Things To Do
in Rees
Rees is a small Rhine town in North Rhine-Westphalia, close to the Dutch border. It blends cobblestone lanes, timber-framed houses, and a castle with riverside views. The town sits along the Rhine, offering peaceful waterside strolls and easy access to the Niederrhein countryside.
Visitors can enjoy charming markets, cultural events, and a relaxed pace in this borderland hub.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the charming streets of Rees, where you can admire the well-preserved medieval buildings. Grab a fresh pastry and coffee from a local bakery to fuel your exploration. Don’t forget to visit the historic city wall and the iconic St. Vitus Church for a touch of history.
After a leisurely lunch at a riverside café, delve into the local museums, including the unique museum housed in the old mill. Take your time to appreciate the exhibits that showcase the region's rich history and culture. As you wander, keep an eye out for local artisans who often display their work near the town square.
As the sun sets, head to the banks of the Rhine River for a picturesque view. Find a cozy restaurant where you can indulge in some traditional German cuisine while enjoying the scenic backdrop. Wrap up your day with a gentle walk along the riverside promenade, soaking in the serene atmosphere.
Embark on a day trip to the lush vineyards surrounding Rees, famous for its excellent wines. Begin your morning with a guided tour of a local winery, learning about the unique grape varieties grown in the region. Sample freshly made breakfast pastries paired with exquisite local wines to kickstart your taste adventure.
In the afternoon, join a wine tasting and vineyard tour where you can learn about the winemaking process firsthand. Take advantage of scenic viewpoints that offer breath-taking views of the sprawling vineyards and the Rhine River below. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the vines, relishing the flavors and ambiance.
Return to Rees in the evening and enjoy a relaxed dinner at a restaurant that specializes in local gastronomic delights. Pair your meal with the wines you sampled earlier in the day, creating a memorable culinary experience. Take a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets of Rees as the town comes alive at night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-5 |
| 🚌Local transit ticket | $3-6 |
| 🧀Grocery item (1L milk) | $1-2 |
| 🏨Hotel nightly rate | $90-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming Rhine town with historical architecture
- Close to the Dutch border for day trips
- Relaxed pace and friendly locals
- Good access to nature and hiking nearby
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Small town feel may lack a wide range of dining options
- Weather can be changeable along the Rhine
- Some services may be seasonal or restricted outside peak times
- "Guten Tag" - Hello / Good day
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wo ist der Markt?" - Where is the market?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Ich verstehe nicht" - I don't understand
- "Können Sie mir helfen?" - Can you help me?
- "Ich möchte bestellen" - I would like to order
- "Die Rechnung, bitte" - The check, please
- "Auf Wiedersehen" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Rees
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful timber-framed houses framed by the market fountain, best during morning light.
The castle sits along the river with its towers reflecting on the water; ideal for sunset shots.
Long riverside walkway with boats, bridges, and gentle reflections on the water.
Historic church towers rising above the rooftops provide classic town photography.
Food in Rees
Rees Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A tangy pot roast marinated in a sweet-sour sauce, typically served with red cabbage and boiled potatoes.
Must-Try!
A classic dialect dish of mashed potatoes (Äd) with apple sauce (Himmel) and black pudding (optional in some versions).
A savory potato-and-onion cake baked in a Dutch oven, commonly enjoyed with applesauce.
German-style meat patties served with fried potatoes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A weekly market on Saturdays where you can sample fresh produce, cheese, breads, and regional specialties.
Seasonal street-food stalls around the riverfront offering pretzels, sausages, and quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Guten Tag or Hallo; use Herr/Frau with last name in formal settings; punctuality is valued.
Wait to be seated in restaurants; basic table manners follow typical German norms.
Respect quiet hours in neighborhoods and avoid loud music late at night in residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Rees
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are usually included; it is customary to round up or leave 5-10% for good service.
Cash (EUR) and EC cards are widely accepted; many places also accept debit/credit cards and contactless payments; keep some cash for market stalls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder temperatures, blooming gardens, and outdoor markets resume; bring a light jacket for evenings.
Warm days and long evenings; riverfront is popular for strolls, picnics, and boat trips; expect occasional rain.
Golden light and harvest markets; cooler days with comfortable hiking weather.
Chill with possible frost or snow; Christmas markets and festive lights create a cozy atmosphere.
Rees at Night
Hiking in Rees
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy riverside trails along the Rhine; great for casual strolls.
Extensive forest and wetland trails in the nearby nature park, with marked routes.
Scenic day hikes along the Issel river with gentle elevation changes.
Airports
How to reach Rees by plane.
Large international hub about 70-90 minutes by car or rail from Rees.
Regional airport (Weeze) closer to Rees for low-cost flights.
Major international gateway within a couple hours' drive across the border.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in Rees; family-friendly events and parks are common.
Proximity to the Netherlands means a number of residents commute across the border.
A significant portion of residents are retirees, enjoying the quiet, scenic surroundings.
Visitors are drawn to Rhine views, historic streets, and nature trails.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and fan culture typical of German towns.
Hobbyists use the Rhine cycle paths and local routes.
Activities on the Rhine when water flow allows.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Rees.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are commonly available; look for seasonal vegetable dishes, salads, and sides like potatoes and dumplings. Ask for vegetable-rich soups, or pasta without meat. In larger eateries, confirm egg and dairy ingredients if you follow stricter diets.