Things To Do
in Solingen
Solingen sits in North Rhine-Westphalia, about 25 kilometers east of Düsseldorf, and is famous for its long blade-making tradition. The city lies in the Bergisches Land, where forests, hills, and rivers shape a scenic mix of industry and nature. In the historic center you can wander Gräfrath’s half-timbered lanes and markets, then taste hearty German and Bergisches cuisine.
Solingen also serves as a convenient base for exploring the Rhine-Ruhr region while enjoying a slower pace and leafy walks along the Wupper River.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the Solingen Historical Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history of the city and its famous blade production. Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of the historic center, admiring the beautifully preserved half-timbered houses and quaint shops. Don't forget to stop by a local café for a traditional German breakfast, complete with fresh bread and pastries.
After lunch, head to the nearby German Blade Museum, where you can learn about the craftsmanship and innovation behind Solingen’s iconic knives and swords. Take a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the city's role in the cutlery industry and even see some artisans at work. As the afternoon unfolds, enjoy a scenic walk along the Wupper River, taking in the natural beauty that surrounds the historic district.
As evening approaches, treat yourself to a delightful dinner at a local restaurant specializing in regional cuisine. Savor dishes made from locally sourced ingredients while enjoying a warm atmosphere that reflects the city’s cultural heritage. End your day with a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets, soaking in the ambiance of Solingen at night.
Kick off your day with a refreshing hike in Burgholz Nature Park, where lush greenery and diverse wildlife await. As you walk along the well-marked trails, take in the fresh air and the sounds of nature, making it a perfect escape from urban life. Stop at one of the scenic viewpoints to enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amid nature, choosing a serene spot by the picturesque pond in the park. After lunch, engage in birdwatching or simply relax while taking in the beauty of the park. For those feeling adventurous, consider renting a bike to explore more of the park's extensive trail system.
As the sun sets, make your way back to Solingen and unwind at a cozy beer garden. Enjoy a refreshing local brew while mingling with locals and savoring traditional German snacks. Conclude your day with a peaceful walk back to your accommodation, reflecting on the natural beauty you experienced.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 🍝Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🚆Public transport ticket (single ride) | $2-3 |
| 🏨One-night hotel in town center | $70-130 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $60-85 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich industrial and cultural heritage tied to Solingen's blade history
- Easy access to Bergisches Land for hiking and nature
- Limited major attractions within the city center
- Nightlife options are more low-key compared to larger nearby cities
- "Guten Tag" - Good day
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Ich möchte bezahlen, bitte." - I would like to pay, please.
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Solingen
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic castle perched above the Wupper valley with expansive views, perfect for landscape and architectural photography.
Historic half-timbered houses, narrow lanes, and quaint courtyards provide charming composition opportunities.
Riverside paths and bridges offer tranquil scenes, reflections, and sunset backdrops.
Food in Solingen
Solingen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A marinated pot roast served with red cabbage and dumplings; a classic of the Rhine region found in many traditional restaurants.
Must-Try!
Pears with beans and bacon, a regional comfort dish reflecting Bergisches home cooking.
Kale with sausage, a hearty winter specialty popular in the broader Rhineland and Bergisches areas.
A light meat-and-vegetable stew typical of Bergisches cuisine, often enjoyed with bread or potatoes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
hlavní market at Marktplatz on market days; fresh produce, cheeses, bread, and local specialties to sample.
A smaller market in the Gräfrath district with local produce, crafts, and seasonal treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Guten Tag or Hallo; use Sie for formal interactions and Du with friends or younger people with consent.
Be punctual for appointments; keep a courteous distance in queues and acknowledge others in shared spaces.
Politeness and quiet conversation in public spaces; keep noise reasonable in residential areas, especially at night.
Keep hands visible on the table; wait for everyone to be served before starting; tipping follows local customs.
Safety
Tipping in Solingen
Ensure a smooth experience
In Germany, rounding up to 5-10% or adding 5-10% for better service is customary in restaurants; cash tips are common but card tips are increasingly accepted.
Cash and debit/credit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common in shops, cafes, and transit.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild to warm days with some rain; good for outdoor markets, hillside walks, and long evenings in outdoor cafés.
Fresh greenery and blooming flowers; ideal for city strolls, gardens, and moderate hikes.
Colorful deciduous forests; great for photography along forest trails and scenic viewpoints.
Cool to cold with possible snow; cozy indoor dining, festive markets, and crisp daytime walks.
Solingen at Night
Hiking in Solingen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic hikes with views over the Wupper valley near the Müngsten Bridge, a short drive from Solingen.
Extensive network of marked trails through pine and deciduous forests, ideal for day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Solingen by plane.
Major international hub about 25–30 miles (40–50 km) from Solingen; accessible by train or car in roughly 30–45 minutes.
International airport roughly 40–50 miles (60–80 km) away; rail or road travel typically 45–70 minutes.
Smaller regional airport about 60–70 miles away; travel by rail or car takes longer, usually over an hour.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families and retirees with diverse communities including Turkish, Polish, Italian, and other European backgrounds.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Highly popular in the region with local clubs and regional fixtures influencing community life.
Road and mountain biking in the Bergisches Land; scenic routes catered to various levels.
Extensive forested trails and ridge paths ideal for day trips and nature photography.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Solingen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetarian options; ask for vegetarisch dishes, salads, soups, or Käsevariationen. Many places can adapt recipes upon request.