Things To Do
in Remscheid

Remscheid is a midsize town in North Rhine-Westphalia, nestled in the hills of the Bergisches Land. It combines a rich industrial heritage with plentiful green spaces and the tranquil Wupper River running through its surroundings. The city center features historic architecture, markets, and cultural venues, while the surrounding countryside offers scenic hiking and viewpoints.

With friendly locals, reliable public transport, and easy access to larger Ruhr-area cities, Remscheid serves as a convenient base for a relaxed city-and-nature experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café in the heart of Remscheid, where you can enjoy fresh pastries and coffee. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets, admiring the beautiful architecture and quaint shops. Make sure to visit the Remscheid City Museum to learn about the rich history of the area.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, treat yourself to lunch at a traditional German restaurant, savoring regional specialties such as Sauerbraten or Rinderroulade. Afterward, explore the nearby Lennep district, known for its charming half-timbered houses and cobblestone lanes. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Museum für Deutsche Klingen, showcasing the history of blade-making in the region.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a local brewery to sample some of the finest beers Remscheid has to offer. Enjoy a hearty dinner at the brewery’s restaurant, where you can indulge in classic German dishes accompanied by live music. Cap off your evening with a leisurely walk through the city center, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

day 2
Nature Hike in the Surrounding Hills
morning
:

Begin your morning with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation, fueling up for a day of adventure. Pack a picnic and head to the nearby Bergisches Land, where picturesque hiking trails await you. As you walk through the lush forests and rolling hills, take in the fresh air and stunning views of the landscape.

afternoon
:

After a morning of hiking, find a scenic spot to enjoy your packed picnic while surrounded by nature. Spend the afternoon exploring more trails, perhaps taking a detour to see one of the beautiful waterfalls in the area. Don't forget to stop and enjoy the peaceful sounds of the forest and the occasional glimpse of local wildlife.

evening
:

As evening approaches, return to Remscheid and unwind at a cozy restaurant featuring local cuisine. Treat yourself to a traditional dish such as Käsespätzle, paired with a refreshing local beer. After dinner, take a relaxing stroll along the Wupper River, reflecting on the day's adventures.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
Coffee or tea$3-5
🚆Public transit day pass$6-9
🏨One-night stay in mid-range hotel$70-120
🛒Groceries for a week$40-70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Central location in the Bergisches Land with easy access to nature
  • Good public transport connections to larger cities
  • Friendly locals and a safe, relaxed atmosphere
  • Varied outdoor options including hiking and river walks
  • Hilly terrain can be tiring for some visitors
  • Smaller city with fewer big-city amenities
  • Certain tourist services can be pricier in peak seasons
  • "Guten Morgen" - Good morning
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Ich hätte gern..." - I would like...
  • "Danke schön" - Thank you very much

Places to Visit in Remscheid

Visit one of these nice places.

Marktplatz and Rathaus Area

Historic town square with colorful facades and the town hall; ideal for daytime architecture and street photography.

Wupper River Promenade

Scenic riverbank with trees and bridges; good for tranquil landscape and reflections especially at golden hour.

Hillside Lookouts above the City

Elevated viewpoints offering sweeping views over Remscheid and the surrounding Bergisches Land; best at sunrise or sunset.

Parks and Green Spaces within the City

Well-kept parks with seasonal plantings, pathways, and benches perfect for candid shots and nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Remscheid

Remscheid sits in the Bergisches Land, where hearty regional cooking centers on comforting, meat- and potato-forward dishes, seasonal produce, and rustic breads. Expect generous portions, seasonal desserts, and a growing selection of modern bistro options in the city center.

Remscheid Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Himmel und Ääd

A traditional Bergisch dish combining apples (Himmel) and mashed potatoes (Ääd) often served with pork or sausage, reflecting the region's mix of fruit and potato staples.

Must-Try!

Rinderroulade

Beef roulade filled with bacon, onions, and pickles, usually served with gravy and potatoes or cabbage.

Pannfisch

Pan-fried fish often prepared with onions and potatoes, a common comfort dish in western Germany.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Remscheid Market (Marktplatz)

Weekly market offering fresh produce, regional specialties, and seasonal treats; great for sampling local items and picking up picnic supplies.

