Xanten is a town where history feels unusually vivid, shaped by its Roman origins, medieval charm, and the peaceful landscapes of the Lower Rhine. It stands on the site of the ancient Roman city of Colonia Ulpia Traiana, one of the most important settlements on the empire’s northern frontier. For centuries, this was a bustling military and civilian center, complete with baths, temples, and an amphitheater. Today, the Archaeological Park Xanten brings this past back to life with reconstructed buildings, open‑air exhibits, and quiet paths that trace the outlines of the Roman streets. Few places in Germany offer such a tangible sense of antiquity.
The medieval town that later grew beside the Roman ruins developed its own distinct character. Xanten became a place of pilgrimage and religious significance, centered around the impressive St. Victor’s Cathedral, whose twin towers rise above the old town. Narrow lanes, traditional houses, and a relaxed market square preserve the atmosphere of a small Rhineland town that has evolved gently over the centuries.
Modern Xanten blends these layers of history with a calm, almost resort‑like quality. The Xantener Südsee and Nordsee lakes offer sailing, swimming, and long walks along the water, giving the town a surprisingly open, airy feel. Museums, local festivals, and the lively yet intimate old town add to its welcoming atmosphere.
Xanten is a place where Roman walls meet medieval spires, where archaeological landscapes sit beside lakes and cafés, and where the past feels close enough to touch. It offers visitors a rare combination of deep history and everyday tranquility, set within one of the most peaceful corners of the Lower Rhine.
The site exists in 15 languages
click on the flag below.
LVR-Archäologischer Park Xanten
One of Europe’s largest archaeological parks, featuring full-scale reconstructions of Roman houses, temples, and an amphitheater.
LVR-RömerMuseum
A major Roman museum presenting artifacts, architecture, and immersive exhibits on ancient life in Germania.
SiegfriedMuseum Xanten
A museum dedicated to the Nibelungen saga and the legendary hero Siegfried.
Xanten Chapter Museum
A cultural museum housed in historic ecclesiastical buildings near the cathedral.
Museum rund ums Geld
A unique museum exploring the history of money and currency.
Xantener Dom Cathedral
A monumental Gothic cathedral dominating the historic center.
Historische Altstadt Xanten
A beautifully preserved old town with medieval streets, cafés, and traditional façades.
Kurpark Xanten
A peaceful park with lawns, trees, and walking paths.
Gradierwerk im Kurpark
A salt-air inhalation structure offering a wellness experience in the open air.
Hafentempel im APX
A reconstructed Roman harbor temple within the archaeological park.
Kriemhildmühle
A historic windmill still in operation, offering traditional milling demonstrations.
Nordund Südwall
Remnants of Xanten’s medieval fortifications, now pleasant walking routes.
Marktplatz Xanten
The lively central square lined with cafés and historic buildings.
Römerstraße & Roman City Layout
Streets following the ancient Roman grid, visible throughout the town.
Xanten Hafen
A small harbor area with boats, restaurants, and riverside views.
Freizeitpark Xanten
A leisure area offering mini-golf, playgrounds, and family activities.
Xantener Südsee & Nordsee
Large recreational lakes ideal for swimming, sailing, and water sports.
Naturund Landschaftsschutzgebiete rund um Xanten
Protected natural areas perfect for hiking and cycling.
RömerWelt am Rhein
A Roman-themed experience center complementing the APX.
Xanten City Walks & Puzzle Trails
Interactive walking routes offering playful exploration of the town.
different websites
xanten.de (official portal)
xanten.de/tourismus-freizeit/b> (official tourism portal)
Bonn-macht-mit.de
GA.de (local newspaper)
Visit NRW.com (official travel portal)
Visit Deutschland.com (hopefully soon)
Visit Germany.com (hopefully soon)
Visit Europe.com (official travel portal)
