Monschau is a place full of romance, beauty and charm. The picturesque half-timbered houses that line the enchanting Rur River are a real feast for the eyes. The delicious regional cuisine is another highlight that makes Monschau a popular destination for gourmets. And the best part is that Monschau isn’t that big, so you can explore all of its attractions and activities on a day trip. I’ll give you lots of tips in this article.
Nestled in an idyllic valley between rolling hills and forests, the town offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy nature to the full. Hiking along the riverbank or through the woods surrounding the town is an unforgettable experience. It is no wonder that tourists from around the world are captivated by the beauty and tranquility of Monschau.
It doesn’t matter whether you come in summer or winter. Because Monschau has its own unique charm in every season. I myself have been there in all kinds of weather and can always recommend a visit.
Besides the romantic old town, I particularly liked the many winding paths that lead you directly from the city to the surrounding forests and from which you repeatedly have great views over the roofs of Monschau.
Here you will find the best attractions that you should definitely explore during your Monschau day trip.
1. Monschau Castle – Enjoy the best view of the city
Monschau Castle dates back to the 13th century and was built on a hill overlooking the city. From the mighty castle walls, you have the best view of the entire valley in which Monschau lies.
The castle is free to enter and you can easily explore the dark corridors and stairs inside the castle on your own.
The inner courtyard of the castle also serves as a backdrop for the “Monschau Festival“, where many artists and musicians perform.
2. Old Haller Ruin – Walk along the panorama trail
You can see the striking ruin from afar, which was probably once an observation post for the castle. However, it is no longer possible to say for sure.
The panoramic trail starts right at the old Haller Ruine. It is a short walk and, as the name of the trail suggests, you have a brilliant panoramic view over the rooftops of the city.
When you come to a crossroads, it’s best to keep going until you reach the small, round lookout hut. The Rondell is a romantic place with a view, which is also perfect for a small picnic with your loved one.
3. Visit the Rinkberg chapel at the cemetery and walk through the city
Many stairs in small side streets lead up to Monschau. A few of them will take you past the city cemetery to the viewpoint at Rinkberg Kapellchen.
Relax on one of the iron benches with a panorama or have a picnic right next to the chapel.
If you continue from the Rinkberg chapel, you will reach an interesting, signposted waterfall. You can then return to the city center along the paths of the city park.
4. Red House Museum – Take a trip back in time
The Red House is one of the most beautiful and striking buildings in all of Monschau. It is not really red, but pink. And inside there is a museum where you can learn a lot about the history and culture of the region and get exciting insights into the life and work of the people of Monschau.
This historic half-timbered building was built in the 18th century and there is also a permanent exhibition with exhibits showing the life of the citizens from that century. A highlight is the cantilevered spiral staircase made of oak, which extends over 3 floors. Look out for the great carvings on the stairs, showing the various steps in the cloth-making process.
Admission to the museum costs €5 per adult, but note that the museum is only open between April 1 and November 30.
5. Haus Troistorff – Admire the top wedding location in Monschau
In addition to the Red House, the Troistorff House is also one of the historical architectural treasures in Monschau’s city center. It was built in 1783 by the cloth manufacturer Troistorff.
In front of the building stands a striking wedding tree – a work of art whose leaves show the wedding couples of recent years. The wedding ceremonies take place here in the Tapetenzimmer.
6. Shop in the city’s historic craft shops
Where there are many tourists, there are also many shops. You can find practically anything here, from wool, jewelry and precious stones to hats and antiques.
Nevertheless, a unique shopping experience awaits you in Monschau. Most of the shops are located in charming half-timbered houses, which create a special atmosphere and make strolling a real pleasure. You will also be able to immerse yourself in the past and at the same time have the opportunity to take home a few special souvenirs.
7. Chill out in a cozy café
Fortunately, Monschau is not short of cafés. Especially near the market square, there is more than one place to warm up on a cold autumn day with a cup of coffee and a hot waffle with cherries and whipped cream.
But you will also find great cafés a little way from the market square, such as Café Thelen. It is located in a 300-year-old house. The café has been around since 1982, and you can enjoy homemade cakes, waffles and, of course, coffee.
8. Eat delicious Monschau Printen and Dütchen
The Monschau Printen and Dütchen are a culinary attraction of the city.
A large selection of the original printen, which taste very similar to gingerbread, is available at the Hensch bakery and pastry shop right on the market square. The traditional biscuits are handmade here according to an old family recipe. You can find delicious Printen for immediate consumption, but also gift-wrapped ones, which are also great as souvenirs for friends and family back home.
Another delicacy is the Monschauer Dütchen. These are small, crispy croissants that are offered in many pastry shops in Monschau in a wide variety of flavors.
Accommodation in Monschau
If you want to take more time to explore the beautiful region around Monschau, then a whole weekend with an overnight stay is definitely worthwhile. There is more than just one good option for this in Monschau.
Monschau Impressions
As you can see, Monschau offers everything you need for a romantic day trip. Do you have any other tips for Monschau? Then I look forward to a comment from you.
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