Geldern Street Art Festival
On the last holiday weekend in late August, 500 to 600 international street painters turn the town centre into a huge open-air gallery, complemented by street music, theatre and paint-on-walls.
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Geldern
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City
ℹ️Practical info — Geldern
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🌤 Weather — 5 days
📍 Nearby
Sights nearby
💡 Tips
- Rent a bike and cycle along the Niers river; the paths are completely flat and very scenic.
- Look out for the dragon symbol around town, which is tied to Geldern's founding myth.
- Free parking is usually available around the town hall (Stadtverwaltung) on weekends.
- Visit during the summer to experience the famous international street painting competition.
🍽 Food
🍽
Niederrheinische Kaffeetafel
Try this traditional Lower Rhine coffee table spread in cafes around the Marktplatz.
🍽
Altbier
Enjoy this regional dark beer in a cozy historic pub in the city center.
🍽
Spargel
Order fresh regional asparagus in spring at traditional German restaurants on the outskirts.
🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots
🛍
Wochenmarkt
Visit the weekly market on the Marktplatz for fresh local produce and specialties.
🛍
Glockengasse
Explore this characterful street to find small independent boutiques and local shops.
🧘
Rayerssee
Take a relaxing walk around this calm local lake, excellent for a short escape.
🧘
Schlosspark Haag
Wander through the peaceful park grounds surrounding the historic moated castle Haag.
Water temperature…
Highlights of 2026
1
Geldern is a significant town on the Lower Rhine, with a history deeply connected to the former Duchy of Guelders. Originally, it served as the residence for the Counts and Dukes of Guelders before the seat of power shifted to Arnhem. A unique aspect of its heritage is the Dragon Legend, which claims the city was founded where two brave lords slew a fire-breathing dragon; the dying creature's cry of 'Gelre!' reportedly gave the town its name. Today, Geldern is renowned as the 'City of Street Painting,' hosting a prestigious international competition every year that attracts artists from across the globe. The surrounding landscape is flat and water-rich, making it excellent for extensive cycling trips. Economically, the town is a vital service and trading hub for the Kleve district. Featuring historic architecture, pleasant public squares, and a wide array of educational facilities, Geldern has a high quality of life for residents of all ages.
- Location: North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
- Top sights: Haag Castle · Mühlenturm · Geldern Market Square
- Nearby: Straelen (9 km)
- Population: ~34.604
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 2 | 3 | 6 | 10 | 14 | 17 | 19 | 18 | 15 | 11 | 6 | 3 |
| Rain mm | 76 | 62 | 58 | 42 | 61 | 64 | 76 | 80 | 57 | 64 | 72 | 79 |
Geography
Facts
- First documentary mention in 812.
- Town privileges were granted in 1229.
- The municipal area covers about 96.91 km².
- The name Geldern likely originates from the cry 'Gelre'.
- Significant center for horticulture in the Lower Rhine region.
- Geldern is composed of eight administrative districts.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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Sights in the town Geldern (7)
Frequently asked questions
Why is Geldern called the 'Dragon City'?
The name is derived from a legend in which the city's founders slew a dragon that cried out 'Gelre!'.
What is the street painting competition?
An international summer event where artists from around the world transform the city center into a giant canvas.
Are there historical sights to see?
The Parish Church of St. Mary Magdalene and Schloss Haag, a moated castle with a golf course, are well worth seeing.
Is Geldern suitable for cycling tourists?
Yes, Geldern is located on several long-distance cycle paths and provides flat tours through the typical Lower Rhine landscape.
When is market day in Geldern?
The weekly market takes place every Tuesday and Friday in the market square, offering fresh regional products.
Geldern: where is it located?
Geldern is located in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany.
Geldern: what is there to see?
Highlights include Haag Castle, Mühlenturm, Geldern Market Square.
Geldern: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Geldern: why is it worth visiting?
Geldern is a significant town on the Lower Rhine, with a history deeply connected to the former Duchy of Guelders.
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