Street Food Corners (in and around the city center)

Casual stalls and vans offering snacks, pretzels, sausages, and quick bites popular with locals and visitors alike.

Climate Guide

Weather

Remscheid experiences a temperate oceanic climate with mild summers and cool winters. Precipitation is fairly well distributed throughout the year, with the potential for rain at any season. Snow is possible in winter, but heavy snowfalls are not guaranteed each year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality and greetings

Be punctual for appointments; greet with a polite hello or good day, and maintain a respectful, calm demeanor in public spaces.

Quiet hours

Evenings are generally quieter; keep noise to a reasonable level, especially in residential areas and late at night.

Tobacco and alcohol

Smoking rules are stricter indoors in public places; check venue policies. Alcohol is widely available but treated responsibly in public spaces.

Safety Guide

Safety

Remscheid is generally safe for travelers, with typical urban precautions recommended. Keep an eye on belongings in crowded areas and be aware of nighttime safety in less populated streets. Use official taxis or reputable ride-hailing services after dark and stay in well-lit areas when walking alone.

Tipping in Remscheid

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Service charges are not included by default; round up the bill or leave about 5-10% for good service in restaurants and cafes. Tipping in bars and casual venues is appreciated but minimal.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but cards (Visa/Mastercard) are common in shops and restaurants. Contactless payments are widely used in urban areas and tourist-friendly places.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Milder temperatures with blooming trees and gardens; great for outdoor photography and herb markets.

Summer

Warm days with occasional rain showers; expect longer daylight hours and outdoor events, perfect for river walks and evening photography.

Autumn

Vibrant foliage across hills and parks; ideal for landscape photography and scenic hikes.

Winter

Cool to cold with a chance of snow; city centers and markets have a cozy, festive atmosphere and warm indoor spaces.

Nightlife Guide

Remscheid at Night

Remscheid's nightlife centers on cozy pubs, beer gardens, and casual bars in the city center. For more diverse options, nearby cities like Wuppertal and Solingen offer clubs and larger venues. Craft beer and regional brews are popular, and many venues host live music on weekends. Expect a friendly, low-key scene rather than a late-night party atmosphere.

Hiking in Remscheid

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Beekhausen Forest Trails

Forest trails with family-friendly routes and gentle climbs, suitable for relaxed daytime hikes.

Sauerland foothills

Part of the broader Bergisches Land region offering longer hikes, viewpoints, and stream-side paths.

Airports

How to reach Remscheid by plane.

Düsseldorf International Airport (DUS)

Major international gateway about 40-60 km from Remscheid; accessible by rail or road.

Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN)

Secondary international hub about 60-75 km away; well-connected by rail and road.

Getting Around

Walkability

The city center is compact and walkable, with pedestrian zones and short distances between sights. Hills and steep streets in residential areas can be challenging, but public transport is reliable for reaching outer neighborhoods and nearby trails.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

A significant portion of residents are families with children, contributing to a family-friendly local culture.

Older adults

A stable senior population with accessible healthcare and community services.

New residents and immigrants

Diverse communities including people from Turkish, Polish, and other backgrounds.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

Widely followed with local clubs and weekend matches; a common social activity.

Cycling

Popular on hilly terrain and forest trails; suitable for both casual riders and enthusiasts.

Hiking

Strong regional culture of day hikes in the Bergisches Land with many scenic routes.

Transportation

Traffic

Remscheid relies on buses and regional rail for most travel within and around the city. Car traffic is common on weekdays, with some congestion on major detours and during peak hours; downtown parking can be limited but alternatives exist near transit hubs.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Remscheid.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many traditional dishes can be prepared in a vegetarian version; look for potato- or pasta-based plates, vegetables, and salads. Ask for meat-free options at restaurants; most places in town offer vegetarian dishes or can adapt recipes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Germany provides universal healthcare; Remscheid has hospitals, clinics, and general practitioners. Emergency care is available, and most services are covered by statutory health insurance. Bring your health insurance card (Krankenkasse) when visiting.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide