Krefeld Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Krefeld with this comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, activities, and accommodations.


Introduction to Krefeld

Located in Lower Rhine in North Rhine-Westphalia, Krefeld is a charming city known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. With a population of over 220,000 people, Krefeld offers a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your trip to Krefeld, with information on the top attractions, activities, accommodations, local culture, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Krefeld

Krefeld is home to a wide range of attractions, from historical landmarks to natural wonders. Here is a list of the must-visit places in Krefeld:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Burg Linn: Situated in the Linn district, Burg Linn is a medieval castle that dates back to the 12th century. It now houses a museum exhibiting artifacts from the city’s history.
  • Kaiser Wilhelm Museum: A prominent art museum that features contemporary and modern art collections.
  • TextilWerk: Located in the former Krefeld linen factory, it is now a renowned museum that offers insights into the city’s textile industry.
  • Deutsches Textilmuseum: Showcasing the history and evolution of textile-making in Germany from the 18th to the 20th century.
  • Luisenplatz: A public square located in the heart of Krefeld, surrounded by historic buildings.

Natural Attractions of Krefeld: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Krefelder Zoo: It is a popular attraction, with over 1000 animals and 170 different species. The zoo also includes a tropical house, petting zoo, and aquarium.
  • Botanischer Garten Krefeld: A delightful park that offers an extensive collection of plants from different parts of the world, and a greenhouse.
  • Elfrather See: Located in the northern part of the city, it is a beautiful lake surrounded by greenery and walking trails.
  • Hülser Berg: A nature reserve situated at the edge of the city, offering stunning views of Krefeld and the surrounding region.
  • Niederrheinische Landschaftspark: A park created out of a former industrial wasteland, the park has been transformed into a recreational area with a network of walking and biking trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Krefeld

Krefeld offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking and biking. Here are some of the top-rated routes:

  • Rheinradweg: A scenic cycling path that runs along the Rhine River, offering stunning views of the river and the surrounding countryside.
  • Niederrheinroute: A 200-kilometer cycle route that leads through the Lower Rhine region, passing through scenic landscapes and charming villages.
  • Krefelder Stadtwald: A vast forested area located in the west of Krefeld, with numerous marked hiking and biking trails.

Best Things to Do in Krefeld: Activities and Tours

Apart from the attractions mentioned above, Krefeld offers a variety of activities and tours for visitors, including:

  • Krefeld Segway Tour: A guided tour on a Segway, suitable for individuals, couples, or groups.
  • Boat Tour Along the Rhine River: A scenic boat tour taking you through Krefeld and the surrounding region.
  • Kletterpark: A high ropes course in a forested area, with courses for different skill levels.
  • Herbstwaldlauf: An annual running event organized in the Krefelder Stadtwald in October.

Week-Long Itinerary for Krefeld

Here’s a suggested itinerary that covers the top attractions and activities in Krefeld:

  • Day 1: Visit the Burg Linn and the Textilmuseum.
  • Day 2: Explore the Kaiser Wilhelm Museum and Luisenplatz.
  • Day 3: Spend the day at Krefelder Zoo.
  • Day 4: Visit the Botanischer Garten Krefeld and Elfrather See.
  • Day 5: Head to Hülser Berg for scenic views and a bit of hiking.
  • Day 6: Take a boat tour along the Rhine River and visit the Niederrheinische Landschaftspark.
  • Day 7: Participate in the Herbstwaldlauf event or visit Krefeld’s Kletterpark.

Food and Drink Scene of Krefeld

Krefeld has a rich food and drink scene, with a variety of local dishes and drinks to try. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sauerbraten: A typical German dish consisting of marinated beef, usually served with red cabbage or boiled potatoes.
  • Himmel un Ääd: A regional dish made with black pudding, mashed potatoes and apple sauce.
  • Reibekuchen: Crispy potato pancakes served with applesauce or sour cream.

Local Beverages

  • Krefelder Bier: A locally brewed beer available in many bars and restaurants throughout the city.
  • Apfelschorle: A refreshing apple juice mixed with sparkling water.
  • Korn: A traditional local spirit made from distilled rye.

