Title: Visit North Rhine-Westphalia: Best of North Rhine-Westphalia Travel 2025 | Expedia Tourism - Expedia.co.uk

  

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# North Rhine-Westphalia Travel Guide

## Germany

![Dortmund](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/221000/221253-North-Rhine-Westphalia.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh)

![North Rhine-Westphalia](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/503000/503660-innenstadt-cologne.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh)

![North Rhine-Westphalia](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/503000/503751-north-rhine-westphalia.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh)

![Bonn showing night scenes](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/221000/221181-North-Rhine-Westphalia.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh)

![Zollverein Coal Mine World Heritage Site](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/221000/221240-North-Rhine-Westphalia.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh)

#### Explore modern cities speckled with medieval relics in Germany’s most populous state, which straddles the banks of the magnificent Rhine River.

The northwestern state of North Rhine-Westphalia is a low-lying and picturesque region containing some of Germany’s largest cities. From the banks of the lower Rhine River to the gorge of Porta Westfalica, the region is largely rural and interspersed with historic towns. Explore North Rhine-Westphalia to discover modern metropolitan character and go on scenic daytrips to mountainous southern retreats.

Check out the state capital, Düsseldorf, to experience this vivacious city on the banks of the Rhine-Ruhr. The capital is the region’s leader for fashion and trade. Tour its Old Town, which was almost completely destroyed during World War II and meticulously rebuilt using historic city plans. Stroll the old streets to find numerous bars, coffee shops and brew houses.

Visit the state’s largest city, Cologne (Köln), to explore one of the greatest medieval cities in the Holy Roman Empire. Magnificent Romanesque churches line the streets and the banks of the Rhine in a display that’s one of Germany’s most impressive cityscapes. In one sweep, you’ll see the Church of St. Martin, City Hall Tower, the Museum Ludwig, the Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom) and the modern Hohenzollernbrücke. As well as viewing the Kölner Dom from afar, be sure to visit it as it’s the tallest Roman Catholic cathedral in the world. Consider coming to this vibrant city during its famous Kölner Karneval or the Gay Pride Festival.

Charming Bonn is nicknamed “Italy’s most northern city” and is characterized by its romantic cafés and bustling beer gardens. Visit museums dedicated to Beethoven, who was born here, and watch an orchestral performance of his cherished music.

Dortmund and Essen are two fascinating cities built on the foundations of monasteries. Watch a soccer match at the home of Borussia Dortmund FC at Westfalenstadion and visit the monumental Old Synagogue in Essen. At the end of a day’s exploring, be sure to relax with a regional beer, such as Alt or Kölsch.

Fly into major airports in Düsseldorf or Cologne or catch one of Germany’s convenient intercity trains to access North Rhine-Westphalia’s outer reaches. Public transportation is fast and efficient in the Rhine-Ruhr, but renting a car could be a better option for exploring the countryside. Visit at any time of the year to enjoy traditional cuisine, cosy beer gardens and exciting carnivals.

### Popular cities in North Rhine-Westphalia

[CologneKnown for Shopping, Cathedrals and Business](https://expedia.co.uk/Cologne.dx179998)

For lovers of museums, historic attractions, beer and chocolate, this exceptional city on the banks of the Rhine River delivers an unforgettable visit.

## Reasons to visit

-   Cologne Cathedral
    
-   Chocolate Museum
    
-   Old Market
    

[Explore city](https://expedia.co.uk/Cologne.dx179998)[Find hotels](https://expedia.co.uk/Cologne-Hotels.d179998.Travel-Guide-Hotels)

[DüsseldorfKnown for Shopping, Business and Museums](https://expedia.co.uk/Dusseldorf.dx180001)

Dusseldorf is known for its beer culture, museums, both modern and classic architecture, beautiful promenade along the river and its many festivals.

## Reasons to visit

-   Konigsallee
    
-   Marktplatz
    
-   Rhine Promenade
    

[Explore city](https://expedia.co.uk/Dusseldorf.dx180001)[Find hotels](https://expedia.co.uk/Dusseldorf-Hotels.d180001.Travel-Guide-Hotels)

[BonnKnown for Business, Historical and Museums](https://expedia.co.uk/Bonn.dx6056627)

Discover the musical and historical heritage of Germany's former capital.

