Things To Do
in Oberhausen

Oberhausen is a vibrant city located in the heart of the Ruhr area in Germany, known for its rich industrial heritage and modern attractions. It features the massive CentrO shopping mall, one of the largest in Europe, along with cultural landmarks like the Gasometer, an impressive former gas storage facility converted into an exhibition space. The city is well-connected by public transport, making it easy to explore both its urban and natural landscapes.

Oberhausen serves as a gateway to various cultural experiences, including theaters, museums, and parks.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Gasometer, where you can experience stunning exhibitions and panoramic views from the observation deck.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at CentrO and then head to the Oberhausen City Museum to learn about the local history and culture.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional German restaurant, followed by a stroll through the nearby Kaiserpark for a relaxing end to your day.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Leisure
morning
:

Begin your day with a walk in the beautiful Oberhausen Botanical Garden, where you can enjoy a variety of plant species and serene landscapes.

afternoon
:

Visit the Sea Life Oberhausen to explore fascinating marine life, followed by lunch at a nearby café.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a movie at the CineStar cinema in CentrO, and grab dinner at one of the many international restaurants in the area.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$12-$25
Coffee$3-$5
🚇Public transport ticket$3
🍺Pint of beer$4-$6
🏨Hotel night$80-$150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and industrial history.
  • Diverse culinary offerings.
  • Excellent public transport connectivity.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Some areas may feel less tourist-friendly.
  • Weather can be unpredictable.
  • "Guten Morgen" - Good Morning
  • "Danke schön" - Thank you very much
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Ich hätte gern..." - I would like...
  • "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me

Places to Visit in Oberhausen

Visit one of these nice places.

Gasometer

An iconic landmark with a stunning view from the top, perfect for capturing panoramic shots of the city.

Kaiserpark

A beautiful park with well-maintained gardens and waterways, ideal for nature photography.

CentrO

The massive shopping mall offers unique architectural lines and vibrant scenes, especially during the evening.

Culinary Guide

Food in Oberhausen

Oberhausen offers a diverse culinary scene that reflects its multicultural population, making it a great destination for food enthusiasts.

Oberhausen Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Currywurst

A popular German fast food dish consisting of steamed and fried sausage, served with curry ketchup.

Must-Try!

Rheinischer Sauerbraten

A pot roast of beef marinated in a mixture of vinegar and spices, traditionally served with red cabbage and dumplings.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Oberhausen Street Food Market

A vibrant market featuring a variety of food trucks and stalls offering both local and international cuisines.

Climate Guide

Weather

Oberhausen has a temperate oceanic climate, characterized by mild summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures can reach up to 24°C (75°F), while winters can drop to around 0°C (32°F). Rainfall is fairly distributed throughout the year, so it's advisable to carry an umbrella regardless of the season. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant with moderate temperatures and beautiful scenery.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Germans value punctuality; always aim to be on time for appointments and social gatherings.

Quiet in Public Spaces

Maintain a moderate volume in public transport and public spaces to respect others.

Greetings

A firm handshake is customary when meeting someone for the first time, along with polite greetings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Oberhausen is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as in any urban area, it is advisable to stay alert, especially in crowded places and at night. Keep your belongings secure and avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas.

Tipping in Oberhausen

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to round up the bill or leave around 10% in restaurants, but service charges are often included.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild temperatures, making it a great time for outdoor activities and park visits.

Summer

Warm weather allows for outdoor festivals and events, but it's advisable to stay hydrated.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful foliage; enjoy the seasonal markets and cooler temperatures.

Winter

Winter can be cold, but the Christmas markets add a festive charm, and indoor attractions are plentiful.

Nightlife Guide

Oberhausen at Night

Oberhausen has a vibrant nightlife scene with a mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues. CentrO houses several pubs and restaurants that stay open late, offering a variety of atmospheres from relaxed lounges to energetic dance floors. The local crowd enjoys a blend of international and local music, and themed nights are common, making it a lively spot for both locals and visitors.

Hiking in Oberhausen

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Rhein-Herne Canal Trail

A scenic trail along the canal, perfect for walking and cycling with beautiful views of the waterway.

Emscher Park Trail

This trail takes you through a transformed industrial landscape, featuring parks, nature reserves, and cultural sites.

Airports

How to reach Oberhausen by plane.

Düsseldorf International Airport (DUS)

Located approximately 40 km from Oberhausen, this major international airport offers numerous flights to various destinations across Europe and beyond.

Getting Around

Walkability

Oberhausen is relatively walkable, especially in the city center where most attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are common, making it easy to navigate on foot. However, some areas may require public transport or cycling to reach more distant attractions.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

A growing number of young professionals are moving to Oberhausen due to job opportunities in various industries.

Families

Oberhausen is home to many families, attracted by the city’s amenities, parks, and schools.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a very popular sport in Oberhausen, with local clubs such as Rot-Weiß Oberhausen having a dedicated fan base.

Handball

Handball also enjoys popularity in the region, with several local teams competing in national leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Oberhausen is manageable, with peak hours typically occurring during morning and evening commutes. Public transportation includes buses and trams, which are reliable and cover most areas of the city. Bicycling is also a popular option, with dedicated bike lanes available in many parts of the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Oberhausen.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Oberhausen offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, especially in international cuisine.

Gluten-Free Options

Look for gluten-free pizza and pasta options at various Italian and pizzeria restaurants.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Oberhausen is of high quality, with multiple hospitals and medical facilities available for residents and visitors. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and most doctors and hospitals have English-speaking staff. It is advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers medical expenses while abroad.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide