“Those who do not know Bonn have missed out on Germany.” – This old Bonn proverb may sound exaggerated, but there is a kernel of truth in it. The former capital of Germany is often underestimated, yet it is one of the most historically significant cities in the country. Shaped by its Roman origins, its time as a seat of government, and its current status as a UN city, Bonn offers a unique blend of history, culture, and Rhineland cheerfulness.

• Historical Significance – From the Romans through its time as the capital to being a UN city, Bonn has a lot of history to tell.
• Beethoven Everywhere – The city takes pride in its most famous son, Ludwig van Beethoven, and celebrates him with museums, monuments, and festivals.
• The Rhine as a Lifeline – Relaxed walks, boat tours, or views from the Drachenfels – the Rhine is omnipresent.
• UN City with International Flair – Bonn is home to many international organizations, contributing to a cosmopolitan cityscape.
• Museum Mile and Culture – Whether it’s the art museum, the House of History, or the Bundeskunsthalle – Bonn is a paradise for culture enthusiasts.

• Area: approx. 141 km²
• Population: around 335,000
• Foundation: around 12 AD as a Roman camp "Bonna"
• Former Capital: From 1949 to 1990, the seat of government of the Federal Republic of Germany
• Highest Point: Paffelsberg (194 m)
• Most Famous Citizen: Ludwig van Beethoven (born 1770 in Bonn)
• Main Rivers: Rhine and Sieg
• University City: The Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-University is one of the oldest and most renowned universities in Germany
• UN Headquarters: More than 25 UN organizations have their headquarters in Bonn
• Dialect: Kölsch-Bönnsch, a Rhenish dialect
• Significant Economic Sector: Telecommunications (headquarters of Deutsche Telekom and DHL)
• Biggest Folk Festival: Pützchens Markt (traditional fair for over 600 years)
• Notable Museums: House of History, Kunstmuseum Bonn, Bundeskunsthalle

Bonn has a history of over 2000 years, shaped by many historical events. From a Roman settlement, the city developed into a capital and eventually into an international center.

Bonn in Roman Times – The Origin of the City

The history of Bonn begins around 12 BC when the Romans established a camp here. The name “Bonna” likely derives from a Germanic word for “swamp area.” The camp quickly developed into a significant settlement that played an important role along the Rhine. To this day, Roman remains can be found in the city, for example near the MüM?nster.

Middle Ages and Modern Times – Bonn Becomes a Residence City

In the Middle Ages, Bonn became increasingly significant and was granted city rights in 1243. The Electors of Cologne made Bonn their residence city starting in the 16th century. Many of the well-known buildings today, including the Palace and the Bonn Minster, date back to this period.

Bonn as the Capital of Germany

After World War II, Bonn was chosen as the provisional capital of the Federal Republic of Germany. In 1949, the government moved to Bonn, and the city became the political center of the young Federal Republic. Although Bonn lost this status to Berlin in 1990, many ministries and federal authorities are still located here.

Bonn Today – A UN City with International Significance

Since the capital change, Bonn has successfully reinvented itself. Today, the city is home to the United Nations and many international organizations. The university, large companies, and the rich cultural scene make Bonn a lively and dynamic city.

Bonn is divided into four district areas, each with its own characteristics. Each district consists of several neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm.

District	Neighborhoods	What is it known for?
Bonn	City Center West City North City South City Poppelsdorf Gronau	Historic Center Government District University Old Buildings Museum Mile
Beuel	Beuel-Center Oberkassel Vilich Holzlar Limperich	Right bank part of Bonn Many green spaces Rhineland promenade
Bad Godesberg	Rüngsdorf Plittersdorf Mehlem Pennenfeld Old Godesberg	Former embassy district Mansion district Proximity to the Siebengebirge
Hardtberg	Duisdorf Lengsdorf Brüser Berg Hardthöhe	Residential area Telecom headquarters Bundeswehr location

Bonn is a city with many facets. While you can admire beautiful old villas in the South City, the former government district in Gronau still has a special aura. Bad Godesberg is known for its international character, while Beuel delights with its Rhine meadows and charming neighborhoods.

Bonn is full of attractions that tell of its rich history and cultural significance. Whether historical buildings, monuments, or impressive natural landscapes — there is much to discover here.

