Things To Do
in Dortmund
Dortmund is a dynamic city in the Ruhr region of North Rhine-Westphalia, blending a proud industrial heritage with a modern cultural scene. It is renowned for football fervor, innovative museums, and green spaces along the Ruhr and local lakes. The historic Altstadt around Reinoldikirche and Alter Markt is lively with cafés, markets, and street life.
With compact neighborhoods like Kreuzviertel and excellent rail links, Dortmund is easy to explore on foot or by bike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and aromatic coffee. Afterward, stroll through the historic center, marveling at the stunning architecture of the Dortmund U tower and the grand St. Reinold's Church. Take a moment to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as locals go about their morning routines.
Visit the Museum of Art and Cultural History, where you can delve into the rich history of Dortmund through its diverse exhibits. After exploring the museum, wander through the adjacent Hansaplatz, where you can enjoy lunch at one of the nearby eateries offering traditional German cuisine. Spend some time shopping at the local boutiques or relaxing in the beautiful park nearby.
As the sun sets, head to the lively neighborhood of Kreuzviertel, known for its eclectic mix of bars and restaurants. Enjoy a delicious dinner at a cozy Brauhaus, sampling local brews and hearty German dishes. Cap off your evening with a nightcap at a rooftop bar, where you can take in panoramic views of the city skyline.
Begin your day with a visit to the German Football Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the history of the country's beloved sport. Explore the interactive exhibits that celebrate Dortmund's rich football culture and its passionate fans. Afterward, enjoy a light breakfast at the museum café, surrounded by fellow football enthusiasts.
Travel to the historic Zeche Zollern, a former coal mine that has been transformed into a museum showcasing the region's industrial history. Take a guided tour to learn about the mining processes and the lives of the workers while marveling at the impressive architecture of the site. For lunch, find a nearby restaurant that serves hearty local dishes, perfect for refueling your energy.
Return to the city and enjoy dinner at a traditional German restaurant, sampling local specialties such as Sauerbraten or Bratwurst. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the Dortmund waterfront, where you can enjoy the peaceful ambiance and the reflections of city lights on the water. Wind down your evening at a local pub, enjoying some live music and the warm hospitality of the locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🚆Public transit day pass | $7-12 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $2-5 |
| 🍺Beer at a bar | $4-7 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a day | $8-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent accessibility and compact city center for walking
- Rich industrial heritage blended with modern culture and football passion
- Weather can be variable with frequent rain
- Sights are spread across neighborhoods, requiring some transit time
- "Guten Tag" - Hello / Good day
- "Danke schön" - Thank you
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
Places to Visit in Dortmund
Visit one of these nice places.
Medieval square framed by the Reinoldikirche and town hall; best in morning light and bustling with activity.
Industrial-heritage building with modern art, murals, and urban textures ideal for architectural photography.
Expansive green space with reflective lakes, vibrant gardens, and iconic tower shots.
Contemporary lakeside promenade with stylish promenades and sunset reflections.
Hilltop viewpoint above the Ruhr valley offering sweeping landscape photos and historic ruins nearby.
Food in Dortmund
Dortmund Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty kale dish with Pinkel sausage, a winter staple often enjoyed with potatoes.
Must-Try!
Heaven and earth: mashed potatoes with apple sauce and black pudding, a classic Westphalian combo.
Peppery Westphalian beef stew, typically served with mustard and bread.
Westphalian cured or grilled ham, common in markets and casual dining.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market around Reinoldikirche offering fresh produce, regional specialties, and street snacks.
A lively stretch with vendors serving sausage, pretzels, crepes, and kebabs.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Being on time is valued in business and social contexts; plan travel accordingly.
Greet with a firm handshake and say 'Guten Tag' or 'Hallo' in casual settings.
Respect personal space; keep voices moderate in public and quiet spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Dortmund
Ensure a smooth experience
Rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants; larger tips are appreciated for exceptional service.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Some small vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days and budding parks; pack a light jacket and enjoy city gardens, markets, and outdoor cafés.
Warm weather, outdoor festivals, and lakefront activities; stay hydrated and explore parks and riverside paths.
Colorful foliage and cooler temps; great for city walks and market strolls with cozy cafés on hand.
Chillier with possible rain or snow; enjoy Christmas markets around Alter Markt and warm interiors.
Dortmund at Night
Hiking in Dortmund
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic hill trail with Ruhr valley views and nearby historic ruins.
Accessible lakeside routes suitable for easy hiking and picnics.
Riverside hikes along the Ruhr connecting multiple towns and parks.
Airports
How to reach Dortmund by plane.
A small international airport with direct European connections; easy access by train or taxi.
Major hub about 60-70 minutes away by rail; many international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Several universities and colleges attract a dynamic student population.
A growing tech and service sector draws a youthful workforce.
Many neighborhoods are family-friendly with parks and good schools.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Borussia Dortmund is a flagship club; matchdays are hearty and electric at Signal Iduna Park.
Local clubs host competitive matches in the Ruhr area.
City leagues and venues support basketball events and games.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dortmund.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places offer vegetarian options; look for dishes labeled vegetarisch or ask for 'ohne Fleisch' (without meat).