Things To Do
in Leverkusen

Leverkusen is a vibrant city located in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, known for its rich industrial history and green spaces. It is home to the Bayer AG headquarters, which significantly influences the city's economy and culture. The city offers a unique blend of urban life and nature, with beautiful parks and the scenic banks of the Rhine River.

Visitors can explore a variety of museums, shopping areas, and leisure facilities that make Leverkusen a delightful place to visit.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Start your day at the Bayer Museum, which showcases the history of the Bayer company and its contributions to science and society.

afternoon
:

Visit the Japanese Garden in Leverkusen for a peaceful stroll among beautiful landscapes and koi ponds.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a visit to the Forum Leverkusen, a cultural center that hosts various performances.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Leisure
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the Schloss Morsbroich, a stunning castle with an art museum and beautiful grounds.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon at the nearby S-Bahn park, taking advantage of the walking trails and outdoor activities.

evening
:

Conclude your trip with a night out at a local brewery, tasting traditional German beers and local dishes.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🚇Public Transport Ticket$3
🏨Budget Hotel Night$70
🛒Groceries (Weekly)$50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural history
  • Green spaces and parks
  • Convenient location near major cities
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Public transport can be crowded
  • Fewer international dining options
  • "Guten Tag" - Good day
  • "Danke schön" - Thank you very much
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ich hätte gerne..." - I would like...

Places to Visit in Leverkusen

Visit one of these nice places.

Schloss Morsbroich

The beautifully restored castle with its surrounding gardens offers picturesque backdrops for photography.

Japanese Garden

A serene and colorful space that captures the essence of Japanese landscape architecture, perfect for tranquil photos.

Bayer Cross

This iconic landmark is a symbol of the city's industrial heritage and provides a striking visual against the skyline.

Culinary Guide

Food in Leverkusen

Leverkusen offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects its regional heritage and modern influences. Must-try local dishes include hearty German classics and international flavors, making it a food lover's paradise.

Leverkusen Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Himmel und Äd

A traditional dish of mashed potatoes and applesauce, often served with blood sausage.

Must-Try!

Sauerbraten

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

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Leverkusen Weekly Market

Held every Saturday, this market features fresh produce, meats, and local specialties from various vendors.

Street Food Festival

An annual event showcasing diverse food trucks and stalls offering street food from around the world.

Climate Guide

Weather

Leverkusen experiences a temperate oceanic climate, characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures in winter hover around 0°C (32°F), while summer temperatures can reach up to 25°C (77°F). Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, so it's advisable to carry an umbrella when exploring the city.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is highly valued in German culture; it's polite to arrive at scheduled meetings or events punctually.

Greetings

A firm handshake is the standard greeting; addressing people with their titles (Mr., Mrs.) is appreciated.

Quiet Hours

Respect quiet hours from 10 PM to 6 AM in residential areas to avoid disturbing neighbors.

Safety Guide

Safety

Leverkusen is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as in any urban area, it is wise to be cautious, especially at night. Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded places.

Tipping in Leverkusen

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is customary in restaurants, typically around 5-10% of the bill, though service is often included.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but some smaller establishments may prefer cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, ideal for outdoor activities and park visits.

Summer

Warm weather attracts locals and tourists to outdoor festivals and events; be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Autumn

Enjoy the fall foliage in parks and gardens, along with cooler temperatures perfect for sightseeing.

Winter

Cold temperatures may bring snow; enjoy festive markets and holiday decorations throughout the city.

Nightlife Guide

Leverkusen at Night

Leverkusen's nightlife is vibrant, featuring a variety of bars, pubs, and clubs catering to different tastes. The city has a mix of traditional German pubs that offer local beers and modern lounges with live music. Many venues host events such as live concerts and themed nights, making it a lively place to socialize after dark.

Hiking in Leverkusen

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Rheinsteig Trail

A scenic trail along the Rhine River, offering stunning views and diverse landscapes ideal for hiking enthusiasts.

Katzberg Trail

Located nearby, this trail provides a moderate hike through lush forests and hills, perfect for a day trip.

Airports

How to reach Leverkusen by plane.

Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN)

Located approximately 25 km from Leverkusen, this major airport offers numerous domestic and international flights, making travel convenient for visitors.

Getting Around

Walkability

Leverkusen is a walkable city with pedestrian-friendly streets and well-maintained sidewalks. The city center is compact, allowing visitors to explore shops, restaurants, and attractions on foot. Public transit options are available for longer distances, but many parks and points of interest are easily reachable by walking.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

A growing demographic in Leverkusen, many young professionals are attracted to the city's job opportunities in industries such as pharmaceuticals.

Families

Leverkusen is home to many families who appreciate the city's parks, schools, and community activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in the region, with local clubs and a passionate fan base supporting teams in various leagues.

Handball

Handball is also a popular sport, with local teams competing at different levels and contributing to the sports culture in the city.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Leverkusen can be moderate, especially during peak hours. The public transportation network includes buses and the S-Bahn, providing efficient access to neighboring cities and attractions. Cycling is also popular, and bike lanes are available throughout the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Leverkusen.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, and marking dishes as vegetarian is common on menus.

Gluten-Free Options

Some eateries cater to gluten-free diets, but it's advisable to inform staff of any restrictions.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Leverkusen is accessible and efficient, with several hospitals and clinics available for residents and visitors. The city has a robust public health system, and emergency services can be reached quickly. Most healthcare providers speak English.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide