Things To Do
in Wickede
Wickede is a small town in North Rhine-Westphalia tucked along the Ruhr corridor, offering a tranquil, community-focused atmosphere with easy access to larger cities. The town sits beside the Ruhr river and surrounding green spaces, providing pleasant riverside strolls and bike routes. Its compact center features historic streets, local shops, and welcoming cafés that reflect Westphalian hospitality.
Visitors can enjoy a laid-back vibe with convenient day trips to Dortmund, Soest, and the Sauerland foothills.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by wandering through the charming streets of Wickede, where you can admire the beautiful half-timbered houses that date back centuries. Visit the local bakery to enjoy a fresh pastry and a cup of coffee. Take your time to visit the quaint shops that showcase local crafts.
In the afternoon, head to Wickede's historic church, St. Nikolaus, to explore its fascinating architecture and historical significance. Afterward, treat yourself to lunch at a local restaurant, sampling traditional German cuisine. Spend some time relaxing in the nearby park, enjoying the serene ambiance.
As the sun sets, stroll along the banks of the Ruhr River for a scenic view of the twilight sky reflecting on the water. Choose a cozy local pub for dinner, where you can try out regional beers and hearty dishes. End your day with a leisurely walk through the town, taking in the peaceful night atmosphere.
Begin your nature day with a refreshing hike in the Ruhr Valley, surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque landscapes. Pack a hearty breakfast to enjoy amidst the trees, soaking in the tranquility of the natural surroundings. Don't forget your camera, as the views are undeniably Instagram-worthy.
After hiking, you can take a bike ride along the Ruhr River, exploring the scenic bike paths that offer stunning views of the valley. Stop for a picnic by the riverbank, where you can relax and watch the boats pass by. If time permits, visit the local wildlife sanctuary to see native animals in their natural habitat.
Return to Wickede and unwind at a local restaurant that offers outdoor seating with views of the surrounding nature. Enjoy a delicious dinner while sharing stories of your outdoor adventures. Conclude the day by stargazing in a quiet spot, appreciating the beauty of the dark night sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥖Bread/ bakery item | $2-3 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚆Local transit ticket | $2-3 |
| 🏨Hotel per night (mid-range) | $80-140 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, walkable town with easy access to larger urban centers
- Strong Westphalian culinary and cultural traditions
- Beautiful river and nature routes nearby for outdoor enthusiasts
- Limited nightlife within Wickede itself; needs travel to nearby cities for broader options
- Small-town amenities may require short trips for some services
- Seasonal weather can be variable with frequent rain
- "Guten Tag" - Good day / Hello
- "Danke schön" - Thank you
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Ich hätte gern…" - I would like…
- "Zahlen Sie mit Karte oder bar?" - Do you take card or cash?
- "Könnten Sie das bitte wiederholen?" - Could you please repeat that?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Wickede
Visit one of these nice places.
Long, reflective riverside views ideal for sunrise and golden-hour photography, with gentle trails lining the water.
Historic streets and timber-framed buildings provide classic Westphalian character and charming street photography opportunities.
A village church with a distinctive facade and tower views that work well for architectural shots.
Water vistas with reed beds and quiet birds; a peaceful spot for landscape photos and wide-angle shots.
Food in Wickede
Wickede Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Greens braised with sausages (Pinkel) and roasted potatoes; a classic winter dish commonly enjoyed in the region.
Must-Try!
Dark, dense rye bread served with various toppings or as part of hearty meals; perfect with regional cheeses and meats.
A traditional Westphalian dish pairing mashed potatoes with apple sauce and black pudding for a sweet-savoury balance.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal produce, breads, cheeses, and small prepared foods from local producers; great for fresh ingredients and local snacks.
Nearby markets offering street food stalls, ready-to-eat options, and regional specialties on market days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Guten Tag' or 'Guten Morgen'; be punctual for appointments and reservations.
Maintain moderate noise in cafes, buses, and residential areas; avoid loud conversations late at night.
Appreciate local customs and dress modestly in religious sites; remove hats indoors when required.
Safety
Tipping in Wickede
Ensure a smooth experience
Rounding up the bill or adding 5-10% for good service is customary in restaurants. For casual cafés, a small tip or rounding up is common.
Cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants; contactless payments are common. Keep some cash handy for smaller vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with occasional showers; landscapes come alive with fresh greens and blooming trees.
Warm days with long evenings; ideal for outdoor dining, riverside walks, and cycling, though occasional thunderstorms can occur.
Harvest colors and crisp air; good lighting for photography and forested hikes, with more frequent rain.
Cold days with potential frost or light snow; cozy cafés, Christmas markets in nearby towns, and serene landscapes.
Wickede at Night
Hiking in Wickede
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic riverside paths with gentle elevation, ideal for easy hikes and photography at varied times of day.
Water-side trails around the reservoir offering expansive views and birdwatching opportunities.
Short to moderate hikes in the nearby hills for panoramic viewpoints and forest scenery.
Airports
How to reach Wickede by plane.
Small regional airport within convenient reach of Wickede, with domestic and some European flights and taxi or train connections to town centers.
Major international hub offering extensive connections; accessible by road or rail with transfer options to the Ruhr area.
Mid-sized regional airport serving several European destinations and providing drive or rail access to western NRW.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Family-friendly town amenities, parks, and safe streets make Wickede appealing for households.
Proximity to larger urban centers supports daily commuting to work or study in Dortmund, Soest, and beyond.
Quiet neighborhoods and accessible nature areas attract retirees seeking a relaxed pace of life.
Nearby universities and colleges in larger cities provide educational opportunities while living in a smaller town.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A common pastime in towns across North Rhine-Westphalia, with local amateur clubs and community leagues.
Popular on the Ruhrtalradweg and regional trails; suitable for all levels and many family outings.
Regional forest and hill trails near Wickede attract weekend hikers and nature lovers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Wickede.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be adapted; ask for vegetable-forward options, salads, cheese plates, or pasta with seasonal vegetables. In markets and larger restaurants, you’ll usually find vegetarian choices and side dishes like potatoes, bread, and vegetables to build a meal.