Krefeld
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Krefeld

Krefeld, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany

Discover Krefeld: Where Silk Meets Modernity on the Rhine Nestled on the western bank of the Rhine River, Krefeld, Germany, offers a unique blend of historical charm, artistic flair, and modern amenities. Once known as t…

#Krefeld#North Rhine-Westphalia#Germany#Historic city#Cultural events
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Krefeld.

Top Hotels in Krefeld

Top Flights to Krefeld

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Krefeld.

Tours

Krefeld Zoo Experience

Explore the amazing world of animals at Krefeld Zoo, featuring exotic species and a beautiful botanical garden.

Historic City Walking Tour

Discover the rich history and architecture of Krefeld with a guided walking tour through its scenic streets and landmarks.

Shopping

Shopping at Königstraße

Explore a variety of shops and boutiques in Krefeld's bustling shopping street, Königstraße.

Outdoor

RennFabrik Go-Karting

Unleash your inner speedster at RennFabrik with exciting go-kart races indoors.

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 Krefeld.

Currency
€ | EUR | Euro
Population
235,000
Languages
German, German
Average weather
Krefeld
Jan
cold
5°0°
Feb
cold
6°0°
Mar
cloud
10°2°
Apr
cloud
14°5°
May
sun
19°9°
Jun
sun
22°13°
Jul
sun
24°15°
Aug
sun
24°14°
Sep
cloud
20°11°
Oct
cloud
15°8°
Nov
rain
9°3°
Dec
cold
6°1°

Local guide

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

What people love

Krefeld, located in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, has several attractive features that make it a great travel destination. Here are some pros of traveling to Krefeld:

  1. Cultural Attractions: Krefeld is known for its rich cultural heritage, with numerous museums, galleries, and historic buildings to explore. The Museum Haus Lange and Museum Haus Esters are particularly popular among art enthusiasts.

  2. Botanical Gardens: The city is home to the beautiful Krefeld Botanical Garden, which showcases a wide variety of plant species and provides a peaceful oasis for visitors to relax and enjoy nature.

  3. Shopping and Dining: Krefeld offers a diverse range of shopping opportunities, from high-end boutiques to local markets. The city also boasts a vibrant culinary scene, with numerous restaurants serving up delicious German cuisine.

  4. Parks and Green Spaces: Krefeld is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a great destination for nature lovers. The Stadtwald Krefeld park is a popular spot for outdoor activities such as hiking and picnicking.

  5. Easy Access to Nearby Cities: Krefeld's central location in North Rhine-Westphalia makes it a convenient base for exploring other cities in the region, such as Düsseldorf, Cologne, and Duisburg.

Overall, Krefeld offers a mix of cultural, recreational, and culinary attractions that make it a worthwhile travel destination in Germany.

What to know

Krefeld, located in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, is generally considered a safe and pleasant place to visit. However, like any destination, it does have some potential cons that travelers may want to consider:

  1. Limited tourist attractions: Krefeld is not a major tourist destination compared to other cities in Germany, so visitors may find fewer famous landmarks or attractions to visit.

  2. Language barrier: While many locals in Krefeld can speak English, there may still be instances where communication can be challenging, especially in more rural areas or with older residents.

  3. Limited nightlife: Krefeld may not offer as vibrant a nightlife scene as larger cities like Berlin or Cologne, so travelers looking for a lively nightlife experience may be disappointed.

  4. Weather: North Rhine-Westphalia, including Krefeld, can experience cold and damp weather, especially in the winter months, which may not be ideal for some travelers.

  5. Limited public transportation: While Krefeld has a public transportation system, it may not be as extensive or efficient as in bigger cities, making it a bit more challenging to get around.

Overall, Krefeld may not offer the same level of excitement and variety of activities as other German cities, but it can still be a charming and relaxing destination for those looking to explore a less touristy area of the country.

Krefeld, located in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, has a rich and varied history that spans several centuries. Here is a detailed overview of its historical development, significant events, notable figures, and important landmarks:

Early History

  • Origins: The area around Krefeld has been settled since Roman times, but the town itself began to emerge in the medieval period. It is first mentioned in historical records in 1105.

Growth and Development

  • 16th Century: Krefeld experienced a significant influx of Mennonites from the Netherlands seeking religious freedom. This contributed to the town's growth and development.
  • 18th Century: The town prospered during this period, becoming a center for the silk and textile industry. This prosperity was largely due to religious tolerance that attracted skilled craftsmen and weavers.

Notable Historical Figures

  • Johann von der Leyen: A key figure in Krefeld's history, von der Leyen was instrumental in the expansion of the silk industry in the 18th century, helping to make Krefeld a leading center for textile production in Europe.
  • The von Beckerath Family: Prominent patrons of the arts and industry in Krefeld, they significantly influenced the cultural and economic landscape of the city.

Significant Events

  • Battle of Krefeld (1758): During the Seven Years' War, this battle was fought near Krefeld, where the Prussian army defeated the French forces. It was a significant event in the context of the war.
  • Annexation by Prussia (1815): After the Congress of Vienna, Krefeld became part of Prussia. This political change brought about modernization and industrial growth.

20th Century and Beyond

  • World War II: Krefeld was heavily bombed during the war, which led to the destruction of many historical buildings. The post-war period saw significant reconstruction efforts.
  • Economic Changes: The decline of the textile industry in the latter half of the 20th century led Krefeld to diversify its economy, focusing more on services and technology.

Landmarks and Cultural Sites

  • Castle Linn: A medieval moated castle that is one of the oldest structures in the area, now serving as a museum.
  • Haus Lange and Haus Esters: Designed by architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, these buildings are important examples of modern architecture and serve as venues for contemporary art exhibitions.
  • Krefeld Zoo: Known for its conservation efforts and diverse species, it is a popular attraction in the city.
  • Kaiser Wilhelm Museum: An important art museum that showcases works from various periods, reflecting the city's cultural heritage.

Modern Krefeld

Today, Krefeld is known for its cultural diversity and vibrant community life. It continues to celebrate its rich history while also embracing contemporary developments in art, industry, and technology. The city hosts various cultural festivals and events that draw visitors from around the region.

Krefeld's history is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of its people, having evolved from a medieval settlement to a modern urban center.