Dortmund, Germany
Locavy ratings
Party
3.5/5
Sightseeing
2.5/5
Relaxation
2/5
Value
3.5/5
Transport Links
4.5/5
Experiences
4/5
Party
3.5/5
Sightseeing
2.5/5
Relaxation
2/5
Value
3.5/5
Transport Links
4.5/5
Experiences
4/5
At a glance
Renowned for its legendary football team, captivating museums, and a plethora of well-established breweries, Dortmund stands as an appealing year-round destination.
Party
Dortmund’s vibrant nightlife beckons with its renowned breweries and eclectic pubs, offering an enticing destination for a memorable night. For those seeking a dance floor, City-Ost and City-West host a variety of nightclubs in the heart of Dortmund, ensuring a lively and diverse party scene.
Sightseeing
Explore Dortmund by strolling through the enchanting Alter Markt, with distinct architecture and charming cobbled streets. For panoramic views, ascend the spire of St. Reinold’s Church, offering an unparalleled perspective of the city. Additionally, don’t miss the breathtaking Atta Cave, recognized as one of Germany’s most stunning cave systems.
Relaxation
While Dortmund may not be synonymous with relaxation, those seeking an escape from urban hustle can find solace in the serene Westfalenpark. Additionally, opting for an off-season visit proves ideal for a tranquil experience, allowing you to leisurely explore the quiet city without the usual crowds.
Value
Although Dortmund can be pricier compared to some European destinations, it remains one of the more budget-friendly cities in Germany. Public transport, particularly with the welcome card, offers economical travel, as do the various activities available. To maximize savings, consider booking well in advance for the best deals.
Transport links
Fly
Train
Drive
Fly
Dortmund’s compact international airport, situated 12km east of the city, is well-served by a reliable bus network and numerous taxis connecting travelers to the city center. However there isn’t a feasible train route for this particular journey.
Train
Opting for the train is the optimal choice when exploring Dortmund and its surroundings. Germany boasts one of Europe’s premier train networks, featuring high-speed routes seamlessly connecting major cities.
Drive
Avoiding car rentals is advised in Dortmund due to the city’s robust and efficient public transport system, coupled with the difficulty of finding parking spaces. However, for those embarking on journeys to neighboring cities, renting a car offers an additional level of flexibility and convenience.
Experiences
Dortmund offers a diverse array of experiences, from retail therapy along the renowned Westenhellweg street to exploring the city’s exceptional museums. Immerse yourself in the art of beer-making with visits to some of Germany’s finest breweries, and during the winter, savor the enchanting atmosphere of Dortmund’s Christmas market—a seasonal delight.
Best Things To Do
1. Alter Markt
The Alter Markt stands as Dortmund’s vibrant heart, adorned with charming bars and restaurants. Immerse yourself in the city’s architectural splendor while enjoying the lively social scene of this beautiful square.
Visit in the evening to experience the square’s lively atmosphere, with many establishments offering outdoor seating.
2. Dortmund's Breweries
Discover Dortmund’s brewing heritage with a visit to its renowned local brewhouses and quirky pubs. Brewery tours provide an engaging insight into the art of beer-making, offering a unique cultural experience in this beer-loving city.
Check if the breweries offer tasting sessions to sample a variety of local brews.
3. Museums
Explore Dortmund’s diverse museums, including the Museum of Art and Cultural History and the Germany Football Museum. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or a football fan, these cultural institutions offer a fascinating glimpse into the city’s rich history.
Consider purchasing a combination ticket for multiple museums to save on admission fees.
4. Dortmund Zoo
Located south of the city center, Dortmund Zoo promises a delightful day for the whole family. Encounter animals from around the world, enjoy feeding sessions, and attend entertaining talks, making it an educational and enjoyable outing.
Plan your visit around scheduled feeding times for an interactive experience.
5. Westfalenpark
Escape the city hustle with a visit to Westfalenpark, Dortmund’s expansive green oasis. Take a scenic walk and enjoy the tranquility, noting the small entry fee. It’s a perfect retreat for nature lovers seeking a break from urban life.
Visit during special events or festivals hosted in the park for a unique experience.
6. St. Reinold's Church
Marvel at the architectural brilliance of St. Reinold’s Church, a national treasure with a distinctive spire offering panoramic views. This iconic structure adds historical charm to Dortmund’s skyline.
Climb to the top for unparalleled city views; the photo opportunities are worth it.
7. Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour
Opt for the Hop On Hop Off bus tour for a comprehensive exploration of Dortmund’s key attractions. With multilingual audio guides, it’s an informative and convenient way to absorb the city’s history and culture.
Start early to make the most of the flexible hop-on-hop-off feature, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
8. Atta Cave
Embark on a day trip southeast to Atta Cave, one of Germany’s largest caves. Admire stunning stalactites and stalagmites on a guided tour, immersing yourself in the mesmerizing underground world.
Wear comfortable shoes and bring a light jacket, as cave temperatures can be cooler.
9. Westenhellweg
For those who love to shop Westenhellweg is Dortmund’s premier shopping street, boasting designer outlets, quaint cafes, and a rich historical background as a crucial trade route.
Weekday mornings are usually less crowded, providing a more leisurely shopping experience.
10. Westfalenstadion
Home to Borussia Dortmund, Westfalenstadion is an iconic European football arena. Ensure a pilgrimage to the famous “yellow wall” and experience the electric atmosphere of a live match.
Secure your tickets in advance, especially for popular matches, to avoid disappointment.
1. Alter Markt
The Alter Markt stands as Dortmund’s vibrant heart, adorned with charming bars and restaurants. Immerse yourself in the city’s architectural splendor while enjoying the lively social scene of this beautiful square.
Visit in the evening to experience the square’s lively atmosphere, with many establishments offering outdoor seating.
2. Dortmund's Breweries
Discover Dortmund’s brewing heritage with a visit to its renowned local brewhouses and quirky pubs. Brewery tours provide an engaging insight into the art of beer-making, offering a unique cultural experience in this beer-loving city.
Check if the breweries offer tasting sessions to sample a variety of local brews.
3. Museums
Explore Dortmund’s diverse museums, including the Museum of Art and Cultural History and the Germany Football Museum. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or a football fan, these cultural institutions offer a fascinating glimpse into the city’s rich history.
Consider purchasing a combination ticket for multiple museums to save on admission fees.
4. Dortmund Zoo
Located south of the city center, Dortmund Zoo promises a delightful day for the whole family. Encounter animals from around the world, enjoy feeding sessions, and attend entertaining talks, making it an educational and enjoyable outing.
Plan your visit around scheduled feeding times for an interactive experience.
5. Westfalenpark
Escape the city hustle with a visit to Westfalenpark, Dortmund’s expansive green oasis. Take a scenic walk and enjoy the tranquility, noting the small entry fee. It’s a perfect retreat for nature lovers seeking a break from urban life.
Visit during special events or festivals hosted in the park for a unique experience.
6. St. Reinold's Church
Marvel at the architectural brilliance of St. Reinold’s Church, a national treasure with a distinctive spire offering panoramic views. This iconic structure adds historical charm to Dortmund’s skyline.
Climb to the top for unparalleled city views; the photo opportunities are worth it.
7. Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour
Opt for the Hop On Hop Off bus tour for a comprehensive exploration of Dortmund’s key attractions. With multilingual audio guides, it’s an informative and convenient way to absorb the city’s history and culture.
Start early to make the most of the flexible hop-on-hop-off feature, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
8. Atta Cave
Embark on a day trip southeast to Atta Cave, one of Germany’s largest caves. Admire stunning stalactites and stalagmites on a guided tour, immersing yourself in the mesmerizing underground world.
Wear comfortable shoes and bring a light jacket, as cave temperatures can be cooler.
9. Westenhellweg
For those who love to shop Westenhellweg is Dortmund’s premier shopping street, boasting designer outlets, quaint cafes, and a rich historical background as a crucial trade route.
Weekday mornings are usually less crowded, providing a more leisurely shopping experience.
10. Westfalenstadion
Home to Borussia Dortmund, Westfalenstadion is an iconic European football arena. Ensure a pilgrimage to the famous “yellow wall” and experience the electric atmosphere of a live match.
Secure your tickets in advance, especially for popular matches, to avoid disappointment.
10 Things You Need to know
1.
Dortmund Welcome Card
Unlock a multitude of discounts by purchasing the Dortmund Welcome Card at the tourism office. Enjoy savings on various activities while also benefiting from complimentary public transportation throughout the city.
6.
Sunday Closures
Plan your itinerary carefully as shops and many attractions in Dortmund close on Sundays, emphasizing the importance of scheduling activities accordingly.
2.
Where to Stay
Immerse yourself in Dortmund’s beauty by staying in the city center—a prime location offering proximity to top sights, ensuring a memorable experience just a short walk away.
7.
Public Transport
Opt for Dortmund’s efficient public transport system, encompassing trains, taxis, trams, buses, and a metro—recommended over car rentals for convenient city navigation.
3.
Book in Advance
Ensure a seamless visit by booking tours, football tickets, and trains in advance to secure your spot, as these popular activities tend to sell out closer to the time.
8.
Take Cash
Keep some cash handy when visiting Dortmund, especially at smaller cafes and stalls that may not accept cards, ensuring you can indulge in local treats without inconvenience.
4.
Safety
While Dortmund is generally safe, be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas like Westenhellweg street, ensuring a worry-free exploration of the city.
9.
Smoking Culture
Embrace Dortmund’s prevalent smoking culture, a common local practice. Be mindful of this aspect when exploring the city, respecting the local norms.
5.
When to Visit
Dortmund welcomes visitors year-round, with its attractions unaffected by weather. Explore the city’s charm at any time, and don’t miss the enchanting Christmas market during the winter months.
10.
Public Bathrooms
Note that many public bathrooms in Dortmund may require a fee. Keep a couple of euros on hand for these facilities, ensuring a hassle-free experience during your visit.
6.
Sunday Closures
Plan your itinerary carefully as shops and many attractions in Dortmund close on Sundays, emphasizing the importance of scheduling activities accordingly.
7.
Public Transport
Opt for Dortmund’s efficient public transport system, encompassing trains, taxis, trams, buses, and a metro—recommended over car rentals for convenient city navigation.
8.
Take Cash
Keep some cash handy when visiting Dortmund, especially at smaller cafes and stalls that may not accept cards, ensuring you can indulge in local treats without inconvenience.
9.
Smoking Culture
Embrace Dortmund’s prevalent smoking culture, a common local practice. Be mindful of this aspect when exploring the city, respecting the local norms.
10.
Public Bathrooms
Note that many public bathrooms in Dortmund may require a fee. Keep a couple of euros on hand for these facilities, ensuring a hassle-free experience during your visit.