Many tourists have no idea about the gorgeous European city that used to be its country’s capital, and it is only a two-hour flight from the UK. Bonn was once the capital of West Germany but in 1990, when the country reunited, the seat of government returned to Berlin. While the current German capital attracts huge numbers of tourists every year, the country’s former capital is not to be overlooked. Bonn has plenty for visitors to do and see.
Bonn is located on the Rhine River, about 15 kilometers south of the city of Cologne. The city is surrounded by beautiful nature but within its limits, there are some amazing attractions. Bonn is where many prominent figures from history and culture are from, including legendary composer Ludwig van Beethoven. Here, you will discover a number of great museums as well as scenic nature. There are also remnants of Bonn’s political past that are open to visitors to the city, ideal for history lovers.
The top-rated attraction in Bonn, Germany is the Haus der Geschichte der Bundesrepublik Deutschland, a fascinating museum that charts German history starting at 1945. It covers the years following the Second World War, the division of Germany and its eventual reunification.
Reviewers on sites like Tripadvisor have praised the museum. One person said that their visit to the museum was a “delight”, especially because it was free. Another shared: “While traveling from Cologne to Frankfurt decided to make a stop at this museum because of the great reviews here. Well worth the stop, in our opinion. Upon arrival there was already a hospitable reception by a greater. Although the subject of the museum might give you the idea this can be a ‘dry’ exposition, it is everything but that.”
Second on the list of the best attraction in Bonn is the city’s Botanic Gardens which visitors have called “beautiful”. There are also attractions like the Beethoven House.
Here, you will learn all about the legendary musician who had a massive influence on history and culture as one of the world’s most famous composers and pianists. The museum houses “interesting artifacts and paintings”, said one visitor.
Other well-reviewd attractions in Bonn include Museum Koenig, Rheinau Park and Poppelsdorf Palace. In the winter months, there is a stunning festive marketthat takes place in the city, a nice alternative to overcrowded winter markets in the likes of Prague.
Bonn is served by Cologne Bonn Airport. You can fly here from London, Manchester, Birmingham, Newcastle, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Belfast.
While there is plenty to do in Bonn, many people opt to travel slightly outside the city to experience some beautiful nature. This was the recommendation of many Reddit users who shared their favourite experiences in the region.
One person said: “Go for a trip to Babelsberg and see the castle there too if you have time. The park there is also quite nice. However, the big Rheinaue park close to the Rhein is a great location for a stroll.”
Another shared: “There is a beautiful countryside to walk, wander, climb (don’t try to swim in the Rhine!). And if you’re tired of Bonn, Cologne is just around the corner.”
A third commented: “Bonn is a city that is also good for just enjoying some scenery, shopping and pastries.”
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
