North Rhine-Westphalia

North Rhine-Westphalia (German Nordrhein-Westfalen) is the most populous state in Germany, with 17.5 million inhabitants, located in the west of the nation. It consists of two historically independent parts - Nordrhein and the urbanized area across the river Rhine in the southwest, and Westfalen in the northeast, which is quite diverse as it includes both the heavy industrialized and densely populated Ruhr|Ruhr Valley and the very green Teutoburg Forest.

The region contains several of the most-often visited cities of Germany, both for business and pleasure. Here you can find numerous headquarters of Germany's large and mid-sized corporations, European outposts of Asian and American multinationals, as well as world-renowned factories. Many of the globally important trade fairs take place in Düsseldorf and Cologne and the latter is also a major cultural centre. The beautiful historic city of Bonn was West Germany's de facto capital until 1990 and still contains many federal institutions, both governmental and cultural.

With the large population accumulated within a small area, as well as equally sizeable tourist traffic, North Rhine-Westphalia possesses the appropriate transportation infrastructure, with three major international airports and a very efficient - if sometimes overcrowded - railway and motorway network. NRW as it is frequently abbreviated, also contains the first "cycle highway" of Germany which is planned to grow to over 100 kilometers of fully grade separated extra broad cycle route.Accommodation and gastronomic opportunities are aplenty as well. There is always a lot going on and getting between destinations is easy and quick.

Regions of North Rhine-Westphalia

Bergisches Land Low mountainous region with lush green woods, rivers and grasslands; long-standing manufacturing cities.

Cologne Lowland Multifaceted cultural landscape on the River Rhine, several lively cities with millenium-old histories.

Eifel (North Rhine-Westphalia) Low mountain range with quaint river valleys and romantic small towns.

Lower Rhine Prosperous cities steeped in history and rural plains close to the Dutch border.

Münsterland Agricultural-dominated lowland with more than a hundred castles, palaces and manors; heartland of horse breeding, equestrianism and cycling.

Ruhr Germany's biggest urban agglomeration; formerly dominated by coal mining and heavy industry, now reinventing itself as a cultural metropolis with surprisingly green leisure areas.

South Westphalia Siegerland and Sauerland—rolling hills and low mountain ranges, one of Germany's northernmost skiing destinations, forest and lakes for hiking, cycling and camping.

Teutoburg Forest East Westphalia and Lippe—mix of lowlands and wooded rolling hills; presumptive site of a legendary fight between Romans and Teutons; historic towns, castles, monasteries and cathedrals.

Cities

• Düsseldorf — the state capital on the Rhine, known as the media and professional services hub
• Aachen — Capital of the Holy Roman Empire since the 8th century, under a Charlemagne
• Bonn — seat of government and de facto capital of West Germany 1949-1990/98 the "Bundesstadt" still has many federal and international institutions remaining and big city trappings you wouldn't expect from "a small city in Germany"
• Cologne — the fourth largest city in Germany is famous for its cathedral and location by the Rhine
• Dortmund – largest city of the Ruhr neighborhood, home of frequent Bundesliga champion Borussia Dortmund and transforming industrial centre
• Duisburg — the world's biggest inland harbour, spectactular at night
• Essen – centre of the Ruhr agglomeration, transforming from an industrial site into a cultural metropolis (European Capital of Culture of 2010)
• Münster — a historic city with a particularly bike-friendly infrastructure and population
• Paderborn — founded and frequented by Charlemagne, famous for its cathedral and ornate town hall* Wuppertal — with the vintage suspended monorail (Schwebebahn) over the river Wupper

More Destinations

The Middle Rhine Valley is traditionally considered to end in Bonn, although the demarcation is anything but dramatic. You may want to continue to explore the valley upstream to Rhineland-Palatinate when in North Rhine-Westphalia.

North Rhine-Westphalia Halal Explorer

Bergbaumuseum Bochum Blaue Stunde 2014 - Landmark of Bochum—the Pitheardtower of the German Mining Museum

North Rhine-Westphalia (often abbreviated to NRW) is a German state founded after World War II by British occupation authorities. The state capital is Dusseldorf while Cologne is the most populous city. It consists of, as the name indicates and the province Westphalia in the east and the northern Rhinelands in the west. The hyphen symbolizes the attempt to bind people and regions that are so very different and stands also for the gap between the ethnic groups. This gap runs from the southeast to the northwest for 283 kilometers across the state.

