between the bustling cities of Cologne and Bonn, Bornheim is a charming small town in North Rhine-Westphalia that offers scenic landscapes, rich history, and a welcoming local culture. Known for its beautiful fruit farms, historic landmarks, and outdoor activities, Bornheim is a perfect escape from the city crowds while still being well-connected to Germany’s vibrant urban centers.
Whether you’re exploring old castles, picking fresh strawberries, or enjoying a bike ride through the countryside, Bornheim is a fantastic destination for travelers looking for an authentic German experience.
Top Things to Do in Bornheim
1. Schloss Bornheim – A Historic Castle in the Countryside 🏰🌳
- A beautiful 18th-century palace, now used as a private residence and event venue.
- Great for photography and history lovers.
- Tip: Visit during autumn when the surrounding trees are full of color.
2. Phantasialand – One of Germany’s Best Theme Parks 🎢🎡
- Just a 10-minute drive from Bornheim, Phantasialand is an exciting amusement park with:
3. Obsthof & Erdbeerhof – Pick Your Own Fruits 🍓🌾
- Bornheim is famous for its fruit farms, where visitors can pick fresh strawberries, apples, and cherries.
- Top farms to visit:
- Obsthof Rönn – A great place to pick seasonal fruits and enjoy homemade products.
- Erdbeerhof Schumacher – One of the best spots for fresh strawberries in summer.
- Perfect for a fun, family-friendly activity in nature!
4. Rheinaue Park – A Riverside Oasis 🌳🚶♂️
- A massive green park along the Rhine River, perfect for:
- Picnics and relaxation.
- Biking and jogging trails.
- Boat rides and water activities.
- Located near Bonn, only 15 minutes from Bornheim.
5. Hersel and the Rhine River Promenade 🚣♂️🌊
- Hersel is a charming district in Bornheim, located right on the Rhine River.
- Best activities in Hersel:
- Take a leisurely walk along the riverside promenade.
- Enjoy a boat tour on the Rhine River.
- Visit one of the local beer gardens for a relaxing afternoon drink.
6. Falkenlust Hunting Lodge – A UNESCO Heritage Site 🦅🏰
- Located just 15 minutes from Bornheim, this stunning 18th-century hunting lodge is part of the Brühl Palaces (Augustusburg & Falkenlust).
- Why visit?
- Beautiful Rococo architecture and lavish interior decorations.
- Surrounded by lush forests, perfect for a scenic stroll.
- A UNESCO World Heritage site that once hosted royal hunting parties.
7. Bornheim’s Weekly Market – Experience Local Life 🛍️🥖
- Held every Saturday morning in the town center.
- A great place to buy fresh produce, local cheeses, and baked goods.
- A chance to experience the warm and friendly atmosphere of a small German town.
8. Cycling Through the Bornheim Countryside 🚴♂️🌻
- Bornheim is surrounded by lush fields and beautiful bike trails.
- Popular routes include:
- The Rhine Cycle Route (Rheinradweg) – A scenic path along the river.
- The Apfelroute (Apple Route) – A charming ride through fruit orchards and farms.
9. Roisdorf Mineral Spring – A Natural Wonder 💦🏞️
- Bornheim is home to Roisdorf Mineralwasser, a famous German mineral water brand.
- The town’s natural spring has been a source of fresh drinking water for centuries.
- Visit the spring site and enjoy a taste of pure, natural mineral water.
10. Nearby Cologne & Bonn – Perfect for Day Trips 🚆🏙️
- Bornheim is located between Cologne and Bonn, making it easy to visit both cities.
- Top things to do in Cologne:
- Explore the Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom).
- Walk through the Old Town and along the Rhine River.
- Enjoy the chocolate museum and brewery tours.
- Top things to do in Bonn:
- Visit the Beethoven House and Museum.
- Stroll through the Botanical Gardens and Poppelsdorf Palace.
- Discover the Museum Mile (Museumsmeile).
Where to Stay in Bornheim 🏨
Luxury & Boutique Hotels ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Hotel Schloss Montabaur – A historic castle hotel near Bornheim with stunning views and elegant rooms.
Mid-Range Hotels ⭐⭐⭐
- Hotel Rheinterrassen Bornheim – A comfortable riverside hotel with beautiful sunset views.
- Garni-Hotel Bonnem Inn – A great budget-friendly option with easy access to Bonn and Cologne.
Budget-Friendly & Guesthouses 💰🏡
- Gästehaus Balthasar Neumann – A cozy family-run guesthouse near Brühl and Bornheim.
- Hotel Zum Dorfbrunnen – A traditional inn with authentic German hospitality.
Where to Eat in Bornheim 🍽️🍻
1. Must-Try Local Dishes
- Rheinischer Sauerbraten – A delicious marinated beef dish with sweet and sour sauce.
- Reibekuchen – Traditional German potato pancakes served with applesauce.
- Flammkuchen – A thin, crispy German-style pizza topped with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon.
2. Best Restaurants in Bornheim 🍽️
- Gasthof Kranz – A cozy restaurant with traditional German and Bavarian dishes.
- Landhaus Wieler – A great place for seasonal German food with a modern twist.
- Eiscafé Venezia – Famous for delicious homemade gelato and desserts.
3. Best Beer Gardens & Cafés 🍻☕
- Haus am See – A beautiful beer garden near the Rhine River.
- Balthasar Café – A charming café perfect for coffee and German pastries.
Best Time to Visit Bornheim 🌸🍂❄️
- Spring (March–May): Best for blossoming fruit orchards and outdoor activities.
- Summer (June–August): Ideal for bike rides, beer gardens, and festivals.
- Fall (September–November): Perfect for wine tasting and autumn scenery.
- Winter (December–February): A cozy time to visit Christmas markets in nearby Bonn and Cologne.
Why Visit Bornheim?
While often overlooked in favor of its larger neighbors, Bornheim is a hidden gem that offers a mix of history, nature, and authentic German culture. Whether you’re exploring its charming countryside, enjoying local food, or taking easy day trips to Cologne and Bonn, Bornheim is a fantastic destination for those seeking a peaceful and scenic getaway.
🏡🌿🍷 Plan your trip to Bornheim and experience the charm of rural Germany with easy access to the best of North Rhine-Westphalia