Things To Do
in Krefeld

Krefeld is a city in North Rhine-Westphalia with a rich industrial heritage and a modern, green-friendly vibe. It sits comfortably between Düsseldorf and the Ruhr area, offering easy access to major cities while retaining a local charm. The city blends historic market squares, riverside paths, and a growing cultural scene with welcoming neighborhoods.

Visitors can enjoy a mix of museums, parks, and relaxed dining in a walkable core.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Krefeld City Museum, where you can delve into the local history and admire various art collections. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets of the historic center, taking in the classic architecture and unique shops. Don't forget to stop by a local bakery for a traditional German breakfast, enjoying fresh bread and pastries.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit the stunning St. Dionysius Church, known for its impressive stained glass windows and peaceful atmosphere. Next, take a leisurely walk through the nearby Stadtgarten, where you can enjoy the lush greenery and perhaps spot some local wildlife. Grab lunch at a quaint café nearby, sampling regional specialties while soaking in the lively ambiance.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to the Krefeld Theater for an evening performance, immersing yourself in the local arts scene. After the show, take a leisurely walk along the Rhine promenade, enjoying the picturesque views of the river. Cap off your evening with a delicious dinner at a traditional German restaurant, savoring local beer and hearty fare.

day 2
Art and Culture Immersion
morning
:

Begin your day at the Kaiser-Wilhelm Museum, where you can explore a range of contemporary art exhibitions and installations. Engage with local artists and learn about their creative processes during guided tours that are often available. Enjoy a light breakfast at the museum café, surrounded by artistic inspiration.

afternoon
:

After lunch, visit the nearby Museum Haus Lange, which hosts fascinating modern art exhibitions. Spend time in the museum's garden, where art and nature intertwine, providing a serene escape. This afternoon is perfect for reflecting on the artistic experiences while enjoying a coffee at a nearby café.

evening
:

In the evening, attend a local art gallery opening or cultural event to connect with the vibrant Krefeld art community. Enjoy a casual dinner at a contemporary bistro that showcases local ingredients and culinary creativity. As the night winds down, savor a nightcap at a trendy bar, mingling with locals and fellow art enthusiasts.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-15
Coffee$3-5
🚆Public transport ticket (1 ride)$2-3
🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel$90-150
💶Lunch for two at a mid-range restaurant$25-40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Compact city with easy day trips from the Rhine-Ruhr region
  • Good mix of parks, culture, and relaxed river views
  • Efficient public transport and friendly locals
  • Not a major nightlife or shopping mega-destination
  • Some attractions can be small or seasonally operated
  • "Guten Tag" - Good day / Hello
  • "Vielen Dank" - Thank you very much
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?

Places to Visit in Krefeld

Visit one of these nice places.

Schwanenmarkt in the Old Town

A charming historic square with colorful facades, ideal for atmospheric daytime and dusk shots.

Rheinufer promenade

River views and calm water reflections perfect for wide-angle and sunset photography.

Hülser Berg lookout

Forested hill with winding trails and viewpoints to capture city skyline and nature.

Culinary Guide

Food in Krefeld

Krefeld’s cuisine reflects Rhineland traditions with hearty, regional dishes and modern takes. You’ll find a mix of classic German fare and seasonal, lighter options in the city’s eateries and markets.

Krefeld Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Grünkohl mit Pinkel

Braised kale with a traditional sausage; a hearty winter staple found in beer halls and taverns.

Must-Try!

Himmel und Erde

A rustic dish of apples (Himmel) and potatoes (Erde) often served with black pudding or sausages.

Rheinischer Sauerbraten

Marinated pot roast served with a tangy gravy and red cabbage, common in Rhineland dining.

Reibekuchen

Crispy potato pancakes often enjoyed with applesauce or sour cream.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Krefelder Wochenmarkt

Weekly market in the city center offering fresh produce, local specialties, and ready-to-eat snacks.

Marktplatz Street Food Corner

Seasonal street-food stalls around the market square featuring regional and international bites.

Climate Guide

Weather

Krefeld has a temperate oceanic climate with warm summers and cool winters. Rain is fairly evenly distributed through the year, so pack a light rain jacket for spring and autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality and greetings

Be punctual for appointments; greet with a polite hello (Guten Tag) and a handshake in formal settings.

Politeness and conversation

Keep conversations respectful; use 'Bitte' and 'Danke' regularly; avoid loud behavior in quiet spaces.

Safety Guide

Safety

Generally safe for visitors; exercise typical city precautions in crowded areas and at night. Keep belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings; dial 112 for emergencies or 110 for police in Germany.

Tipping in Krefeld

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants, a tip of about 5-10% is customary if service is good; you can round up the bill.

Payment Methods

Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments and EC cards are common in stores and dining.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild days with fresh greenery; spring markets and outdoor cafes start up.

Summer

Warm, pleasant days with outdoor dining and long evenings; occasional showers; stay hydrated.

Autumn

Colorful foliage and harvest events; great lighting for photography and walks.

Winter

Cool to cold with possible snow; Christmas markets and cozy indoor venues become focal points.

Nightlife Guide

Krefeld at Night

Krefeld offers a relaxed nightlife with cozy pubs, wine bars, and small live-music venues, mainly around the city center. You’ll find casual venues rather than a large club scene, making it ideal for a laid-back evening or a post-dinner drink.

Hiking in Krefeld

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hülser Berg Nature Park

Forested hills with well-marked trails suitable for families and hikers seeking viewpoints.

Eyller Berg Trails

Wooded routes with moderate effort and opportunities for quiet nature moments.

Airports

How to reach Krefeld by plane.

Düsseldorf International Airport (DUS)

Major international hub; convenient rail connections to Krefeld; frequent flights and good onward options.

Weeze Airport (NRN)

Smaller airport serving low-cost carriers; about 1-1.5 hours by road/train from Krefeld.

Münster Osnabrück Airport (FMO)

Regional airport; farther away but options exist for connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

The city center is fairly walkable with dense pedestrian areas and compact sights. Suburban or outlying neighborhoods are best reached by tram, bus, or train.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families with children

Many neighborhoods offer parks and good schools; family-friendly amenities are common.

Students and young professionals

Proximity to larger urban centers attracts students and early-career professionals.

Migrant communities

A diverse cultural mix with varied cuisines, festivals, and community organizations.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

Very popular with local clubs and community leagues.

Cycling

Extensive bike paths along rivers and through parks; great for daytime rides.

Tennis and running

Common activities in public parks and club facilities.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally manageable; expect efficient rail links to nearby cities such as Düsseldorf and Mönchengladbach. In the city center, public transit and walking are convenient; driving can be heavier during peak hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Krefeld.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many menus include vegetarian options; ask about daily specials and sides to adapt dishes.

Vegan

Look for plant-based mains and dairy-free sides; some restaurants label vegan dishes or can customize.

Gluten-free

Most eateries can accommodate gluten-free requests; communicate clearly with staff about ingredients.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Germany provides high-quality healthcare. In Krefeld you’ll find general practitioners, specialists, pharmacies, and hospitals; many providers accept international insurance; bring your European Health Insurance Card if applicable.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide