In direct proximity to Hamburg, Norderstedt is the fifth largest city in all of Schleswig-Holstein. With a booming economy, and a high population, this city exhibits a more modernized era. The city itself may be young, but the history of the communities that merged to create it are remarkable and established.

The city museum shows the conception of the city through mergers in 1970. The exhibit itself is permanent, but they also offer varying exhibits as well. Included in your ticket to the city museum is one to the adjacent Fire Brigade Museum.

The lush green city offers many parks, playgrounds and recreational facilities. There is even a water park for those hot summer days. There is a schedule for open air markets within the city. Be sure to check ahead to confirm location and time. You can contact the City Hall for more information.

Similar to many other cities there is a public library with a great selection of various books and other information. And the theater TriBühne Norderstedt hosts many concerts and performances. The Festival Hall on Falkenberg usually hosts the more family oriented productions, and a children theater.

Norderstedt is very accessible from literally any direction by any means of transportation. This allows you to visit easily if you are staying elsewhere. It also means that if you are staying here, you have a luxury of public transportation if you need it.

If you are interested in shopping, the customer service from the vendors within the shopping centers is wonderful. They are very friendly and allow for a relaxing atmosphere. This is a great idea if you are on sensory overload from all the other adventures you have been indulging in.

After making a few purchases for friends back home, enjoy lunch in one of the many pubs or other German restaurants. If you are looking for a more recognizable food, you can find these as well. The best way to find a good restaurant is to ask one of the locals.

Enjoy!

Gießen is a town separated by the Lahn River, creating eastern and western portions. In WWII a subcamp of the Buchenwald concentration camp was located here. In 1944 most of the town was destroyed by heavy bombing, including the majority of the town’s historic buildings.

The beautiful and lush landscape is situated in a valley. The older area of the town is recognizable by the narrow and irregular streets.

The University offers the Liebig Museum, and the Mathematikum is a “hands on” museum. This is a great way to keep interest in older children. It is the second largest and second oldest University in Hesse.

While at the University, check out the botanical garden. It is actually the oldest such garden in its original location.

If you are looking for something to do outdoors, you can also canoe the River Lahn. This is very popular amongst the locals.

In September of 2007, the U.S. Army Garrison Gießen closed. The base was turned back over to local German authorities. The base once housed 500 Americans — it was established after WWII. There are many visitors today who travel to this site that once served from here.

The Gießen Theater can be a treat for anyone looking for a bit of distraction and ease. Located in a park, the performances are superb. The theater seats about 600, so call ahead just to be sure.

Every August there is the Gießen Municipal Festival. Attracting almost 100,000 people annually, you can enjoy music groups and various dance ensembles.

Gießen features the highest concentration of students in all of Germany, which tends to keep the town youthful. It also means it is an excellent source of public transportation.

With its location just about halfway between the metropolitan areas of Bonn and Cologne, Troisdorf makes a pleasant place to visit. The town offers a large pedestrian area in downtown, two museums, many cultural events, and a large nature preserve for the enjoyment of tourists as well as locals.

The major landmark is a 16th century water castle called Wissem Castle. Some of the original towers and walls remain, and much of the building has been carefully restored and preserved. It is also the site of a very unusual museum.

The only collection of illustrated picture books in all of Europe is housed there. Art lovers, book collectors, fairy tale fans, children, and their parents will all enjoy seeing some of the 350 exhibits and more than 15,000 children’s storybooks.

The city gates of Troisdorf are also unique and appealing to art lovers. Contemporary-styled stainless steel panels intertwined with reflective and transparent glass surfaces create beautifully illuminated structures at both ends of the pedestrian walkway.

Hamacher Square is in the heart of the town and provides a good place for business conferences and meetings. There are musical concerts of all types held there as well, from rock, to pop, to classical, cabaret and jazz. The entire pedestrian area is dotted with sculptures and artwork in many styles and formats.

Outdoor recreationalists may want to see the Fishery Museum. This combines information about Fishermen’s Guilds and their history, as well as some of the boats, supplies, and nets that they used. A lot of natural history information about fish, water birds, and other wildlife is included, too.

