Things To Do
in Dorsten

Dorsten is a charming town located in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, known for its rich history and scenic landscapes. The town boasts a mix of modern amenities and historical architecture, including remnants from the medieval period. Dorsten is well-connected to other major cities, making it a convenient base for exploring the region.

With beautiful parks and a vibrant community, it offers a pleasant atmosphere for both residents and visitors alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historical Dorsten
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the St. John's Church, a beautiful Gothic structure dating back to the 14th century. Following this, take a stroll through the Old Town to admire its quaint streets and historical buildings.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a local café, visit the Westfälisches Pferdemuseum, a museum dedicated to the history of horses in Westphalia. Finally, take a leisurely walk along the Lippe River to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

evening
:

For dinner, enjoy traditional German cuisine at a local restaurant. End your day with a drink at one of the cozy bars in the town center.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Dorstener Stadtwald, a lovely forest ideal for walking and enjoying nature. Bring a picnic to enjoy amidst the trees.

afternoon
:

Explore the local art scene by visiting local galleries and studios, and don't miss the Dorstener Kunstverein. Take a break at a nearby café for some coffee and cake.

evening
:

For your final evening, dine at a restaurant known for its regional specialties, followed by a stroll through the town, soaking up the local atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍺Local Beer$4
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2
🏨Hotel (per night)$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural history and architecture
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and parks
  • Friendly and welcoming local community
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Public transport may have limited schedules in rural areas
  • Not widely known among international tourists
  • "Guten Morgen" - Good morning
  • "Danke schön" - Thank you
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Haben Sie eine Speisekarte auf Englisch?" - Do you have a menu in English?
  • "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Dorsten

Visit one of these nice places.

St. John's Church

An architectural masterpiece with intricate details, perfect for capturing stunning photos of Gothic design.

Lippe River

The picturesque river provides beautiful natural settings and scenic landscapes, ideal for nature photography.

Old Town Square

A charming square featuring historical buildings and vibrant local life, perfect for candid shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Dorsten

Dorsten offers a delightful culinary experience with a mix of traditional German dishes and local specialties. Visitors can enjoy hearty meals, unique flavors, and a variety of dining options.

Dorsten Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kohl und Pinkel

A traditional dish from the region, consisting of kale cooked with a type of sausage known as Pinkel.

Must-Try!

Reibekuchen

Potato pancakes that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, typically served with apple sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Dorsten Weekly Market

Held every Wednesday and Saturday, this market offers fresh produce, local delicacies, and handmade crafts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Dorsten experiences a temperate oceanic climate with mild summers and cool winters. Average temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) in summer to around 0°C (32°F) in winter. Rainfall is fairly distributed throughout the year, with late spring and early autumn being the wettest periods. It's advisable to bring an umbrella regardless of the season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Germans value punctuality; being on time for appointments or social gatherings is considered respectful.

Respect for Personal Space

Maintain a respectful distance during conversations and avoid overly familiar gestures unless invited.

Quietness in Public Spaces

It’s customary to keep noise levels down in public areas, particularly in restaurants and on public transport.

Safety Guide

Safety

Dorsten is generally considered a safe town, with low crime rates. However, standard safety precautions are advised, such as being aware of your surroundings and not leaving personal belongings unattended. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Dorsten

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to round up the bill or leave a tip of about 5-10% for good service in restaurants.

Payment Methods

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

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild weather, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Summer is warm and lively, ideal for enjoying festivals and outdoor dining, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful foliage, making it a picturesque time for photography and hiking.

Winter

Winter can be cold and snowy, but the town's festive decorations create a cozy atmosphere, especially during the holiday season.

Nightlife Guide

Dorsten at Night

Dorsten offers a relaxed nightlife scene with a variety of bars and pubs for socializing. While there are no large clubs, the local establishments provide a cozy atmosphere for enjoying drinks and music. Many bars host live music events, and it's common to find gatherings in the Old Town square, especially during weekends.

Hiking in Dorsten

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hiking Trail at Lippeauen

This scenic trail along the Lippe River offers beautiful views and diverse wildlife, making it a great spot for nature lovers.

Kreuzweg Trail

A well-marked hiking trail that takes you through forested areas and open fields, suitable for both casual walkers and experienced hikers.

Airports

How to reach Dorsten by plane.

Düsseldorf Airport (DUS)

Located approximately 50 km from Dorsten, Düsseldorf Airport is the nearest major international airport, offering numerous connections to cities across Europe and beyond.

Getting Around

Walkability

Dorsten is quite walkable, with most attractions located within a short distance from each other. The town center features pedestrian-friendly streets, making it easy to explore shops, cafes, and historical sites on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and there are plenty of green spaces for relaxing walks.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many families reside in Dorsten, attracted by its safe environment and good schools.

Young Professionals

An increasing number of young professionals are moving to Dorsten due to its connectivity and affordable living costs.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Dorsten, with local clubs and teams fostering community spirit through matches and events.

Handball

Handball enjoys popularity in the region, with clubs for both youth and adults, providing opportunities for competition and recreation.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Dorsten is generally manageable, with the main roads well-maintained. Public transportation options include buses that connect to nearby towns and cities. Cycling is a popular mode of transport, and there are designated bike lanes in many areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Dorsten.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it’s advisable to check the menu or ask staff for options.

Gluten-Free Options

Some establishments provide gluten-free alternatives; however, it is recommended to confirm with the staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Dorsten are accessible, with several clinics and a hospital providing a range of medical services. Pharmacies are also available throughout the town for over-the-counter medications. In case of emergencies, the local hospital is equipped to handle urgent medical needs.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide