photo credit: bobba_dwj

Overview

If we are being completely honest, Germany is not really the most beautiful country in Europe. The southern neighbours of Austria and Switzerland have to grab this title jointly. However, there are a couple of regions of Germany that are stunningly picturesque: Bavaria in the far south and the Rhineland which is located to the west of the country. In this article we are going to focus on the latter of these two and will hopefully reveal some of the reasons why a trip to the Rhineland should definitely be on the cards.

Cologne and Bonn

These two cities are located towards the north of the Rhineland region of Germany and are each worth a visit within their own right. Cologne is one of the largest cities in this region and boasts some of the most awe-inspiring Gothic architecture that you are ever likely to see. Cologne Cathedral dominates the skyline of the city for many miles around and the very sight of it is bound to leave a lump in the throat. The Great St. Martin Church is another foreboding example of the city’s finest architecture.

Cologne offers plenty more, this includes a number of popular museums which include The Ludwig Museum and The Romano-Germanic Museum. The city also has an extensive zoo and one of Germany’s most popular theme parks – Phantasialand – which is located in an area that is just outside of the town.

Bonn is famous for having been the capital of the old West Germany for a number of decades. More importantly, it is also where Beethoven was born and grew up and there are a number of museums and attractions (including the house in which Beethoven lived) that can be enjoyed here.

Moving South Along The Rhine

Once you have spent enough time in these northern cities to see all that you want to, it is time to head south along the Rhine. As you do so, prepare yourself for some amazingly picturesque scenery. The steep banks of the River Rhine provide a beautiful backdrop and this is always best enjoyed through taking one of the many boat rides that operate along this impressive body of water.

Keep heading south until you reach the quaint city of Koblenz. This city will give you the perfect insight into how German towns would have looked hundreds of years ago. Church spires and steeples, again coupled with other beautiful buildings, grace the skyline of Koblenz and there are plenty of attractions to keep you entertained while you are here. Excellent shopping facilities and eateries too, so you may very well wish to break your Rhineland journey up with one or two nights in this small city.

Once you leave Koblenz behind, you need to continue on your journey south. Much of this journey will be exceptionally painless as the road network through this part of Germany is truly excellent. The rolling hills and near mountainous landscape alongside the River Rhine will continue to impress you. Trust me, this is one of the most beautiful rivers that you will ever see throughout your entire life. To make the most of the very best stretch of The Rhine, Wiesbaden or Frankfurt make for perfect cities to end your adventure.

More on Germany

WillGoTo: Germany- Travel guide for Germany and many useful links

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