Not yet a member? Register for free and unlock instant discounts with our a&o Club membership
Become a member now - for free!
Dortmund is so much more than football and beer. This vibrant city in the Ruhr region surprises visitors with creative neighbourhoods, green spaces, and exciting indoor activities. Whether you're in town for a Borussia Dortmund match, a trade fair, or to visit JP Performance – you might find yourself asking: What else is there to do in Dortmund? Here are our top tips for spending a fantastic weekend in the city!
If you're into hip vibes, Kreuzviertel is the place to be. Trendy cafés line the streets, independent boutiques invite you in, and bars buzz with life. In the evenings, the area becomes a popular hangout for both locals and visitors.
Kreuzviertel Highlights:
Multicultural and full of character – Nordstadt offers Turkish bakeries, Vietnamese street food, international supermarkets and bold street art murals.
Don’t miss:
The creative heart of Dortmund. Former industrial buildings have been transformed into studios, start-ups, and galleries. Urban and full of ideas.
Top spots:
A Dortmund classic. Enjoy a relaxing walk, hire a pedal boat, or take the cable car up to the Florianturm for the best view of the city.
Germany’s largest botanical garden is perfect for a quiet stroll beneath ancient trees and around small lakes, with exotic plants all around.
Once a steelworks site, today Phoenix Lake sparkles with life. The promenade is ideal for walking, jogging, or sipping an Aperol Spritz by the water.
Insider tips:
This interactive museum is anything but boring. Learn how work has changed – with flight simulators and hands-on exhibits. A true highlight for indoor activities in Dortmund.
Contemporary art in a striking setting. The Museum Ostwall features 20th and 21st-century works – from Fluxus to photography.
Looking for action? Try:
Whether vegan, hearty or international – Dortmund has plenty of food options to suit every taste.
Local Beer Culture:
Dortmund was once Europe's beer capital – enjoy traditional brews at Hövels or Wenkers brewery pubs.
What can you do in Dortmund when it rains?
Check out DASA, the Dortmunder U, escape rooms and museums – all great indoor options.
Which neighbourhoods are the most interesting?
Kreuzviertel, Nordstadt and Unionviertel stand out with street food, art and authentic flair.
Are there any green areas in Dortmund?
Yes! Westfalenpark, Rombergpark and Phoenix Lake are perfect for outdoor relaxation.
Dortmund is full of surprises – from creative districts and nature spots to cultural highlights. Use our weekend guide to discover the city beyond football and industry clichés. And best of all: a&o Hostel Dortmund Hauptbahnhof is the perfect base for your trip. Central, affordable and well-connected – ideal for city explorers!
Book your stay now and explore Dortmund: a&o Dortmund Hauptbahnhof
Fancy a shopping trip to Cologne? Check out our insider tips for Cologne here!
Romantic getaways don’t have to break the bank! Treat yourselves to a cosy weekend escape for two and make unforgettable memories together. Surprise your special someone this Valentine's Day with a romantic getaway for two. Check out our top tips to plan the perfect trip!
Join our WhatsApp Newsletter today!
Mastercard
Visa
Paypal
Amazon Pay
Gift Voucher
stay affordable, sleep sustainable
World’s largest Hostel Chain - With 30,000 Beds
