Established around 2,000 years ago as a stopover between Lyon and Metz, Bitburg is a historic city in the German state of Rhineland-Palatinate. It was largely destroyed by Allied bombing during World War II and in 1952, it became home to the 36th Tactical Fighter Wing of the United States Air Force.
Things to do in Bitburg
Occupying a former monastery building is the Regional Museum of Bitburg-Prüm, which explores the cultural heritage of the region. It offers an insight into what life was like for farmers 100 years ago and displays archaeological findings dating back to prehistoric times. Traditional crafts and folk art are also on display and there’s a well-stocked library to peruse.
Nearby is Haus Beda, a cultural centre that hosts art exhibitions, live performances and educational workshops. Local and regional artists are showcased in its gallery spaces, including a significant collection of works by Fritz von Wille. Also on permanent display are sculptures and Roman mosaics from an ancient villa.
On the edge of Bitburg’s town centre is the Cascade Water Park, which features a swimming pool with waterfalls and jet stream canals. You can fly down the 55-metre-long Black Hole Slide and relax in the bubbling jacuzzi or do some laps in the 25-metre pool. The complex also boasts a Turkish steam room and three Finnish saunas, all of which are heated to different temperatures. Water gymnastics and aerobics courses are offered throughout the week.
Getting around Bitburg
Bitburg is around 30 minutes’ drive from Trier and 45 minutes from Luxembourg Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe. Regular trains connect to the Bitburg-Erdorf railway station, which is 10 minutes’ drive from the town centre. Buses also connect to Bitburg and the town is compact enough to explore on foot.