About
Bonn is a historic city in western Germany, set on the banks of the Rhine River in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia. For a little over four decades, from 1949 to 1990, it served as the capital of the country, and that period still shapes much of its character and its sense of place.
Today the city is best known for its universities and its cultural life. A student population gives its streets, cafés and lecture halls a lively, youthful rhythm, while its cultural attractions offer reasons to linger beyond a single afternoon.
What a visit offers
- A river town: the Rhine runs through the city, so walks along its banks are a natural way to get your bearings.
- Political history: as a former seat of government, Bonn makes an interesting stop for visitors curious about postwar Germany.
- Universities and culture: its academic institutions and cultural attractions give the city a varied programme for those interested in ideas and the arts.
- A compact base: the city is easy to explore on foot, and it can serve as a practical starting point for trips around North Rhine-Westphalia.
Planning your trip
Bonn suits visitors who enjoy a city with depth rather than spectacle. Allow time to wander the riverside, sit in a café, and see what the cultural calendar offers during your stay. Check opening times and current details with the attractions and local tourist information before you go, as these can change.