{"id":17952,"date":"2025-05-13T08:11:00","date_gmt":"2025-05-13T06:11:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/?p=17952"},"modified":"2025-05-12T12:12:06","modified_gmt":"2025-05-12T10:12:06","slug":"things-to-do-near-cologne","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/en\/things-to-do-near-cologne\/","title":{"rendered":"7 Unforgettable Destinations Near Cologne"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><strong>Cologne is a fantastic city with lots to discover. But sometimes you just feel like a change of scenery! Fortunately, there are plenty of exciting destinations near Cologne \u2013 from impressive castles and idyllic nature to action-packed amusement parks. Here are seven tips to make your next trip unforgettable.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-1-drachenburg-castle-amp-drachenfels-fairytale-views\">1. Drachenburg Castle &amp; Drachenfels \u2013 Fairytale views<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>An absolute highlight for anyone who fancies a little trip back in time! Towering high above the Rhine near<strong>K\u00f6nigswinter <\/strong>is the magnificent <a href=\"https:\/\/www.schloss-drachenburg.de\/index.php\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Drachenburg Castle<\/a>, which looks like something straight out of a fairytale book. A stroll through the opulent rooms and beautiful castle gardens is well worth the effort.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/castle-drachenburg-siebengebirge-koenigswinter-c-tourismus-nrw-ev.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/castle-drachenburg-siebengebirge-koenigswinter-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Aerial view of Drachenburg Castle near K\u00f6nigswinter, one of the top sights in NRW\" class=\"wp-image-14220\" srcset=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/castle-drachenburg-siebengebirge-koenigswinter-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/castle-drachenburg-siebengebirge-koenigswinter-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/castle-drachenburg-siebengebirge-koenigswinter-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-883x662.jpg 883w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/castle-drachenburg-siebengebirge-koenigswinter-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/castle-drachenburg-siebengebirge-koenigswinter-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-293x220.jpg 293w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/castle-drachenburg-siebengebirge-koenigswinter-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-770x577.jpg 770w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/castle-drachenburg-siebengebirge-koenigswinter-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-1400x1050.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/castle-drachenburg-siebengebirge-koenigswinter-c-tourismus-nrw-ev.jpg 1750w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/castle-drachenburg-siebengebirge-koenigswinter-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Aerial view of Drachenburg Castle near K\u00f6nigswinter, one of the top sights in NRW\" class=\"wp-image-14220\" srcset=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/castle-drachenburg-siebengebirge-koenigswinter-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/castle-drachenburg-siebengebirge-koenigswinter-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/castle-drachenburg-siebengebirge-koenigswinter-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-883x662.jpg 883w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/castle-drachenburg-siebengebirge-koenigswinter-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/castle-drachenburg-siebengebirge-koenigswinter-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-293x220.jpg 293w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/castle-drachenburg-siebengebirge-koenigswinter-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-770x577.jpg 770w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/castle-drachenburg-siebengebirge-koenigswinter-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-1400x1050.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/castle-drachenburg-siebengebirge-koenigswinter-c-tourismus-nrw-ev.jpg 1750w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/noscript><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Image: Tourismus NRW e.V.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The ride up to Drachenfels on the historic rack railway is even more spectacular. From there, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Rhine Valley \u2013 perfect for a picnic or just to marvel at the scenery.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"inline-post clearfix\"><div class=\"see-also byline\">See Also<\/div><div id=\"block-wrap-68358\" class=\"block-wrap-native block-wrap block-wrap-23 block-css-68358 block-wrap-classic columns__m--1 elements-design-1 block-ani block-skin-0 tipi-box block-wrap-thumbnail ppl-m-1 clearfix\" data-id=\"68358\" data-base=\"0\"><div class=\"tipi-row-inner-style clearfix\"><div class=\"tipi-row-inner-box contents sticky--wrap\"><div class=\"block block-23 clearfix\"><article class=\"tipi-xs-12 clearfix with-fi ani-base tipi-xs-typo split-1 split-design-1 loop-0 preview-thumbnail preview-23 elements-design-1 post-14750 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-inspirations category-north-rhine-westphalia tag-architecture tag-culture tag-nature tag-north-rhine-westphalia tag-west\" style=\"--animation-order:0\"><div class=\"preview-mini-wrap clearfix\"><div class=\"mask\"><a href=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/en\/attractions-sights-north-rhine-westphalia\/\" class=\"mask-img\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"100\" height=\"100\" src=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/castle-drachenburg-panorama-siebengebirge-koenigswinter-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-100x100.jpg\" class=\"attachment-thumbnail size-thumbnail zeen-lazy-load-base zeen-lazy-load  wp-post-image\" alt=\"Panoramic view of Drachenburg Castle near K\u00f6nigswinter\" srcset=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/castle-drachenburg-panorama-siebengebirge-koenigswinter-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-100x100.jpg 100w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/castle-drachenburg-panorama-siebengebirge-koenigswinter-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-293x293.jpg 293w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/castle-drachenburg-panorama-siebengebirge-koenigswinter-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-390x390.jpg 390w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/castle-drachenburg-panorama-siebengebirge-koenigswinter-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-585x585.jpg 585w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/castle-drachenburg-panorama-siebengebirge-koenigswinter-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-900x900.jpg 900w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 100px) 100vw, 100px\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"100\" height=\"100\" src=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/castle-drachenburg-panorama-siebengebirge-koenigswinter-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-100x100.jpg\" class=\"attachment-thumbnail size-thumbnail zeen-lazy-load-base zeen-lazy-load  wp-post-image\" alt=\"Panoramic view of Drachenburg Castle near K\u00f6nigswinter\" srcset=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/castle-drachenburg-panorama-siebengebirge-koenigswinter-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-100x100.jpg 100w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/castle-drachenburg-panorama-siebengebirge-koenigswinter-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-293x293.jpg 293w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/castle-drachenburg-panorama-siebengebirge-koenigswinter-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-390x390.jpg 390w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/castle-drachenburg-panorama-siebengebirge-koenigswinter-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-585x585.jpg 585w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/castle-drachenburg-panorama-siebengebirge-koenigswinter-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-900x900.jpg 900w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 100px) 100vw, 100px\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/noscript><\/a><\/div><div class=\"meta\"><div class=\"byline byline-2 byline-cats-design-1\"><div class=\"byline-part cats\"><a href=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/en\/regions\/north-rhine-westphalia\/\" class=\"cat\">North Rhine-Westphalia<\/a><\/div><span class=\"byline-part separator separator-date\">&middot;<\/span><span class=\"byline-part date\"><time class=\"entry-date published dateCreated flipboard-date\" datetime=\"2024-01-30T17:06:46+01:00\">30. January 2024<\/time><\/span><\/div><div class=\"title-wrap\"><h3 class=\"title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/en\/attractions-sights-north-rhine-westphalia\/\">The Magnificent Sights of North Rhine-Westphalia<\/a><\/h3><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/article><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Phantasialand in Br\u00fchl \u2013 thrills guaranteed<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether it&#8217;s fast roller coasters, impressive shows, or lovingly designed themed worlds, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.phantasialand.de\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Phantasialand<\/a> in <strong>Br\u00fchl <\/strong>is the perfect place for anyone who needs a little action. Just half an hour from Cologne, an extraordinary adventure park awaits you here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/phantasialand-rookburgh-keyvisual-c-phantasialand.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"740\" height=\"1024\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/phantasialand-rookburgh-keyvisual-c-phantasialand-740x1024.jpg\" alt=\"A roller coaster at Phantasialand Br\u00fchl, a popular destination near Cologne\" class=\"wp-image-17580\" srcset=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/phantasialand-rookburgh-keyvisual-c-phantasialand-740x1024.jpg 740w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/phantasialand-rookburgh-keyvisual-c-phantasialand-217x300.jpg 217w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/phantasialand-rookburgh-keyvisual-c-phantasialand-883x1223.jpg 883w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/phantasialand-rookburgh-keyvisual-c-phantasialand-1109x1536.jpg 1109w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/phantasialand-rookburgh-keyvisual-c-phantasialand-293x406.jpg 293w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/phantasialand-rookburgh-keyvisual-c-phantasialand-770x1066.jpg 770w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/phantasialand-rookburgh-keyvisual-c-phantasialand.jpg 1264w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 740px) 100vw, 740px\" \/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"740\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/phantasialand-rookburgh-keyvisual-c-phantasialand-740x1024.jpg\" alt=\"A roller coaster at Phantasialand Br\u00fchl, a popular destination near Cologne\" class=\"wp-image-17580\" srcset=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/phantasialand-rookburgh-keyvisual-c-phantasialand-740x1024.jpg 740w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/phantasialand-rookburgh-keyvisual-c-phantasialand-217x300.jpg 217w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/phantasialand-rookburgh-keyvisual-c-phantasialand-883x1223.jpg 883w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/phantasialand-rookburgh-keyvisual-c-phantasialand-1109x1536.jpg 1109w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/phantasialand-rookburgh-keyvisual-c-phantasialand-293x406.jpg 293w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/phantasialand-rookburgh-keyvisual-c-phantasialand-770x1066.jpg 770w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/phantasialand-rookburgh-keyvisual-c-phantasialand.jpg 1264w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 740px) 100vw, 740px\" \/><\/noscript><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Image: Phantasialand<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The \u201cTaron\u201d and \u201cF.L.Y.\u201d roller coasters provide pure adrenaline, while the detailed themed areas from Africa to China immerse guests in another world. And if you need a break in between, you can enjoy a really good meal in one of the many restaurants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Eifel National Park \u2013 experience pure nature<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Get out of the city and into nature! The <a href=\"https:\/\/nationalpark-eifel.de\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Eifel National Park<\/a> is a true paradise for hikers, cyclists, and nature lovers. Miles of trails lead through dense forests, along lakes and rivers \u2013 there is something to discover around every corner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/rursee-eifel_r.classen.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"483\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/rursee-eifel_r.classen-1024x483.jpg\" alt=\"Boat sailing across Lake Rursee in the Eifel region\" class=\"wp-image-10304\" srcset=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/rursee-eifel_r.classen-1024x483.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/rursee-eifel_r.classen-300x142.jpg 300w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/rursee-eifel_r.classen-883x417.jpg 883w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/rursee-eifel_r.classen-1536x725.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/rursee-eifel_r.classen-293x138.jpg 293w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/rursee-eifel_r.classen-770x363.jpg 770w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/rursee-eifel_r.classen-1400x661.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/rursee-eifel_r.classen.jpg 1750w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"483\" src=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/rursee-eifel_r.classen-1024x483.jpg\" alt=\"Boat sailing across Lake Rursee in the Eifel region\" class=\"wp-image-10304\" srcset=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/rursee-eifel_r.classen-1024x483.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/rursee-eifel_r.classen-300x142.jpg 300w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/rursee-eifel_r.classen-883x417.jpg 883w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/rursee-eifel_r.classen-1536x725.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/rursee-eifel_r.classen-293x138.jpg 293w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/rursee-eifel_r.classen-770x363.jpg 770w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/rursee-eifel_r.classen-1400x661.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/rursee-eifel_r.classen.jpg 1750w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/noscript><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Image: r.classen\/shutterstock<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Particularly impressive is the huge <strong>Rursee <\/strong>lake, which can be explored on foot or by taking a leisurely boat trip. Another highlight is the \u201cEifel Star Region,\u201d where the view of the Milky Way is incredibly clear thanks to the low light pollution.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"inline-post clearfix\"><div class=\"see-also byline\">See Also<\/div><div id=\"block-wrap-69064\" class=\"block-wrap-native block-wrap block-wrap-23 block-css-69064 block-wrap-classic columns__m--1 elements-design-1 block-ani block-skin-0 tipi-box block-wrap-thumbnail ppl-m-1 clearfix\" data-id=\"69064\" data-base=\"0\"><div class=\"tipi-row-inner-style clearfix\"><div class=\"tipi-row-inner-box contents sticky--wrap\"><div class=\"block block-23 clearfix\"><article class=\"tipi-xs-12 clearfix with-fi ani-base tipi-xs-typo split-1 split-design-1 loop-0 preview-thumbnail preview-23 elements-design-1 post-15417 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-inspirations tag-city-trip tag-highlight-en tag-nature\" style=\"--animation-order:0\"><div class=\"preview-mini-wrap clearfix\"><div class=\"mask\"><a href=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/en\/bank-holiday-weekend-germany\/\" class=\"mask-img\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"100\" height=\"100\" src=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/river-wine-germany-c-peter-h-pixabay-100x100.jpg\" class=\"attachment-thumbnail size-thumbnail zeen-lazy-load-base zeen-lazy-load  wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/river-wine-germany-c-peter-h-pixabay-100x100.jpg 100w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/river-wine-germany-c-peter-h-pixabay-293x293.jpg 293w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/river-wine-germany-c-peter-h-pixabay-390x390.jpg 390w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/river-wine-germany-c-peter-h-pixabay-585x585.jpg 585w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/river-wine-germany-c-peter-h-pixabay-900x900.jpg 900w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 100px) 100vw, 100px\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"100\" height=\"100\" src=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/river-wine-germany-c-peter-h-pixabay-100x100.jpg\" class=\"attachment-thumbnail size-thumbnail zeen-lazy-load-base zeen-lazy-load  wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/river-wine-germany-c-peter-h-pixabay-100x100.jpg 100w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/river-wine-germany-c-peter-h-pixabay-293x293.jpg 293w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/river-wine-germany-c-peter-h-pixabay-390x390.jpg 390w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/river-wine-germany-c-peter-h-pixabay-585x585.jpg 585w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/river-wine-germany-c-peter-h-pixabay-900x900.jpg 900w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 100px) 100vw, 100px\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/noscript><\/a><\/div><div class=\"meta\"><div class=\"byline byline-2 byline-cats-design-1\"><div class=\"byline-part cats\"><a href=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/en\/inspirations\/\" class=\"cat\">Inspirations<\/a><\/div><span class=\"byline-part separator separator-date\">&middot;<\/span><span class=\"byline-part date\"><time class=\"entry-date published dateCreated flipboard-date\" datetime=\"2024-05-07T12:14:35+02:00\">7. May 2024<\/time><\/span><\/div><div class=\"title-wrap\"><h3 class=\"title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/en\/bank-holiday-weekend-germany\/\">Seven Trips for a Bank Holiday Weekend in Germany<\/a><\/h3><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/article><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Zons \u2013 medieval flair on the Rhine<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want to take a trip back in time to the Middle Ages, don&#8217;t miss <strong>Zons<\/strong>. This charming little town, often referred to as \u201cRothenburg on the Rhine,\u201d will enchant you with its well-preserved city walls, old half-timbered houses, and impressive Rhine tower.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Zons_c_Marie-Tysiak.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Zons_c_Marie-Tysiak-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Excursion around Cologne? We recommend a bike tour to Zons.\" class=\"wp-image-6222\" srcset=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Zons_c_Marie-Tysiak-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Zons_c_Marie-Tysiak-225x300.jpg 225w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Zons_c_Marie-Tysiak-883x1177.jpg 883w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Zons_c_Marie-Tysiak-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Zons_c_Marie-Tysiak-1536x2048.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Zons_c_Marie-Tysiak-293x391.jpg 293w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Zons_c_Marie-Tysiak-770x1027.jpg 770w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Zons_c_Marie-Tysiak-1400x1867.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Zons_c_Marie-Tysiak.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Zons_c_Marie-Tysiak-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Excursion around Cologne? We recommend a bike tour to Zons.\" class=\"wp-image-6222\" srcset=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Zons_c_Marie-Tysiak-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Zons_c_Marie-Tysiak-225x300.jpg 225w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Zons_c_Marie-Tysiak-883x1177.jpg 883w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Zons_c_Marie-Tysiak-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Zons_c_Marie-Tysiak-1536x2048.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Zons_c_Marie-Tysiak-293x391.jpg 293w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Zons_c_Marie-Tysiak-770x1027.jpg 770w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Zons_c_Marie-Tysiak-1400x1867.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Zons_c_Marie-Tysiak.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/noscript><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Image: Marie Tysiak<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Strolling through the narrow streets, you feel like you&#8217;re on the set of a historical film. Zons is a real experience, especially at Christmas time or during medieval festivals, when the town comes to life with market stalls, jugglers, and traditional crafts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Satzvey Castle \u2013 Knight tournaments and medieval markets<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Medieval fans take note: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.burgsatzvey.de\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Satzvey Castle<\/a> in <strong>Mechernich <\/strong>is not only one of the most beautiful moated castles in Germany, but also a place where history comes to life. Exciting events take place here all year round, from knight tournaments to medieval markets with jugglers, fire shows, and handicrafts. The picturesque backdrop also makes Satzvey Castle a great photo spot \u2013 and if you want, you can even spend the night within its ancient walls.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/burg-satzvey-mechernich-c-gus-martinie-shutterstock.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"649\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/burg-satzvey-mechernich-c-gus-martinie-shutterstock-1024x649.jpg\" alt=\"Satzvey Castle, seen from the water\" class=\"wp-image-17583\" srcset=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/burg-satzvey-mechernich-c-gus-martinie-shutterstock-1024x649.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/burg-satzvey-mechernich-c-gus-martinie-shutterstock-300x190.jpg 300w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/burg-satzvey-mechernich-c-gus-martinie-shutterstock-883x560.jpg 883w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/burg-satzvey-mechernich-c-gus-martinie-shutterstock-1536x973.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/burg-satzvey-mechernich-c-gus-martinie-shutterstock-293x186.jpg 293w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/burg-satzvey-mechernich-c-gus-martinie-shutterstock-770x488.jpg 770w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/burg-satzvey-mechernich-c-gus-martinie-shutterstock-1400x887.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/burg-satzvey-mechernich-c-gus-martinie-shutterstock.jpg 1750w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"649\" src=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/burg-satzvey-mechernich-c-gus-martinie-shutterstock-1024x649.jpg\" alt=\"Satzvey Castle, seen from the water\" class=\"wp-image-17583\" srcset=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/burg-satzvey-mechernich-c-gus-martinie-shutterstock-1024x649.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/burg-satzvey-mechernich-c-gus-martinie-shutterstock-300x190.jpg 300w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/burg-satzvey-mechernich-c-gus-martinie-shutterstock-883x560.jpg 883w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/burg-satzvey-mechernich-c-gus-martinie-shutterstock-1536x973.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/burg-satzvey-mechernich-c-gus-martinie-shutterstock-293x186.jpg 293w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/burg-satzvey-mechernich-c-gus-martinie-shutterstock-770x488.jpg 770w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/burg-satzvey-mechernich-c-gus-martinie-shutterstock-1400x887.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/burg-satzvey-mechernich-c-gus-martinie-shutterstock.jpg 1750w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/noscript><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Image: Gus Martinie \/ shutterstock<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Ahr Valley \u2013 wine, hiking, and enjoyment<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Ahr Valley is a dream come true for anyone who loves good food, excellent wine, and beautiful landscapes. The region is particularly well known for its first-class red wines, which can be tasted directly from the winemakers in the wine villages of <strong>Dernau <\/strong>or <strong>Mayscho\u00df<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/ahrtal-autumn-activities-018-c-marie-tysiak.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/ahrtal-autumn-activities-018-c-marie-tysiak-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"A loop of the Ahr river, surrounded by green wooded slopes\" class=\"wp-image-16756\" srcset=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/ahrtal-autumn-activities-018-c-marie-tysiak-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/ahrtal-autumn-activities-018-c-marie-tysiak-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/ahrtal-autumn-activities-018-c-marie-tysiak-883x663.jpg 883w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/ahrtal-autumn-activities-018-c-marie-tysiak-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/ahrtal-autumn-activities-018-c-marie-tysiak-293x220.jpg 293w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/ahrtal-autumn-activities-018-c-marie-tysiak-770x578.jpg 770w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/ahrtal-autumn-activities-018-c-marie-tysiak-1400x1050.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/ahrtal-autumn-activities-018-c-marie-tysiak.jpg 1750w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/ahrtal-autumn-activities-018-c-marie-tysiak-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"A loop of the Ahr river, surrounded by green wooded slopes\" class=\"wp-image-16756\" srcset=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/ahrtal-autumn-activities-018-c-marie-tysiak-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/ahrtal-autumn-activities-018-c-marie-tysiak-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/ahrtal-autumn-activities-018-c-marie-tysiak-883x663.jpg 883w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/ahrtal-autumn-activities-018-c-marie-tysiak-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/ahrtal-autumn-activities-018-c-marie-tysiak-293x220.jpg 293w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/ahrtal-autumn-activities-018-c-marie-tysiak-770x578.jpg 770w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/ahrtal-autumn-activities-018-c-marie-tysiak-1400x1050.