The picturesque town of Neuwied is set on the Rhine River and will charm you with its sunny squares and half-timbered buildings. There are an array of family-friendly attractions to visit, including one of the best zoos in Bavaria. Venture out of town to explore ruined castles and rolling countryside.
Things to do in Neuwied
Neuwied is a hiker’s paradise, with multiple trails to explore in and around the town centre. Starting from the nearby village of Altwied, the trail to Burgruine Altwied takes you to a ruined castle surrounded by emerald-green countryside. Just north of the village is Laubach Wasserfall, where you can dip your feet in the crystal-clear water and enjoy a picnic.
Penguins, cheetahs and chimpanzees are just some of the animals you’ll meet at Zoo Neuwied. The family-friendly attraction is home to an adorable family of meerkats and one of the largest mobs of kangaroos outside Australia. You can also get up close with flamingos, toucans, peacocks and other exotic birds.
The Monrepos Archaeological Museum occupies a handsome heritage manor and features exhibits on the Ice Age and Palaeolithic civilisations. Don’t leave without snapping a photo with the life-size woolly mammoth statue in the museum grounds. Schloss Sayn is another excellent local history museum and occupies a beautiful Neo Gothic castle set in manicured gardens.
From pheasant cooked in red wine to “flääschknepp” meatballs served with spicy horseradish sauce, restaurants in Neuwied will tempt you with delicious food from the Rhineland-Palatinate region. Indulge in traditional “zwetschgenkuchen” plum cake for dessert.
Getting around Neuwied
Neuwied is compact and easy to get around on foot or by local bus. The town is a 1.5-hour drive from Frankfurt and one hour from Cologne. Trains run to Frankfurt in around two hours and Cologne in 1.5 hours. Cologne Bonn Airport is a one-hour drive away.