drachenfels

Upon arrival, you have the choice to either hike up the mountain (30 minutes walk approx.) or ride their tram-like vehicle (with a fee). We decided to take the tram up the hill for the new experience. It is a little expensive for a 5 minute ride, however it was something new. When you get to the top, you will be overwhelmed by one of the most amazing views. One side, you see the beautiful mountains, on the other side you see the beautiful Rhine going through the town. Words isn't enough to describe how beautiful the view is. At the top, there is a restaurant/café with big large glass windows on which you will be able to enjoy the views while having a cup of coffee. The only downfall at the restaurant was that the menu is too small and expensive. However, if you would love a brilliant lunch, walk 10 minutes down the mountain and you will find a pub-like restaurant which serves delicious food. Amongst the things to see in are the castle, a museum and a reptile zoo. We decided to walk down the mountain and the hike just didn't seem enough as you just don't want your day to end. It is definitely amazing and it is worth going to this hidden gem.Near the attraction, is the train station. Trains to and from bonn and koln are available. We came from Koln and it took about 45 minutes to get there. (but again its worth it).There is also a sea life aquarium located near the river rhine so if you have time after your hike, you may also want to visit it. Overall, Konigswinter is beautiful, quiet, little town and Drachenfels is their top attraction for sure.

We visited Drachenfels as something to do on a Sunday in Germany when a lot of things were closed. The hike took us less than the 40 minutes signposted and was not so difficult (I also don't consider myself to be overly fit!). The views along the way and at the top were well worth it and the cafe was friendly and a good place for a well-earned break. There isn't too much to see of the castle itself but overall a nice walk if you're looking for a Sunday morning trip from Cologne/Bonn/Düsseldorf, as well as being completely free if you don't take the train.

A nice, but challenging walk to the castle ruin. Once on top you have a magnificent view on the Rhine river.

We love it here. Taking the retro train up to the top, enjoying the views and then working our way down, there's wonderful countryside and landscapes to take in. It can be hard work for older people or disabled people though. The "grotto"-style display of creatures is a little gruesome and disappointing as it quite run-down.

All in our party loved walking up Drachenfels, the old ruins are great to see and the views are incredible. I will absolutely visit again as this place is the best thing I have seen in Germany so far.

This is apparently where all the Scandinavians go when they come to the Rhine, so expect it to be busy. The hike up is a bit strenuous but certainly manageable if you go slow and the views along the way are fantastic as you look out over the Rhine valley. The castle itself is a ruin but a neat one and you can walk all around it and get an even better view from the top of the still standing tower. There is a new cafe/visitor's center here that looks out over the valley and it's nice to have a pastry and drink. There is a funicular that goes up to the top so that you don't have to climb, but the hike is worth the effort. This isn't the place to go if it is rainy or over-cast. Pick a nice day and make a morning hike out of the adventure.

this place is close to Dusseldorf and a nice day out can be planned. close to the station is the tram station for a nice ride up the mountain. this place offers excellent view of the Rhine and the areas near by. on the way is the castle and the reptile zoo so its all in one. the park offers great walk in nature.

Beautiful views of the Rhine from the old castle ruins above. Many photo ops around the existing ruined structure. Rode the tram up then walked down to Drachenfels. The flowers were beautiful in the Fall. Agree with Polly M. wear comfortable walking shoes as some of the paths are uneven and steep. Off the beaten tourist path, but definitely worth seeing. Visited in October 2012.

The majesty of the Rhine is apparent from the crest, and the cafeteria at the top if the railway is good quality. It's possible to walk up, but we rode! Choose good weather for the views, and wear good shoes as it's a steep path up to the summit and the ruins. More interpretive panels would be good.

Get out into the fresh air and walk in the woods! Around most corners there is a great view and friendly walkers who will certainly say 'tag to you.

We enjoyed the trip up the mountain on the rack railway. The views at the top are superb, and the walk down is well marked with plenty of interest on the way down.

At first , I thought it would be wise to take the train going up, but we then decided to just walked. I t was fun and the summer weather was awesome. Great place on top they have a big restaurant, where you can enjoy a dinner, or just a beer or just even an ice cream. The toilets are free and are all clean, a little bit tight but the most important was it was with enough water and it was maintained clean.

I spent with my family and extended family amazing time at this mountain top place, its lovely, iconic and overall a great experience. You get there on a vintage tram, which squeaks and rattles up the mountain, and we reach the top, there is a rather long ascending walk, which the my kids loved, and there a couple of cafes up there, which are good for the basic stuff, but don’t expect exceptional quality. The staff is friendly and helpful. There is another uphill walk to the Dragon’s cell/den, which the kids had a blast at. Overall, lovely mountain top attraction that I would recommend to anyone. Have fun and be sure to take the iconic "falling" photo...

As we arrived ,we just missed the oldest railway train track ride in Germany , thought that we would have to wait ages for the next train we bought some little presents from the kiok ,then the train was there.Went all the way to the top first ,absolutely a high spot lovely views of the Rhine ,Bonn etc.There is a castle ruins but it looked such a trail to walk to , we didn't see the ruins near just in the trees to take home a lovely photo.Back on the train down and walked up to this Fairy Tale Castle never seen any building so old so immaculate. We could not read the information signs in the rooms but one of the guides noticed that we where English and gave us something to read in English.We didn't have enough time on that day .I definitely think you need half a day and that's just up the mountain not including the town of Konigswinter to which we didn't have time to see.

Make sure it is a good clear day. Try buying tickets at your hotel in advance for discount. Cafe at top which is very pleasant. Take binoculars with you.