Things To Do
in Kalkar
Kalkar is a quaint town located in western Germany, near the Dutch border. The town is known for its well-preserved historic buildings and charming cobblestone streets. Kalkar is also home to the famous Wunderland Kalkar, a unique amusement park built in a former nuclear power plant.
Visitors can enjoy exploring the local shops and cafes, as well as taking in the picturesque surroundings of the Lower Rhine region.
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please/You're welcome
- "Guten Morgen" - Good morning
- "Auf Wiedersehen" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $120
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Kalkar town center, admiring the beautiful architecture and charming streets. Don't forget to stop by a local café for a fresh pastry and coffee.
Head to the Griethausen District to explore the local history museum and learn about Kalkar's past. Enjoy a leisurely lunch in one of the waterfront restaurants, savoring local cuisine.
Wrap up your day with a peaceful stroll along the Rhine River as the sun sets. Dine at a cozy restaurant, enjoying traditional German dishes.
Visit the impressive Kalkar Castle, a well-preserved structure with guided tours available. Take in the stunning architecture while learning about its rich history.
Enjoy a picnic lunch in the castle gardens, surrounded by nature and tranquility. Afterward, explore the nearby botanical gardens for a relaxing afternoon.
Attend a local performance or event at the castle to experience the cultural side of Kalkar. Finish your evening with drinks at a local wine bar.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and historical significance, particularly with its nuclear power plant and the unique architecture.
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including parks and the nearby Rhine River.
- Peaceful and friendly atmosphere, making it an attractive location for families and retirees.
- Good access to transportation links, facilitating visits to nearby cities like Düsseldorf and Cologne.
- Local festivals and events that foster community spirit and attract visitors.
- Limited job opportunities, particularly for specialized professions.
- Smaller city may lack some amenities and entertainment options found in larger urban areas.
- Public transportation options might be less frequent compared to bigger cities.
- Increased property prices due to rising interest in the area may pose a challenge for new residents.
- Some might find the pace of life slower than in more bustling urban environments.
Best Activities in Kalkar
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a day of fun and excitement at the Kalkar Amusement Park, which features a variety of rides and attractions for all ages in a beautiful outdoor setting.
Take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the picturesque Rhein Promenade, offering stunning views of the river and surrounding nature.
Explore the natural beauty of the Kalkar Nature Reserve, where you can hike and bird-watch in a serene environment filled with diverse flora and fauna.
Visit the Historic Stadtpark in Kalkar, a lovely green space ideal for picnics, walking, and enjoying the outdoors with family and friends.
Join or organize cycling tours around Kalkar and its scenic countryside, allowing you to experience the landscape while enjoying physical activity.
Try your hand at fishing along the banks of the Rhine River; it’s a peaceful way to spend the day surrounded by nature.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kalkar with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kalkar
Visit one of these nice places.
An iconic structure with a unique architecture, the Kalkar Nuclear Power Plant offers a distinct backdrop for photography, especially during sunset or sunrise.
A charming park that features well-maintained gardens, walking paths, and a picturesque pond, providing numerous opportunities for great photos in nature.
Just a short drive from Kalkar, this historic castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers stunning views of the landscape, perfect for photography.
The historic town hall features unique architecture and is located in the heart of Kalkar, making it a great spot for capturing the essence of the town.
A quirky attraction in Kalkar, this upside-down structure provides a fun and unusual photo opportunity that is sure to intrigue visitors.
Food in Kalkar
Kalkar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional dish made from mashed potatoes, apples, fried onions, and black pudding, often served with stewed apples or apple sauce. It can be found at Gasthof Tepferdt, a charming family-owned restaurant known for its authentic regional cuisine.
Must-Try!
A pot roast marinated in a mixture of vinegar, water, and spices before being slow-cooked to perfection, typically served with red cabbage and potato dumplings. Try this classic dish at Zum Ratskeller, a renowned restaurant housed in a historic building.
Crispy and golden potato pancakes, usually served with applesauce or smoked salmon. Sample these traditional treats at the Kalkar Christmas Market, a seasonal event where you can savor a variety of local specialties.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kalkar better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit the weekly market in Kalkar's Old Town to explore a diverse selection of fresh produce, local cheeses, artisan bread, and handmade sausages. Don't miss the opportunity to try Currywurst, a beloved German street food, at one of the market stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kalkar, it is customary to greet people with a firm handshake, maintaining eye contact. Using formal titles and last names when greeting someone for the first time is appreciated, as it shows respect.
