Located about 20 km west of Cologne, Bergheim is a fascinating place to visit if you are interested in historic buildings, castles, sporting activities, or educational exhibits.

The town is close to a nature preserve and is surrounded by countryside that lends itself well to many recreational pursuits. If you visit here you can participate in kayaking, cycling, hiking, golf, fishing, squash, tennis, gliding, swimming, or horseback riding. There are also many parks and picnic areas where you can have a barbecue and enjoy the great outdoors.

There are many structures in the town that are centuries old. One of the most famous is the Aachen Gate, which was built early in the 14th century to stand guard over the road that ran from Aachen to Cologne. It has two round towers and was one of the most powerful guardhouses in the Rhineland. During its long life it has served as a prison, a museum, and an office.

The center of Bergheim has been converted to a pedestrian zone and contains at least eight homes and shops that are historically noteworthy. They were constructed in different styles and during different eras, but they all have interesting design features. Brochures are made available to enable you to take a self-guided tour.

Another feature of the pedestrian zone is the St. George Chapel with its unique spiral fountains. The structure was mentioned in church documents in 1420. It was administered by the Church of Remigius whose clergy was also responsible for operating the adjacent school.

The Remigius Church can be found at the summit of a hill overlooking the town. It was consecrated in 1175, and part of that original structure still remains. A bronze figure of St. Sebastian stands 135 cm. high in front of the church. It was created by the famous German artist, Gerhard Marcks.

Bergheim has several educational museums that cover a variety of topics. There is a car and bike museum which is undergoing expansion to allow it to display airplanes in the future. If you’re interested in mining and minerals you’ll want to see the Mining Museum. It showcases tools and implements from this important Rhineland industry.

Musicians should plan to visit the Piano Museum with its large collection of pianofortes of all sizes and shapes. There are concerts and recitals held frequently, as well.

Thousands of pipes and over 200 varieties of tobacco are on display in the House of 10,000 Pipes.

The Castle Paffendorf is located a short distance outside the town and has a large park and English-style garden on its grounds. You may want to visit its art gallery which houses a number of different traveling exhibits.

Whatever your tastes, you will surely find something you enjoy in Bergheim.

Garbsen is a fairly modernized town that has a lot of cultural aspects. When visiting here, you will definitely notice an artistic and contemporary theme to portions of the town. Located on the Leine River in Lower Saxony, there are a few museums that are a wonderful experience.

There is a privately owned museum of art called Atelier Olbrich. The artistic displays are just that, they are not available for purchase. The belief is that the art should be an expression of emotion, and displayed accordingly.

There is the M & R Gallery Kolbein that also displays art. Their collection is housed in a very contemporary building. This is a gallery, so not only do they allow pieces to be sold, but borrowed as well. Anyone interested in obtaining a piece should contact the gallery directly.

The most unique to this town is the Doll and Toy museum. There is a vast variety of dolls, doll houses, and other antique collections that could bring any girl back into her youth. ;-) This was the first museum of its kind located here.

For a more historical museum you can visit the Heimatmuseum. The focus here is on the regional development. Their exhibits showcase agricultural tools and equipment, amongst other important attributes of the town’s development.

For a one of a kind experience you must attend the Cinestar. There is a laser show prior to each presentation. The architecture on this building is also very contemporary. Call ahead for showtimes and productions. Its location is very centralized — near the Town Hall.

If you are in need of a location to host a formal get together, the Bürgerhaus Havelse is available for rent. This mansion is commonly used for a variety of affairs, including weddings, baptisms, and even business meetings. Local clubs and associations also find this space to be very useful. It is advisable to contact them well in advance if you are planning an event there.

Found on the Rhine River, just about midway between Cologne and Düsseldorf, Dormagen is a town filled with historic sights.

One of the most famous landmarks is the monastery Knechtsteden. It is more than 850 years old and stands guard on a hill overlooking the town. Its Romanesque basilica and surrounding woods and orchards make it a charming place to visit.

If you go to Dormagen, you will want to be sure to visit the district of Zons. This well-preserved old neighborhood features towers and walls that have survived since the Middle Ages. One of the most impressive structures is known as the Rhine Tower. It has stood as a defensive position on the banks of the Rhine river since 1388. You can also see a completely original wooden grinder that has been functional since 1694.