A large conservation area known as Wahner Heide occupies more than 50 square kilometers near the town. It is a landscape well suited to protecting a large variety of rare plants and animals, and it is close enough to urban areas that many people can easily enjoy it. There are well marked hiking trails and informational signs that will engage and instruct those who choose to spend time at the preserve and bird sanctuary.

The most notable attraction in Gladbeck is the Wittringen Castle. Containing something for just abut everyone, there is a bird house, miniature golf course, and even a barbecue area. The castle is surrounded by water, making it remarkably appealing. That’s why it’s also called a Water Castle. And its restaurant with a playground proves adjacent for kids to wear off any extra energy.

There’s even a museum in the castle. With chronological exhibits and displays, you can follow the development of the town. There are specific exhibits geared towards the school classes such as a coin collection of Roman coins, a cemetery dating back to the Bronze Age, collections of modern art, and various rooms relating to coal mining.

Gladbeck also has a large range of religious inhabitants. There is even a Muslim minority that immigrated in the 1960’s. This allows the town to offer many different churches, and even gives students the option of which type of lesson plan they chose — Catholic, Protestant or Philosophical.

Through out the year Gladbeck hosts numerous festivals and events. You can even catch a play from time to time. Check with the local tourism office or their town website to see upcoming events. You can choose to tour the town by bicycle or foot, there are various paths crossing through allowing you to absorb the culture first hand.

Anyone who likes a bargain will enjoy the common markets. They are held often, but in various locations; it is important to find out where they are being held. The town has built a new City Hall in the fall of 2006, and had featured a huge celebration.

For history buffs, there is also the Maschinenhalle Zweckel that was built in 1909. The machinery is no longer in use, and since 1997 this engine house has become the site of the Foundation for Industrial Maintenance and Historical Monuments.

Castrop-Rauxel is a small German town with a rich history and heritage that you’re sure to enjoy. The town’s heritage dates all the way back to 834 when the town was actually known as Villa Castrop.

As you start your tour through the town, you must visit the Westphalian State Theater. Although the theater is small (it only has 2 screens), it’s a fantastic place to experience some theatrical entertainment.

Make sure to stop and see the old Town Hall as well as the new Town Hall. Today, the new Town Hall hosts theater, music, and local events.

You won’t want to miss the Schiffshebewerk Henrichenburg, an old industrial attraction. When it was used, it was an elevator for chips.

The town boasts a rich history of horse-racing. Horse-lovers will definitely want to visit the Reiterbrunnen which is located in the center of the market square. It is a reminder of the horse-racing that used to take place in Naturhindernisbahn (now part of the Goldschmieding Park).

Another stop to make is the historic miners’ house in Castrop-Rauxel. During mining times, this house was used by the administration of carbon miners. It has been beautifully restored and is definitely worth a visit.

If you enjoy the water, it would definitely be worthwhile to stroll along the Rhine-Herne Canal which runs right through the town. Castrop-Rauxel has even built a beautiful Yacht Club located right on the canal.

Make sure to visit the Castle Goldschmieding, also known as the Schloss Goldschmieding. The castle has beautiful architecture and today, many couples get married there. There is a high-end restaurant in the castle as well if you’re interested in having dinner there.

At some point during your trip, make sure to try the Rhenish Stewed Pickled Beef, known as the Sauerbraten in German. This is a local dish that you’re sure to enjoy! :-)

Although you might not find Castrop-Rauxel to be a town for exciting nightlife, you’ll definitely find that the quiet and quaint charm of this historic town will enchant you and leave you wanting to spend more time here.

Located at the point where the Weser River meets the Mittelland Canal, the city of Minden is an important inland shipping center. It is more than 1200 years old and dates back to the days of Charlemagne.

If you visit here today, you will want to stroll down the cobblestone streets that transport you back to the Middle Ages. You can walk among many lovingly tended half timbered houses that will allow you to feel like a citizen of the past.

Construction of the Cathedral Dom was begun in the 11th century and it is still a favorite site for visitors of today. It is a fine example of an Early Gothic hall church with an Early Romanesque West Wing and Late Romanesque choir loft and transept.

