Dortmund is a city with a big industrial past, an insatiable thirst for football and a varied cultural scene. This former steel centre has changed more than any other German city in recent years, evolving into a modern, progressive metropolis with a bright future as a technology hub. Located on the traditional German trading route, the Hellweg, it’s the biggest city in the Ruhr Valley with a history dating back to the middle ages. Today it offers excellent shopping options in the Westenhellweg and a vibrant and exciting urban area that is carving out for itself a bold, new reputation.
Areas & Neighbourhoods in Dortmund
Bruckstrasse Quarter - Dortmund’s trendy, independent store-filled area is usually full of artists, with a young and alternative crowd adding to its appeal.
Kaiserstrassen - Located to the east of the former ramparts, this district is home to a number of magnificent buildings from the early 20th century. Today it’s also the starting point for tours of the shopping district.
Kreuzviertel - Alleys filled with beautifully restored Art Nouveau buildings, it’s a place that’s very popular with students and the younger crowd.
Hellweg - The busiest of all the downtown shopping areas and located right on the old trade route that made the city so famous during the middle ages. There’s everything here that a shopaholic could want, from big department stores to small boutiques.
Things to See in Dortmund
Dortmund is known for its parks and green spaces. Relax or play in Westpark, Westfalenpark, Rombergpark and others throughout the city. In Westfalenpark you can also visit the Rosarium, a collection of more than 3,000 rose species. In the south of the city, head to Hohensyburg, the ruins of Syburg Vincke tower, where you’ll find beautiful views of the Ruhr Valley. There’s a choice of superb museums to visit too, including the Museum of Art and Cultural History, am Ostwall and Natural History. Plus, the city centre area of Hellweg offers top shopping options, with huge department stores like Saturn and Karstadt to explore.
Things to Do in Dortmund
Take in a game at the vast Westfalenstadion, one of the biggest in Europe with more than 80,000 attending games and one of the most impressive atmospheres in sport. During the winter months, like many German cities, Dortmund is home to a Christmas market. It’s the biggest in Germany and home to the world’s largest Christmas tree. Check out the city’s famous zoo, stop in at a beer hall and enjoy a pint accompanied by a ‘Salzkuchen mit mett’, a bagel-like spiced roll with seasoned mincemeat and onions. Or simply hit the shops around the Hellweg, a commercial district on the ancient trade route.
