Things To Do
in Holzwickede

Holzwickede is a small town in North Rhine-Westphalia, just east of Dortmund. It blends a quiet, green residential atmosphere with easy access to the Ruhr region's cultural attractions. Green spaces and strong transport connections make it a practical base for Ruhr-area exploration.

Visitors will find a relaxed pace, practical amenities, and opportunities to experience Westphalian hospitality.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and strong German coffee. Afterward, take a stroll through the charming streets of Holzwickede, where you can admire the traditional half-timbered houses. Make your way to the historic church, St. Martinus, to appreciate its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit the Holzwickede Museum to delve into the local history and culture, learning about the town's development over the years. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the nearby park, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of nature. After lunch, take a short walk to explore the local artisan shops, where you can find unique crafts and souvenirs.

evening
:

As the sun begins to set, dine at a traditional German restaurant, where you can indulge in regional specialties like schnitzel and sauerkraut. After your meal, enjoy a leisurely walk around the town square, taking in the sights and sounds of the evening. Conclude your day with a drink at a cozy pub, mingling with locals and soaking in the friendly ambiance.

day 2
Nature Walks and Scenic Views
morning
:

Begin your morning with a hearty breakfast, then gear up for a day of nature exploration at the nearby Emscher Park. Take a guided nature walk through the lush landscapes, where you can observe the diverse flora and fauna native to the region. Breathe in the fresh air as you enjoy the peaceful surroundings and stunning views.

afternoon
:

After your walk, find a beautiful spot for a packed lunch, soaking in the tranquility of the park. Spend the afternoon cycling along the picturesque paths, stopping to take photos of the scenic vistas and charming bridges. If you're feeling adventurous, consider trying out a boat ride on the Emscher River for a unique perspective of the area.

evening
:

As evening falls, head back to Holzwickede and treat yourself to dinner at a riverside restaurant, enjoying delicious fish dishes. Warm up with a hot drink as you reflect on the day’s adventures, surrounded by the gentle sounds of the river. If time allows, take a night stroll through the peaceful park, enjoying the twinkling stars above.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
Coffee$2-4
🛏️Hotel room (mid-range)$70-120 per night
🛍️Groceries per week$40-70
🚆Public transit day pass$6-10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Excellent rail and road links to Dortmund and beyond
  • Cheaper, quieter base with easy access to Ruhr culture
  • Limited nightlife within Holzwickede itself
  • Small-town amenities compared to larger cities
  • "Guten Tag" - Hello/Good day
  • "Bitte" - Please
  • "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 Holzwickede

Visit one of these nice places.

Holzwickede Town Center at Golden Hour

A mix of traditional and modern storefronts with soft evening light that highlights architectural textures.

Riverside and Parks

Paths along local green spaces and rivers provide tranquil compositions and opportunities for landscapes and candid street photography.

Nearby Dortmund Skyline Viewpoints

Short trips to Dortmund offer cityscape shots across parks or river bends, especially at sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Holzwickede

Holzwickede sits in the Ruhr region where hearty German cooking and simple cafés are common. Expect comforting dishes, seasonal specials, and casual dining that pairs well with local beers and regional pastries.

Holzwickede Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Grünkohl mit Pinkel

A classic North Rhine-Westphalia dish of kale simmered with Pinkel sausage, traditionally served with boiled potatoes or sausage on the side.

Must-Try!

Pfefferpotthast

A robust peppery pot roast, slow-cooked with onions and spices, a staple during colder months.

Kartoffelsalat mit Würstchen

Cold or warm potato salad paired with sausages, a common side dish at local eateries and picnics.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Holzwickede Weekly Market

A local market offering fresh produce, bread, cheeses, and ready-to-eat snacks on market days.

Dortmunder Markets

Weekend markets in nearby Dortmund with street food stalls, regional specialties, and artisanal goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Holzwickede experiences a temperate maritime climate with moderate summers, cool winters, and rainfall spread throughout the year. Average highs in summer are typically in the low 20s Celsius, while winter daytime temperatures hover around 0–5°C. Rain is common year-round, so packing a lightweight rain jacket is wise. Snow is possible but not guaranteed in winter.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Say Guten Tag or Hallo; a handshake is common when meeting someone new.

Politeness and Punctuality

Be punctual for appointments; use formal address 'Sie' with strangers, and maintain quiet in public spaces.

Safety Guide

Safety

The town is generally safe for visitors. Common-sense precautions apply: keep valuables secure in crowded places, be mindful at night in unfamiliar areas, and use well-lit routes. In case of emergencies, dial local emergency numbers or seek assistance at nearby Dortmund facilities.

Tipping in Holzwickede

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In Germany, service charges are usually included; it is customary to round up the bill or leave 5-10% for good service.

Payment Methods

Cash and cards (EC/debit, credit cards) are widely accepted; contactless payments common in shops and eateries.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm days and long evenings; occasional showers. Ideal for outdoor markets, park strolls, and lakeside picnics.

Autumn

Crimson and gold foliage; comfortable temperatures for hiking and photography, with shorter days.

Winter

Cool to cold days; possible frost and light snow. Cozy cafés and Christmas markets in the region offer warmth and charm.

Spring

Milder weather and budding trees; good for nature walks and outdoor dining as terraces reopen.

Nightlife Guide

Holzwickede at Night

Holzwickede itself has a quiet, small-town nightlife with cozy pubs and cafés; the nearby city of Dortmund offers a wide range of bars, clubs, live music, and nightlife districts just a short train ride away.

Hiking in Holzwickede

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Ardey Hills (Ardeygebirge)

Forest-covered hills with scenic viewpoints and gentle to moderate trails, ideal for day hikes from Holzwickede.

Ruhr River Trail segments

Riverside paths along the Ruhr provide flat to rolling terrain with pleasant scenery for walkers and casual cyclists.

Airports

How to reach Holzwickede by plane.

Dortmund Airport (DTM)

A regional airport located near Holzwickede offering domestic and some international flights; easy access by road and rail.

Düsseldorf International Airport (DUS)

Major international hub about an hour by train/drive, offering broad destinations and efficient connections to the Ruhr area.

Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN)

Another accessible option with many European routes; convenient for trips to the Rhineland.

Getting Around

Walkability

Holzwickede is fairly walkable within the town center and nearby parks; however, for bigger city sights you’ll rely on a short train ride to Dortmund. The surrounding green spaces offer pleasant, car-light walking and cycling routes.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

A family-friendly town with parks, schools, and local events.

Students/Young Professionals

Many residents commute to Dortmund and nearby universities or businesses.

Diversity

A mix of locals and residents with varied backgrounds, including international residents.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Fußball (Soccer)

A favorite pastime across the region; local clubs and nearby Dortmund’s football scene offer fixtures and fan culture.

Cycling

Long-distance cycle routes and forest trails are popular for leisure and commuting.

Handball

Part of the broader German sports culture; community clubs offer amateur leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

The Ruhr region has good highway access (A44, A45) and reliable rail connections to Dortmund; expect peak-hour traffic around Dortmund on weekdays and some road work during the year. Public transport is robust, with regional trains and bus services connecting Holzwickede to Dortmund and surrounding towns. Parking in town centers is relatively available, with some paid options in busy periods.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Holzwickede.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many menus offer meat-free options; look for staple dishes like Kartoffelsalat or vegetable-forward plates, and ask for vegan adaptations where available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Germany has a strong healthcare system. Visitors with international health insurance can access care in Dortmund or through local general practitioners in Holzwickede. Emergency services and pharmacies are readily available; carry a European Health Insurance Card if you’re eligible.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide