Spring has arrived in Germany, while Cape Town is still battling the rainy season. As Bonn prepares for its much-anticipated Cherry Blossom Festival, I wanted to share some tips on how to navigate the crowds and fully enjoy this enchanting event. The festival typically takes place in early April, around the 5th and 6th, depending on when the cherry trees bloom. Planted in the 1980s, these cherry trees add natural beauty to Bonn’s urban landscape. For more insights, check out my previous post here: Bonn’s Cherry Blossom Festival.

Arrive Early

Bonn’s Cherry Blossom Festival attracts large crowds, and the narrow cobblestone streets in the Old Town (Altstadt) can get congested quickly. To enjoy the festival without feeling overwhelmed, aim to arrive early. While I didn’t avoid the crowds entirely, getting there before peak times made it easier to explore and appreciate the festival.

Use Public Transport

During my visit to Bonn with my friend Anastasia, we opted for the train from Essen. Public transport in Germany is reliable and convenient, and the train station is a short walk from the festival area. Avoid driving, as access to the festival area is restricted, and parking can be challenging.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Cobblestones combined with large crowds can make walking difficult. Opt for comfortable shoes, such as sneakers or boots, rather than stilettos. This will help you navigate the uneven streets and enjoy the festival without worrying about getting your heels stuck.

Dress Warmly

Even though it’s spring, Bonn’s weather can be unpredictable. Don’t be fooled by the cherry blossom displays in shop windows—bring a warm jacket and check the weather forecast before heading out. The festival often occurs during chilly weather, so be prepared.

Respect the Cherry Trees

While I didn’t witness anyone damaging the trees, it’s important to avoid climbing or harming them. In contrast to festivals like Washington DC’s Cherry Blossom Festival, where tree climbing might occur, in Germany, such actions could lead to fines. Enjoy the beauty of the cherry blossoms responsibly.

Charge Your Devices

The Cherry Blossom Festival offers fantastic photo opportunities. From capturing the picturesque blend of historic Old Town buildings and pink cherry blossoms to snapping shots of the vibrant atmosphere, ensure your devices are fully charged. And remember to look up—low-hanging branches can catch you off guard!

Capture Diverse Photos

Make sure to take photos from various angles—close-ups of the blossoms, selfies, shots of the crowd, the Altstadt sign, and the sky through the branches. These diverse perspectives will help you remember the festival’s beauty and charm.

Explore the Stalls

The festival features numerous stalls selling clothes, books, knick-knacks, and food. I found a cute dress for just 2 euros! Carry cash in smaller denominations, as German vendors prefer not to give out large amounts of change.

Consider Visiting at Another Time

If crowds aren’t your thing, consider visiting Bonn’s cherry blossoms outside of the festival dates. The trees bloom before and after the festival, and you can enjoy a quieter experience. My friend Maria, who lives in Bonn, prefers to admire the blossoms without the festival’s hustle and bustle.

Explore Bonn

While you’re in Bonn, take time to visit other attractions such as the town hall, main square, Mozart’s House, and Schloss Drachenburg—a charming castle. For a break from German cuisine, try Vapiano, an Italian restaurant where you can watch your food being prepared and customise your dishes.

Read more: Bonn Region Tourism Congress

Thank you for reading! Feel free to leave a comment or reach out if you’re interested in collaborating or just want to chat.

Happy travels!