Where to Stay in Krefeld: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Krefeld offers a wide range of accommodations to suit different budgets. Here are some top-rated options:

  • Mercure Parkhotel Krefelder Hof: A four-star hotel located in the city center, offering spacious rooms and a wellness center.
  • Hotel Dusseldorf Krefeld Affiliated by Melia: A modern four-star hotel with comfortable rooms and an on-site restaurant.
  • Ibis Budget Krefeld Messe-Dusseldorf: A budget-friendly hotel offering simple and functional rooms.
  • Youth Hostel Krefeld: A clean and affordable hostel located in the heart of the city.

What to Buy in Krefeld: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Krefeld is known for its textile industry, producing high-quality fabrics and clothing. Here are some souvenirs and local products to bring home:

  • Silk Scarves: Krefeld produces some of the finest silk scarves in Germany, with unique designs and patterns.
  • Linens: Krefeld is known for its high-quality linen products, including tablecloths, napkins, and bed linens.
  • Traditional Dresses: The city has a rich history of traditional dressmaking, with unique and colorful designs.

Local Culture and Customs of Krefeld

Krefeld has a rich cultural history that is reflected in its local customs and traditions. Here are some things you should know:

  • Respect for Privacy: Germans value their privacy, so it’s essential to respect the privacy of others while in Krefeld.
  • Punctuality: Germans take punctuality seriously, so it’s essential to be on time for appointments, meetings, and tours.
  • Recycling: Germany is known for its recycling system, so make sure you put the right items in the correct bins.

Best Time to Visit Krefeld

Krefeld is charming throughout the year, but the best time to visit is from May to September when the weather is warm, and there are numerous festivals and events taking place.

Do’s and Don’ts of Krefeld

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Carry your ID with you at all times.
  • Try the local cuisine and drinks.
  • Be on time for appointments and tours.

Don’t:

  • Smoke in public areas.
  • Litter or leave trash around.
  • Take photographs of people without permission.
  • Be loud or disruptive in public areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Krefeld

Krefeld is a safe city, and the crime rate is relatively low compared to other German cities. However, it’s essential to take some basic precautions:

  • Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
  • Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night.
  • Be vigilant when using public transport or in busy tourist areas.

Health in Krefeld

Krefeld has a good healthcare system, and there are several hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies throughout the city. However, it’s always advisable to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Getting to Krefeld: Transportation Options and Logistics

Krefeld is well-connected to other German cities and international destinations. Here are the available transportation options:

Airports Near Krefeld

  • Dusseldorf Airport: The closest airport to Krefeld, approximately 20 kilometers away.
  • Cologne/Bonn Airport: Located about 80 kilometers from Krefeld.

Both airports offer various transportation options, including buses, trains, and taxis.

Bus Stations Near Krefeld

  • Krefeld Hauptbahnhof: The main bus station located in the city center, offering connections to various destinations in Germany and Europe.

Other Options

  • Train: Krefeld is well-connected to other cities in Germany by train, with connections to major cities like Berlin, Hamburg, and Munich.
  • Car: Krefeld is easily accessible by car, with several major highways passing through the city.

How to Get Around in Krefeld

Krefeld has an efficient public transportation system that includes trams, buses, and trains. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks or vending machines located at most stations. Taxis are also available throughout the city.

Where to Go Next from Krefeld: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Krefeld is located in a beautiful part of Germany and is an ideal base for exploring the surrounding region. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Dusseldorf: A vibrant city known for its shopping and nightlife, located only 30 minutes away by train.
  • Cologne: A historic city with a famous cathedral and vibrant cultural scene, located approximately one hour away by train.
  • Zoo Duisburg: Home to a wide range of animals and the world’s largest dolphin display, it is located approximately 30 minutes away by train.

Conclusion

Krefeld is a hidden gem in Germany, offering something for everyone. With its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and modern amenities, it’s the perfect destination for history buffs, foodies, outdoor enthusiasts, and art lovers. Plan your trip to Krefeld today and experience the magic of this charming city.

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