## Reasons to visit

-   University of Bonn
    
-   Beethoven House
    
-   Beethoven Monument
    

[Explore city](https://expedia.co.uk/Bonn.dx6056627)[Find hotels](https://expedia.co.uk/Bonn-Hotels.d6056627.Travel-Guide-Hotels)

[EssenKnown for Shopping, Business and Theatres](https://expedia.co.uk/Essen.dx6056625)

Essen is a major city at the heart of the Ruhr industrial area in North Rhine-Westphalia and was made European City of Culture in 2010.

## Reasons to visit

-   Zollverein Coal Mine World Heritage Site
    
-   Grugapark Botanical Garden
    
-   Folkwang Museum
    

[Explore city](https://expedia.co.uk/Essen.dx6056625)[Find hotels](https://expedia.co.uk/Essen-Hotels.d6056625.Travel-Guide-Hotels)

[DortmundKnown for Shopping, Sports and Business](https://expedia.co.uk/Dortmund.dx1066)

Known as Westphalia’s green metropolis, this thriving city in western Germany is similarly renowned for its fine breweries and fashionable soccer club.

## Reasons to visit

-   Westfalenpark Dortmund
    
-   Dortmund Concert Hall
    
-   German Football Museum
    

[Explore city](https://expedia.co.uk/Dortmund.dx1066)[Find hotels](https://expedia.co.uk/Dortmund-Hotels.d1066.Travel-Guide-Hotels)

[DuisburgKnown for Museums, Ports and Culture](https://expedia.co.uk/Duisburg.dx6926)

Visitors on a city trip to Duisburg enthuse about the lively atmosphere of the Inner Harbour with its museums and restaurants, the impressive buildings and the zoo, which is one of the biggest in the world.

[Explore city](https://expedia.co.uk/Duisburg.dx6926)[Find hotels](https://expedia.co.uk/Duisburg-Hotels.d6926.Travel-Guide-Hotels)

## Cities in North Rhine-Westphalia

![Hohenzollern Bridge which includes a bridge, a church or cathedral and night scenes](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/221000/221197-North-Rhine-Westphalia.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium)

### Cologne (and vicinity)

For lovers of museums, historic attractions, beer and chocolate, this exceptional city on the banks of the Rhine River delivers an unforgettable visit.

[](https://expedia.co.uk/Cologne.dx179998)

![Düsseldorf (and vicinity)](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/221000/221374-Dusseldorf.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium)

### Düsseldorf (and vicinity)

Dusseldorf is known for its beer culture, museums, both modern and classic architecture, beautiful promenade along the river and its many festivals.

[](https://expedia.co.uk/Dusseldorf.dx180001)

![Muenster showing outdoor eating and heritage elements as well as a small group of people](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/262000/262125-Ruhr-Region.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium)

### Münster

On a city trip to Münster you find the days of the Hanseatic League coming to life and a bold display of modern architecture and art.

[](https://expedia.co.uk/Munster.dx1229)

![Dortmund](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/221000/221253-North-Rhine-Westphalia.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium)

### Dortmund

Known as Westphalia’s green metropolis, this thriving city in western Germany is similarly renowned for its fine breweries and fashionable soccer club.

[](https://expedia.co.uk/Dortmund.dx1066)

![Bonn Marketplace featuring night scenes](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/221000/221180-North-Rhine-Westphalia.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium)

### Bonn (and vicinity)

Discover the musical and historical heritage of Germany's former capital.

[](https://expedia.co.uk/Bonn.dx6056627)

![Essen](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/221000/221457-Essen.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium)

### Essen

Essen is a major city at the heart of the Ruhr industrial area in North Rhine-Westphalia and was made European City of Culture in 2010.

[](https://expedia.co.uk/Essen.dx6056625)

![Photo by ‎‎‎‎Fatih Aktac](https://mediaim.expedia.com/destination/2/236e86f9f619f38ac502e09941434bf9.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium)

### Winterberg

Take a city trip to Winterberg to discover one of the most popular hiking and skiing resorts of the Hochsauerland region, surrounded by the picturesque nature of the Rothaar Mountains.

[](https://expedia.co.uk/Winterberg.dx55459)

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![QR code to download the app](data:image/png;base64,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)