Zons is the location for many festivals and special celebrations throughout the calendar year. You might see a Medieval Market, an Artisans’ Fair, Fairy Tale Games at the outdoor theater, or an arts and crafts sale. Thousands of visitors come to such events from around Europe, and the town is well equipped to serve them with good food and hospitality. :-)

The Music School of Dormagen contributes greatly to the cultural life of the area. There are lessons and classes available for people of all ages to learn to play many different instruments. As a result, you can often hear concerts and recitals that feature musicians playing in a wide variety of styles. You might attend an accordion concert, a percussion ensemble recital, or hear a children’s orchestra or popular rock band.

If you enjoy being outside, you may want to hike or cycle through the 223 acres of forestland set aside as the game park Tannenbusch. A wide variety of trees, plants, and animals reside there and the scenery is spectacular.

There are also many athletic and sporting activities that take place in the area so that an active person will have a number of options to choose from.

Within an economic and cultural area Herten also provides an industrial and technological atmosphere. Plus, guided tours are available for any size group, even individuals, but be sure to call ahead to have guaranteed arrangements.

An excellent choice for a historical tour is Westfälisches Rothenburg, also referred to as the old village Westerholt. Home to the Schloss or Castle Westerholt, the village consists of 56 historically protected houses. The houses were built with timber being utilized. The appearance of these homes are a prime example of Germany dating back hundreds of years.

The Schloss Westerholt is one of two castles that Herten has to offer. Bordered by the village and a forest, the landscape is breathtaking. The castle under went a complete renovation in 1993. It had been used for many things during its day.

The counts used it as a residence, then later following World War II it was used to accommodate soldiers. After years of vacancy the pristine building got its renovation and has since become a hotel and restaurant. A recreational area, and an 18 hole golf course are found just outside the grounds.

The other castle is the water castle Schloss Herten. Known as one of the most beautiful buildings in all of North Rhine-Westphalia, this brick castle sits on the city’s edge. Surrounded by water and a lush, green backdrop it is no wonder why these grounds are used to host many festivals, concerts, and other town gatherings.

While visiting Herten you can catch a movie at the CinemaxX, bicycle through various trails, or play a round of golf (mini golf too). There are many things to see and do for the young or older tourists. After a long day of sight seeing relax in the park grounds of Schloss Herten and enjoy the quiet, or head towards downtown to savor the nightlife. :-)

Located on the largest deposit of brown coal, Grevenbroich is synonymous with the word energy. Even the nickname — Federal Capital of Energy — attests to its tremendous supply. The town not only uses coal, but wind and solar conversions as well. Included are 13 wind turbines.

This industrialized town is also lively and colorful. By supplying numerous jobs to its inhabitants, it is repaid with families and a loving atmosphere. Monuments and sculptures can be found throughout Grevenbroich.

For a tropical feel you can escape to Evita Beach. In the former site of the Landesgartenschau are 2000 square meters of tropical oasis. 600 cubic meters of sand is accompanied by three bars, palm trees and numerous chairs for lounging. Who would have ever thought you could find an oasis like this in Germany? ;-)

There are many sports related activities including stadiums, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, even an 18 hole golf course. If you are looking for less structure and more sightseeing, there are dedicated trails and areas for cyclists and pedestrians. In the summer months you can even find beer gardens along these trails.

For dinner, you can have just about any price range. There are your regular German pubs, and even one of the most gourmet restaurants in Germany: Grapes.

From farms to factories, and a bit of culture thrown into the mix, this vivacious town has a lot to be discovered.

If you are traveling with children, and need a night alone, I suggest taking them to the indoor pool, and then heading to the pub. (Assuming your children are old enough to stay there alone.) If not there are many festivals year round that are sure to tire them out, and allow you some peace and quiet.

Anyone traveling without children, you’re lucky, and you probably earned it. ;-)

The town of Kerpen in the Rhein-Erft-Kreis in North Rhine-Westphalia was first mentioned in 871. Nowadays, it is more modern than ever.