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/ahrtal-autumn-activities-018-c-marie-tysiak.jpg 1750w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/noscript><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Image: Marie Tysiak<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If you feel like getting active, try the \u201cRotweinwanderweg\u201d (red wine hiking trail): a picturesque route that winds its way through the vineyards and offers fantastic views. After the hike, one of the rustic wine taverns invites you to linger with regional specialities and a glass of Ahr Sp\u00e4tburgunder.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"inline-post clearfix\"><div class=\"see-also byline\">See Also<\/div><div id=\"block-wrap-60226\" class=\"block-wrap-native block-wrap block-wrap-23 block-css-60226 block-wrap-classic columns__m--1 elements-design-1 block-ani block-skin-0 tipi-box block-wrap-thumbnail ppl-m-1 clearfix\" data-id=\"60226\" data-base=\"0\"><div class=\"tipi-row-inner-style clearfix\"><div class=\"tipi-row-inner-box contents sticky--wrap\"><div class=\"block block-23 clearfix\"><article class=\"tipi-xs-12 clearfix with-fi ani-base tipi-xs-typo split-1 split-design-1 loop-0 preview-thumbnail preview-23 elements-design-1 post-17516 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-inspirations tag-architecture tag-culture tag-highlight-en\" style=\"--animation-order:0\"><div class=\"preview-mini-wrap clearfix\"><div class=\"mask\"><a href=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/en\/castles-palaces-germany\/\" class=\"mask-img\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"100\" height=\"100\" src=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/charlottenburg-palace-berlin-park-c-jan-willem-van-hofwegen-shutterstock-100x100.jpg\" class=\"attachment-thumbnail size-thumbnail zeen-lazy-load-base zeen-lazy-load  wp-post-image\" alt=\"Charlottenburg Palace in Berlin, seen from the garden\" srcset=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/charlottenburg-palace-berlin-park-c-jan-willem-van-hofwegen-shutterstock-100x100.jpg 100w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/charlottenburg-palace-berlin-park-c-jan-willem-van-hofwegen-shutterstock-293x293.jpg 293w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/charlottenburg-palace-berlin-park-c-jan-willem-van-hofwegen-shutterstock-390x390.jpg 390w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/charlottenburg-palace-berlin-park-c-jan-willem-van-hofwegen-shutterstock-585x585.jpg 585w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/charlottenburg-palace-berlin-park-c-jan-willem-van-hofwegen-shutterstock-900x900.jpg 900w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 100px) 100vw, 100px\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"100\" height=\"100\" src=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/charlottenburg-palace-berlin-park-c-jan-willem-van-hofwegen-shutterstock-100x100.jpg\" class=\"attachment-thumbnail size-thumbnail zeen-lazy-load-base zeen-lazy-load  wp-post-image\" alt=\"Charlottenburg Palace in Berlin, seen from the garden\" srcset=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/charlottenburg-palace-berlin-park-c-jan-willem-van-hofwegen-shutterstock-100x100.jpg 100w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/charlottenburg-palace-berlin-park-c-jan-willem-van-hofwegen-shutterstock-293x293.jpg 293w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/charlottenburg-palace-berlin-park-c-jan-willem-van-hofwegen-shutterstock-390x390.jpg 390w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/charlottenburg-palace-berlin-park-c-jan-willem-van-hofwegen-shutterstock-585x585.jpg 585w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/charlottenburg-palace-berlin-park-c-jan-willem-van-hofwegen-shutterstock-900x900.jpg 900w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 100px) 100vw, 100px\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/noscript><\/a><\/div><div class=\"meta\"><div class=\"byline byline-2 byline-cats-design-1\"><div class=\"byline-part cats\"><a href=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/en\/inspirations\/\" class=\"cat\">Inspirations<\/a><\/div><span class=\"byline-part separator separator-date\">&middot;<\/span><span class=\"byline-part date\"><time class=\"entry-date published dateCreated flipboard-date\" datetime=\"2025-03-25T08:22:00+01:00\">25. March 2025<\/time><\/span><\/div><div class=\"title-wrap\"><h3 class=\"title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/en\/castles-palaces-germany\/\">9 Wonderful Castles in Germany<\/a><\/h3><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/article><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Augustusburg Palace &amp; Falkenlust Palace \u2013 a magnificent journey through time<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Just a stone&#8217;s throw from Cologne, two of Germany&#8217;s most impressive castles await: the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.schlossbruehl.de\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Castles Br\u00fchl<\/a>. Augustusburg Castle in <strong>Br\u00fchl <\/strong>is a Unesco World Heritage Site and a true baroque gem. The magnificent rooms with opulent ceiling frescoes and sparkling chandeliers give you an idea of how the nobility once lived here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/palace-augustusburg-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-johannes-hoehn.