Highlights of Western Germany?
 

Hi Everyone-
My husband and I are going to be taking a sort of last minute trip to Germany the week after Christmas. We will be staying with his parents who have been living in Bonn for the past four years and they are making most of the plans for our visit. Would anyone tell me the highlights in that area of the country that I can suggest we don't miss? Mostly sights shouldn't be more than a day trip away but they also suggested we all go to Paris for New Years Eve.

Can't wait to hear any suggestions!

ttt

The cathedral in Köln, which is really close to Bonn. Plus if you're into classical music, Bonn is filled with Beethoven...

LaraM - I sort of feel that you haven't seen or experienced Germany unless you've been to Berlin. Edward Albee (the Pulitzer playwright) has an excellent article on Berlin in the November "Gourmet" - he really catches the "spirit" of the city far better than the usual travel writer. Unfortunately, it is more than just a day trip from Bonn. For day trips consider the Rhine south of Koblenz, the Mosel Valley and Trier, and definitely Cologne. Get back to us if you have any specific questions.

I loved Heidelberg and we did it as a day trip from Koln. I think it would be lovely at Christmastime too.

Cologne (the cathedral)
Cochem (on the Mosel...and the town of Burg Eltz)
Strasbourg, France ( the cathedral in late afternoon sun is incredible)
Bacharach and St. Goar on the Rhine
Rothenburg on the Romantic Road.

Get your map and check these spots, and if you could do them on your day trip. Would be glad to tell you more if needed.