For any race car enthusiast, this was the home town of Formula One driver Michael Schumacher, and his go-kart center may be a great place to stay. Yes, I said stay! ;-)

The popular attraction has undergone some remodeling and is not only a go-kart track, but has two restaurants, a museum, and even a hotel. If excitement is on your agenda, make sure you make a pit stop here.

If you are seeking a more relaxed and cultural experience, be sure to visit the Schloss Lorsfeld. The castle is small in comparison to other German Castles, but still beautiful and worth seeing. Privately owned, the castle is open to the public.

The grounds of the castle are landscaped and magnificent. This is the site to many concerts and festivities. Included within is a restaurant offering immaculate views of the gardens.

The metropolis of Cologne is just a short distance from Kerpen. This allows you the relaxation of staying in a more low key environment, but have the ability to access anything Cologne has to offer.

Kerpen, however, has just about anything you would need. A cinema, swimming facilities, hiking and biking trails, and shopping facilities are available at your leisure. The town is also known for its sports minded locals. There is usually some sort of sporting activity going on.

If you will be in need of a form of transportation, Kerpen offers buses, railways, taxis, and car rentals. There are even some vendors that allow bicycle rentals. Be sure to check before your arrival to ensure your preferred method will be available, and to get a time schedule.

If you are a fan of modern art or a European History Buff, you will be thrilled with a visit to Herford in Northern Germany. It is one of the oldest municipalities in the country and was established in 789 by Charlemagne in order to protect a fording place in the nearby Werre River.

The town sits in a beautiful valley between two ranges of mountains. The Wiehengebirge range lies to the north and the Teutoburg Forest chain is south of the town. Beautiful alpine scenery can be enjoyed year-round.

Those interested in history will want to visit the town square (or Neuer Markt). There are buildings that date back to medieval times as well as those that represent the style of the Renaissance. There is a fountain in the center of the area with a statue made in 1599 — a noble knight holding the banner of the free imperial town aloft.

The town hall has been built around a well-preserved medieval core. The Münsterkirche is a hall-style church that dates back to about 1220. It is one of the oldest structures of its type in Germany, and well worth seeing.

The MARTa of Herford is a museum that has been open to the public since 2005 and is dedicated to showcasing contemporary art and design. The building itself is a must-see. Designed by artist/architect Frank Gehry, it looks like no other museum. It is actually a sculpture in itself and contains virtually no straight walls or predictable angles. All of its exterior surfaces are covered with brick or gleaming stainless steel and there are no windows. There are regular changes in the artistic exhibits that are shown there.

The town of Herford hosts many festivals for locals as well as visitors. There is some kind of special event happening during every season of the year. For the ten days surrounding Easter each spring, you can attend the Easter Fair. In May there is a Jazz Festival and throughout the summer you can enjoy organ concerts and competitions for organists in the town square. There is a wine festival in the fall, and a tremendous display of lights and decorations at Christmas time.

Germany’s largest open-air dinosaur exhibit is also located near Herford. Münchehagen Dinosaur Park has life-sized models of many fearsome creatures that lived in prehistoric times including the T-Rex, Triceratops, and more. In one section of the park visitors are allowed to dig for bones, teeth, and other treasures. It is sure to be a big hit with any children that may be traveling with you. :-)

The historic town of Neuwied has traces of existence going back well in time. The architecture in the inner town shows signs of a Gothic era. The inner town is often referred to as the old town.

Once consisting of a generally poor demographic, the town has made drastic changes in the past 100+ years. To learn the most about the history and culture I highly recommend the bicycle guided tours. This allows you to see what someone is trying to explain. There are bus tours available, too, and many of the local attractions offer the same.

If you are limited to a day trip to Neuwied, you will only be disappointed that you could not stay longer. There are numerous castles, a wonderful zoo, and even a museum of archeology of the glacial age.

With a lot to offer, you may want to plan your sights ahead of time. There can be a lot of wasted time spent on trying to figure out what to do or where to go. This will also allow you to make sure the attractions you are interested in will available.