These landmarks should definitely be seen in Bonn

• Beethoven House – The birthplace of Ludwig van Beethoven, now a museum with original documents and instruments.
• Bonn Minster – One of the oldest churches in Germany, featuring impressive architecture from the 11th century.
• Poppelsdorf Palace – A baroque palace with a beautiful botanical garden, perfect for a stroll.
• Old Town Hall – An impressive Rococo building that serves as a landmark in Bonn's marketplace.
• House of History – An exciting museum dedicated to German post-war history with many interactive exhibits.
• Drachenfels – The famous viewpoint in the Siebengebirge with a castle ruin and a fantastic view over the Rhine.
• Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-University – One of Germany's most prestigious universities with magnificent buildings.
• Museum Mile – A collection of five top-notch museums, including the Bundeskunsthalle and the Bonn Art Museum.

The Beethoven House – Following in the footsteps of a genius

Ludwig van Beethoven was born in Bonn in 1770, and his birthplace is now one of the most significant music museums in the world. Here, you can marvel at original manuscripts, historic instruments, and personal belongings of the composer. The museum provides exciting insights into his life and work.

📍 Address: Bonngasse 20, 53111 Bonn
🎟️ Admission: about 10 € for adults
⏰ Opening hours: Daily from 10 AM to 6 PM

Tip: Concerts featuring his works regularly take place in the Beethoven Hall – a true highlight for music lovers!

The Bonn Minster – A piece of the Middle Ages in the heart of the city

The Bonn Minster is one of the most important church buildings in Germany. Built in the 11th century, the church impresses with Romanesque architecture, Gothic elements, and beautiful frescoes. Particularly intriguing is the crypt with ancient graves and the distinctive double-tower portal.

📍 Address: Münsterplatz, 53111 Bonn
🎟️ Admission: Free
⏰ Visiting hours: Open during the day

Interesting: The Münsterplatz is also known for the large Beethoven monument that has stood here since 1845.

A perfect route for your sightseeing tour in Bonn

If you want to explore Bonn on foot, this route is ideal for efficiently covering the main attractions:

Start: Bonn Central Station

1. Beethoven House (10 min. walk)
2. Bonn Minster & Münsterplatz (5 min. walk)
3. Old Town Hall & Marketplace (5 min. walk)
4. Rhine Promenade for a break by the water (10 min. walk)
5. Museum Mile – Bundeskunsthalle & House of History (20 min. walk or a short train ride)
6. Poppelsdorf Palace & Botanical Garden (15 min. walk)

🚆 Tip: If you have time, you can take a detour to Drachenfels. From the Central Station, a train goes to Königswinter, and from there you can take the cog railway to the summit.

Bonn is located directly on the Rhine, but other bodies of water also shape the region. Particularly the nearby Sieg and the Kottenforst with its small streams provide plenty of nature in the city.

Body of Water	Length	Features
Rhine	1,233 km	Central river of Bonn, boat trips & Rhine promenade
Sieg	155 km	Flows into the Rhine at Bonn, popular local recreation area
Rheinauensee	-	Artificial lake in the Rheinaue park, ideal for walking
Poppelsdorfer Weiher	-	Small pond at the Botanical Garden

🌊 Tip: A boat trip on the Rhine is particularly a highlight in summer. From Bonn, you can take a boat all the way to Cologne or to the picturesque Middle Rhine Valley.

Bonn is not only a city of history and science, but also a place full of vibrant culture and events. Whether music festivals, traditional celebrations, or major sporting events – there are exciting events for every taste all year round.

These events in Bonn should not be missed

• Rhein in Flammen – This spectacular fireworks event along the Rhine attracts thousands of visitors every year.
• Pützchens Markt – One of the oldest fairs in Germany with a huge carnival atmosphere and funfair.
• Beethovenfest – Annual festival in honor of Ludwig van Beethoven featuring concerts by world-renowned artists.
• Bonn Marathon – A major sporting event where runners from all over the world jog through the city.
• Bierbörse Bonn – A paradise for beer lovers with hundreds of international beer varieties.
• Weihnachtsmarkt Bonn – One of the most beautiful Christmas markets in North Rhine-Westphalia with cozy wooden huts and sparkling lights.

The biggest events in Bonn at a glance

Event	Time Frame	Information	Admission
Rhein in Flammen	May	Fireworks & ship parade on the Rhine	Free
Bonn Marathon	April	City run through Bonn	Registration required
Bierbörse Bonn	July	Beer festival with specialties from around the world	Free
Pützchens Markt	September	Large fair with rides & stalls	Free
Beethovenfest	September/October	Classical festival with international artists	Variable
Weihnachtsmarkt Bonn	Late November – December	Atmospheric stalls in the city center	Free

🎉 Tip: If you visit Bonn at the right time, you can combine your sightseeing with one of these top events!

Whether you are traveling as a tourist, with family, as a single, or with your partner – Bonn offers great experiences for every taste. Here are our best recommendations for your stay.

