Hattingen Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide to Hattingen in Germany, featuring cultural and natural attractions, outdoor activities, food and drink scene, hotels, transportation options, and more.


Introduction to Hattingen

Located in the Ruhr region of North Rhine-Westphalia in Germany, Hattingen is a charming city known for its picturesque half-timbered houses, historic buildings, and scenic natural surroundings. With a population of just over 55,000, Hattingen is a small but vibrant city that attracts visitors from all over the world.

List of Places to Visit in Hattingen

There are several cultural and natural attractions in Hattingen that are worth exploring:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Industrial Museum Henrichshuette: This museum showcases the history of the iron and steel industry in the Ruhr region and is located in a former steelworks complex.
  • Hattingen Altstadt: The Old Town of Hattingen is filled with half-timbered houses and cobblestone streets, which makes for a cozy setting for a leisurely stroll.
  • Blankenstein Castle: This historic castle dates back to the 13th century and offers guided tours to visitors.

Natural Attractions of Hattingen: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Hiking and biking trails: Hattingen is surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, which makes it a perfect destination to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and biking.
  • Kemnader Lake: This scenic lake is located just outside of Hattingen and offers a variety of water activities such as boating and swimming.
  • Baldeneysee: Another scenic lake located just a short drive from Hattingen, Baldeneysee has a promenade that offers stunning views of the lake.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hattingen

If you are an outdoor enthusiast, Hattingen offers several hiking and biking trails that showcase the natural beauty of the area. One of the most popular routes is the Ruhr Valley Cycle Route, which takes you through the heart of the Ruhr region and offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding hills.

Best Things to Do in Hattingen: Activities and Tours

There are several activities and tours that you can enjoy in Hattingen, including:

  • Hattingen Segway Tour: Explore the city on a guided Segway tour and learn about the history and culture of Hattingen.
  • Henrichshuette Industrial Park: Visit the former steelworks complex and learn about the history of the iron and steel industry in the Ruhr region.
  • Kemnader Lake Cruise: Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Kemnader Lake and take in the scenic views.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hattingen

Day 1: Explore Hattingen Altstadt, visit Blankenstein Castle, and have lunch at one of the traditional German restaurants in the Old Town. Day 2: Take a guided Segway tour of Hattingen and visit the Henrichshuette Industrial Park. Day 3: Hike or bike along the Ruhr Valley Cycle Route. Day 4: Visit the Industrial Museum Henrichshuette and learn about the history of the iron and steel industry in the region. Day 5: Take a boat cruise on Kemnader Lake and enjoy the scenic views. Day 6: Relax at one of the lakeside beaches near Hattingen, such as Baldeneysee Promenade. Day 7: Day trip to one of the neighboring cities, such as Essen or Bochum.

Food and Drink Scene of Hattingen

Hattingen offers a variety of traditional German dishes and local beverages that you must try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Currywurst: A German classic, currywurst is a sausage smothered in curry sauce and typically served with fries.
  • Schnitzel: A breaded and fried meat dish, traditionally made with veal or pork.
  • Sauerbraten: A marinated beef dish that is slow-cooked to perfection.

Local Beverages

  • Altbier: A beer brewed in the Dusseldorf area that has a slightly bitter taste.
  • Kolsch: A light beer that is brewed in Cologne and typically served in small glasses.

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

There are several accommodation options in Hattingen to suit all budgets:

  • Hotel zur Post: A family-owned hotel in the heart of Hattingen Old Town.
  • Jugendherberge Hattingen: A budget-friendly hostel that offers both private and shared rooms.
  • Forellenhof: A guesthouse located in the scenic surroundings of the city.

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

Some of the souvenirs and local products that you can bring home from Hattingen include:

  • Traditional German Mustard: Produced locally in Hattingen, this mustard is a perfect souvenir to bring back home.
  • Beer stein: A classic souvenir from Germany, you can find beer steins with various designs in Hattingen.
  • Locally produced jams and jellies: Made with locally grown fruits, these jams and jellies make for a sweet souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Hattingen

Hattigen has a strong industrial heritage and a vibrant cultural scene, which is reflected in the city’s museums, galleries, and theaters. The locals are friendly and welcoming to visitors and take pride in their city’s heritage and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Hattingen

The best time to visit Hattingen is during the summer months when the weather is warm and sunny. The months of May to September are ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and biking, and there are several cultural festivals and events that take place during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hattingen

Do:

  • Do try some of the local beer and traditional German dishes.
  • Do wear comfortable shoes if you plan on hiking or biking in the surrounding hills.
  • Do take a guided tour of the city to learn about its history and culture.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter in public places, as this is considered disrespectful.
  • Don’t forget to carry cash, as some of the smaller shops and restaurants may not accept credit cards.
  • Don’t ignore the local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Hattingen

Hattingen is a relatively safe city, and visitors should not encounter any major safety concerns. However, it is always advisable to take normal precautions such as locking your doors and keeping your valuables safe.

Health in Hattingen

Visitors to Hattingen should not encounter any major health concerns, and the city has a good healthcare system in place. However, it is always advisable to carry basic first-aid supplies and travel insurance.

Getting to Hattingen: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Hattingen

The nearest international airports to Hattingen are Dusseldorf International Airport and Cologne/Bonn International Airport. Both airports are well-connected to Hattingen via train and bus services.

Bus Stations Near Hattingen

Hattingen has a central bus station that is well-connected to neighboring cities and towns via regular bus services.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Hattingen by train, as the city is located on the main railway line that runs through the Ruhr region.

How to Get Around in Hattingen

Hattingen is a small city, and most of the major attractions are located within walking distance of each other. However, visitors can also use the local bus services which offer convenient and affordable transport within the city.

Where to Go Next from Hattingen: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several nearby destinations and excursions that visitors can explore from Hattingen, including:

  • Essen: A major city in the Ruhr region, Essen is known for its industrial heritage, museums, and cultural festivals.
  • Bochum: Another city in the Ruhr region, Bochum has a vibrant cultural scene and is home to several museums and theaters.
  • Dortmund: A city known for its football team, Dortmund offers visitors a mix of historical and cultural attractions.

Conclusion

Hattingen is a charming city in the Ruhr region of Germany that is perfect for visitors who want to experience the best of both natural beauty and cultural heritage. With its scenic surroundings, outdoor activities, and abundance of cultural attractions, Hattingen is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling in the region.

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