The indoor pool facility of Deichwelle is great if you are traveling with kids, and you run into bad weather. Another option is Piratenland, an indoor pirate adventure park. Recently added is an outdoor playland including a giant waterslide. You can have lunch in the restaurant while taking in the atmosphere, and watching the younger kids go crazy. ;-)

The variety museums offer pretty much something for everyone. There is a pinball museum, which consists of antique pinball machines and related items. There is also an art and culture museum located near the train station. The Kreismuseum is the regional museum of Neuwied.

The Deichinformationszenturm (what a long word, huh?) is the tourist information center and holds its own exhibits as well. With much to see and do, you will not have a moment of boredom.

The young and vivacious town of Lippstadt houses many cultural attributes. Being the largest town within the Soest district allows it to host numerous festivals. The park like atmosphere is serene and breathtaking.

If you are a person with love for the theater and performing arts, the Stadttheater Lippstadt has many shows. From opera to children’s theater, and concerts to cabaret there are many varieties to choose from. The recently remodeled structure now has 787 seats, and can accommodate a wheelchair.

There are many Galleries within Lippstadt featuring a strong contemporary flair. The Gallery in Town Hall has a constantly changing exhibit. Hours are limited so be sure to call ahead. The Galerie Orru has a constantly changing collection of national and European artists. Again, the hours are sporadic so check in advance.

The Atelier Tschorn and the Kunst im Turm or Art in the Tower are two of numerous other galleries that are found in this city.

The Heimatmuseum (Local History Museum) is hidden within a mansion on the market square. There are changing exhibits that are an addition to the permanent exhibits offered here. The history of the town from art, to home decor, even forms of architecture can be found. There are exhibits featuring toys and scientific instruments as well.

If shopping is on your agenda, head for Lange Straße, a completely pedestrian shopping center. Widely known, and very convenient the shopping area is filled with specialized stores and boutiques.

For quieter leisure there is a library known as Stadtbücherei, named Thomas Valentin. It has some preset hours, but these can be altered depending on the presence of a class from the school.

With the town being located within the Lippe valley, it makes for a wonderful backdrop to this location. The river Lippe and a man made canal run on the outskirts of the town. There are many water forms such as lakes and streams located here as well.

The history and culture are rich among the locals. All in all, Lippstadt is a town worth seeing whether for a day or staying for a week.

Located at the northwestern edge of the Ruhrgebiet in the Wesel district, Dinslaken is home to a unique leisure time venue.

People come from near and far to attend the harness races that are held here. The racetrack has been functional since 1954 and is beloved for the way visitors can sit close to the action and feel like they are almost part of the race. With a length of 800 meters, the track is shorter than some, but that only adds to the intensity of the horses and their drivers as they strive for the finish line.

There are many different ways that you can wager on the trotting horses, which will add to your excitement as you cheer for your favorite.

Dinslaken has a city park at its core which makes up the grounds of the Dinslaken Castle. Parts of the original castle walls and foundation are still visible that were built in the 12th century. Although it was heavily damaged during World War II, the castle has been carefully restored, and is a beautiful sight.

The town has erected an outdoor stage near the castle’s east wing where residents and guests can enjoy concerts and performances throughout the spring, summer, and fall. It is especially busy in August when “Din-days” is held. This is one of the larger folk music festivals in the area and is attended by crowds of people.

There are two historic churches in the town that are worth a visit, and they can be viewed while on a pleasant stroll through the town center. The first is called St. Vincentius and was finished in about 1480. The interior is furnished with beautiful carvings and paintings. There is also a 2.5 meter tall crucifix in the center of the church that was completed in 1400.

The second church is Protestant and was built in 1653, destroyed by fire, and rebuilt by the Italian designer Bartolomeo Sala in 1723. It is well known for its stained glass windows that depict scenes from the Old and New Testaments. The German artist Persy Werner created them.

Two interesting museums are found in Dinslaken. The Voswinckelshof is a historical museum centered in the residence of a nobleman on the outskirts of town. It traces the long history of the town and also has displays of toys and school supplies.

The second museum features Wind and Water Mills and lets visitors explore a perfectly preserved windmill from the 1800’s. There is also a water powered grinding mill that functioned for more than 100 years before it was decommissioned in 1922.