While the Rhineland is famous for its carnival and the "Rheinische Frohnatur" is a cliché throughout Germany and the Westphalians are said to be much more reserved and introverted. All over the state, but especially in its former industrial heart, migration has played a major role since at least the 19th century. Last names give an indication where much of the labor force came from when coal and steal built a nation and the stars of Schalke 04 during its glory days in the 1930s had names like Kuzorra or Szepan. Today the descendants of the earliest immigrants are hard to distinguish from people whose ancestors lived here even earlier, but new migrations of Turks, Italians and Yugoslavs after the war have left their mark on certain neighborhoods – not least in the ubiquitous (and delicious) Halal döner and Pizzas restaurants.

The geography is also varied from the Cologne "bight" (Kölner Bucht) that represents the southernmost reaches of the North German Lowlands to the moderately high mountain ranges that surround it, like the Eifel or the Sauerland. In general the north is flatter than the south and the west is more urbanized than the east.

In the middle of all aspects, geographic and ethnic, lies the Ruhr Area (Ruhrgebiet) and the name of the river at whose banks the region is situated. It arose during the past 150 years by immigrants from all over Europe but has strong roots in Westphalia and the Rhinelands as well. The region was and still is the heart of heavy industry in Germany, based on coal and steel. Although mining has mostly come to an end and the people strongly derive their identity from heavy industry. And there are still some successful manufacturers of specialist steel or products made from it. Car manufacturers like Opel in Bochum were once thought of as the replacement for heavy industries, but they are in the news more for threatened closures and layoffs than anything else. In the 21st century and especially with Essen pars pro toto for the Ruhr area being named European Capital of culture in 2010 gave a boost to the cultural scene in the region and put it on the map for something other than "rust belt" doom and gloom and helped right many inaccurate stereotypes about the region.

North Rhine-Westphalia has about 18 million inhabitants, which makes it the most populous state in Germany and the fourth largest in area. The Ruhr is the third or fourth largest urban region in the European Union, after London and Paris and either ahead or behind Madrid. Also, 34 of the 100 largest companies in Germany and 9 of the 100 largest European companies have their headquarter in North Rhine-Westphalia.

Local Language in North Rhine-Westphalia

In most large cities the regular Hochdeutsch is spoken everyday, due to the communities there being mixtures of local residents and immigrants from all parts of Germany, Europe and the world. The local dialects are mostly present in the form of unique vocabulary, otherwise you should find local German easy to understand (if you know any, that is).

In larger cities, English can be spoken by those performing service jobs, and chances are any person you encounter will speak at least basic English too. Do note, however, that this is not a rule and you may still encounter people, mostly seniors, who do not speak communicative English. In fact, English proficiency in the region is quite low compared to other regions despite the presence of economic centers like Düsseldorf and Cologne.

Travel to North Rhine-Westphalia

Buy a Flight ticket to and from North Rhine-Westphalia

North rhine w Airports.svg|Airports in the state of North Rhine Westphalia. Note that Frankfurt airport is not depicted as it is out of state

The major airports within North Rhine-Westphalia are:

• Düsseldorf Airport IATA Flight Code: DUS one of Germany's largest airports, with intercontinental flights, as well as connections to all major European cities and aviation hubs

• Cologne-Bonn Airport IATA Flight Code: CGN just an hour away from the former, very well connected to the rest of Germany, as well as Europe, with Flights to even smaller airports across the continent

• Dortmund Airport IATA Flight Code: DTM mostly used by low-fare carriers who want to pay lower fees than at the other two airports

• Weeze Airport IATA Flight Code: NRN Another popular option for low-fare lovers, it is however rather far from the main population centers.

Additionally, both Bonn, Cologne and Düsseldorf, as well as many other cities in the region, can be visited by a direct high-speed train from Frankfurt Airport.

Muslim Friendly Rail Holidays in North Rhine-Westphalia

Several ICE high speed lines go through the state, among them the Frankfurt Cologne mainline with speeds reaching 300 km/h. Regional trains are sometimes cheaper and often take more "scenic" routes that are too curvy for high speed trains. In the immediate border area with Belgium and the Netherlands (the Euregio) special discount tickets for local trains apply making day trips across the border very affordable indeed.

Travel on a Bus in North Rhine-Westphalia

see also: Intercity buses in Germany

There are a number of inner-German as well as international bus lines with stops in most major cities of the state. As the domestic market only became deregulated in 2012 and there is still a lot of change and routes may appear and disappear on relatively short notice.

By car

As this is the most densely populated state of Germany, numerous long distance Autobahnen run through this state and across the border crossing. Due in part to the high population density and they are however also prone to congestion, especially at the first and last weekend of major holidays or during rush hour.

How to get around in North Rhine-Westphalia

Public transport is very good with a high density. You need only one ticket for local, regional train RB and regional express trains RE (no high-speed trains, though their top speed is usually 160km/h [~100mph), light rail systems S-Bahn, metro (U-Bahn/Stadtbahn), trams/streetcars (Straßenbahn) and buses in the whole North Rhine-Westphalia. You don't need to purchase another ticket when you change from local train to bus, light rail and tram.

Example: You purchased a ticket from Aachen to Wuppertal for local, regional and express trains. With this ticket, you can use the monorail (Schwebebahn) and the city buses in Wuppertal.

What to see in North Rhine-Westphalia

Schloss Moyland Panorama, 1 - Schloss Moyland, one of the many castles of North Rhine-Westphalia

There is plenty to see and explore in the NRW. The most obvious recommendations are the large cities, with both rich history and bustling contemporary life, full of events, including the famous Carnival of Cologne. But if you want to escape from the hustle and bustle and the Eifel mountains in the southeast are a very different environment, peaceful, quiet and full of great sights. Aachen Gothic Church with parts of the building dating back to the 800s is well worth a visit. For more modern history check out the German Mining Museum in Bochum.

Top Muslim Travel Tips for North Rhine-Westphalia

The abundance of rivers provides for plentiful river cruising opportunities. Many local residents own boats and, as the Rhine is also connected naturally and via canals to many other major rivers and bodies of water, enjoy travelling around Europe's waterways at their whim.

North Rhine-Westphalia is also home to many sports clubs. Borussia Dortmund soccer club has been particularly successful in the 2010s.

Halal Restaurants in North Rhine-Westphalia

There is no particular North Rhine or Westphalian cuisine, but this doesn't mean you are not in for some culinary delights. Due to the abundance of ethnic minorities and there is a variety ethnic restaurants of all shapes and sizes - from the local Halal döner Kebabs stand to exquisity fine Arabian dining establishments.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to North Rhine-Westphalia

North Rhine-Westphalia - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to North Rhine-Westphalia, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for North Rhine-Westphalia. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in North Rhine-Westphalia and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to North Rhine-Westphalia. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to North Rhine-Westphalia. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations inNorth Rhine-Westphalia: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in North Rhine-Westphalia.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in North Rhine-Westphalia: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in North Rhine-Westphalia, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in North Rhine-Westphalia.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in North Rhine-Westphalia, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in North Rhine-Westphalia, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within North Rhine-Westphalia and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in North Rhine-Westphalia, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in North Rhine-Westphalia, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of North Rhine-Westphalia without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for North Rhine-Westphalia is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring North Rhine-Westphalia.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group North Rhine-Westphalia is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in North Rhine-Westphalia, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group North Rhine-Westphalia Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in North Rhine-Westphalia

eHalal Group North Rhine-Westphalia is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in North Rhine-Westphalia. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in North Rhine-Westphalia.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in North Rhine-Westphalia ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within North Rhine-Westphalia. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in North Rhine-Westphalia, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in North Rhine-Westphalia are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at realestate@halal.io

Muslim Friendly Hotels

As the area is densely urban and well-travelled by both business and leisure travellers and the accommodation base is plentiful and offers a wide choice, from exquisite boutique hotels in historic monuments, through efficient and comfortable business-oriented hotels down to small and cozy (and affordable) local Pensions.

Travel Next

• Lower Saxony forms a geographic continuum with Westphalia, and offers all kinds of attractions, both natural, historic and modern.
• Rheinland-Pfalz and Hesse are farther up the river Rhine, and you can get there by all means of transportation, including boats. Apart from beautiful natural landscapes and world-famous Cafes, you can also visit another major German city, Frankfurt, which has frequent and fast railway connections with Düsseldorf, Cologne and Bonn.
• Netherlands and Belgium border North-Rhine Westphalia, and there are many transportation options to get there, even for a day trip

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