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Kalkar

Kalkar, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany

Kalkar, located in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, is a charming town with a rich history and plenty of attractions to offer visitors. Known for its picturesque cobblestone streets and well-preserved medieval architectu…

#historic town#medieval architecture#cultural heritage#tourist destination#Germany

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Kalkar.

Top Hotels in Kalkar

Top Flights to Kalkar

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Kalkar.

Tours

Discover the Historical Town of Kalkar

Kalkar is full of historical charm with its well-preserved medieval buildings and lovely town square.

Visit Kernie’s Familienpark

A family-friendly amusement park located within Wunderland Kalkar, offering rides and entertainment for all ages.

Shopping

Shopping at Kalkar Market

Explore the local market in Kalkar where you can find fresh produce, handmade goods, and more.

Outdoor

Explore Wisseler See

Enjoy a relaxing day by the Wisseler See, a popular lake in Kalkar where you can swim, sunbathe, or enjoy a picnic.

Cycling Tour through the Lower Rhine Region

Experience the beautiful landscapes of North Rhine-Westphalia with a cycling tour around Kalkar.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Kalkar.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

Not Available

Languages

German, Dutch, English

Average weather

Kalkar

Jan

4°-1°

Feb

5°0°

Mar

9°2°

Apr

13°4°

May

18°8°

Jun

21°11°

Jul

23°13°

Aug

23°13°

Sep

19°10°

Oct

14°7°

Nov

8°3°

Dec

5°0°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Kalkar.

What people love

Kalkar, located in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, is a charming town with a rich history and several attractions that make it a worthwhile destination for travelers. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Kalkar:

Kalkar Nuclear Power Plant: One of the most unique attractions in Kalkar is the Kalkar Nuclear Power Plant, which has been converted into a recreational park known as Wunderland Kalkar. Visitors can enjoy rides, restaurants, and other entertainment facilities in this repurposed nuclear plant.
Historic Architecture: Kalkar is home to several well-preserved historic buildings, including the St. Nicholas Church with its impressive Gothic architecture, the town hall (Rathaus) dating back to the 16th century, and the Kalkar Mill, a picturesque windmill.
Peaceful Atmosphere: Kalkar is a tranquil town with a relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of larger cities. Visitors can stroll through the town's cobblestone streets, relax in its charming cafes, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Proximity to Attractions: Kalkar is located in close proximity to other popular destinations in North Rhine-Westphalia, such as the city of Duisburg, the Rhine River, and the Dutch border. This makes it a convenient base for exploring the region.
Cultural Events: Throughout the year, Kalkar hosts various cultural events, festivals, and markets that give visitors the opportunity to experience local traditions and customs. These events provide a glimpse into the vibrant community life of the town.

Overall, traveling to Kalkar offers a unique combination of historic charm, cultural experiences, and a peaceful atmosphere, making it a delightful destination for visitors seeking a relaxing getaway in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany.

What to know

Kalkar is a small town located in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. While Kalkar has many charms and attractions, there are a few potential cons to consider when traveling there:

Limited accommodation options: Kalkar is a small town, so the range of accommodation options may be limited compared to larger cities. Visitors may find fewer choices in terms of hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals.
Limited dining options: Similarly, due to its size, Kalkar may have a limited number of restaurants and cafes compared to larger cities. Visitors looking for a diverse culinary scene may find their options restricted.
Limited public transportation: While Kalkar is well-connected by train and bus services, the frequency of these services may not be as high as in larger cities. This could potentially limit your flexibility in exploring the surrounding areas.
Limited nightlife and entertainment options: Kalkar is a quiet town, so visitors looking for vibrant nightlife and entertainment may find the options limited. The town may not have a bustling nightlife scene or a wide range of cultural events.
Language barrier: While many residents in Kalkar may speak English, the primary language spoken in the region is German. Visitors who do not speak German may face some communication challenges, especially in more rural areas.

Overall, while Kalkar offers a unique and charming experience, travelers should be aware of these potential cons to ensure they have a realistic expectation of what the town has to offer.

Kalkar is a town located in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, within the district of Kleve. Its history is rich and spans several centuries, reflecting its development from a medieval settlement to a modern town.

Early History

Founding and Medieval Period: Kalkar was founded in the early 13th century, around 1230, by the Count of Cleves. It quickly developed as a market town due to its strategic location near the Rhine River and became an important center of trade and commerce in the Lower Rhine region.

15th Century

Golden Age: The 15th century is often referred to as the "Golden Age" of Kalkar. During this period, the town flourished economically and culturally. It became known for its high-quality wool and linen products.
St. Nicholas Church: One of the most significant landmarks from this period is the St. Nicholas Church (St. Nicolai Kirche), which was completed in the late 15th century. The church is renowned for its late Gothic architecture and houses an impressive collection of medieval art, including altarpieces by the famous carver and painter Arnt van Tricht.

16th to 18th Century

Reformation and Religious Changes: The Reformation brought religious changes to Kalkar. The town was affected by the shifting religious landscape, which saw periods of Protestant and Catholic dominance.
30 Years' War: Like many towns in the region, Kalkar suffered during the Thirty Years' War (1618-1648), which brought destruction and economic hardship.

19th Century

Napoleonic Wars and Prussian Annexation: Kalkar, like much of the Rhineland, was influenced by the Napoleonic Wars. After the Congress of Vienna in 1815, it became part of the Kingdom of Prussia.
Industrialization: The 19th century also saw the beginnings of industrialization, although Kalkar remained primarily agricultural.

20th Century

World Wars: During World War I and World War II, Kalkar experienced economic difficulties and destruction. The town was heavily damaged during the latter stages of World War II.
Post-War Reconstruction: After the war, Kalkar was rebuilt. The town focused on preserving its historical heritage while modernizing its infrastructure.

Modern Era

Kalkar Nuclear Plant: One of the more controversial projects in the latter half of the 20th century was the construction of the Kalkar Nuclear Plant. Although completed, it was never put into operation due to political and environmental concerns. The site has since been converted into a leisure park known as "Wunderland Kalkar."
Tourism and Preservation: Today, Kalkar is known for its well-preserved medieval town center, including the historic market square, town hall, and St. Nicholas Church. It attracts tourists interested in history and architecture.

Important Landmarks

St. Nicholas Church (St. Nicolai Kirche): Famous for its Gothic architecture and art.
Historic Market Square: A focal point of the town with a blend of medieval and Renaissance buildings.
Kalkar Monastery: A former monastery that contributes to the historical landscape of the town.

Kalkar's history is a testament to its resilience and ability to adapt to changing times while preserving its rich cultural heritage. It remains a town where history and modernity coexist, providing a unique experience for residents and visitors alike.