The famous Minden Cross of 1070 is displayed in the cathedral treasury. The building sustained some damage during the 2nd World War, but has been painstakingly restored and is well worth a visit.

Don’t miss seeing the Town Hall a short distance from the cathedral. It boasts the oldest city hall portico in the region of Westphalia. As you are walking you will enjoy several commercial areas with open air markets and a wide array of shops.

The countryside around Minden in the valley of the Weser River is beautiful and lends itself to well marked hiking and biking tours. There are many locations that are ideal for a picnic or day trip that will leave you relaxed and refreshed. You can also ride several different tour boats on the river or canal and see more of the area. A vintage steam train takes you on a scenic and historic ride.

If you are traveling with children, you will want to be sure to visit Potter Park. This is an amusement area with a roller coaster, water rides and Ferris wheels. There are also more than 130 educational displays at the Science Center there, that will enchant youngsters and their parents, as well.

Minden prides itself on presenting a variety of musical and cultural events every year. You may be able to attend a chamber music concert, a punk rock show, a jazz festival, or just about any other kind of performance you can think of. There is an energetic theater group in the city and an active literary and lecture circuit, too.

And if you’re after some relaxation, there are many world class restaurants and indoor as well as outdoor venues that will provide first-class recreation for you.

Many folks enjoy visiting Velbert which is located in the scenic foothills in the middle of a triangle formed by the three larger cities of Düsseldorf, Essen, and Wuppertal. It is a friendly town which welcomes you to tour its three distinct districts.

Midtown Velbert is known as the shopping area. It has a large pedestrian mall that features the Forum Niedemberg, a modern theater with a large stage that showcases a variety of educational and entertaining shows.

The Castle and Fittings Museum is also located there. This contains exhibits that trace more than 4,000 years of the history of locks, keys, and personal security. You can see artifacts like hand carved keys and locks that were used in the tombs of ancient Egypt, locks designed for medieval dungeons, and security systems from ancient Rome. There are displays from 56 far-flung places like India, China, and Japan, and you can spend several enjoyable and enlightening hours there. :-)

Langenberg is the historic district of Velbert. There you will find many carefully restored and well-preserved homes and shops from the long history of the town. You can browse through antique stores that carry a wide variety of goods to delight shoppers. A well-known landmark in the area is a tall radio transmission tower.

The final district is called Neviges and it is best known for its medieval Castle Hardenberg, which was built during the 1300’s. The underground defense system, original moat, and fortress towers are undergoing renovation to keep them viable for generations to come. The castle is surrounded by a lovely park and its grounds and buildings are used for weddings, concerts and other special events. Art exhibits and youth concerts are held there frequently.

If you enjoy physical activities while you travel, you will find several hiking and biking trails in and around Velbert and the Bergisches Land nature park. The town is proud of its many swimming pools, gymnasiums, aerobics courts, skating facilities, and sports fields.

I’m sure you’ll find a place to enjoy just about any sport you can think of. :-)

Marl is a town of about 90,000 inhabitants that is located in the Recklinghausen district in North Rhine-Westphalia. It is on the northern edge of the industrial and mining area known as the Ruhrgebiet a.k.a. Ruhr Area.

Although it is a modern center for chemical manufacturing and the mining of coal, zinc, and lead, it is also a town that is proud of its cultural and historical attractions.

The town was first mentioned in documents in the 9th century and if you visit there you will want to be sure to see the Water Mill Museum. This is a working mill that was built during the 17th century and restored in 1953.

Next to the mill is a carefully refurbished house that also showcases interesting displays. The museum complex contains artifacts from the long history of the town and is located in the Volkspark in the center of the town. You can see agricultural and household tools as well as historic items from the mining and textile industries.

If you enjoy music of any kind, you will probably find a special event in Marl that you want to attend. The town is the site of a wide variety of concerts each year. One unique group centered here is called the Accordion Orchestra which has between 30 and 50 members. They perform on several weekends each year, and have a repertoire that includes classical pieces, original compositions, and popular works, as well as traditional folk music that is usually associated with the accordion.

