Bonn, Germany is the place to visit in 2020 with the 250th anniversary of Ludwig van Beethoven’s birth taking center stage. Bonn is the birthplace of Beethoven, and this charming city has been putting his legacy in every detail. Streetlights shine in his image, and many historic locations and museums have been renovated to feature large collections about the famed composer. So, it’s clear that Bonn is a hot destination in 2020. But where should you stay when you visit to celebrate Beethoven? Well, that depends on your preferences. Do you prefer luxury or convenience? So, we’re here to give you two perfect options for your trip.
Steigenberger Grandhotel & Spa Petersberg
The Steigenberger Grand Hotel & Spa Petersberg is the best place to stay near the Bonn area if you are looking for a historical experience with a breathtaking view. This gorgeous hotel offers distinct luxury fit for a queen, quite literally. It sits high above the Rhine Valley, offering a serene view of the river and the boats cruising by. And while it has a lot of history, it absolutely doesn’t look like an old building, as it was renovated recently. In fact, it looks stunning and modern.
But what is so amazing about this place is that it has hundreds of years’ worth of history. Though the hill it sits on has plenty of history of its own, the Petersberg hotel was first opened to the public in 1892. It changed hands many times moving from private owners to the head of the 4711 cologne company to the government. After the Second World War, it was used as a headquarters for the Allied High Commissioners. In 1949, it was here where the Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany, Dr. Konrad Adenauer, signed the “Petersberg Agreement”, which restored much of the sovereignty of the Republic of Germany. Many congressional meetings and international officials were treated here throughout this time, as well.
Since the agreement, the hotel has hosted many more famous dignitaries including Queen Elisabeth II, many American presidents, and the Shah of Iran. In 1978, the government of the Republic of Germany purchased the Petersberg to create a new official residence for state guests.
It reopened in 1990 with gorgeous, new modern decor. The Clintons stayed in the new presidential suite on the premises many times, as well. The hotel also offers many ballrooms, restaurants, bars, and beautiful views both inside and out with a large amount of modern art. The art truly stands out and steals the show from any modern art-lover’s perspective.
You should absolutely stay here for at least one night and take advantage of the opportunity to reside like guests of the state do. The building has 103 rooms and 9 suites, including the presidential suite which are all furnished with mesmerizing pieces of art. There are conference rooms for up to 1000 people, a swimming pool, and a fitness area. This is the place to stay if you want luxury and don’t mind taking a car for twenty minutes to get down into the city to celebrate Beethoven.
Hotel Collegium Leoninum
While the Steigenberger Grandhotel & Spa Petersberg is definitely grand, it is rather a far distance away from the center of Bonn. If you are looking to stay immersed in Bonn to participate in all things Beethoven 2020, then you may want to find a place to stay that is much closer in town. The Hotel Collegium Leoninum is perfect for that. It’s an easy six-minute walk from the train station, is right next to many charming eateries, and is less than a ten minute walk from the Beethoven Haus, the University, many museums, the old capital building, and the plaza. In fact, a nice 30-minute walk around the hotel can take you all around the best inspiration points of Beethoven to celebrate his 250th anniversary this year and give you a charming view of the Rhine river from the promenade.
The rooms are also very comfortable, warm, and spacious. Plus, there is plenty of closet space, large restrooms, and a nice desk space to work in. So, you get comfort here in a much more convenient location. And, as mentioned, there is a lot of history surrounding the location here, as well.
So, if you’re looking to visit Bonn for Beethoven’s 250th anniversary, which we highly recommend doing, consider giving one of these two great hotels a try. Both are comfortable and full of history. Be sure to choose the Steigenberger Grandhotel & Spa Petersberg if you want a luxury view high above the Rhine; and if you’re looking to be down in the city for all the Beethoven festivities, be sure to choose the Hotel Collegium Leoninum. And have a fantastic time in Bonn learning all about the inspirations of Beethoven.
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