The best things to do in Dortmund

Dortmund is a large city located in the western part of Germany, in North Rhine-Westphalia. It is one of the largest industrial centers of the country, known for its rich history and modern infrastructure.

The city has a rich industrial heritage, as the steel, coal and machinery industries have developed here. Today Dortmund is a center of high innovation and information technology. The headquarters of many large companies and research centers are located here.

Dortmund's architecture combines ancient buildings with modern structures. Among the city's monuments one can distinguish the St. Reinold's Church, the historic town hall and a complex of industrial buildings from the last century.

Dortmund is also known as a sports city. One of the best football clubs in Germany —"Borussia Dortmund" is located here. In addition, the city hosts numerous sports competitions and festivals.

Life in Dortmund revolves around cultural, entertainment and gastronomic facilities. Here you will find cozy cafes, restaurants with traditional German cuisine, museums and contemporary art galleries. Overall, Dortmund is an attractive city for tourists interested in German industrial heritage, modern architecture, sports and culture.

Dortmund combines the past and the present, tradition and innovation, creating a unique atmosphere worth discovering for yourself. Here, every corner hides its own secret and invites you to an unforgettable adventure. Discover the magical world of this German metropolis through its most interesting and unexpected places.

Must visit places in Dortmund

Old Market Square (Alter Markt)

The Old Market Square in Dortmund is a magical place where time seems to stand still and you can immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere of past centuries. There is cobblestone under your feet, on which the city's inhabitants have been running for hundreds of years, hurrying about their business. It seems that we were transported to another era, when the voices of merchants thundered here and the air was filled with the aromas of spices and freshly baked bread.

Dortmund Town Hall

Dortmund City Hall is one of the most outstanding architectural monuments in this German city. Located in the heart of Dortmund, the town hall impresses with its majestic late Gothic and Renaissance facades.

The town hall building was erected at the end of the 19th century on the site of the previous building, which was destroyed by fire. Architects Heinrich Hermann and Karl Weisenberger created a majestic ensemble that combines elements of different architectural styles.

The central part of the town hall is distinguished by a tall spire topped by a statue of Emperor Wilhelm I. The facade of the building is decorated with rich decorative elements - sculptures, bas-reliefs and ornaments. Special attention is drawn to luxurious entrances framed by pointed arches and rich carvings.

Peace Square in the center of Dortmund

The Peace Square in Dortmund is one of the most attractive places in the city center. Located in the heart of Dortmund, this square is an important center of public life and cultural activity.

Peace Square impresses with its architectural beauty. Here you can see buildings in the style of Art Nouveau and Neoclassicism, which give the square a special charm. Dominating the square is St. Reynold's Church, a majestic church with a tall bell tower that reaches into the sky.

Numerous cafes, restaurants and shops are located around the square, which create a pleasant atmosphere for walking and relaxing. In the summer, various festivals and fairs are held here, which attract many people.

Phoenixsee Industrial Park

Following the closure of the steelworks, the 110-hectare brownfield site was transformed into a business park and another 98 hectares into an upscale residential area with Lake Phoenix at the center of the living and working environment. The artificially created reservoir is equipped for recreation and sports, equipped with a pier, jogging and cycling paths over 3 km long, and a promenade with restaurants. The lake's water has an amazing shade that changes during the day - from deep blue to delicate turquoise.

Reinoldikirche cathedral garden

Reinoldikirche is a famous church in Dortmund dedicated to Saint. Reynold. It is one of the oldest and most famous churches in the city. The cathedral garden is located next to the Reinoldikirche church. It is a green recreational area with benches, flower beds and trees. The garden creates a pleasant atmosphere near the temple.

Zollern II/IV Museum of Industrial Culture

Once a center of heavy industry, this industrial complex now introduces visitors to the coal mining process and the daily lives of miners.

The Zollern IIIV Museum of Industrial Culture in Dortmund is a museum dedicated to industrial culture and history. It is located on the site of a former coal mine. The mine began operations in 1904 and closed in 1966. In 1969, the mine area was transformed into a museum of industrial culture. The museum showcases the history and heritage of the German coal industry, preserving many of the former mine's original buildings and equipment, including the main mine building, engine rooms, forge, etc.

Ostwall Museum located in Dortmunder U building

The Ostwald Museum in Dortmund was established in honor of Friedrich Wilhelm Ostwald, an outstanding German physicist, chemist and philosopher. Friedrich Wilhelm Ostwald was one of the founders of physical chemistry as an independent science. He received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1909.

The Ostwald Museum was established in 1967 in tribute to this outstanding scientist, located in the building where Ostwald worked and lived in Dortmund. It contains a large collection of his works, personal items, photographs and scientific materials.

Beer Museum (Dortmunder U)

A place where you can touch the very essence of brewing beer, feel the rhythm of production processes that have shaped the taste and character of this city for centuries. The museum was opened in 2008. Here, visitors can learn about the history of brewing in the Ruhr area, including old brewing equipment and tools, and view a collection of glasses, bottles and other beer artifacts.

The museum is located in a former brewery, which adds authenticity and industrial character to it. In the museum's tasting rooms, visitors can taste different varieties of local beer.

Flavors of Dortmund

Here are some traditional regional dishes typical of Dortmund and the Ruhr area:

🔹 Currywurst is a fried sausage cut into slices and topped with a spicy tomato curry sauce. This is one of the most popular fast food in Germany.

🔹 Labskaus is a thick stew made of potatoes, salted pork, herring and beets. A traditional dish of the port cities of northern Germany.

🔹 Himmel un Ääd is a traditional dish consisting of mashed potatoes, fried sausages and onions. The name can be translated as "heaven and earth".

🔹 Schweinshaxe is baked pork shank served with sauerkraut and mashed potatoes.

🔹 Grünkohl is a cabbage stew, usually with sausages, smoked brisket and potato dumplings.

🔹 Pökelfleesch is salted beef, often served with potato salad.

These dishes are an integral part of the local cuisine of Dortmund and the Ruhr area, reflecting the traditions of German home cooking.

Top 5 restaurants in Dortmund worth visiting:

🔹 Gruener Salon is a stylish and contemporary restaurant located in a vibrant part of the city. Known for its innovative approach to vegetarian and vegan cuisine, it offers a menu that showcases fresh, seasonal ingredients in creative dishes.

🔹 Lemongrass is a popular Asian fusion restaurant known for its vibrant flavors and modern atmosphere. The restaurant's sleek design and energetic ambiance make it a lively spot for both casual dining and social gatherings.

🔹 Emilio restaurant is a charming establishment known for its authentic cuisine and warm hospitality. The restaurant's inviting ambiance and attentive service create a welcoming atmosphere perfect for enjoying a leisurely meal or gathering with friends.

🔹 Trattoria Momo is a cozy Italian eatery known for its authentic dishes and inviting ambiance. The restaurant's warm decor, paired with friendly service, creates a welcoming atmosphere perfect for enjoying a relaxed meal with family or friends.

🔹 Galletto Grill&Bier is a lively restaurant specializing in grilled cuisine and craft beer. This restaurant is perfect for casual dining outings or gathering with friends to savor delicious food and drinks.

Dortmund is a city with a rich history, remarkable architecture, delicious cuisine, and friendly character that attracts millions of tourists every year. Plan your trip to this wonderful city.