Things To Do
in Xanten
Xanten is a historic town in North Rhine-Westphalia perched along the Rhine, famed for its Roman heritage and well-preserved medieval architecture. Its crowning feature is the Archaeological Park (APX), where ancient ruins and reconstructed buildings bring Roman life to life. The town center blends pedestrian-friendly streets, a charming market square, and riverside scenes that invite leisurely strolls.
Visitors enjoy a compact, family-friendly atmosphere with easy access to the Ruhr area and the Dutch border.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the Archaeological Park, where you can immerse yourself in the ancient Roman history of Xanten. Walk along the reconstructed Roman streets and marvel at the impressive structures that once stood in their glory. Take your time exploring the various exhibitions that bring the past to life.
After lunch at a nearby café, continue your exploration by venturing to the Roman Museum, which showcases a vast collection of artifacts discovered during excavations. The museum's interactive displays make learning about the Roman Empire engaging for visitors of all ages. Spend time admiring the ancient mosaics and learning about daily life in Roman Xanten.
As night falls, find a quaint restaurant in the old town for a traditional German dinner. Savor dishes like Sauerbraten or schnitzel while enjoying the charming atmosphere of the historic streets. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the idyllic pathways and perhaps enjoy a nightcap at a local pub.
Rise early to visit the stunning St. Victor Cathedral, one of Xanten’s most notable landmarks. The Gothic architectural details and beautiful stained glass windows are best appreciated in the morning light. Attend a morning service or simply take in the serene atmosphere as you wander through the nave.
Following your visit to the cathedral, head to the nearby Johannesplatz for a leisurely lunch at one of the open-air cafes. After lunch, explore the adjacent historic buildings and gardens, admiring the surrounding medieval architecture. Don't miss the opportunity to capture some beautiful photographs of the cathedral from different angles.
In the evening, partake in a guided walking tour focusing on the history and legends of Xanten. Let an expert guide lead you through the town’s alleys, sharing intriguing tales about its past inhabitants. As dusk settles, opt for dinner at a restaurant with a view of the cathedral, allowing the stunning illuminated structure to provide a magical backdrop.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $3-5 |
| 🚌One-way public transportation ticket | $2-3.50 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel room per night | $90-150 |
| 🧀Local specialty product (food item) | $4-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Roman and medieval heritage with a compact, walkable town center
- Excellent access to the Rhine and nearby nature reserves
- Family-friendly with a relaxed pace and plentiful cultural sites
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Seasonal crowds can peak around market days and summer weekends
- Some smaller venues may have limited English-speaking staff
- "Guten Tag" - Hello / Good day
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Ich hätte gern …" - I would like …
- "Vielen Dank" - Thank you very much
Places to Visit in Xanten
Visit one of these nice places.
An imposing Gothic-Roman church with a dramatic tower, offering elevated city views and intricate stonework for dramatic photographs.
Open-air Roman ruins and reconstructed buildings provide dramatic contrasts of ancient architecture and modern landscaping.
Wide river views, especially at sunset, with boats, meadows, and the gentle curve of the river as a backdrop.
Colorful Fachwerk houses and a lively square make for vibrant street photography.
Food in Xanten
Xanten Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A marinated roast beef served with a tangy gravy, usually accompanied by red cabbage and dumplings.
Must-Try!
Kale cooked with sausages and sometimes bacon; a winter staple in the region.
Potato salad that pairs well with sausages or schnitzel; often made with vinegar, oil, and herbs.
Crispy potato pancakes, commonly served with applesauce or sour cream.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in the historic center where you can sample fresh regional produce, breads, cheeses, and ready-to-eat street bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use a polite greeting like Guten Tag or Hallo. In formal situations, address people as Herr/Frau and use Sie (the formal you).
Be on time for appointments and reservations; lateness is discouraged in business and social settings.
Bread is often placed on the left; keep voices moderate in indoor spaces and respect quiet hours in residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Xanten
Ensure a smooth experience
In Germany, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common practice in restaurants and cafés.
Cash is widely accepted, and most places take cards. Contactless payments are common, but carry some cash for smaller vendors or markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming gardens; great for outdoor walks and revisiting the Archaeological Park before the summer crowds.
Warm days with a mix of sun and showers; ideal for riverfront strolls and outdoor cafes, but be prepared for occasional rain showers.
Comfortable temperatures and colorful foliage; great for photography along the Rhine and in the historic center.
Cool to cold with possible snowfall; Christmas markets and hearty warm dishes provide seasonal charm.
Xanten at Night
Hiking in Xanten
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic wetlands and birdwatching trails along the river; relatively flat and accessible for most hikers.
Gentle riverfront path suitable for long strolls, photography, and easy day hikes.
Shaded woodland routes offering quiet landscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Xanten by plane.
Major hub with frequent international and domestic connections; about 60-70 minutes by car or rail transfers from Xanten.
Smaller regional airport offering budget flights; typically accessible via rail/car with transfers via Kleve or Moers.
Large international airport with extensive connections; reachable by rail or car within a couple of hours.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, older residents, and commuters; a calm, community-oriented atmosphere.
Visitors drawn to Roman history, the Archaeological Park, and Rhine scenery.
Smaller presence in the area, with access to nearby universities and training facilities in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular at local clubs and facilities; community games are common on weekends around town.
Well-suited for scenic rides along the Rhine and surrounding countryside; bike rental and routes are common.
On the Rhine and nearby waters; rental centers and clubs offer introductory sessions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Xanten.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most spots offer vegetarian options such as roasted vegetables, potato dishes, salads, and veggie schnitzel; ask for plant-based soups or paneer options if available.