would it be doable to do a side trip for a day or two into germany - perhaps dusseldorf - from amsterdam? we'll be going in the winter for 2 weeks and want to get out of the city for a day or two...any suggestions are appreciated!!!
Posted by
White Bear Lake, MN, USA
479 posts
Jenn, unfortunately the best stuff to see in Germany is nowhere near Amsterdam. It's not that there's NOTHING to see in Germany in that area. But you'd be better off going to Belgium with that short of a time frame. There are better things to see there.
If you're dead set on going to Germany then I would suggest taking the time to go to Aachen or Cologne (Koln in German). Aachen has more to see from a tourist's perspective. Cologne has an enormous cathedral and a chocolate museum but not more than that.
Posted by
Sheboygan, Wisc., USA
934 posts
While Koln is a nice place to visit and not too far I agree that Belgium and especially Bruges would be a better choice.
Posted by
Pearland, TX, USA
852 posts
hi, jenn . . .
... You might save time by seeing some suggested sites in the Netherlands. Here are some 'back doors' RS recommends ...
[copy and paste this]
... http://www.ricksteves.com/plan/destinations/ben/nethfolk.htm
Gute Reise! P.
Posted by
Paradise
7063 posts
Bruges is lovely if you want something slow-paced, but it's not any closer than Cologne - 3.5-4.5 hours by train vs. 2.5-4 hours for Cologne. Probably a few more sights and a bit more excitement in Cologne. I'd probably try Cologne. Take Ron's advice and visit Marksburg Castle in Braubach too if time permits - it's open all year, just about (11-4 in winter) and the ride along the Rhine in this area is scenic, even in winter.