North Rhine-Westphalia
People in the Rhineland are usually credited with a pronounced cheerfulness as an attribute, while those in the Münsterland are said to be reserved. The Sauerland, according to popular opinion, consists of mountains, streams and reservoirs, while the Ruhr region is a chain of cities strung together. North Rhine-Westphalia, you quickly realize, likes to play with these clichés and preconceived notions, and even more so to refute them. What is true, however, is that Germany's most populous state presents itself as decidedly diverse, and the contrasts in culture, tradition and everyday life are precisely what make the region between Cologne and Arnsberg, Bielefeld and Kleve so appealing.
Popular destinations in North Rhine-Westphalia
We show you the most beautiful cities in North Rhine-Westphalia.
Popular regions in North Rhine-Westphalia
Die 10 größten Städte in North Rhine-Westphalia
01
Cologne
1.1 million inhabitants
Hardly any other major German city conveys a similar attitude to life as the metropolis on the Rhine. In addition to the unique Gothic cathedral, you will discover numerous exhibitions and galleries worth seeing. The Roman-Germanic Museum gives you an interesting insight into Cologne's rich Roman heritage. For art lovers, ...
02
Düsseldorf
0.6 million inhabitants
The capital of North Rhine-Westphalia attracts numerous visitors with its diverse exclusive shopping opportunities and the "longest counter in the world". On the famous Königsallee, affectionately known as the "Kö", you will find the fashion brands of all well-known designers. Even a mere window shopping becomes an experience. Afterwards, ...
03
Dortmund
0.6 million inhabitants
This city in the Ruhr region will be familiar to all soccer fans, as it is home to the Borussia Dortmund soccer club. During more than 100 air raids during World War II, the historic city center was almost completely destroyed and today features a cityscape characterized by post-war buildings. However, ...
04
Essen
0.6 million inhabitants
The former coal and steel metropolis of Essen presents itself to its guests surprisingly close to nature. It is considered the third greenest city in Germany and was awarded the title "European Green Capital" by the EU in 2017. In addition to the Grugapark, Lake Baldeney and the famous "Villa Hü...
05
Duisburg
0.5 million inhabitants
Duisburg connects the Ruhr and Lower Rhine regions. Its inhabitants like to call it the city of "water and fire". Huge blast furnaces still burn here today, making it the most important steel location in Europe. At the same time, Duisburg has the largest inland port in the world. You ...
06
Bochum
0.4 million inhabitants
In 1984, Herbert Grönemeyer sang "Tief im Westen" ("Deep in the West") about his former home town of Bochum. In the meantime, the song has become the city's unofficial anthem. The lyrics of the song characterize the former workers' settlement vividly and honestly. The "pulse of steel" and the "mine ...
07
Wuppertal
0.4 million inhabitants
The "capital of the Bergisches Land" is world-famous for its unique suspension railroad. With it you can reach all stores and sights of Wuppertal. In addition, such a ride offers you completely new perspectives on the so-called "green city" on the Wupper. The city has a lively art and cultural ...
08
Bielefeld
0.3 million inhabitants
The "little big city" is located between the ridges of the Teutoburg Forest and the Münsterland Bay in the northeast of the state of North Rhine-Westphalia. From one of the highest points, the Sparrenburg, you can enjoy a wide view over the city. For relaxation, take a walk in ...
09
Bonn
0.3 million inhabitants
International flair can still be felt in the former capital of Germany. After the government relocated, Bonn remained the seat of numerous ministries and important organizations such as the UN. Their employees - and many students - now shape the image of the young city. Bonn has a number of ...
10
Münster
0.3 million inhabitants
In the old Westphalian city, you have a clear advantage on your bike. An approximately five-kilometer-long path reserved for walkers and cyclists, the so-called Promenade, leads once around the city center. Around the famous Prinzipalmarkt you will find the impressive St. Paul's Cathedral, the Gothic City Hall and the Lamberti ...