Things To Do
in Solingen

Solingen, Germany is a charming city located in North Rhine-Westphalia, known for its rich history in blade manufacturing and its stunning natural landscapes. Nestled between the cities of Düsseldorf and Wuppertal, it offers a blend of industrial heritage and beautiful parks. Visitors can enjoy various cultural attractions, including museums and historical sites, as well as picturesque hiking trails in the surrounding hills.

With a vibrant community and diverse culinary scene, Solingen is an ideal destination for both history buffs and nature lovers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local bakery, then visit the Klingenmuseum to learn about Solingen's blade-making history.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a nearby café before exploring the scenic Grünewald Park, where you can take in the lush greenery and relax by the lake.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional German restaurant and then take a leisurely stroll through the old town to enjoy the evening ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Local Flavors
morning
:

Begin with a hearty breakfast, then head out for a hiking excursion on the nearby hiking trails, such as the Wupper Trail.

afternoon
:

Visit a local food market to sample regional delicacies, followed by a visit to the Solingen Botanical Garden.

evening
:

Conclude your trip with dinner at a popular bistro, followed by drinks at a local pub to experience the nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$15
Cup of coffee$3
🚌Public transport ticket$2
🏨Hotel night$80
🛒Groceries for a week$50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical heritage.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and parks.
  • Friendly locals and vibrant community.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation can be infrequent.
  • Some attractions may require advance booking.
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Bitte" - Please
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the restroom?

Places to Visit in Solingen

Visit one of these nice places.

Grünewald Park

A picturesque park filled with lush greenery and serene lakes, perfect for nature photography.

Museum of Blade Culture

An interesting blend of industrial history and art, featuring exhibits that showcase the craftsmanship of Solingen's famous blades.

Solingen Town Center

Capture the essence of Solingen with its charming architecture and vibrant street life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Solingen

Solingen boasts a delightful culinary scene, blending traditional German dishes with local specialties that reflect its rich heritage.

Solingen Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Rheinischer Sauerbraten

A marinated pot roast, often served with red cabbage and potato dumplings, showcasing local flavors.

Must-Try!

Reibekuchen

Crispy potato pancakes that are a popular street food, typically served with applesauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Solingen Market

A vibrant market held weekly, offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and handmade crafts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Solingen experiences a temperate oceanic climate with mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 0°C (32°F) in winter to 25°C (77°F) in summer. Rain is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with occasional snowfall in winter. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant, with moderate temperatures and vibrant foliage.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is highly valued in German culture, so make sure to arrive at appointments and meetings punctually.

Greeting

A firm handshake and direct eye contact are standard when greeting someone new.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin eating and use utensils properly; it’s polite to keep your hands on the table but not your elbows.

Safety Guide

Safety

Solingen is generally considered a safe city with low crime rates. However, like any urban area, it’s important to stay vigilant, especially in crowded places. Use common sense when exploring at night, and be aware of your surroundings. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Solingen

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

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

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Warm weather invites you to enjoy parks and outdoor dining; however, occasional rain showers may occur.

Autumn

Fall foliage creates a stunning backdrop for hiking and exploring the city's scenic areas.

Winter

Cold temperatures may bring snowfall, creating a magical atmosphere, especially during the holiday season.

Nightlife Guide

Solingen at Night

Solingen offers a variety of nightlife options, from cozy pubs to lively bars. The city has a relaxed atmosphere, making it a great place to enjoy a drink with friends. Many venues feature live music or themed nights, providing entertainment throughout the week. Popular areas for nightlife include the city center, where you can find both local favorites and international chains.

Hiking in Solingen

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Wupper Trail

A beautiful trail that follows the Wupper River, offering varied terrain and stunning views suitable for all skill levels.

Bergisches Land Trail

This longer trail traverses the scenic Bergisches Land region, providing hikers with diverse landscapes and opportunities for exploration.

Airports

How to reach Solingen by plane.

Düsseldorf International Airport (DUS)

Located approximately 30 km from Solingen, this major airport offers both domestic and international flights, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Solingen is quite walkable, particularly in the city center, where shops, restaurants, and attractions are in close proximity. Well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian zones make exploring on foot a pleasant experience. However, some hilly areas may be challenging for those with mobility issues.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

A growing demographic in Solingen, contributing to the local economy and culture, often seen frequenting cafés and bars.

Families

Families are a significant demographic group, drawn to the city's parks, schools, and community-oriented activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is extremely popular in Solingen, with local clubs engaging the community and hosting matches throughout the season.

Handball

Handball also has a strong following, with local teams competing in regional leagues and attracting enthusiastic supporters.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Solingen is manageable, with well-maintained roads and moderate congestion during peak hours. Public transportation options include buses and trains that connect Solingen to nearby cities, making it easy to explore the region without a car. Biking is also popular, with dedicated bike lanes available for cyclists.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Solingen.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to check the menu in advance.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are available in various places, but it's best to inform the staff about your dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Solingen is of high quality, with several hospitals and clinics available for residents and visitors. Emergency services can be accessed by dialing 112, while general healthcare needs can be met at various local health centers. Most medical professionals speak English, making it easier for tourists to seek assistance if needed.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide