Things To Do
in Alpen

Alpen is a charming small town located in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, known for its picturesque landscapes and friendly community. Nestled near the banks of the River Niers, it offers a peaceful retreat with lush greenery and beautiful cycling paths. The town combines traditional German architecture with modern amenities, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and exploration.

Visitors can enjoy local cultural events and the scenic countryside while experiencing the warmth of German hospitality.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Alpen
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local bakery for traditional Brötchen (bread rolls) and coffee. Then, take a leisurely stroll through the town center to admire the charming architecture.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Krefeld Zoo, where you can explore diverse wildlife and beautiful gardens. Afterward, enjoy a picnic lunch at the picturesque Nierspark.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant and savor regional specialties, followed by a relaxing walk along the riverbank to enjoy the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a guided bike tour through the surrounding countryside, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the area.

afternoon
:

Visit the historic town of Xanten, famous for its Roman history, where you can explore the archaeological park and museum.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a cozy pub in Xanten, followed by live music at a local venue before returning to Alpen.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍺Local Beer$4
🏨Hotel Night (2-star)$80
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings for outdoor activities.
  • Friendly local community and welcoming atmosphere.
  • Rich cultural history and access to nearby attractions.
  • Limited nightlife options within Alpen itself.
  • Public transport may be less frequent in smaller towns.
  • Some attractions may require travel to nearby cities.
  • "Guten Tag" - Good day
  • "Danke schön" - Thank you very much
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the toilet?
  • "Ich hätte gerne..." - I would like...

Places to Visit in Alpen

Visit one of these nice places.

Nierspark

A scenic park along the River Niers, offering beautiful views and perfect spots for nature photography.

Historic Town Center

Capture the essence of Alpen with its charming streets and traditional German architecture.

Xanten Archaeological Park

A stunning site showcasing ancient Roman ruins and landscapes that provide a unique backdrop for photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Alpen

Alpen's culinary scene offers a delightful mix of traditional German cuisine and local delicacies that reflect the region's agricultural heritage.

Alpen Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sauerbraten

A pot roast, usually of beef, marinated before slow-cooking, often served with red cabbage and dumplings.

Must-Try!

Rheinischer Döbbekooche

A savory potato cake, typically prepared with bacon and onions, a regional specialty.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Alpen Weekly Market

Held every Saturday, this market features fresh produce, local cheeses, and handmade crafts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Alpen experiences a temperate oceanic climate with four distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) are cold with occasional snowfall, while summers (June to August) are warm, averaging 20-25°C (68-77°F). Spring and autumn bring mild temperatures and are characterized by blooming flora and falling leaves, respectively. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, so an umbrella is recommended.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time, and it's polite to greet with 'Guten Tag'.

Punctuality

Germans value punctuality; being late to appointments or social gatherings is considered disrespectful.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal, and it’s polite to keep your hands on the table, but not your elbows.

Safety Guide

Safety

Alpen is generally considered safe, with low crime rates. However, visitors should take standard precautions, such as safeguarding personal belongings and being aware of their surroundings, especially at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Alpen

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to round up the bill or leave a tip of about 5-10% in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for local markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time for outdoor activities and exploring nature.

Summer

Warm weather is ideal for cycling and enjoying local festivals, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

The changing leaves create picturesque landscapes, perfect for photography and local harvest festivals.

Winter

Cold temperatures may bring snow, creating a winter wonderland; however, some outdoor activities may be limited.

Nightlife Guide

Alpen at Night

Alpen offers a relaxed nightlife scene, primarily focused on local pubs and bars where you can enjoy regional beers and wines. There are occasional live music events and community gatherings, particularly during weekends. For a livelier experience, nearby towns such as Xanten provide clubs and more vibrant nightlife options.

Hiking in Alpen

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Niers Nature Reserve Trail

A scenic hiking trail through the Niers Nature Reserve, featuring diverse flora and fauna, perfect for birdwatching.

Xanten Hiking Trail

A longer trail that takes you to the historic town of Xanten, combining nature with cultural exploration.

Airports

How to reach Alpen by plane.

Düsseldorf Airport (DUS)

Approximately 30 km from Alpen, Düsseldorf Airport is the nearest major international airport, providing extensive connections throughout Europe and beyond.

Getting Around

Walkability

Alpen is a walkable town with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas. Most attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance, making it easy to explore without the need for a car. The town center is particularly accessible, allowing visitors to enjoy leisurely strolls.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Alpen is home to many young families who appreciate the area's safety, community spirit, and family-friendly activities.

Retirees

The town attracts retirees looking for a peaceful lifestyle with access to nature and a close-knit community.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is immensely popular in the region, with local clubs and matches drawing enthusiastic fans.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored pastime, with many residents participating in cycling events and enjoying the extensive bike paths.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Alpen is generally light, with most residents using bicycles or walking for short distances. Public transportation options include local buses that connect to nearby towns, though schedules may vary. During peak hours, minor congestion can occur, but overall, the town is easy to navigate.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Alpen.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian meals, though it’s advisable to check the menu in advance.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free dishes are becoming more common, but inform the staff about dietary restrictions when ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Alpen is good, with several local clinics and a hospital in nearby towns. Pharmacies are readily available for minor ailments and prescription refills. Emergency care can be sought at the local hospital, and it is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide