Things To Do
in Kevelaer
Kevelaer is a peaceful historic town in the Lower Rhine region, renowned for its renowned pilgrimage site and well-preserved market square. It sits just off the Dutch border, blending German and Dutch influences in its cafés, shops, and architecture. The town center is compact and walkable, with churches, relics, and river views around every corner.
Visitors can combine religious heritage with serene countryside walks along the Niers river and nearby nature reserves.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Basilica of St. Mary, a noteworthy pilgrimage site. Take a leisurely stroll around the historic town square, admiring the charming architecture and vibrant flower displays. Enjoy a freshly brewed coffee at a local café while soaking in the morning ambiance.
After lunch at a traditional German restaurant, explore the local shops and boutiques for unique souvenirs and artisanal products. Visit the Kevelaer Museum to learn about the town's rich cultural heritage and the significance of its pilgrimage history. As the afternoon sun sets, take a peaceful walk in the nearby gardens, enjoying the beautifully kept landscapes.
Dine at a cozy local eatery where you can sample regional specialties such as Sauerbraten or Rinderroulade. After dinner, enjoy a quiet evening stroll along the River Niers, where you can listen to the soothing sounds of nature. Cap off your night with a drink at a local pub, mingling with the friendly locals.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation to fuel up for a day on the pilgrimage trails. Join a guided tour that takes you through the scenic paths leading to the surrounding countryside, rich with historical significance. Along the way, stop to reflect at various small chapels that dot the landscape.
Continue your hike through lush forests and open fields, where you can immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region. Enjoy a packed lunch at a picturesque spot, perhaps near a tranquil stream or under the shade of a tree. Capture the stunning views and wildlife with your camera as you traverse the trails.
Return to Kevelaer and unwind with a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant specializing in fresh, seasonal dishes. After your meal, take some time to reflect on your day at one of the small, peaceful parks in town. As night falls, consider attending a local music performance or cultural event if available.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🧃Soft drink | $2-4 |
| 🚆Public transport ride | $3-5 |
| 🏨Hotel (budget) | $70-120 per night |
| 🧁Cup of coffee | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, picturesque town with religious heritage
- Walkable center with river views and historic charm
- Limited nightlife beyond cozy pubs
- Some facilities may close on Sundays or market days
- "Guten Tag" - Good day / Hello
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wo ist der Markt?" - Where is the market?
- "Ich möchte bezahlen" - I would like to pay
Places to Visit in Kevelaer
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic pilgrimage chapel with a revered statue; ideal for atmospheric morning light and architectural detail.
Colorful facades, pedestrian streets, and the Marktbrunnen fountain provide classic Rhine-town photography.
Elegant church façade; best captured from side streets with soft daylight.
Calm waters along the Niers with reflections and willows—great during golden hour.
Food in Kevelaer
Kevelaer Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A marinated pot roast served with red cabbage and potato dumplings, a Rheinland classic often found in traditional restaurants.
Must-Try!
A comfort dish of mashed potatoes with apples and black pudding, reflecting the region’s hearty flavors.
Potato pancakes served with applesauce, nodding to Dutch-German border influences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market on the Markt square offering fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and regional specialties.
Local bakeries with rye bread, pretzels, and a variety of sweet pastries to start the day.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
As a pilgrimage town, show respect in churches; dress modestly and keep noise low inside sacred spaces.
Germans value punctuality for appointments and guided tours; arriving on time is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Kevelaer
Ensure a smooth experience
Rounding up the bill or leaving about 5-10% for service is common in restaurants; cash and cards are widely accepted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days and blooming gardens; ideal for walking tours and outdoor markets.
Warm weather with occasional showers; long daylight hours suit canal-side strolls and photo walks.
Autumn colors along the Markt and river banks; harvest markets and fewer crowds.
Cold spells and Christmas markets; cozy cafés and seasonal dishes welcome visitors.
Kevelaer at Night
Hiking in Kevelaer
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic riverside hiking trail along the Niers with varying distances; easy to moderate terrain.
Cross-border nature trails through forests and wetlands near the German-Dutch border; rich wildlife and peaceful scenery.
Airports
How to reach Kevelaer by plane.
Small regional airport about 25-40 minutes by car from Kevelaer; serves budget and short-haul routes; good rail and car connections.
Major international hub about 60-90 minutes by train or car; broad flight options and car rental.
Large international airport about 2-3 hours by train or car; excellent for international connections; cross-border day trips feasible.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, older residents, and visitors drawn to the Gnadenkapelle; many speak German, with some Dutch or English spoken in tourist areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular local activity with gentle routes around the town and countryside.
Common in the region; local clubs and casual games may be available for visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kevelaer.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetable dishes, cheese plates, and salads; many restaurants can adapt sauces and sides to suit vegetarian needs.