1. Beethoven House
Explore the birthplace of the renowned composer Ludwig van Beethoven. This museum showcases his life and works through original artifacts, manuscripts, and instruments, offering a deep dive into his musical legacy and personal story. Modern multimedia presentations enhance the visitor experience.
Cost: Adults: €14; Children: €7.
Transport: Located in the city center, it is approximately a 15-minute walk from Bonn's main train station (Bonn Hbf). Alternatively, take tram lines 61 or 62 or bus line 550 to the "Bertha-von-Suttner-Platz" stop, then walk for about five minutes.
2. Haus der Geschichte (House of the History of the Federal Republic of Germany)
Delve into contemporary German history from 1945 to the present day. This museum provides a comprehensive look at post-war Germany, including its division, reunification, and daily life. The permanent exhibition is scheduled to reopen with new content in December 2025, offering a multifaceted and emotional historical experience.
Cost: Admission to the permanent exhibition is generally free of charge.
Transport: The museum is situated on Bonn's Museum Mile. It is reachable by buses 610, 611, or trams 16, 63 to the "Heussallee/Museumsmeile" stop, followed by a short walk.
3. Poppelsdorf Palace & Botanical Gardens
Visit this impressive Baroque palace, which is now part of the University of Bonn and houses a mineralogical museum. Behind the palace, wander through one of the world's oldest botanical gardens, featuring a diverse collection of plants and flowers that are lovely year-round.
Cost: Entrance to the botanical gardens is typically free. Museum costs are usually low or free.
Transport: The palace is a short walk, about 5 minutes, from Bonn Central Station (Bonn Hbf). Public transport options include buses 118, 551, 602, 603, 607, and Light Rail 66, which stop at nearby locations like "Bonn Beringstr." or "Bonn am Botanischen Garten."
4. Rhine River Cruise to Königswinter and Drachenburg Castle
Embark on a scenic boat trip along the Rhine River, taking in picturesque landscapes and charming towns such as Königswinter. From Königswinter, you can ascend to Drachenburg Castle, a romantic 19th-century castle on the Drachenfels mountain. Options include walking the path or taking the historic Drachenfelsbahn, a cog railway, to the summit for breathtaking panoramic views.
Cost: A 4-hour sightseeing tour from Bonn to Linz starts from €26.00 per person. For Drachenburg Castle, a combi ticket including the Drachenfelsbahn round-trip and castle entry costs €18. Entry to Drachenburg Castle alone is €5.
Transport: River cruises typically depart from Bonner Personen Schiffahrt landing bridge/jetty no. 9. To reach Königswinter, take tram line 66 from Bonn Hbf directly to "Königswinter Denkmal" (approximately 28-51 minutes). The Drachenfelsbahn station is a short walk from Königswinter Fähre station.
5. Cherry Blossom Avenue (Heerstraße/Breite Straße)
During the spring, typically late March to mid-April, the streets of Heerstraße and Breite Straße in Bonn's Old Town are transformed into stunning tunnels of pink cherry blossoms. These Japanese cherry trees, planted in the 1980s, create a beautiful and highly photogenic spectacle. It is a favored spot for admiring the beauty of these seasonal blooms.
Cost: Free to view.
Transport: These streets are located in the Old Town (Altstadt), approximately a 15-minute walk from Bonn Hbf. During peak blooming season on weekends, the streets may be closed to through traffic.
6. Old Town (Altstadt) and Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus)
Wander through the charming Old Town, characterized by its cobblestone streets, unique shops, and lively cafes. The Baroque Old Town Hall, with its distinctive pink and gold facade, is a prominent landmark located in the Marktplatz, which hosts a daily fruit and vegetable market. This area is ideal for a leisurely stroll and experiencing local culture.
Cost: Free to explore.
Transport: Centrally located and easily accessible by foot from Bonn Hbf.