Blades, Castles, and Fairy Tales: Solingen in 5 Days

Discover Solingen, Germany - A family adventure in the heart of Europe's blade city.

19 July 2023

Solingen, Germany is a family-friendly destination known for its rich history and traditional craftsmanship. Families can visit the famous blade-making industry and discover the secrets behind Solingen's renowned knives and swords. With its picturesque parks, charming old town, and interactive museums, Solingen offers a perfect blend of educational and recreational activities for both kids and adults.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Welcome to Solingen, the City of Blades!

  • Check into your cozy, family-friendly nest at Hotel Krone, where comfort meets style.
  • Embark on a scenic stroll through Solingen's picturesque old town, admiring charming half-timbered houses along the way.
  • Explore the Klingenmuseum, a blade enthusiast's dream, with over 3,000 sharp artifacts and a chance to forge your own knife!
  • Indulge in a hearty German dinner at Zum Alten Schlagbaum, where the aroma of schnitzels and sauerkraut will tickle your taste buds.
  • End the day with a sweet treat from the famous Eiscafé Cortina, where ice cream dreams come true.
Day 2

Castles and Fairy Tales

  • Travel back in time with a visit to Schloss Burg, a majestic hilltop castle offering breathtaking views and medieval vibes.
  • Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of fairy tales at the Märchenwald Altenberg, a magical forest filled with whimsical sculptures and storybook characters.
  • Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the soothing greenery of the Botanischer Garten, where nature's beauty is a feast for the eyes.
  • Unleash your inner artist at Offene Werkstatt Solingen, where you can try your hand at pottery, painting, or even glassblowing.
  • Savor a delightful dinner at Haus Lützow, known for its delectable German cuisine and cozy ambiance.
Day 3

Nature Escapade in Solingen's Outdoors

  • Lace up your hiking boots and explore the stunning Wupper Valley on the Wuppertalweg, a scenic trail offering a refreshing escape from city life.
  • Pack a picnic and relax by the serene shores of Grünewaldsee, a hidden gem where swans gracefully glide on turquoise waters.
  • Unleash your inner daredevil at Klingenpfad, an exhilarating mountain biking route showcasing Solingen's rugged beauty.
  • Discover the colorful flora at Schlosspark Gräfrath, a tranquil park where vibrant flowers and blooming trees create a fairytale atmosphere.
  • Dine at Ristorante La Fattoria, an Italian oasis in Solingen, and treat your taste buds to authentic pasta and heavenly tiramisu.
Day 4

Museums and Industrial Charm

  • Get a behind-the-scenes look at Solingen's industrial heritage at the LVR-Industriemuseum, where steam engines and factory relics come to life.
  • Discover the fascinating world of paper and printing at the Deutsches Klingenmuseum, where you can marvel at intricate paper art and ancient presses.
  • Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Café Schloss Burg, relishing their local specialties while perched atop the castle's hill.
  • Dive into the world of photography at the Photomuseum Solingen, where vintage cameras and captivating exhibits transport you through time.
  • Satisfy your cravings with dinner at Zur Nüll, a chic gastropub serving up mouthwatering burgers and craft beers.
Day 5

Farewell, Solingen!

  • Start the day with a visit to the impressive Solingen Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece that will awe and inspire.
  • Shop for local souvenirs at the lively Wochenmarkt, where vendors offer everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.
  • Dine at Gasthaus Wielpütt, a traditional German tavern serving up hearty regional dishes that will leave you pining for Solingen's flavors.
  • Capture one last memory with a family portrait at Schloss Burg, framed against the idyllic backdrop of the castle.
  • Bid adieu to Solingen, cherishing the memories and the blades engraved in your heart. Auf Wiedersehen!

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Solingen, Germany by plane is to fly to Düsseldorf International Airport and then take a train or bus to Solingen.

Car

Driving to Solingen is a good option if you want to explore the surrounding areas. The best way is to take the A46 autobahn from Düsseldorf, which takes around 30 minutes.

Train

Solingen has its own main train station called Solingen Hauptbahnhof, so taking a train to Solingen is a convenient option. The best way to get there would be to take an ICE high-speed train from Frankfurt or Munich.

Boat

As Solingen is located inland, there are no direct boat connections to the city. However, you can take a river cruise on the nearby Rhine River and stop in Düsseldorf, which is a short train or bus ride away from Solingen.

Bus

You can take a bus from the major cities in Germany to Solingen. The best option would be to take a Flixbus from Berlin or Hamburg, which takes around 6-7 hours.

More travel plans

Romantic Solingen: A 2-Day Getaway for Couples

Solingen, located in western Germany, is a picturesque town that offers a romantic getaway experience. Famous for its cutlery, it's a perfect destination for couples interested in the history and craftsmanship of knives and swords. The town provides a variety of outdoor activities, local cuisine, and recreational amenities, making it an ideal destination for a romantic vacation.

Fun-Filled Weekend in Sunny Solingen

As a tourist in Solingen, you can explore the city's rich history by visiting museums, including the Museum Plagiarius, which features exhibits on copycat products. You can also stroll through the Burg Castle, which dates back to the 11th century and savour local delicacies at the many restaurants and pubs scattered throughout the city. Additionally, the nature and parks in Solingen offer an ideal setting for outdoor enthusiasts to go hiking and cycling.

Captivating Solingen: A 3-Day Family Adventure

Solingen, Germany is a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip, offering a blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. Visit the world-renowned Solingen Knife Museum to learn about the city's rich knife-making history, explore the picturesque Schloss Burg for a medieval adventure, and take a stroll along the Wupper river for some outdoor fun. The city also boasts several parks, playgrounds, and family-friendly restaurants, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable experience for the whole family.

Cutting-Edge Solingen: A One-Day Culture Fix

Solingen, Germany is a charming city that sits at the foothills of the Bergisches Land region. A trip to Solingen offers an invigorating mix of cultural and natural experiences. From touring the iconic Schlösser-und Beschlägemuseum to hiking the scenic Bergischer Panoramasteig trail, there's something for everyone in this delightful city.