Erkelenz dates back to the seventeenth century and was first documented during the time of Emperor Otto the Great. Bombed heavily during World War Two, Erkelenz was regenerated in the nineteen fifties. The town is close to the intersection of the medieval trade routes between Cologne and Krefeld Roermond-Aachen and as such is easily accessible by car. A bike friendly city, it is ideal for hiring a cycle to tour round to explore the surrounding scenery.

Some highlight attractions for tourists include the Rhineland Fire Museum and the Hohenbusch house, which was an ancient monastery first established in the twelfth century by the Crusaders. Tourists can also look at the medieval castle walls surrounding the city and the late baroque Haus Speiss. Further outside, the magnificent windmill in Immerath is also worth a look. For a break from the sight-seeing, visitors can also look to one of the many cafes and bars that offer traditional food in the town.