Eifel Travel Guide

Your ultimate travel guide to Eifel in Europe, featuring cultural and natural attractions, hiking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more. Plan the perfect trip to Eifel with this detailed guide.


A Comprehensive Guide to Eifel in Europe

Nestled in the western part of Germany, Eifel is a stunning region that offers a perfect mix of beautiful nature, rich history, and modern culture. Eifel is a hidden gem that is often overlooked by travelers, but once you discover its breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and cultural wonders, you will definitely fall in love with this place.

Introduction to Eifel

With its rolling hills, dense forests, sparkling rivers, and endless meadows, Eifel is a paradise for nature lovers. This region is also known for its rich history and culture, as well as for its gastronomic delights and lively festivals. Eifel is a perfect destination for those who want to explore the hidden gems of Europe and experience the authentic local life.

List of Places to Visit in Eifel

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Eifel has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its numerous museums, historical places, and landmarks. If you are interested in history, art, and architecture, make sure to visit the following attractions:

  • Nuerburgring – a world-famous racetrack that hosts numerous motorsports events;
  • Kasselburg Castle – an ancient fortress that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes;
  • Archeological Park at Belginum – a unique open-air museum that showcases the ancient Roman civilization in the Eifel region;
  • Blankenheim Castle – a historic building that houses a museum of local history and culture;
  • Augustinerkloster Old Monastery – a beautifully preserved monastic complex that dates back to the 11th century.

Natural Attractions of Eifel: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Eifel is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts who love hiking, biking, climbing, and exploring nature. The region is home to some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in Europe, including:

  • Eifel National Park – a vast wilderness area that boasts pristine forests, rivers, and lakes, and is home to rare species of plants and animals;
  • Monschau – a picturesque town that is surrounded by verdant hills and dense forests, and is famous for its scenic hiking trails;
  • Upper Kyll Valley – a stunning valley that offers amazing views of the surrounding hills and valleys, and is a popular spot for kayaking, rafting, and fishing;
  • Gerolsteiner Dolomites – a unique rock formation that resembles the Italian Dolomites and offers amazing hiking and climbing opportunities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Eifel

Eifel is a paradise for hikers and bikers who want to explore pristine nature and discover hidden gems. The region offers a vast network of hiking and biking trails that range from easy walks to challenging mountain climbs. Some of the most popular trails in Eifel include:

  • Eifelsteig Trail – a long-distance hiking trail that stretches for 313 kilometers and offers stunning views of the region’s landscapes;
  • Ahr Valley Bike Trail – a scenic bike route that follows the meandering Ahr River and passes through picturesque vineyards and medieval towns;
  • VulkanBike Trailpark – a network of single-track bike trails that cover 750 kilometers and offer an exhilarating biking experience across diverse landscapes.

Best Things to Do in Eifel: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, Eifel offers a wide range of activities and tours that cater to different interests and preferences. Some of the best things to do in Eifel include:

  • Hot Air Balloon Ride – a breathtaking aerial tour that offers stunning views of the region’s landscapes and landmarks;
  • Wine Tasting Tour – a delightful tour that takes you through the scenic vineyards and charming wine cellars of Eifel, where you can taste some of the region’s finest wines and delicacies;
  • Spa and Wellness Retreat – a relaxing getaway that allows you to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul in the region’s natural hot springs and spa resorts.

Week-Long Itinerary for Eifel

Eifel offers so many attractions and activities that it can be overwhelming to plan your trip. Here is a week-long itinerary that covers some of the best highlights of Eifel:

  • Day 1: Arrive in Aachen, visit Aachen Cathedral and City Hall, drive to Monschau and explore the town.
  • Day 2: Hike or bike through Eifel National Park, visit Vogelsang Castle and Museum.
  • Day 3: Explore Trier, visit Porta Nigra, Rheinische Landesmuseum, and Trier Cathedral.
  • Day 4: Take a hot air balloon ride over the volcanic lakes of Daun, visit the town of Cochem on the Moselle River.
  • Day 5: Visit the wine cellars and vineyards of the Ahr Valley, taste some of the region’s finest wines and delicacies.
  • Day 6: Visit the Nuerburgring, take a hot lap, and visit the motorsport museum, drive to Castle Eltz and explore the castle and surrounding forests.
  • Day 7: Relax in one of the region’s spa and wellness resorts, visit Bad Neuenahr and explore the town and its hot springs.

Food and Drink Scene of Eifel

Eifel is a foodie’s paradise that offers a wide range of gastronomic delights that reflect the region’s rich cultural heritage and local ingredients. Some of the must-try dishes and local beverages of Eifel include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sauerbraten – a traditional German pot roast that is marinated in vinegar and spices for tender flavoring.
  • Himmel un Aäd – a popular Eifel dish that features sliced potatoes, apples, and blood sausage or bacon.
  • Rheinischer Sauerbraten – a regional version of sauerbraten that is made with horse meat and served with potato dumplings.
  • Flammkuchen – a crispy, thin-crust pizza that is topped with onions, cheese, and bacon.

Local Beverages

  • Beer – Eifel is known for its excellent beer culture, with some of the most popular local breweries including Bitburger, Kolsch, and Warsteiner.
  • Wine – Eifel is also a wine-growing region, with some of the most popular local grape varieties being Riesling, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Blanc.
  • Schnapps – Eifel is famous for its distilled spirits, which are often flavored with regional herbs and fruits.

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

Eifel offers a wide range of accommodation options that suit different budgets and preferences. Whether you are looking for a luxury hotel, a cozy guesthouse, or a budget-friendly hostel, you can find the perfect place to stay in Eifel. Some of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in Eifel include:

  • Hotel Augustiner Kloster – a historic monastery turned hotel that offers comfortable and stylish rooms in a serene setting.
  • Youth Hostel Burg Monschau – a budget-friendly hostel that is located in a medieval castle and offers stunning views of Monschau and its surroundings.
  • Krimihotel – a unique hotel that is designed to look like a crime scene and offers themed rooms and lively entertainment.
  • Gasthaus und Pension Zur Eiche – a cozy guesthouse that offers homey rooms and delicious local cuisine in the heart of the countryside.

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

Eifel is also a great place to shop for souvenirs and local products that reflect the region’s traditions, culture, and craftsmanship. Some of the best things to buy in Eifel include:

  • Eifel Honey – a sweet and delicious honey that is produced by the local bees that feed on the region’s blooming flowers and herbs.
  • Eifel Pottery – a unique and charming pottery that is handcrafted by local artisans and reflects the region’s natural beauty and vibrant colors.
  • Eifel Cheese – a variety of local cheeses that range from mild and creamy to tangy and sharp, and are often served with wine and bread.
  • Eifel Cider – a refreshing and fruity cider that is made from the region’s local apple orchards and is a perfect drink for a sunny afternoon.

Local Culture and Customs of Eifel

Eifel is a region that is proud of its traditions, customs, and folklore. The local people are friendly and welcoming, and they love to celebrate their culture and heritage through music, dance, food, and storytelling. Some of the most popular cultural events and festivals in Eifel include:

  • Eifeler Musikfestival – a music festival that features local and international artists performing a wide range of genres, from classical to jazz, rock, and pop;
  • Bonnpop Festival – a popular music festival that takes place in Bonn, the former capital of Germany, and is known for its excellent line-up and lively atmosphere;
  • Nacht der Vulkane – a unique event that takes place in the Gerolsteiner Dolomites and offers an unforgettable night hike under the stars.

Best Time to Visit Eifel

Eifel is a year-round destination that offers different attractions and activities depending on the season. The best time to visit Eifel depends on your interests and preferences:

  • Spring (March to May) – is a great time to explore Eifel’s nature and enjoy the colorful blooming flowers and trees, as well as to participate in outdoor events and festivals.
  • Summer (June to August) – is a perfect time to enjoy the region’s outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, kayaking, and swimming, as well as to attend lively music and cultural festivals.
  • Fall (September to November) – is a great time to taste the region’s gastronomic delights, such as wine, beer, cheese, and local specialties, as well as to take leisurely walks in the colorful autumn forests.
  • Winter (December to February) – is a magical time to visit Eifel, with its charming Christmas markets, snow-covered landscapes, and cozy indoor events.

Do’s and Don’ts of Eifel

Do:

  • Do explore the region’s nature: Eifel is a place of unique natural beauty that is worth exploring through hiking, biking, or kayaking.
  • Do try local specialties: Eifel is known for its delicious gastronomy, so make sure to taste some of the region’s specialties and delicacies.
  • Do respect local traditions: Eifel has a rich cultural heritage that is deeply rooted in local traditions, so be respectful and open-minded towards the local people and their customs.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter: Eifel is a paradise of nature, so make sure to dispose of your waste responsibly and follow the region’s environmental regulations.
  • Don’t disturb wildlife: Eifel is home to many rare and protected species of plants and animals, so avoid disturbing them and respect their habitats.
  • Don’t ignore safety rules: Eifel offers many outdoor adventures, but make sure to follow safety rules and guidelines to avoid accidents and injuries.

Safety and Health

Safety in Eifel

Eifel is a safe destination that welcomes travelers with open arms. However, like any other place in the world, it is important to take certain precautions to ensure your safety and security. Some of the safety tips for Eifel include:

  • Keep your valuables safe: Eifel is a safe place, but it is always a good idea to keep your valuables in a safe place and avoid carrying large sums of cash around.
  • Stay aware of your surroundings: Eifel is a quiet and peaceful place, but it is always a good idea to stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places or at night.
  • Follow traffic rules: Eifel has a good transportation system, but it is important to follow traffic rules, especially when driving or cycling.

Health in Eifel

Eifel has a good healthcare system that offers quality medical services. If you need medical attention, you can visit one of the region’s hospitals or clinics. It is also a good idea to have travel insurance that covers emergencies and medical services.

Getting to Eifel: Transportation Options and Logistics

Eifel is easily accessible by different modes of transportation, including:

  • Plane: The nearest airports to Eifel are Cologne-Bonn Airport and Dusseldorf Airport. From there, you can take a train or a car to Eifel.
  • Train: Eifel has a good train connection with major cities in Germany and neighboring countries. The region’s main train stations are in Trier, Aachen, and Bonn.
  • Car: Eifel is well-connected by highways, so you can drive to the region from major cities in Germany and Europe.

How to Get Around in Eifel

Eifel is a region that is best explored by car or by bike. While there are public transportation options, such as buses and trains, they are not as frequent or convenient as in major cities. If you plan to explore Eifel’s nature and countryside, it is best to rent a car or bring your own vehicle.

Where to Go Next from Eifel: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Eifel is located in a strategic position that allows you to easily explore other neighboring destinations and attractions. Some of the best places to visit near Eifel include:

  • Moselle Valley: a charming wine region that is famous for its picturesque villages, historic castles, and scenic vineyards.
  • Rhine Valley: a magnificent valley that is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in Germany, such as the Lorelei Rock, and offers amazing views of the river and surrounding landscapes.
  • Luxembourg: a small but fascinating country that offers a blend of modernity and tradition, as well as a rich cultural and historical heritage.

Conclusion

Eifel is a hidden gem that offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern culture. This region is a perfect destination for those who want to explore the hidden gems of Europe and experience the authentic local life. With this comprehensive guide, you can plan the perfect trip to Eifel and discover all the wonders that this region has to offer.

Sunrise over the Eifel Sunrise over the Eifel