Bonn has been so many things throughout its history! A Roman settlement, the capital and royal seat of the Electorate of Cologne, Beethoven’s birthplace, the federal capital, and still todaya “federal city”as the seat of numerous federal ministries and agencies. All of this has left its mark on Bonn and created a unique atmosphere—part cozy city on the Rhine and part political and international hub. On the Bonn city tour, you’ll explore these various facets of the city’s history in Bonn’s Old Town.
A key landmark is the Old Town Hall on the market square. The Baroque building, with its striking grand staircase, forms the centerpiece of the historic district. Just a few steps away is the Beethoven House on Bonngasse. This is where Ludwig van Beethoven was born. Traces of his life can still be found in many places throughout the Old Town today. The Electoral Palace, now the main building of the University of Bonn, bears witness to the glorious days when the Electors of Cologne resided here. Beyond the so-called “Baroque Mile,” you’ll also discover the medieval city on the Bonn city tour. For even though the destruction of World War II caused much to be lost forever, structures like the Sterntor still give a sense of what Bonn looked like in the Middle Ages. First and foremost, of course, is Bonn Cathedral, one of the most significant Romanesque churches on the Rhine. Not only fascinating historical facts but also quite a few curious stories—told with Rhineland humor and a wink—await you on the Bonn city tour.
Beethoven Monument on Münsterplatz (Google Maps)
Qualified tour guides will lead you through the island’s narrow streets. You can look forward to:
Upon request, we offer this city tour in various foreign languages. We charge an additional fee of €20 for this service. Please let us know your preferred language when you make your request.
