Visit Dortmund: All About Football and Beyond

From being a renowned centre for the coal and steel industries to transforming itself into Germany's greenest city, Dortmund is a vibrant city in Germany’s Ruhr region, known for its passionate football traditions. Football is indeed at the heart of Dortmund’s identity, centred around the awarded Borussia Dortmund, also known as BVB. The club, founded back in 1909, is known for its passionate fans and its iconic stadium, the Signal Iduna Park.

Here are the top things to do in Dortmund to live and breathe the city to the max:

1. Learn more about BVB

There are many reasons why BVB has earned the status of a football icon worldwide. The club’s rich history, its nurturing young talents and its straightforward style of play, always in attack mode, is a lesson for many, on and off the pitch. Learning more about Borussia Dortmund is equal to supporting the heart and soul of modern European football. After learning all the amazing things about this club, you might want to shop for Borussia Dortmund merchandise - you can find opportunities both in the city centre and at the stadium.

BVB Dortmund

2. Visit Signal Iduna Park

Signal Iduna Park is the biggest stadium in Germany and, without a doubt, a pillar of tradition and passion for the city. It has a capacity of 80,000, almost one third of that being the renowned“Yellow Wall”, the fans’ South area where all supporters stand and sing in unison, creating an amazing connection. A little tip if you are looking to buy tickets for Borussia Dortmund. While the availability is limited to non-members, you can get lucky in the days ahead of the game if you check on the official website and its dedicated second-hand ticket shop. As an alternative, book a stadium tour on non-match days.

3. Visit the German Football Museum in Dortmund

This modern museum gives you an interactive experience through the history of German football via immersive displays and multimedia showcases. There, learn everything about the Bundesliga and more. Fun fact, BVB were the first German team to win a European trophy in 1966.

In addition to your quintessential football experience, there are plenty of other places to go in Dortmund. The city is a perfect mix of industrial heritage, urban renewal, and green spaces; not by chance, the city is ranked among the four greenest cities in the world.

4. Soak in Dortmund’s history

There are plenty of picture-perfect, charming places to see in Dortmund, especially in the medieval roots of the old town. Stroll around the Reinoldikirche and the old market square with the old town hall. Come for the historic architecture, stay for the cosy cafés and restaurants.

5. Walk around Dortmund’s parks

Head to Westfalenpark for nice viewpoints and beautiful picnic spots. Visit the botanical garden Rombergpark and its English landscape design, where you will find a selection of local wildflowers, ponds and centennial trees. Or simply relax in the Stadtgarten, the park close to the town hall. Everything is designed to breathe and unwind, also great for family outings.

6. Explore the changes

Dortmund is perpetually on a quest to improve the history of the Ruhr region. One example is a visit to the Phoenix see, an artificial lake on the former steelworks site, a showcase project for the structural reinvention of the city. On the opposite side of the medal, the German Mining Museum will inform you all about the region’s industrial heritage, including a tour of underground tunnels.

7. Get a higher perspective

Climb the Florian Tower to get amazing panoramic views from the 220-meter height and have a meal at its revolving restaurant. The two observation decks are the perfect way to observe the city, its industrial landscape and the modern changes from a different, exciting angle.

8. Get inspired

Urban renewal and modern culture make the Dortmunder U, a former brewery transformed into an art and culture centre, a magnet among the must-sees in Dortmund. It features exhibitions and media art. A plus point is its rooftop terrace, which offers great city views.