Bruhl is a historic town built around a pair of Rococo palaces. The UNESCO-listed buildings tower over Bruhl and recall the town’s past as a stronghold for the Prince Bishops of Cologne. Tour the palaces, stroll around the landscaped gardens and visit a museum dedicated to iconic German artist, Max Ernst.
Things to do in Brühl
Set in landscaped gardens, Schloss Augustusburg is one of the most beautiful Rococo castles in Europe. The UNESCO-listed palace was designed by famous Bavarian architect François Cuvilliés and features a magnificent grand staircase decorated with stucco sculptures. Finish your tour with a stroll around the Baroque-style gardens.
Jagdschloss Falkenlust is smaller than Schloss Augustusburg but just as impressive. Like its sister palace, the castle is a Rococo gem. Tour lavishly furnished rooms and walk through the cavernous banqueting hall. In the garden, a former outbuilding is reimagined as a falconry museum with exhibits on the medieval sport.
Bruhl is set on the border of the wildlife-rich Rhineland Nature Park. Well-marked trails wind through the park and showcase a landscape of forests, lakes and rivers. Enjoy lunch in a chocolate-box village and spot wildlife such as deer, ibex and elk. Meet friendly donkeys, rabbits, goats and miniature pigs in the petting zoo.
Learn about the life and legacy of a famous German artist at the Max Ernst Museum. He was born in Bruhl and spearheaded the modernist Dada movement. In addition to paintings and sculptures by Max Ernst, the museum showcases works by icons like Man Ray and Henri Cartier-Bresson.
Ride stomach-flipping roller coasters in Phantasialand. The amusement park is packed with rides and attractions inspired by countries from around the world. Live shows bring the park to life and feature everything from Mexican music to traditional African dance.
Getting around Brühl
Bruhl is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. The town is in Rhineland, 30 minutes from Cologne by car or train. Cologne Bonn Airport is a 30-minute drive away.