Things to Do in Siegen: Upper Town, Castles & More

Two castles, a world-famous painter born in the city and an upper town with a view: Siegen has more to offer for a city break than many people expect. The highlights are close together and easy to explore on foot, ideal for a weekend, also combined with the green Siegerland region all around.

Upper Castle: views and Rubens

High above the town, the Upper Castle sits enthroned on the Siegberg hill. It was the ancestral seat of the House of Nassau and is now home to the Siegerland Museum. Its most famous connection: Peter Paul Rubens, born in Siegen in 1577, to whom the museum dedicates original paintings. The climb is doubly worth it: at the top, art and regional history are joined by the castle park and one of the best views over the rooftops of Siegen.

Lower Castle: Baroque in the heart of town

The second castle lies right in the upper town: the Lower Castle, once the residence of the Protestant line of the House of Nassau-Siegen, shapes the townscape with its Baroque grounds. Today it is used by the University of Siegen, and students have noticeably brought the area to life. From the “Dicker Turm” tower to the castle square, it is a fine piece of history in stone.

The upper town: Krönchen, lanes and market square

Siegen's historic core stretches out between the two castles. The town's landmark shines from above: the “Krönchen”, the golden crown on the tower of St. Nicholas' Church, whose medieval hexagonal nave is unique in Germany. Around the market square and the old town lanes, cafés, small shops and student life mix. Distances are short but hilly, so comfortable shoes pay off.

Green Siegerland: nature on your doorstep

Siegen is one of the greenest cities in Germany, with forests and ridges starting practically at the edge of town. Hikers use the city as a base for exploring the Siegerland and its panoramic trails. For a romantic weekend in North Rhine-Westphalia, the combination of castles, old town and nature is an underrated tip, without the prices and crowds of the classic destinations.

Where to stay: 50 metres from the main station

It hardly gets more convenient: ADAPT Apartments Siegen are just 50 metres from the main station, perfect if you arrive by train and a great starting point for the walk up to the upper town. The 102 apartments offer fully equipped kitchens, free washing machines on the 2nd floor and Wi-Fi, and guest satisfaction is at 90 percent. If you want to combine the city and the Siegerland, you stay centrally and flexibly here, bookable by the day and around 15 percent cheaper than the competition.

Frequently asked questions

What should you not miss in Siegen? The Upper Castle with the Siegerland Museum and its view, the Lower Castle, St. Nicholas' Church with the Krönchen and the lanes of the upper town.

What does Siegen have to do with Rubens? Peter Paul Rubens was born in Siegen in 1577, and the Siegerland Museum in the Upper Castle shows original works.

Is one day enough for Siegen? For the highlights, yes. Add a hike in the Siegerland and it becomes a rewarding weekend.

Where is the best place to stay? Centrally at the main station: ADAPT Apartments are 50 metres away.

Author: Mandy Reimann, COO ADAPT Apartments