Concrete, Culture, Currywurst: A Self-Guided Dortmund Tour

Step into Dortmund beyond the clichés of football and beer halls. On this self-guided walking tour, you'll wind through the heart of a city that rose from steel and coal to reinvent itself as a cultural and creative hub. Starting at the bustling Hauptbahnhof, discover architectural landmarks old and new, from the Dortmunder U-Tower — a former brewery turned cultural centre — to St. Petri Church with its 105-metre spire. Along the way, find a peaceful church courtyard hidden from city noise, sample a Salzkuchen at one of the city's oldest bakeries, and learn how Dortmund became one of Europe's largest beer producers. Whether you're here for a day or a week, this tour will leave you with a feel for Dortmund's grit, warmth, and surprises.

1. 1

   Stop 1

   Pass by

   See the Dortmunder U-Tower, a former brewery turned cultural center with its iconic rooftop logo. Take in this striking symbol of Dortmund's transformation from industrial powerhouse to creative hub.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   Pass by

   Wind your way through Westenhellweg, one of Dortmund's lively shopping streets. Take in the everyday bustle that gives the city its down-to-earth charm.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   Pass by

   See the Dortmunder U-Tower, a former brewery turned cultural center with its iconic rooftop logo. Take in this striking symbol of Dortmund's transformation from industrial powerhouse to creative hub.

4. 4

   Stop 4

   Pass by

   Explore Propsteihof, the peaceful courtyard of the Catholic Parish of St. Johannes Baptist, offering a quiet escape from city noise. Take a moment here, the only Catholic church within Dortmund's historic city ring.

5. 5

   Stop 5

   Pass by

   Pass through Hansaplatz, a central Dortmund square first laid out in phases starting in 1904. Take in this lively space, home to the city's weekly market and, during winter, one of its largest Christmas trees.

6. 6

   Stop 6

   Pass by

   Wander through Dortmund's City Garden, created in 1982 to mark the city's 1100th anniversary. Take in this tranquil green space, transformed from a former built-up area into a peaceful retreat at the heart of the city.

7. 7

   Stop 7

   Pass by

   Pass by Dortmund's City Hall on Friedensplatz, opened in 1989 alongside the older Civic Hall dating from 1899. Take in this civic landmark, standing near the square's Peace Column, dominated by the word "peace" in multiple languages.

8. 8

   Stop 8

   Pass by

   Pass through the Alter Markt, Dortmund's historic centre and one of the city's oldest squares, likely dating back to the 9th century. Take in the Bläserbrunnen fountain and the medieval guild houses that once surrounded this lively gathering place.

9. 9

   Stop 9

   Pass by

   Marvel at the 49-meter Pylon steel sculpture that marks the Reinoldikirche underground station. Take in this striking modern landmark, standing beside one of Dortmund's most historic churches.

10. 10

    Stop 10

    Pass by

    Walk down vibrant Brückstraße, transformed from a troubled district to a lively quarter of independent shops. Take in this street's remarkable turnaround, a symbol of Dortmund's ongoing reinvention.

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.