Things To Do
in Simmerath
Simmerath is a small town in the Eifel region of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, surrounded by rolling forests and the scenic Rur valley. It serves as a quiet base for exploring nearby nature parks including the Eifel National Park and Hohes Venn, with well-marked trails and moorlands. The town blends traditional half-timbered houses, welcoming inns, and easy access to nearby historic towns like Monschau and Aachen.
Visitors can enjoy hiking, cycling, and hearty regional cuisine in a relaxed, rural setting.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh pastries and coffee while taking in the charming views of the historic center. After breakfast, stroll through the cobblestone streets, visiting the beautiful St. Anna Church and exploring the quaint shops. Take time to appreciate the local architecture and perhaps snap some photos of the picturesque buildings.
For lunch, choose a traditional German restaurant and savor local dishes such as Sauerbraten or Reibekuchen. Post-lunch, visit the Simmerath Museum to learn about the region’s history, culture, and traditions, engaging with exhibits that showcase local artifacts. Finish your afternoon with a peaceful walk along the Rur River, soaking in the natural beauty surrounding the town.
As evening approaches, find a cozy spot at a riverside bar for a refreshing drink while watching the sunset over the water. Enjoy dinner at a local eatery where you can try regional specialties paired with local beer. Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll through the town, perhaps catching a glimpse of local events or live music.
Begin your day early with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before heading out to the nearby Eifel National Park. Lace up your hiking boots and embark on a guided nature walk, where you’ll discover the diverse flora and fauna of the park, with expert guides sharing insights about the ecology of the area. Enjoy the refreshing morning air as you traverse well-marked trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.
After an invigorating morning, take a break at a scenic picnic spot within the park, enjoying a packed lunch while surrounded by nature. Post-lunch, continue exploring the park’s trails, perhaps spotting wildlife or taking photographs of the stunning landscapes. Consider visiting the park’s visitor center to learn more about conservation efforts and the history of the Eifel region.
Return to Simmerath for a relaxing evening at one of the local bistros, where you can share stories of your adventures over dinner. Indulge in a culinary experience featuring local ingredients, such as fresh trout or seasonal vegetables. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the town, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere as the stars begin to shine.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🏠One-bedroom apartment (monthly) | $700-950 |
| 🚍Public transit pass (monthly) | $60-85 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week (basic) | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to the Eifel National Park and scenic hiking trails
- Charming, uncrowded towns with traditional cuisine
- Relaxed pace of life and strong local culture
- Good base for day trips to Monschau and Aachen
- Limited nightlife and large-city amenities
- Smaller selection of international dining options
- Public transport can be limited on weekends in rural areas
- Seasonal tourist crowds in peak hiking season
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Bitte" - Please
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Ich hätte gern..." - I would like...
- "Können Sie mir helfen?" - Can you help me?
- "Guten Tag" - Good day
- "Auf Wiedersehen" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Simmerath
Visit one of these nice places.
A gentle bend in the river with forested banks, ideal for golden-hour reflections.
Open moorlands and expansive skies offering dramatic landscape shots.
Colorful facades and a classic German town square for architectural photography.
Quaint rural church and rustic lanes with seasonal blossoms.
Panoramic views across rolling hills and farmland, especially at sunset.
Food in Simmerath
Simmerath Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty potato-based dish, often baked with onions and sometimes apples; commonly found in local taverns and served with pickles.
Must-Try!
A traditional Eifel-Rhineland dish of mashed potatoes and apple sauce paired with black pudding or pork, a comfort-food favorite.
A regional pot roast marinated in a tangy sauce, typically served with red cabbage and dumplings.
Beef roulades filled with pickles and onions, a staple in traditional inns across the region.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small town market offering fresh regional produce, dairy, baked goods, and local specialties.
Seasonal stalls offering bratwurst, pretzels, and Kartoffelpuffer (potato pancakes) with applesauce.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Guten Tag' or 'Hallo'; use 'Sie' for strangers and switch to informal language only when invited.
Be punctual for appointments; maintain moderate noise in residential areas and places of worship.
Tipping is polite but discreet; show appreciation with a short 'Danke' and respect dining norms.
Safety
Tipping in Simmerath
Ensure a smooth experience
Rounding up the bill or leaving about 5-10% is common if service is satisfactory; some places include a service charge.
Cash is widely accepted; debit/credit cards are increasingly common, especially in cafés and larger shops; contactless payments are popular.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm but comfortable days with possible afternoon showers; long daylight hours ideal for outdoor activities and photo trips.
Amber and gold foliage; cooler air and clear skies great for hiking and landscape photography.
Cold with occasional snow; quieter towns, cozy inns, and nearby markets enhancing the winter ambiance.
Mild temps and blooming landscapes; perfect for garden walks and nature trails.
Simmerath at Night
Hiking in Simmerath
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Marked routes through forests, moorlands, and viewpoints suitable for all levels.
Moody moorland landscapes with boardwalks and scenic overlooks.
Gentle river-side walks offering wildlife viewing and easy access.
Airports
How to reach Simmerath by plane.
Major international gateway ~90-100 minutes by car; good rail connections via Cologne.
Major hub ~90-120 minutes by train or car; frequent international and domestic flights.
Regional airport about 60-90 minutes by car; convenient for connections to the Netherlands and nearby cities.
Low-cost carrier hub ~70-90 minutes by road; good for budget travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Families with children populate suburbs and the town center, especially on weekends.
The area attracts retirees who value quiet surroundings and easy access to nature.
Proximity to Aachen and other towns brings students and workers who commute for education and jobs.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Very popular at local clubs and schools, with community matches in nearby towns.
Extensive networks through the Eifel region; popular year-round for outdoor enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Simmerath.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most menus include vegetarian options like mushroom dishes, salads, and dumplings; ask for vegetarisch on the order.