Holidays to North Rhine-Westphalia

Why North Rhine-Westphalia?

Formed in 1946, North Rhine Westphalia is the economic engine that powers Germany. Düsseldorf, with its fabulous nightlife and shopping, is what modern Germany is all about; while on the border with Belgium and the Netherlands, Aachen embraces Charlemagne and the Holy Roman Empire. Bonn hums to the sound of Beethoven symphonies, as the cultural centre of Münster runs on the pedal power of 55,000 students. Cologne and its lofty Dom are a must-see, as is the chance to watch Dortmund play football.

Popular areas to stay in North Rhine-Westphalia

Stuck on where to go? Check out the best resorts and towns to base your holiday

Düsseldorf

The capital of the North-Rhine Westphalia region is home to high flying advertising and fashion industry executives. The Altstadt, running along the Rhine, is home to impressive historic sites like the Rathaus and the church of St. Maximilian, the city's modern buildings are the real draw. World famous architect Frank Gehry designed the Rheinhafen, a complex of buildings for media and the arts whose avant-garde curved facades have become Düsseldorf's iconic landmark.

Who is it for?

Couples

Stroll hand in hand along the sensuous Rhine.

Foodies

Try the many beers on offer.

Culture Vultures

From Baroque to Brutalism, the city boasts one of the most eclectic and avant-garde cityscapes in Europe.

Room price from

£19

per person per night

Dortmund

Founded in the 9th Century, Dortmund was part of the Hanseatic League during the 13th and 14th Centuries before becoming an important industrial centre following German unification. Today the city is transformed, with almost half its territory consisting of waterways, woodland and green spaces. Football and beer are the two religions, and the city is a fitting location for the German Football Museum.

Who is it for?

Groups

Dortmund is a major brewing centre with a great selection of bars. Head to Wenkers Brauhaus, the oldest in Westphalia, to sample the local brew, Urtüb.

Night Owls

The city's bar scene comes alive at weekends.

Nature Lovers

Admire the natural beauty in Westfalen Park.

Room price from

£20

per person per night

Bonn

The former capital of West Germany is one of the country's oldest cities, dating back to Roman times. With such a rich history, it's not surprise that the city, occupying the southernmost part of the vast urban expanse of the Rhine-Ruhr region, is a real cultural gem. With top quality museums, stunning architecture and the birthplace of the city's most famous son, Ludwig van Beethoven, the city boasts an arts and culture scene to rival any in Europe.

Who is it for?

Couples

The sumptuous Baroque cityscape exudes romance.

Foodies

This wealthy city has a clutch of upmarket restaurants.

Culture Vultures

Beethovenfest is an annual celebration of classical music, featuring over 70 international orchestras.

Room price from

£21

per person per night

Neuss

In 1984 Neuss celebrated 2000 years since its foundation, and vies with Trier for the title of Germany's oldest city. Given its age, tourists are drawn to the many historic Roman sites - who founded the city in 16 BC. The city is not stuck in the past, however: Museum Insel Hombroich combines Easter and modern art in beautifully designed grounds, whilst the Langen Foundation's striking steel and glass building presents contemporary art in minimal surroundings.