Five Excursion Destinations in Bonn

🏞️ 1. Drachenfels and Drachenburg Castle
Drachenfels is a real highlight for nature and history lovers. The cogwheel train takes you up to the castle ruins, where you have a breathtaking view over the Rhine Valley. Right below lies Drachenburg Castle, an impressive fairytale castle from the 19th century.

🏛️ 2. House of History
Anyone interested in German history should definitely visit the House of History. Here, you can learn everything about the post-war period, the fall of the Berlin Wall, and the development of the Federal Republic – presented in an exciting and interactive way.

🌳 3. Rheinaue Park
Rheinaue is the green heart of Bonn. Perfect for walks, picnics, or bike tours. There are large playgrounds, a boat rental, and numerous open-air events in the summer.

🎨 4. Bonn Museum Mile
Art and culture lovers can’t miss the Museum Mile. The Bundeskunsthalle and the Bonn Art Museum, with their changing high-quality exhibitions, are particularly recommended.

🌼 5. Poppelsdorf Castle and Botanical Garden
The baroque Poppelsdorf Castle is not only a beautiful photo motif but also hosts one of the oldest botanical gardens in Germany. A quiet place, perfect for taking a little break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

3 Recommendations in Bonn for Couples

1. Candlelight Dinner on the Rhine
A romantic dinner on a ship with a view of the illuminated Rhine bank – what could be more beautiful? Several providers offer exclusive dinner cruises on the Rhine.

2. Sunset at Drachenfels
Take your partner on a short hike or take the cogwheel train to Drachenfels. The view at sunset is unique and creates an unforgettable atmosphere.

3. Concert at the Beethoven Hall
Classical music fans should not miss a concert at the Beethoven Hall. Here, you can enjoy the music of Bonn’s most famous son in stunning acoustics.

3 Recommendations in Bonn for Singles

1. Pub Crawl in the Old Town
Bonn has a great bar scene. Especially in the Old Town of Bonn, there are many cozy pubs and modern cocktail bars – perfect for meeting new people.

2. Sports & Fitness in the Rheinaue
Jogging, yoga, or beach volleyball – there are many sporting activities in Rheinaue that are perfect for singles.

3. Poetry Slam at the Pantheon Theater
The Pantheon Theater is known for its creative events, including regular poetry slams. Here, you can meet new people while experiencing exciting performances.

3 Recommendations in Bonn for Families

 1. Venusberg Wildlife Park
A great place for families with children! The Venusberg Wildlife Park offers free insights into local wildlife, including wild boars and deer.

2. Arp Museum & Historic Train to Königswinter
Take the historic train to Königswinter and then visit the impressive Arp Museum with its interactive exhibitions – fun for both young and old.

3. Phantasialand (about 30 minutes from Bonn)
A day trip to the nearby Phantasialand in Brühl is worthwhile for the whole family – here you can find thrilling roller coasters and themed worlds for all ages.

Three Hotel Recommendations in Bonn

🛏️ 1. Kameha Grand Bonn – A luxury hotel with a spectacular Rhine location and modern design. Particularly suitable for couples or business travelers.

🛏️ 2. Hotel Collegium Leoninum – A stylish hotel in a historic setting with a central location in the Old Town. Perfect for culture travelers.

🛏️ 3. BaseCamp Bonn – An extraordinary hotel concept with accommodation in trailers and a retro atmosphere. Ideal for adventurers and young travelers.

Bonn is a very pleasant city to visit, but there are a few things you should know:

Don'ts in Bonn:

• Do not leave your bicycle unsecured – bicycle theft is more common here.
• During Carnival, don’t be surprised if you are approached or even "bützed" (kissed) – it's a Rhineland tradition!
• Avoid mispronouncing Beethoven – it is pronounced "Beethoven" with a long "e" and not "Bäthofen".

How to get to Bonn

Arriving by car:

• Bonn is directly connected to the A565 and A555, well linked to Cologne and Frankfurt.
• There are parking garages in the city center, but they are often expensive – better to opt for P+R.

Arriving by train:

• Bonn's main train station is well connected to the ICE network. It takes only 20 minutes to get there by train from Cologne.

Arriving by plane:

• The nearest airport is Cologne/Bonn (CGN), which is only about 20 minutes away by train or car.

Bonn is much more than just the former capital. With its mix of history, culture, nature, and international flair, the city has something for everyone. Whether you walk in Beethoven's footsteps, enjoy the Rheinaue, or discover the vibrant pub scene – Bonn is a real gem on the Rhine!