Krefeld

Leafy parks, elegant villas, and a rich textile heritage shape Krefeld, a city on the Lower Rhine that offers a quieter side of western Germany. Known as the "City of Velvet and Silk", it grew wealthy through the textile trade and still retains much of its refined character today. You can spend your time exploring art museums, wandering through expansive green spaces, or discovering traces of the city's industrial past woven into its streets. Krefeld suits you if you enjoy relaxed city breaks with history, culture, and plenty of room to slow down.

1. Explore Krefeld’s textile heritage

Krefeld’s identity has long been tied to the silk and velvet industries that brought prosperity to the city from the 18th century onwards. You can learn more about this history at local museums and historic buildings, where exhibitions trace how textile production shaped both the economy and the city's elegant architecture. Walking through the centre, you'll still notice grand villas built by wealthy textile merchants.

2. Relax in parks and gardens

Green space is a big part of life in Krefeld. You can stroll through Stadtwald, a large urban park with lakes, woodland paths, and open lawns, or visit the city's botanical gardens for a quieter afternoon. These areas provide a welcome contrast to the surrounding urban landscape and are popular with locals throughout the year.

3. Discover art and design

Krefeld has a surprisingly strong connection to art and design, particularly through the influence of the Bauhaus movement. You can visit museums dedicated to modern and contemporary art, including historic villas that now house collections and exhibitions. The city's cultural scene feels understated but rewarding, especially if you enjoy architecture and design history.