The town is also proud of its sponsorship of a symphony orchestra, an opera company for students, and choirs for men, children, and teens.

Another must-see attraction in Marl is the Sculpture Museum. It has a permanent collection of more than 300 three-dimensional artworks from the 20th and 21st centuries. Guided tours are offered every Thursday. Since 1984 the museum has also focused on displaying new media like video and audio creations. There are brochures available that will take you through several walking tours of artistic works around the town.

There are two bicycle tours mapped out as well. The museum provides classes and tours that are especially aimed at children and teens, so Marl really is a place that the whole family will love to visit.

Ratingen is dotted with lovely parks and green spaces to give you the opportunity to relax in peaceful surroundings. Whatever you choose to do, you will enjoy your time here.

Ratingen was settled as early as 849 but it was not officially incorporated as a city until 1276. It was situated near the crossroads of two major roadways and also was quite close to the Rhine River. Therefore, it has been an important trade and commercial center throughout its long history.

If you visit the city today, you will want to see the many carefully restored and preserved historic sights. The city provides a well-marked and self guided tour that will allow you to trace the story of the region. It begins at the marketplace in downtown where you can see a fountain that was erected in 1362.

There are a total of 25 places on the walking tour that you can study. One of the most interesting sights is Cromford, which was the first mechanical spinning factory put to use on the European continent. It was a water-powered mill that could produce yarn of a consistently fine quality.

Another stop is the Parish Church of Saint Peter and Paul. It is a Gothic Style Hall church with origins in the 8th century. As you continue your tour you will see some houses from the 15th century, several old watchtowers, and the remains of the old city wall.

Your tour might end at the Inn of the Three Kings, which was mentioned in city records from 1443.

Ratingen welcomes visitors from all over the world and is proud of its many fine restaurants, coffee shops, and bistros. You will surely be able to find a meal to suit your tastes and satisfy your hunger.

The city has a beautiful Municipal Theater that features performers from all over Europe and around the world. You can see soloists from many genres of music, comedians, orchestras, choirs, and talented junior artists.

If you are interested in contemporary art, be sure not to miss the Ratingen City Museum. You may also want to see the Cultural and Industrial Museums.

Fans of spelunking, history, and sports of all kinds will find something to enjoy in Iserlohn. It is located near the Ruhr River in the Sauerland region in western Germany.

During the Middle Ages, the city was well known for its production of armor and other light metal products including needles. The town has restored many of the original factory buildings and you can tour historical displays there. The Needle Museum provides a one-of-a-kind look at the history of needle making. You might also enjoy seeing the Hair Pin Factory and the Brass Foundry.

St. Pankratius Church, which dates from the 11th century, is still in use, as is the Oberste Stadtkirche, which was built around 1350. The latter features a gothic winged altar, a true architectural novelty.

The city also boasts a well-preserved section of the city wall, which dates back to medieval times, and many half-timbered houses from the same period.

If you like to be active during your travels, you will surely find a recreational opportunity to your liking in Iserlohn. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike through beautiful hilly woodlands and walk around scenic lakes. There are also facilities for skating, gymnastics, handball, gliding, tennis, mini-golf, riding, and many other sporting activities. You can climb to the top of the Danzturm (a tower), which is on a hill overlooking the city, and enjoy panoramic views of the whole area.

Iserlohn hosts the International Guitar Symposium every year, which attracts musicians from around the world. There are dozens of renowned teachers holding classes for hundreds of talented guitarists. They perform concerts for the public and are noted for their exuberant parties in the evenings.

Dechenhöhle, one of Germany’s most impressive caves, is located in the area. It was discovered in 1868 by workers excavating for a railroad construction project. It contains beautiful limestone formations with romantic names like “The Organ” or “Emperor’s Hall.”

Cave operators offer a variety of special tours such as a child’s birthday party, a treasure hunt, and a Christmas tour with holiday lights and decorations during December. The museum near the cave has fascinating exhibits of prehistoric skeletons and a life-size model of a cave bear. :-)

Iserlohn offers walking tours through its historic sections and also provides bus tours through the surrounding countryside. You are sure to find something to pique your interest in this beautiful city.