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/palace-augustusburg-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-johannes-hoehn-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Augustusburg Castle in Br\u00fchl, one of the most visited sights in NRW\" class=\"wp-image-14216\" srcset=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/palace-augustusburg-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-johannes-hoehn-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/palace-augustusburg-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-johannes-hoehn-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/palace-augustusburg-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-johannes-hoehn-883x589.jpg 883w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/palace-augustusburg-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-johannes-hoehn-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/palace-augustusburg-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-johannes-hoehn-1155x770.jpg 1155w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/palace-augustusburg-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-johannes-hoehn-370x247.jpg 370w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/palace-augustusburg-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-johannes-hoehn-770x513.jpg 770w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/palace-augustusburg-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-johannes-hoehn-293x195.jpg 293w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/palace-augustusburg-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-johannes-hoehn-1400x934.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/palace-augustusburg-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-johannes-hoehn.jpg 1750w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/palace-augustusburg-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-johannes-hoehn-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Augustusburg Castle in Br\u00fchl, one of the most visited sights in NRW\" class=\"wp-image-14216\" srcset=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/palace-augustusburg-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-johannes-hoehn-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/palace-augustusburg-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-johannes-hoehn-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/palace-augustusburg-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-johannes-hoehn-883x589.jpg 883w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/palace-augustusburg-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-johannes-hoehn-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/palace-augustusburg-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-johannes-hoehn-1155x770.jpg 1155w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/palace-augustusburg-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-johannes-hoehn-370x247.jpg 370w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/palace-augustusburg-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-johannes-hoehn-770x513.jpg 770w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/palace-augustusburg-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-johannes-hoehn-293x195.jpg 293w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/palace-augustusburg-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-johannes-hoehn-1400x934.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/palace-augustusburg-c-tourismus-nrw-ev-johannes-hoehn.jpg 1750w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/noscript><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Tourismus NRW e.V.\/Johannes H\u00f6hn<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Right next door is the smaller but no less beautiful Falkenlust Palace, which was once used as a hunting lodge and is also a World Heritage Site. If you fancy a royal journey through time, don&#8217;t miss these magnificent buildings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Cologne is a fantastic city with lots to discover. But sometimes you just feel like a change of scenery! Fortunately, there are plenty of exciting destinations near Cologne \u2013 from impressive castles and idyllic nature to action-packed amusement parks. Here are seven tips to make your next trip unforgettable. 1. Drachenburg Castle &amp; Drachenfels \u2013 Fairytale views An absolute highlight for anyone who fancies a little trip back in time! Towering high above the Rhine nearK\u00f6nigswinter is the magnificent Drachenburg [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":17954,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[633],"tags":[673,680,708],"class_list":["post-17952","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-north-rhine-westphalia","tag-highlight-en","tag-north-rhine-westphalia","tag-west"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.3 (Yoast SEO v27.3) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>7 Unforgettable Destinations Near Cologne - funkyGERMANY<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"The most beautiful city on the Rhine is certainly worth seeing in its own right, but there are also plenty of attractions near Cologne.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/funkygermany.com\/en\/things-to-do-near-cologne\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"7 Unforgettable Destinations Near Cologne\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Cologne is a fantastic city with lots to discover. But sometimes you just feel like a change of scenery! 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