Troisdorf: Culture, Nature and Trails along the Sieg

Troisdorf combines culture around Burg Wissem with nature experiences in Wahner Heide and along the Sieg. From museums, sensory stations, wildlife watching and walking trails to activities at Rotter See, there are many different reasons to explore the city. When looking for accommodation, consider whether culture, nature trails, water or a combination of these interests will shape your stay.

Burg Wissem: Local History and Discoveries

Burg Wissem is the landmark of Troisdorf. Since the early 1980s, the manor house has been home to the internationally renowned Picture Book Museum. The Museum of Troisdorf City and Industrial History (MUSIT) explores how rapid industrial development changed everyday life. Its traditional and interactive exhibitions show how life in Troisdorf has changed since 1800.

The coach house at Burg Wissem also serves a cultural purpose. Today, it hosts exhibitions, concerts, readings, cabaret and other cultural events. Around the castle is the sensory experience trail, initiated in 2002 by the Kreativ-Werkstatt Troisdorf. At fourteen stations, visitors can touch, smell, see and feel nature. Red deer and sika deer live in naturalistic enclosures at the wildlife park; you can watch the animals up close from the walking trail and the observation platform.

Wahner Heide and the Sieg meadows: Nature Trails with Distinctive Character

Wahner Heide is a nature reserve of European importance, covering around 50 square kilometres between Troisdorf, Cologne and Rösrath. About half of it lies within the boundaries of Troisdorf. Initial conservation efforts date back to the 19th century. Today, its varied landscapes are a popular local recreation area and a refuge for around 700 endangered animal and plant species.

At the Wahner Heide Portal by Burg Wissem, you can plan and set off on hikes or cycling tours through Wahner Heide and Königsforst. Visitors to Wahner Heide are required to stay on marked paths under the nature conservation rules in the Rhein-Sieg district.

The Sieg meadows also offer walking trails: many paths run through this designated nature reserve. Cyclists can ride along the Sieg dike and cycle paths to where the Sieg meets the Rhine at Mondorf. The destinations offer different experiences: one focuses on protected landscapes and walking trails, while the other follows a cycling route to the confluence.

Water, River and Activity

Rotter See offers swimming facilities, a water playground and a halfpipe for skating. Swimming is only permitted in the designated bathing cove; check the current bathing notices on site. The lake offers several ways to enjoy a stay by the water, while the swimming area is clearly defined.

The Fisheries Museum offers another perspective on the Sieg. It explores the cultural history of fishing along the lower Sieg and is located on an old branch of the river, on the boundary between Troisdorf-Bergheim and Niederkassel-Mondorf. The St. Adelheit cable ferry takes passengers from the Troisdorf side of the Sieg to the Bonn bank. The crossing takes less than two minutes and costs fifty cents per person. Check the current operating conditions in advance.

Golf is another activity to consider: West Golf’s 9-hole Academy Course in Kriegsdorf allows beginners without a course permit to play. Troisdorf’s offerings range from culture and nature trails to activities by the water and a round of golf.

The Wider Region: Rhein-Sieg District

Four regions are especially relevant to tourism in the Rhein-Sieg district: the Siebengebirge, the Sieg Valley, the Bergisches Land and the Rhein-Voreifel region. The Natursteig Sieg, Bergischer Weg and Rheinsteig are listed in the district as quality hiking trails, offering a wider regional perspective beyond Troisdorf.

Discover more destinations: Sankt Augustin, Wachtberg, Ruppichteroth, Swisttal, Bornheim, Adendorf, Much, Alfter.

Go to the regional travel overview: Rhein-Sieg district.