In late 2023, Dennis had the idea to visit Bonn in North Rhine-Westphalia for its Christmas Market. A good idea. We chose Bonn over Cologne or Aachen, as Cologne’s – and Aachen’s – Weihnachtsmarkt is a mass tourism event. Even if Bonn used to be the capital of the German Federal Republic when it was known as West Germany and at the start of a reunited Germany, the city is quite small. And, so we expect, the Christmas Market more cosy and with a higher ratio of local people.
We spent a ‘classic’ weekend outing in Bonn, arriving on Friday night – Feierabend – and leaving on Sunday. It was a weekend in December and thus it was Advent to Christmas.
But, what is Bonn? Let’s introduce the city.
In the heart of the Land (State) North Rhine-Westphalia and in an area known as the Ruhr, the Ruhr district or the Ruhr area and nestled along the scenic banks of the Rhine River, lies the Bundesstadt or Federal City of Bonn. A city that seamlessly marries the echoes of its ancient past with the vibrant rhythms of the present, Bonn stands as a testament to Germany’s rich history and cultural heritage. With a population of approximately 330,000 residents and an area spanning around 141 square kilometres, Bonn is not just a city, it’s a living canvas where every cobblestone, every building, and every tradition tells a story.
History
In the Roman Empire, Bonn was known as Bonna. Evidence of this ancient legacy can still be witnessed in the city’s architecture, most notably in the Sterntor, a medieval gate that once guarded the entrance to the city. The Old Town Hall, adorned with a Rococo facade, and the Münster or Minster Basilica, an example of Romanesque architecture, add to the city’s architectural grandeur.
The Marktplatz or Market Square serves as the bustling heart of Bonn’s city centre. Here, amidst vibrant buildings, locals and visitors alike gather to experience the lively atmosphere and delve into the city’s rich history. The University of Bonn, founded in 1818, lends an academic aura to the city, its historic buildings blending seamlessly with the surrounding medieval architecture, creating a harmonious blend of tradition and intellect.
Ludwig van Beethoven
The name Bonn is synonymous with one of the greatest composers in history, Ludwig van Beethoven. Born in 1770 in a house that now serves as the Beethoven House museum, the city takes great pride in its association with the musical genius.
The Beethoven House is a pilgrimage site for music enthusiasts, housing artifacts, manuscripts, and personal belongings that offer an intimate glimpse into the life of the maestro. Statues and plaques scattered throughout the city further pay homage to Beethoven’s enduring legacy.
Dynamic cityscape and the Rhine
Bonn’s cityscape is a fascinating blend of historical landmarks and contemporary structures.
The Rhine, meandering gracefully along the city’s western edge, not only enhances Bonn’s scenic beauty but also serves as a vital part of its identity. The Rhine Promenade, a picturesque stretch along the river, invites leisurely strolls and offers panoramic views of the water and the surrounding landscapes, creating a serene escape within the urban milieu.
The city’s commitment to modernity is evident in structures like the Post Tower, the headquarters of Deutsche Post DHL Group, and the former residence of the German President, the Villa Hammerschmidt. These landmarks, situated in the Bonner Bundesviertel or Bonn Federal District, stand as testaments to Bonn’s role as the provisional capital of West Germany from 1949 to 1990.
University Town and intellectual hub
The University of Bonn, often referred to as the Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn, is a cornerstone of the city’s intellectual vibrancy.
Founded by King Frederick William III of Prussia, the university has cultivated a rich tradition of academic excellence. Boasting a diverse range of faculties and research centers, the institution attracts students and scholars from around the globe, contributing to the city’s vibrant intellectual tapestry.
Green initiatives and sustainable living
Bonn is not only a city of historical and cultural significance but also a champion of sustainability. The Freizeitpark Rheinaue, a vast recreational area along the Rhine, exemplifies Bonn’s commitment to green spaces and eco-friendly living.
The park offers a sanctuary within the city, featuring gardens, walking trails, and open-air stages for events. In addition to this, Bonn’s dedication to eco-friendly transportation is evident in its extensive network of cycling paths, encouraging residents and visitors alike to explore the city in an environmentally conscious manner.
International hub of diplomacy
Beyond its cultural and historical offerings, Bonn serves as an international hub for diplomacy and global cooperation. The city hosts various international organizations and institutions, including the United Nations Campus.
This hub, situated on the banks of the Rhine, is home to entities such as the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), showcasing Bonn’s commitment to addressing global challenges, particularly those related to environmental sustainability.
Touristic highlights and festivals
The Museum Mile or Museummeile, a stretch along the Rhine, houses a collection of museums covering a wide range of topics, from art and history to science and technology. Here, art enthusiasts, history buffs, and curious minds find themselves immersed in a captivating array of exhibits and displays.
Bonn’s annual Beethovenfest stands as a pinnacle of cultural celebration. This internationally acclaimed music festival pays homage to the city’s most illustrious son, Ludwig van Beethoven. Musicians and enthusiasts from around the world converge in Bonn to participate in and witness performances that showcase the enduring influence of the legendary composer. T
he festival transforms the city into a global stage for classical music, resonating with the historical connection to one of the greatest musical minds in history.
Bonn’s Christmas Markets: a Winter Wonderland
As the winter season descends upon Bonn, the city transforms into a magical winter wonderland with its enchanting Christmas markets.
These markets, a cherished tradition, infuse the air with the scent of roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, and festive treats. The Bonn Christmas Market, situated in the city center, is a focal point of seasonal joy. Here, visitors can explore stalls adorned with handcrafted ornaments, indulge in local delicacies, and revel in the festive ambiance enhanced by carolers and live performances.
A weekend
We spend a weekend in Bonn. If we had been there at another time in the year, so without Christmas Market(s), we would have explored more landmarks and museums.
A weekend is enough. Take two nights so you can get up and go to sleep in the city and you have two nights to explore Bonn by night.
LGBTQIA+
Not that Bonn is especially known for its nightlife. Nearby Cologne is the region centre for partying and in our case, for queer going out. Both gay bars Bobas Bar and Le Copain are no more.
But Bonn has queer groups such as Rheinqueer Bonn e.V. and GAP in Bonn. There’s also Gay Book Fair & News.
So?
So? Two nights, one full day, is enough to explore Bonn and get “an idea” of what Bonn is and has to offer. That’s quite all right. There many cities would give one full day (including night). For instance: our hometown Antwerp.
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