Things To Do
in Altena

Altena is a charming town located in the North Rhine-Westphalia region of Germany, known for its rich history and picturesque landscapes. The town is famous for its medieval Altena Castle, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Nestled in the scenic Lenne Valley, it serves as a gateway for outdoor enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.

Altena's friendly atmosphere and vibrant local community make it a hidden gem worth visiting.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historical Altena
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Altena Castle to explore its fascinating history and enjoy panoramic views of the town.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the old town and visit the local museum to learn about the region's cultural heritage.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional German restaurant, sampling local dishes and enjoying the cozy ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Take a leisurely hike in the surrounding Lenne Valley, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful scenery.

afternoon
:

Visit a local café for lunch, then explore the nearby nature trails and outdoor parks.

evening
:

Enjoy a quiet evening by the river, perhaps with a picnic or a visit to a local pub for drinks.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15-$25
Coffee$2-$4
🍺Local beer$3-$5
🚌Public transport ticket$2-$4
🏨Hotel per night$70-$120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural history and beautiful landscapes
  • Friendly and welcoming locals
  • Affordable cost of living
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Public transport can be infrequent
  • Some attractions may have limited hours
  • "Guten Morgen" - Good morning
  • "Danke schön" - Thank you very much
  • "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the toilet?

Places to Visit in Altena

Visit one of these nice places.

Altena Castle

Capture breathtaking views of the Lenne Valley from the castle's ramparts.

Old Town Square

A picturesque square with historical buildings and vibrant flowers, perfect for street photography.

Lenne Riverbank

The serene riverbank offers beautiful sunset views and reflections in the water.

Culinary Guide

Food in Altena

Altena offers a delightful culinary scene that emphasizes hearty German flavors and local ingredients.

Altena Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Reibekuchen

Crispy potato pancakes often served with applesauce.

Must-Try!

Sauerbraten

A pot roast, usually of beef, marinated before slow-cooking.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Altena Market

A weekly market featuring fresh produce, local cheeses, and baked goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Altena experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing and occasional snowfall. Summers are mild to warm, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Rain is common throughout the year, so it's advisable to bring an umbrella.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Germans value punctuality; being late is considered impolite.

Greeting

A firm handshake is the standard greeting when meeting someone.

Quiet Hours

Respect quiet hours in residential areas, particularly in the evening.

Safety Guide

Safety

Altena is generally a safe town with low crime rates. However, it's wise to take standard precautions, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night.

Tipping in Altena

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to round up the bill or leave 5-10% as a tip in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures with blooming flowers make it perfect for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather is ideal for hiking and enjoying local festivals.

Autumn

Fall foliage creates stunning landscapes, great for photography.

Winter

Colder temperatures might bring snow, offering a picturesque winter wonderland.

Nightlife Guide

Altena at Night

Altena's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities but offers several cozy pubs and bars where locals gather. Live music events and seasonal festivals contribute to the evening atmosphere, making it a friendly and welcoming experience for visitors. Don't expect nightclubs, but the local bars provide a great opportunity to enjoy German beer and mingle with locals.

Hiking in Altena

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hiking Trail to the Hohenstein

A scenic trail offering stunning views of the Lenne Valley and surrounding hills.

Lenne Valley Trail

A well-marked trail that follows the river, perfect for leisurely walks or more vigorous hikes.

Airports

How to reach Altena by plane.

Dortmund Airport (DTM)

Located about 40 km from Altena, this airport serves domestic and international flights, making it a convenient option for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Altena is a very walkable town, with most attractions, shops, and restaurants within easy walking distance. The compact layout and pedestrian-friendly streets make it easy to explore on foot, allowing visitors to soak in the local atmosphere.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Altena is home to many families who enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and outdoor activities.

Young Professionals

An increasing number of young professionals are moving to Altena for its affordable living and quality of life.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is very popular in Altena, with local clubs and events drawing community support.

Hiking

With its proximity to nature trails, hiking is a favored outdoor activity among locals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Altena is generally light, with a small-town feel. Public transportation options include buses, which connect to nearby towns and cities, making it easy to explore the surrounding area.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Altena.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check for meat stock in soups.

Gluten-Free

Some places accommodate gluten-free diets, but it's best to inform them in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Altena has access to basic healthcare facilities, including general practitioners and pharmacies. For more specialized care, residents may need to travel to nearby larger cities where hospitals and clinics are available.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide