Gelsenkirchen Travel Guide

Read through our comprehensive guide to Gelsenkirchen, Germany, to learn about the best things to do, where to stay, and how to get around.


Introduction to Gelsenkirchen

Located in Ruhr, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, Gelsenkirchen is a city that boasts of a rich industrial heritage. It has undergone a transformation over the years and is today one of the most interesting cities to visit in Europe. The city’s green spaces, diverse cultural attractions, and vibrant food scene make it an incredible destination for any traveler looking for an authentic German experience.

List of Places to Visit in Gelsenkirchen

Plan your itinerary in Gelsenkirchen with this list of must-visit attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Red Dot Design Museum: This museum showcases contemporary design from around the world and is housed in a former boiler house. Visitors can participate in interactive displays and discover the world of design.
  • Schloss Berge: Schloss Berge is a 19th-century castle that was built originally for a wealthy industrialist family. A guided tour of the castle reveals how the castle was used in the past and its present uses.
  • ZOOM Erlebniswelt: The ZOOM Erlebniswelt zoo is home to a broad collection of animals from five continents. Visitors can learn about the different habitats and species from various parts of the world.

Natural Attractions of Gelsenkirchen: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Nordstern Park: Nordstern Park is an urban park that features a range of recreational facilities, including hiking and biking trails, water features, and sporting facilities.
  • Gelsenkirchener Zoo: The Gelsenkirchener Zoo is home to a diverse range of indigenous and exotic animals and features regularly scheduled demonstrations and presentations.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Gelsenkirchen

The city of Gelsenkirchen boasts an extensive network of hiking and biking trails, allowing visitors to explore its many parks, gardens, and natural attractions. Some of the best hiking and biking routes include:

  • Rheinische Bahnradweg is a long, flat route that runs along the banks of the Rhine River and through the city of Gelsenkirchen.
  • Gahlener Felsenpfad is a beautiful, hilly route that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Gelsenkirchen: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of activities and tours that visitors can enjoy in Gelsenkirchen, including:

  • Brewery Tour: Visitors can enjoy a guided tour of the Bergmann brewery and learn about the beer brewing process.
  • Mining Museum Tour: Visitors can take a tour of the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Week-Long Itinerary for Gelsenkirchen

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Gelsenkirchen:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive in Gelsenkirchen and check into your hotel. Explore nearby attractions such as Schloss Berge.
Day 2 Take a guided tour of the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex.
Day 3 Visit the Red Dot Design Museum and the Nordstern Park.
Day 4 Take a hiking or biking trail such as the Rheinische Bahnradweg or Gahlener Felsenpfad.
Day 5 Explore Gelsenkirchener Zoo and participate in a scheduled activity or demonstration.
Day 6 Take a brewery tour of the Bergmann brewery.
Day 7 Depart for your next destination.

Food and Drink Scene of Gelsenkirchen

Discover the local cuisine and drinks in Gelsenkirchen with this guide:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Geflugelcartoffel: This dish consists of savory chicken served with potatoes and a range of fresh vegetables. It is a must-try for anyone visiting Gelsenkirchen.
  • Mettsuppe: This is a hearty soup made with traditional German sausage, potatoes, and other vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Bergmann Pils: The Bergmann brewery produces a range of beers, including the popular Bergmann Pils.
  • Korn: Korn is a traditional German spirit that is made from rye and has a slightly sweet taste.

Where to Stay in Gelsenkirchen: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Accommodation options in Gelsenkirchen range from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Some of the best places to stay include:

  • Maritim Hotel Gelsenkirchen: The Maritim Hotel offers comfortable accommodations in the heart of the city and is within walking distance of many of the city’s attractions.
  • Jugendherberge Gelsenkirchen: This hostel offers budget accommodations for travelers, and is within easy reach of the city’s main attractions.

What to Buy in Gelsenkirchen: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some souvenir ideas to bring home from Gelsenkirchen:

  • Schalke 04 Merchandise: Schalke 04 is a popular football team in the area. Visitors can purchase Schalke 04 merchandise as souvenirs.
  • Local Craft Beer: Visitors can buy local craft beer as a souvenir or to enjoy during their trip.

Local Culture and Customs of Gelsenkirchen

Visitors to Gelsenkirchen will find that the locals are friendly and welcoming. Some common customs and etiquette include a formal greeting and handshaking when meeting someone for the first time.

Best Time to Visit Gelsenkirchen

The best time to visit Gelsenkirchen is during the summer months from June to September when the temperatures are moderate, and the weather is generally pleasant.

Do’s and Don’ts of Gelsenkirchen

Here are some things to do and avoid doing during your visit to Gelsenkirchen:

Do:

  • Tip your server if you eat out at a restaurant.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t be disrespectful towards others, including the locals and other tourists.
  • Don’t litter.

Safety and Health

Learn about staying safe and healthy during your visit to Gelsenkirchen with this guide:

Safety in Gelsenkirchen

Although Gelsenkirchen is a safe city to visit, visitors should take standard safety precautions such as safeguarding their valuables and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Gelsenkirchen

Visitors to Gelsenkirchen should ensure they have up-to-date vaccinations and health insurance when traveling to the region. Visitors can seek medical attention from one of the many well-equipped medical facilities available in the city.

Getting to Gelsenkirchen: Transportation Options and Logistics

Gelsenkirchen is well-connected to other parts of Germany and Europe. Some of the top options for transportation are:

Airports Near Gelsenkirchen

  • Dusseldorf International Airport: Dusseldorf International Airport is an excellent option for international travelers and is located about a 30-minute drive from Gelsenkirchen.
  • Cologne Bonn Airport: Cologne Bonn Airport is located approximately an hour’s drive from Gelsenkirchen and provides a range of international and domestic flight options.

Bus Stations Near Gelsenkirchen

  • Gelsenkirchen City Bus Station: Gelsenkirchen City Bus Station is the primary bus station in the city and offers connections to other parts of Germany and Europe.

Other Options

For travelers who prefer to drive to Gelsenkirchen, there are several rental car services available at the airport.

How to Get Around in Gelsenkirchen

The city of Gelsenkirchen has an efficient public transportation system that includes buses, trams, and trains. Visitors can also take taxis or rent bicycles to explore the city at their own pace.

Where to Go Next from Gelsenkirchen: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some nearby destinations that visitors can explore from Gelsenkirchen include:

  • Dusseldorf: A vibrant city known for its culture, nightlife, and high-end shopping options.
  • Cologne: Home to the impressive Gothic Cologne Cathedral, historic landmarks, and a thriving culinary scene.

Conclusion

Gelsenkirchen is a charming German city that offers an immersive experience in the country’s rich history and culture. From exploring the city’s parks and museums to attending brewery tours and hiking adventures, Gelsenkirchen is a destination well worth the visit.

Former Zeche Nordstern Former Zeche Nordstern Contrasts in the inner-city Contrasts in the inner-city