and its neighborhoods are perfect for various water sports. Enjoy sailing and fishing on the enchanting lakes of Agger, Laacher See, Rheinauenpark and Herrenteich. The Rotter See area is popular for swimming, sailing, sunbathing and rowing. Take exciting boat cruises, rafting, fishing and kayaking on the Rhine River, the Wahnbach Reservoir and the Sieg River. Experience wine tasting and watch its processing at the Sonnenberg Estate.
