Things To Do
in Dortmund
Dortmund is a vibrant city located in western Germany, known for its industrial history and modern cultural scene. The city is home to landmarks such as the Reinoldikirche and the Dortmund U-Tower, which offer insights into its rich heritage. Dortmund is also famous for its beer culture, with local breweries serving up traditional brews like Dortmunder Export.
The city's green spaces, like Westfalenpark and Rombergpark, provide peaceful escapes for residents and visitors alike.
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please/You're welcome
- "Guten Morgen" - Good morning
- "Auf Wiedersehen" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café. Afterward, take a stroll through Westfalenpark and enjoy the morning fresh air.
Visit the iconic Signal Iduna Park and learn about the history of Borussia Dortmund. Take some time to explore the nearby shops and grab lunch in the area.
Dine at a traditional German restaurant and try some local specialties. End your day with a leisurely walk along the Phoenix Lake, enjoying the sunset.
Visit the Museum of Art and Cultural History to immerse yourself in the local art scene. Spend some time appreciating the unique exhibits.
Head to the Old Market Square and enjoy lunch at one of the many outdoor patios. Explore the historic buildings surrounding the square.
Experience Dortmund's nightlife by visiting a local bar or brewery. Engage with locals and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural history and vibrant arts scene
- Strong economy and job opportunities, especially in technology and manufacturing
- Famous for its passionate football culture, especially with Borussia Dortmund
- Excellent public transportation system
- Proximity to other major European cities for travel
- Beautiful parks and green spaces throughout the city
- Weather can be quite gloomy with frequent rain
- Higher crime rates in some areas compared to other German cities
- Cost of living is gradually increasing in popular neighborhoods
- Limited international airport options for long-distance travel
- Some areas may feel less appealing or underdeveloped
- Language barrier for non-German speakers
Best Activities in Dortmund
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A large public park with beautiful gardens, playgrounds, and a peaceful atmosphere for outdoor activities.
Explore the Dortmund Zoo, which offers outdoor spaces and animal encounters for a fun and educational experience.
Enjoy outdoor activities like walking, cycling, or simply relaxing by the scenic Phoenix-See lake in Dortmund.
Tours
Uncover the best of Dortmund with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Dortmund
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck
Known for its beautiful scenery and photo opportunities, especially during flower festivals
Provides a stunning view of the surrounding area and the Ruhr Valley
Food in Dortmund
Dortmund Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential German street food, consisting of steamed, then fried pork sausage, served with curry-flavored ketchup and a sprinkle of curry powder. A must-try dish that you can find at iconic stalls like Curry & Co. and Bratwursthaus.
Must-Try!
A dense, dark rye bread, traditionally found in the Westphalia region. Enjoy it at bakeries like Bäckerei Hoberg and Bäckerei Knollmann, often served with local cheeses and cold cuts.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Dortmund better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit the bustling Alter Markt for a diverse range of street food stalls, offering everything from traditional German snacks to global flavors. Don't miss the local bratwurst and freshly baked pretzels.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Dortmund, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, especially in formal situations. Remember to address people using their titles and last names if you are meeting them for the first time.
Germans in general, including those in Dortmund, value punctuality. It is important to arrive on time for appointments, meetings, and social gatherings.
Germans, including residents of Dortmund, prefer to maintain a certain amount of personal space when interacting with others. Be mindful of respecting individual boundaries in social situations.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Dortmund with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Dortmund
Ensure a smooth experience
In Dortmund, Germany, tipping is generally expected in restaurants, bars, and for taxi services. A common practice is to round up the bill or leave a 5-10% tip as a sign of appreciation for good service.
Cash is widely accepted in Dortmund, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used for payments. Contactless payments are becoming increasingly popular, and many establishments, including restaurants and shops, accept mobile payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Dortmund.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a beautiful time to visit Dortmund with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. The city comes alive with outdoor activities and cultural events.
Summer in Dortmund is a lively and bustling time with plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures. It's perfect for enjoying outdoor festivals, beer gardens, and exploring the city's green spaces.
Autumn brings a colorful transformation to Dortmund as the leaves change and the city's parks become a picturesque setting for leisurely strolls. The weather is still pleasant, and it's a great time to experience local traditions and seasonal foods.
Winter in Dortmund offers a festive atmosphere with charming Christmas markets, ice-skating rinks, and cozy cafes. The city's cultural scene thrives during this season with concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions.
Dortmund at Night
Hiking in Dortmund
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large forested area offering various marked trails for hiking. Ideal for nature walks and enjoying the quiet of the woods.
A scenic spot with hiking trails that lead through beautiful landscapes, ideal for both short walks and longer hikes.
A loop trail around the famous football stadium offering a unique urban hiking experience, combining city views with nature.
A popular lakeside spot with walking paths around the water, perfect for hiking and enjoying picturesque views.
A historical hill offering trails with stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the Ruhr valley.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Dortmund through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Dortmund by plane.
The main international airport serving Düsseldorf, located approximately 60 km from Dortmund.
An international airport serving the Cologne/Bonn region, located around 80 km from Dortmund.
An international airport located about 90 km northwest of Dortmund, serving the Munster and Osnabrück areas.
One of the largest international airports in the world, located approximately 200 km south of Dortmund.
The city's own international airport, serving mainly regional flights, but also some international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Dortmund consists of German citizens.
A significant demographic group in Dortmund, which has historical roots and cultural ties to Turkey.
Includes individuals from countries such as Poland, Romania, and other Eastern European nations.
Includes a growing number of residents from Middle Eastern countries, particularly Syria and Iraq.
An established demographic group with historical immigration from Italy.
Includes citizens from various Western and Southern European countries.
A smaller demographic group representing countries such as Vietnam and China.
Represents a smaller portion of the population with individuals from various African countries.
The Soul of Dortmund
Discover the essence of Dortmund through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Dortmund is home to Borussia Dortmund, one of the most successful football clubs in Germany. The sport enjoys immense popularity, with the Signal Iduna Park being one of the largest stadiums in Europe.
Handball is also popular in Dortmund, with the local club, VfL Eintracht Hagen, competing at high levels. The sport enjoys a strong following in the region.
Basketball has a growing community in Dortmund, with the BBT Dortmund being a notable team in the league system. The sport attracts fans and has youth programs to foster talent.
Dortmund has a significant ice hockey following, primarily through the local team, the Dortmunder Eisadler, who compete in various leagues and engage the community.
Athletics is widely practiced in Dortmund, with many local clubs promoting various track and field events. The city hosts several competitions and training events throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dortmund.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Dortmund provides a variety of vegetarian and vegan-friendly eateries, such as Kaktusblüte, offering innovative plant-based dishes and treats.
Several restaurants in Dortmund cater to gluten-free diets. It's advisable to inquire about gluten-free options when dining out, and many places are accommodating to special dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Dortmund with these cultural adventures.
