Xanten

A medieval riverside town on the Lower Rhine with exceptional Roman heritage, home to the reconstructed Roman Museum showing life in the ancient settlement of Vetera. The walled old town with twin spires of St. Victor's Cathedral and archaeological significance makes it fascinating for history enthusiasts.

Things to do

• Roman Museum — Explore reconstructed Roman buildings and artifacts from the ancient settlement of Vetera, including a bathhouse and weapons displays that illuminate life in this strategic Rhine garrison.
• St. Victor's Cathedral — Visit this Gothic masterpiece with distinctive twin spires that dominate Xanten's skyline, featuring intricate stonework and a serene interior with original medieval artwork.
• Xanten City Walls Walk — Stroll along the well-preserved medieval fortifications that encircle the old town, offering views of the Rhine and insights into the town's defensive history.
• Archaeological Park (APX) — Wander through open-air excavations and reconstructed Roman structures spread across 25 hectares, including temples, shops, and residential areas from the 1st century AD.
• Lower Rhine Museum — Discover regional history, medieval crafts, and Rhine shipping heritage in this local museum housed in a historic building near the cathedral.
• Rhine River Boat Tour — Take a scenic cruise along the Lower Rhine to view Xanten from the water and explore neighboring towns and natural landscapes.

Food to try

• Rheinischer Sauerbraten — This regional pot roast is marinated in vinegar and spices, slowly braised, and traditionally served with red cabbage and potato dumplings, reflecting Lower Rhine culinary traditions.
• Aal grün (Eel in Green Sauce) — Fresh-caught Rhine eel poached and served in a distinctive herb sauce made with parsley, chervil, and sorrel, a specialty of the river region.
• Pumpernickel — This dense, dark rye bread from the Lower Rhine region is hearty and slightly sweet, perfect for local cheese and cold meats.
• Xantener Wurst — Regional sausage specialties are smoked and grilled, often served at local markets and restaurants with mustard and dark bread.
• Rhine Fish Platter — Local restaurants offer fresh catches including pike, catfish, and perch prepared simply grilled or in butter, highlighting the river's bounty.

Local customs & good to know

• Plan visits around museum hours — Many attractions including the Roman Museum and Archaeological Park have seasonal hours, so check ahead and arrive early for best experience and fewer crowds.
• Respect the old town pace — Xanten is a quiet, contemplative medieval town where locals appreciate a slower pace—avoid loud behavior in the old town and cathedral areas.
• Learn basic German greetings — While some tourism staff speak English, using polite German phrases like 'Guten Tag' and 'Danke schön' is appreciated and enhances interactions with locals.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes — The old town's cobblestone streets and archaeological park require sturdy footwear, and many attractions are best explored on foot rather than by car.