Being punctual is taken seriously in German culture, including Kalkar. Arriving on time for meetings or social gatherings is a sign of respect towards others' time.
Germans generally value personal space and may feel uncomfortable with excessive physical contact. It’s important to maintain a respectful distance when conversing and to be mindful of personal boundaries.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kalkar with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kalkar
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kalkar, Germany, it is customary to round up the bill when dining out. Tipping around 5-10% is appreciated and seen as a gesture of goodwill for good service. It is common to leave a small change or round the total to a convenient number.
In Kalkar, various payment methods are widely accepted, including cash and card payments. Many establishments accept credit and debit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash, as not all places may take cards. Contactless payments are also becoming more popular.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) in Kalkar is a lovely time to visit as flowers begin to bloom and temperatures start to warm up. Expect mild weather, with average temperatures ranging from 8°C to 18°C. It’s a great time for outdoor activities and enjoying the blossoming landscapes.
Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season in Kalkar, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. Visitors can expect long sunny days and vibrant outdoor events, making it ideal for exploring the town's historical sites and enjoying nearby lakes and parks.
Autumn (September to November) brings cooler weather and beautiful fall foliage. Temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C. It’s a quieter time to visit, perfect for enjoying the scenic views and local harvest festivals, as well as indulging in seasonal food.
Winter (December to February) in Kalkar can be cold, with temperatures ranging from -1°C to 5°C. Expect occasional snowfall and festive decorations, especially during the Christmas season. This is a cozy time to enjoy warm drinks and local winter traditions.
Kalkar at Night
Hiking in Kalkar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful natural park that offers a variety of trails through lush forests, wetlands, and along the Maas and Schwalm rivers, perfect for hiking enthusiasts of all levels.
A scenic area featuring flatlands and small woodlands, ideal for leisurely hikes while enjoying the diverse wildlife and tranquil landscapes.
A dense forest with multiple hiking paths that provide a peaceful environment for nature lovers, including various flora and fauna.
This area offers a network of trails that lead through enchanting woods and around small lakes, providing a relaxing escape into nature.
A popular route that runs alongside the Wesel Dattel Canal, perfect for longer hikes and cycling, with beautiful views of the water and surrounding greenery.
Aiports
How to reach Kalkar by plane.
Düsseldorf International Airport is the main airport serving Düsseldorf, the capital of North Rhine-Westphalia. It's approximately 50 kilometers from Kalkar.
Weeze Airport, also known as Niederrhein Airport, is a regional airport located approximately 20 kilometers from Kalkar. It mostly serves low-cost airlines.
Cologne Bonn Airport is about 70 kilometers away from Kalkar and serves as a key airport for international and domestic flights.
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, located around 140 kilometers from Kalkar, is one of the largest and busiest airports in Europe.
Brussels Airport is located approximately 180 kilometers away from Kalkar and serves as a major international gateway to Belgium and Europe.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Kalkar, including native residents and families with long-standing roots in the area.
A significant minority group, largely comprising immigrants and their descendants who have settled in the region.
Includes residents from other EU countries, such as the Netherlands and Poland, who have moved to Kalkar for work or family reasons.
Smaller groups of residents, including individuals from countries like Vietnam and Thailand, often linked to specific industries or work opportunities.
A mix of smaller demographic groups from various parts of the world, contributing to the cultural diversity of Kalkar.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Kalkar, with several local clubs and a strong community following.
Handball enjoys significant popularity in Kalkar, with local teams participating in regional leagues.
Tennis is widely played in Kalkar, with multiple clubs offering facilities for players of all ages.
Cycling is a favored recreational activity in Kalkar, supported by numerous scenic routes in the area.
Athletics is promoted through local schools and clubs, with various events held throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kalkar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants and cafes in Kalkar offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, with an increasing focus on plant-based options. Look for symbols or ask the servers for recommendations.
While gluten-free options may not be prominently listed on menus, many establishments are willing to accommodate gluten-free requirements. It's advisable to inform the staff about dietary restrictions when placing an order.