Private tour: Bonn Republic - Former government district

Bonn , Germany

Private tour: Bonn Republic - Former government district

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About this experience

How did the “Bonn Republic” come about?
Everyone knows that Bonn was once the capital. But how did it happen? Why this small, tranquil town on the Rhine and not the pulsating metropolis of Berlin?

The Basic Law is drawn up in Bonn:
After the end of World War II, Germany's cities lay in ruins. In Bonn, which got off comparatively lightly, attempts are being made cautiously to breathe new life into the ideologically and structurally destroyed country with a modern constitution and freely elected representatives.

Bonn becomes the seat of government:
But not only the constitution for post-war Germany was born in Bonn. Bonn also receives the provisional seat of government. The "Bonn Republic" is born.

The tour starts at the Museum Koenig and leads along the Adenauerallee, past the Federal Press Office to today's United Nations Square. The final stop is the Bundesbüdchen with a view of the high-rise buildings "Langer Eugen" and the Post Tower, which are characteristic of Bonn.

Available options

Private tour: Bonn Republic - Former government district

What's included

Exclusive for you and your group

Personal tour by local guide

Detailed itinerary

From the foyer of the museum we take a look into the former "Light Hall", which was converted in 1948 for the opening ceremony of the Parliamentary Council. For this purpose, all animal exhibits had to be removed from the hall, but the giraffe turned out to be too big for the exit.

In the distance you can see the residence of the first Federal President, Theodor Heuss. The aesthetic villa from the 19th century served as the first official residence of the Federal President until reunification. Since then, after Bellevue Palace in Berlin, it has continued to be an official second home.

Hidden behind fences and building barriers is Palais Schaumburg, another Wilhelminian villa, Konrad Adenauer's first chancellery. Since this address has been renovated since 2013, pictures of the building and its history are shown to compensate.

The larger-than-life head of Konrad Adenauer on Bundeskanzlerplatz won an artist competition in the 1980s because of its innovative design. As a photo motif, it invites you to stand next to the statesman "at eye level".

The building of today's ministry was originally built as a new chancellery for Helmut Schmidt. The spacious grounds are presented in the style of the 1970s with a modern sculpture in its inner courtyard.

In the architectural heart of the Bonn Republic is the Bundeshaus, a building complex that contained the former Bundesrat and Bundestag. With the construction of the new plenary hall and the World Conference Center, this campus changed into an international workplace.

The former kiosk of Konrad Adenauer, Helmut Kohl, Gerhard Schröder and Joschka Fischer is structurally unchanged and nevertheless in a new location. After the Büdchen had to give way to the Marriott Hotel and be transferred "in one piece" to a Bornheimer forwarding agency, it was allowed to return to the site in its entirety in 2020. The owner won a legal dispute with the city of Bonn and can therefore continue to offer his range of newspapers, sausages and coffee. A fitting final stop for the tour.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Not suitable for participants under 16 years

Meeting point

Proceed to the entrance of the Museum Koenig.

About Bonn

Bonn, located on the banks of the Rhine River, is a charming city known for its rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty. As the birthplace of Ludwig van Beethoven, the city offers a unique blend of historical landmarks, vibrant arts, and picturesque landscapes along the Rhine.

Top Attractions

Beethoven-Haus Bonn

The birthplace of Ludwig van Beethoven, this museum offers a deep dive into the life and work of the famous composer.

Historical 1-2 hours €7.00

Rheinauhafen

A modern harbor area with contemporary architecture, including the iconic Post Tower and the World Conference Center Bonn.

Architecture 1-2 hours Free to explore

Bonn Minster

A stunning Romanesque church with a rich history, offering beautiful architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.

Religious 30-60 minutes Free entry, donations welcome

House of the History of the Federal Republic of Germany

A museum dedicated to the history of Germany since 1945, offering interactive exhibits and a comprehensive overview of recent history.

Museum 1-2 hours €5.00

Botanical Garden of the University of Bonn

A beautiful botanical garden with a wide variety of plants, offering a peaceful escape from the city.

Nature 1-2 hours Free entry

Must-Try Local Dishes

Rheinischer Sauerbraten

A pot roast that can be made from a variety of meats, marinated in vinegar, wine, spices, and juniper berries.

Main dish Contains meat, can be adapted for dietary restrictions

Halve Hahn

A rye bread roll topped with a thick layer of double cream cheese, mustard, and onion.

Snack Vegetarian

Kölsch

A traditional German beer from the Cologne region, known for its crisp and refreshing taste.

Drink Contains gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking in Siebengebirge Cycling along the Rhine Boat tours on the Rhine Picnicking in the Botanical Garden Visiting Beethoven-Haus Exploring Bonn Minster Swimming in the Rhine Ice skating in the city center

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the best time to visit Bonn, with pleasant weather and numerous outdoor festivals and events. The Rhine River is particularly beautiful during this period.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: German
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

CET (GMT+1), CEST (GMT+2) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Bonn is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with unsolicited offers or requests

Getting there

By air

Cologne Bonn Airport • 15 km from city center

By train

Bonn Hauptbahnhof

By bus

Bonn Hauptbahnhof, Bonn-Bad Godesberg

Getting around

Public transport

The tram network is efficient and covers most of the city. It's a convenient way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Taxi Bonn, Free Now

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Bonn-Center Bad Godesberg Beuel

Day trips

Cologne

25 km • Half day to full day

Cologne is a vibrant city known for its stunning cathedral, rich history, and lively cultural scene.

Königswinter

10 km • Half day

A picturesque town near Bonn, known for its scenic views, hiking trails, and the famous Drachenfels hill.

Siebengebirge

15 km • Full day

A beautiful mountain range offering stunning views, hiking trails, and a peaceful escape from the city.

Festivals

Beethovenfest • September Bonn Christmas Market • December Bonn Jazz Open • May

Pro tips

Visit the Beethoven-Haus early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience
Take a boat tour on the Rhine for stunning views of the city and surrounding landscape
Explore the Botanical Garden for a peaceful escape and beautiful scenery
Attend a performance at the Bonn Opera for a cultural experience
Visit the Rheinauhafen for modern architecture and scenic views