Dortmund Holidays

Football, beer, and a surprising amount of greenery—Dortmund is a German city that blends gritty industrial roots with cosy charm and culture. Whether you're here for the Borussia Dortmund buzz or just fancy a wander through leafy parks and world-class museums, this city brings the goods.

Highlights

• Football fever – Visit the legendary Signal Iduna Park and explore the German Football Museum. Even if you're not footy-mad, it's hard not to get swept up in the energy!

• Green spaces galore – Despite its industrial past, Dortmund is dotted with parks, lakes and botanical gardens.

• Proper German beer culture – Hop between beer halls, microbreweries, and laid-back bars, all serving up local Dortmund brews.

• Culture and history – From modern art to medieval churches, Dortmund’s got a little something for your inner history buff.

Getting around

Getting from A to B in Dortmund is a breeze. The city’s transport network is efficient and well-connected, with trams, buses, and trains all zipping across the region. The Dortmund Hauptbahnhof (main train station) links you to nearby cities like Essen, Cologne, and Düsseldorf in under an hour. And for local travel? Grab a 24-hour transport pass to hop on and off as much as you like. Fancy exploring further afield? Dortmund Airport is just a short ride from the city centre, with buses and taxis on hand to whisk you away.

Things to do for families in Dortmund

Families, rejoice - Dortmund is packed with kid-friendly fun. Start at the Westfalenpark, where little legs can run wild, ride the mini-train or climb the Florianturm TV tower for amazing views. Animal lovers should head to Zoo Dortmund, a peaceful park home to rhinos, monkeys, and red pandas. For hands-on learning, the DASA Working World Exhibition lets kids explore the world of work through immersive, interactive exhibits (bonus: it's actually fun for adults too). Round things off with a cruise on the Phoenix Lake, a serene spot with walking trails and lakeside cafés that are perfect for a relaxed family afternoon.

Things to do for couples in Dortmund

Looking to woo your better half? Dortmund city breaks have got you covered. Wander hand-in-hand through the Rombergpark Botanical Gardens, especially romantic in spring when the flowers are showing off. Take in the views from the Florianturm, or grab a table at one of the city's ambient wine bars for a candle-lit dinner à la Ruhrgebiet. Feeling arty? The Museum Ostwall inside the U-Tower houses contemporary art with panoramic rooftop views - ideal for a date with a difference. Top it all off with a tipple or two at a local brewery. Dortmund’s beer is strong, but so is your chemistry.

Things to do for groups in Dortmund

Travelling with the crew? Dortmund delivers the goods. Dive headfirst into the football scene with a matchday experience at Signal Iduna Park—join the sea of yellow and black, belt out the chants, and feel the electric atmosphere. Afterwards, take your pick from the city’s beer halls and nightlife spots. Alter Markt in the old town is your go-to for lively pubs, restaurants, and beer gardens. Want to level up the group adventure? Book a group escape room or brewery tour (yes, with tasting). For something chilled, head to Phoenix West, a cool post-industrial area with art spaces and restaurants.

Things to do for foodies in Dortmund

Dortmund’s food scene is hearty, satisfying, and surprisingly diverse. Start with the basics: currywurst and fries, preferably from a street food stand with a loyal local following. Then it’s on to traditional German fare—think schnitzel, sauerbraten, and potato dumplings—served in rustic pubs and beer cellars. For something a bit fancy, restaurants like Pfefferkorn and Rodizio Steakhouse dish up quality nosh with flair. International flavours are easy to find too, from Turkish grills to Vietnamese pho. Don’t forget to sample a local Dortmunder Export lager, and if you’ve got room, treat yourself to a slice of Apfelstrudel. Prost!