Things To Do
in Hattingen

Hattingen is a picturesque town located in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, known for its charming medieval architecture and vibrant cultural scene. The town is situated on the banks of the Ruhr River, offering beautiful views and a serene atmosphere. Hattingen boasts a rich history, highlighted by its well-preserved old town, cobblestone streets, and historic buildings.

With a variety of shops, cafes, and parks, it is an ideal destination for both relaxation and exploration.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Old Town
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Old Town of Hattingen, where you can stroll through the charming streets and admire the half-timbered houses.

afternoon
:

Visit the Henrichshütte Industrial Museum to learn about the region's industrial history and enjoy a guided tour.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a relaxing walk along the Ruhr River to watch the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike at the nearby Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord, where you can explore the beautiful trails and industrial ruins.

afternoon
:

Return to Hattingen for a visit to the local market to sample regional delicacies and shop for handmade crafts.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional German beer garden, enjoying local brews and hearty fare while soaking in the lively atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍺Beer at a pub$4
🚍Public transportation ticket$2
🛒Groceries for a week$50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful medieval architecture and scenic landscapes.
  • Rich cultural heritage with various museums and events.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Limited options for nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Some attractions may have limited opening hours.
  • Public transport options may be less frequent in the evenings.
  • "Guten Morgen" - Good morning
  • "Danke schön" - Thank you
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ich hätte gerne..." - I would like...

Places to Visit in Hattingen

Visit one of these nice places.

Old Town Market Square

Capture the essence of Hattingen with its gorgeous historic buildings and bustling market atmosphere.

Ruhr River Promenade

A scenic spot along the river perfect for sunset shots and capturing the natural beauty of the area.

Henrichshütte Industrial Museum

Photograph the fascinating blend of nature and industrial heritage at this unique museum.

Culinary Guide

Food in Hattingen

Hattingen's culinary scene is a delightful blend of traditional German cuisine and modern influences, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

Hattingen Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Reibekuchen

Crispy potato pancakes often served with applesauce or sour cream.

Must-Try!

Sauerbraten

A pot roast, typically of beef, marinated before slow-cooking, served with red cabbage and dumplings.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Hattingen Weekly Market

A vibrant market held every Saturday, offering fresh produce, local cheeses, meats, and handmade goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Hattingen experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures range from 20-25°C (68-77°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 0°C (32°F). Rainfall is spread throughout the year, with slightly wetter conditions in summer and autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Germans value punctuality; being on time for appointments and social gatherings is expected.

Greetings

A firm handshake is the standard greeting, accompanied by eye contact to convey respect.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal and avoid talking with your mouth full; it's considered polite to keep conversations friendly and respectful.

Safety Guide

Safety

Hattingen is generally a safe town with low crime rates. However, as with any travel destination, it’s advisable to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas, and to secure personal belongings against pickpockets.

Tipping in Hattingen

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to round up the bill or leave a tip of around 5-10% at restaurants.

Payment Methods

While cash is widely accepted, credit and debit cards are also commonly used, especially in larger establishments.

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 exploring parks.

Summer

Summer is warm and lively, ideal for enjoying the local festivals, outdoor dining, and waterfront activities.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful fall foliage, and it’s a great time to explore the surrounding nature trails.

Winter

Winter can be cold and snowy, but the town is beautifully decorated for Christmas, creating a magical atmosphere.

Nightlife Guide

Hattingen at Night

Hattingen's nightlife is vibrant yet relaxed, with a variety of bars and pubs offering local brews and live music. Many venues host events like trivia nights, karaoke, and live performances. The atmosphere is friendly, making it easy to strike up conversations with locals and fellow travelers alike.

Hiking in Hattingen

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bergisches Land Trails

A network of scenic trails in the nearby Bergisches Land region, offering varied landscapes and beautiful views.

Ruhrtalweg

A long-distance hiking trail that follows the Ruhr River, providing picturesque routes suitable for day hikes.

Airports

How to reach Hattingen by plane.

Düsseldorf International Airport

Located about 40 km from Hattingen, this major airport offers numerous international flights and convenient transport links to the city.

Getting Around

Walkability

Hattingen is highly walkable, with narrow cobblestone streets in the old town that encourage leisurely exploration. Most attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance, making it easy to navigate without the need for a car.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Hattingen is home to many families attracted by the town's quality of life, parks, and educational facilities.

Young Professionals

An increasing number of young professionals are moving to Hattingen due to its proximity to larger cities like Düsseldorf and Bochum, drawn by job opportunities and a vibrant lifestyle.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is immensely popular in Hattingen, with local clubs participating in regional leagues.

Handball

Handball has a strong following, with local teams competing in various levels, showcasing the community's sports enthusiasm.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Hattingen is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bike. Public transportation includes buses that connect to nearby cities, but services may be less frequent in the evenings and weekends.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Hattingen.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Hattingen offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check menus in advance.

Gluten-Free Choices

While gluten-free options are becoming more common, it is recommended to inquire directly with restaurants.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Hattingen is accessible, with several clinics and hospitals available for both residents and visitors. Emergency services are prompt, and it is advisable to have health insurance that covers medical costs while traveling.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide