Things To Do
in Dortmund
Dortmund is a vibrant city located in the North Rhine-Westphalia region of Germany, known for its rich industrial history and modern cultural scene. Once a hub for coal and steel production, it has transformed into a center for technology and innovation. The city boasts a lively atmosphere, with numerous parks, museums, and a bustling nightlife.
Dortmund is also famous for its football culture, particularly as the home of Borussia Dortmund, one of Germany's most successful football clubs.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the renowned Museum Ostwall, which showcases modern art and features various exhibitions. Afterward, take a stroll through the Westfalenpark, a beautiful urban park with gardens and a scenic lake.
Visit the Reinoldikirche, a historical church dating back to the 13th century, followed by a lunch at the nearby Alter Markt, where you can enjoy local dishes. Spend the afternoon at the Dortmund U-Tower, a cultural center with fascinating exhibits.
Dine at the famous Wenkers am Markt, known for its local cuisine, and then head to the Dortmund Opera House to catch a performance or enjoy a drink in the city center.
Kick off your day with a visit to the Signal Iduna Park, home of Borussia Dortmund, where you can take a stadium tour. Afterwards, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Café Langen, famous for its pastries.
Spend the afternoon at the Phoenix See, a former industrial site turned scenic lake with walking paths and recreational options. Rent a bike or take a boat ride on the lake.
Conclude your visit with dinner at Restaurant DORTMUND, which offers a modern twist on traditional German dishes, then explore the local bar scene, particularly in the Kreuzviertel district.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at a mid-range restaurant | $15 |
| ☕Cappuccino | $3 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (5km) | $10 |
| 🚌Public transport ticket | $3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (per night) | $60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Vibrant nightlife and culinary scene.
- Excellent public transport and walkability.
- Weather can be unpredictable.
- Limited English proficiency in some areas.
- Public parks can be crowded during weekends.
- "Guten Morgen" - Good morning
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Haben Sie eine Speisekarte auf Englisch?" - Do you have a menu in English?
Places to Visit in Dortmund
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture stunning shots of one of Europe's largest football stadiums, especially during match days when the atmosphere is electric.
This expansive park features beautiful gardens, fountains, and the iconic Florianturm tower, providing numerous picturesque backdrops.
A former brewery turned cultural center, the U-Tower offers unique architectural shots and panoramic views of the city.
Food in Dortmund
Dortmund Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular fast food dish consisting of steamed and fried pork sausage served with curry ketchup.
Must-Try!
A dense, dark rye bread that is a staple in the region, often enjoyed with cheese or cured meats.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
An annual event featuring a variety of food trucks and stalls offering local and international street foods.
A bustling market where you can sample local delicacies and fresh produce in a vibrant atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Germans value punctuality highly, so arriving on time for appointments and social gatherings is essential.
A firm handshake is the standard greeting in both formal and informal settings, accompanied by direct eye contact.
Maintaining a moderate volume in public spaces, especially on public transport, is expected.
Safety
Tipping in Dortmund
Ensure a smooth experience
It is customary to round up the bill or leave a tip of around 5-10% for good service in restaurants.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash (Euros) is advisable for smaller vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect mild weather with blooming flowers, ideal for outdoor activities and park visits.
Warm temperatures attract locals and tourists to outdoor festivals, events, and lakeside activities.
A cooler season with stunning fall foliage, perfect for hiking and enjoying the local harvest festivals.
Cold and often snowy, winter is great for experiencing the festive Christmas markets and cozy indoor attractions.
Dortmund at Night
Hiking in Dortmund
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful park featuring walking trails, botanical gardens, and scenic views, perfect for a relaxing hike within the city.
Located just outside Dortmund, these trails offer stunning views and diverse landscapes, ideal for hiking enthusiasts.
Airports
How to reach Dortmund by plane.
Located about 10 km from the city center, Dortmund Airport serves primarily low-cost airlines and offers connections to numerous European destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Dortmund attracts a young and dynamic workforce, particularly in technology and creative industries.
The city is home to several universities, leading to a vibrant student demographic and a youthful atmosphere.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Dortmund is famous for its football culture, being home to Borussia Dortmund, one of Germany's top clubs, with a passionate fan base.
Handball is also popular in Dortmund, with local teams competing at various levels, drawing significant crowds.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dortmund.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Dortmund offer vegetarian dishes, often featuring seasonal vegetables and local ingredients.
Gluten-free options are becoming more common, especially in larger restaurants and cafés.