Eat, drink and explore your way through western Germany’s Krefeld!
Often referred to as the City of Silk and Velvet, Krefeld is the hub of Germany’s textiles market. The German Textile Museum and the Museum of Silk Culture will give you a peek into this area’s unique history. Every September, the city hosts a series of fashion shows that debut its latest textiles it also holds the Medieval Flax Festival every April.
The city is divided into three distinctive neighborhoods: Krefeld, Linn and Uerdingen.
Linn, which borders the Rhine River, is a small medieval hamlet. A castle called the Burg Linn serves as its focal point. Built in the twelfth century, this fortress is a must-see. Cross the moat to explore the museum located within the castle it’s easy to get lost in the past while exploring its many rooms.
Uerdingen also sits along the Rhine. The ancient town was razed during the Thirty Years’ War and was rebuilt with the distinctive Baroque architecture that defines it today.
Krefeld was founded as a military camp during the era of the Roman Empire. It was the site of the infamous Battle of Krefeld during the Seven Years’ War. Today, the city has an active art scene. Be sure to explore Haus Lange and Haus Esters, two buildings designed by famous architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. Both are now contemporary art museums that hold impressive collections from around the world.
Krefeld is filled with beautiful parks that line the river the renowned Botanical Garden is a perfect place to pass the afternoon. Elfrather See is a gorgeous lake bordering the city, where you can rent boats to sail, windsurf or row.
The city offers a lively nightlife for visitors. Save room in your stomach for the many pubs and restaurants that pepper its streets! Krefeld specializes in traditional dishes and local brews to give you an authentic German culinary experience. Music fans will love Kulturfabrik and Kulturrampe, two live venues that attract popular artists.
Krefeld is conveniently located less than 15 miles from Dusseldorf International Airport. It is connected to the rest of Germany by major highways and rail lines, making it an accessible and exciting stop on any European vacation.
