Meerbusch Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Meerbusch with this comprehensive guide featuring top attractions, hiking/biking routes, local food scene, accommodations, safety tips, transportation options, and more.


Introduction to Meerbusch

Meerbusch is a small town located in the Lower Rhine region of North Rhine-Westphalia in Germany. It is a peaceful and picturesque destination that attracts tourists with its scenic beauty, cultural landmarks, and outdoor activities.

Meerbusch is situated just 10 kilometers north of Düsseldorf and is easily accessible by public transportation. The town boasts a range of top-rated hotels and guesthouses, and there are plenty of dining and shopping options.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take a look at the top attractions in Meerbusch, the best hiking and biking routes, local cuisine, accommodations, culture and customs, safety tips, and transportation options for getting to and around the town.

List of Places to Visit in Meerbusch

Whether you’re looking for historical landmarks, natural beauty, or outdoor activities, Meerbusch has something to offer every traveler. Here are some of the top places to visit in Meerbusch:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Haus Meer: This historical building dates back to the 16th century and is home to exhibits on the town’s history and culture.
  • St. Stephanus Church: This landmark is a must-see for those fascinated by architecture, history, and religion. The church has a rich history dating back to the 13th century and has been rebuilt several times over the centuries; the current structure dates back to the 18th century.
  • Museum Insel Hombroich: A unique museum that celebrates art in all its forms, with exhibits of contemporary and classical art, sculpture, and installations across 64 acres of parkland.

Natural Attractions of Meerbusch: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Nature Reserve Meerbusch-Osterath: Spread over 360 hectares of land, this natural reserve is the perfect place for nature lovers, hikers, and birdwatchers.
  • Rheinuferpromenade: A pathway alongside the river Rhine that offers breathtaking views of the river and the surrounding areas. Ideal for cycling or jogging.
  • Froschenteich: An artificial lake with a walking path that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll, a picnic or sunbathing on the lawn.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Meerbusch

Meerbusch is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and offers an excellent network of hiking and biking trails that offer scenic views of the town and its surroundings. Here are some of the best trails in Meerbusch:

  • The Meerbusch Rundweg Trail: This is a circular hiking trail that runs through the countryside surrounding the town. The trail covers a distance of about 23km and takes walkers through beautiful natural scenery and historic sites.
  • The Nierstalweg Trail: This is a 15 km long biking trail that runs along the River Niers. The route is mostly flat, making it ideal for leisure bikers. Cyclists can enjoy the stunning views of the river and the surrounding countryside.
  • The Rheinuferweg Trail: This biking trail runs parallel to the Rhine River and provides stunning views of the surrounding region and the Rhine. The trail is suitable for all levels of cyclists, from beginners to seasoned riders.

Best Things to Do in Meerbusch: Activities and Tours

Meerbusch offers a range of activities and tours that cater to different interests. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours in Meerbusch:

  • Visit the Haus Meer Museum
  • Take a walk along the Rheinuferpromenade
  • Cycle the Meerbusch Rundweg Trail
  • Visit the Museum Insel Hombroich
  • Enjoy a picnic at Froschenteich
  • Take a day trip to Düsseldorf

Week-Long Itinerary for Meerbusch

Day 1: Visit the Haus Meer Museum Day 2: Cycle the Meerbusch Rundweg Trail Day 3: Explore the Rheinuferpromenade Day 4: Visit the Museum Insel Hombroich Day 5: Enjoy a picnic at Froschenteich Day 6: Take a day trip to Düsseldorf Day 7: Relax and unwind at your hotel or guesthouse

Food and Drink Scene of Meerbusch

Meerbusch’s food scene is a reflection of its proximity to Düsseldorf with a mix of German and international cuisine. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Meerbusch:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Rheinischer Sauerbraten: A quintessential local dish consisting of beef marinated in vinegar for several days and served with red cabbage, potato dumplings, and gravy.
  • Reibekuchen: Traditional potato pancakes served with apple sauce or sour cream.
  • Schweinshaxe: Roasted pork knuckle, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Local Beverages

  • Altbier: A copper-colored top-fermenting beer that’s a specialty of Düsseldorf and the surrounding areas.
  • Korn: A traditional regional distilled spirit made from rye.

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

Meerbusch offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Here are some of the top options:

  • Gut Dyckhof: A cozy hotel situated in a historic building surrounded by lush greenery.
  • Hotel Lessing: A modern hotel with spacious rooms and a garden terrace.
  • Hotel Haus Büderich: A family-run hotel set in a charming 19th-century building.

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

Some of the souvenirs and local products to bring home include:

  • Traditional German sweets from Wolsdorff Tobacco: Traditional German sweets called Bonbons are exclusive to the Wolsdorff Tobacco store in Meerbusch.
  • Magerl’s handmade soap: Magerl’s is a local store that sells handmade soaps using natural ingredients and traditional techniques.
  • Pottery from Heimatwerk: Stunning pottery pieces made using traditional techniques are available for purchase at Heimatwerk.

Local Culture and Customs of Meerbusch

Meerbusch has a rich cultural heritage and several customs and traditions that visitors may find interesting. Some of the significant customs and traditions include:

  • St. Martins Day celebration: A traditional event is celebrated on November 11th, with a lantern parade through Meerbusch.
  • Karneval season: A festive season in February and March is celebrated with colorful parades and events.
  • Christmas markets: During the Christmas season, Meerbusch and the surrounding areas are filled with traditional Christmas markets.

Best Time to Visit Meerbusch

Meerbusch is a year-round destination, and there is no specific time that’s best to visit. However, the peak tourist season is during the summer months from June to August when outdoor activities and events take place.

Do’s and Don’ts of Meerbusch

Here are some essential Do’s and Don’ts in Meerbusch:

Do:

  • Carry cash: Although credit cards are widely accepted in Meerbusch, it’s always better to have some cash on hand.
  • Respect local customs and traditions: Be respectful of local customs, such as taking off shoes before entering a private residence.
  • Indulge in local cuisine: Try the local cuisine and beverages to get a taste of the local culture.

Don’t:

  • Drive under the influence: It is strictly prohibited to drink and drive in Meerbusch.
  • Litter or littering on the streets: The locals take pride in keeping the town clean, and littering is frowned upon.
  • Be loud and disruptive: Being disruptive in public places is considered rude and disrespectful.

Safety and Health

Safety in Meerbusch

Meerbusch is a safe destination with low crime rates. However, it’s always good practice to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Health in Meerbusch

Meerbusch has excellent healthcare facilities, with several hospitals and clinics offering top-quality medical care. All visitors are advised to purchase travel insurance before embarking on their trip.

Getting to Meerbusch: Transportation Options and Logistics

Meerbusch is well-connected to various neighboring cities and towns. Here are some of the transportation options for getting to and around Meerbusch:

Airports Near Meerbusch

  • Düsseldorf Airport is the nearest international airport, located approximately 11 kilometers away from Meerbusch.

Bus Stations Near Meerbusch

  • Meerbusch-Osterath Station is located in the town center and serves as the primary bus station for the town.

Other Options

  • Train: The nearest train station is located in Neuss, which is connected to the national rail network.
  • Tram: The nearest tram stop is located in Düsseldorf, which is connected to the city’s public transport system.

How to Get Around in Meerbusch

Meerbusch is a small town that can easily be explored on foot or by bicycle. However, public transportation is also available for those who prefer not to walk or cycle. Buses and trams run frequently, and taxis are readily available.

Where to Go Next from Meerbusch: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Meerbusch’s location makes it an excellent base for exploring the surrounding areas. Here are some of the nearby destinations and excursions that visitors can take:

  • Düsseldorf: The city of Düsseldorf is only 10 kilometers away from Meerbusch and offers a range of cultural attractions, museums, shopping, and dining options.
  • Keukenhof: In the spring, visitors can explore the stunning flower gardens at Keukenhof, located just a few hours’ drive from Meerbusch.
  • Cologne: The historic city of Cologne is only an hour’s drive from Meerbusch and is home to iconic landmarks such as the Cologne Cathedral and the Chocolate Museum.

Conclusion

Meerbusch is a charming and peaceful destination that offers something for everyone, from historical landmarks to outdoor adventures. This comprehensive guide should help you plan your trip to Meerbusch and make the most of your visit to this beautiful town in North Rhine-Westphalia.