Gelsenkirchen Private Walking Tour with Professional Guide

Dortmund , Germany

Gelsenkirchen Private Walking Tour with Professional Guide

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Gelsenkirchen's history starts in 1150, but it remained a tiny village until the 19th century when the Industrial Revolution led to the growth of the entire area. In the early 20th century, Gelsenkirchen was called the "city of a thousand fires" for the flames of mine gasses flaring at night time. On this tour, you will visit one of the most important Renaissance castles of the North West region. Admire the Consol theatre, a theatre located on a former coal mine. See the Music Theater, planned, designed, and built by the Englishman Robert Adams, the two Germans Norbert Kricke and Paul Dierkes, the Swiss Jean Tinguely, and the French Yves Klein. Visit the artist's village Halfmanshof, a residential and working artistic community in 1931, which became a hub for famous artists in the 60s and 70s.

All attraction entrances are to be paid on the spot by travelers since attractions are not mandatory. This tour does not include any attractions with require paid entrances.

Available options

Gelsenkirchen Private Walking Tour with Professional Guide

What's included

Private guided Tour

Local professional guide who will be with your group only

Detailed itinerary

Open since 2001, this theater house is one of the most important cultural and social centers of Gelsenkirchen, with special atention to people of different ages and origin. It is also part of the historical heritage of Gelsenkirchen, having been built on the spot of an ancient coal mine known as the "Zechengelände Consolidation".

The Music Theatre in the Ruhr is the main opera house of Gelsenkirchen since 1959, and was listed as a protected cultural monument since 1997. It was designed by the German architect Werner Ruhnau as a cubic-shaped outer shell composed by a 4,500 square metres (48,000 sq ft) glass facade.

The artists' settlement of Halfmannshof was founded in 1931 to house a community of artists and their families. Up to 9 families lived here until the end of 2012, and is now being converted into a a place to live and work for over than 20 artists from different fields.

It is a castle considered one of the oldest and most important Renaissance buildings in the state of Westphalia. Built in the 16th century, it was at the time one of the largest palace complexes north of the Alps and a great example of the Lippe Renaissance architectural style.

The institute of the city history has a permanent exhibition of the National Socialism history in Gelsenkirchen. It is located in one of the few preserved historical places from the "Third Reich".

What's not included

Gratuities

Any entrances to paid attactions are excluded from tour

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

At the Consol Theatre, Bismarckstraße 240, 45889 Gelsenkirchen, Germany

About Dortmund

Dortmund, located in the Ruhr area, is known for its rich industrial heritage and vibrant cultural scene. The city is famous for its beer, football, and its transformation from an industrial hub to a green, modern metropolis with numerous parks and gardens.

Top Attractions

Dortmunder U

A contemporary art museum housed in a former brewery, showcasing modern and contemporary art.

Museum 1-2 hours €7.50

Westfalenpark

A large public park with gardens, walking paths, and the Florian Tower offering panoramic views of the city.

Nature 1-3 hours Free (€3.50 for tower ascent)

Signal Iduna Park

Home to Borussia Dortmund, one of Germany's most popular football clubs. The stadium offers tours and match-day experiences.

Sports 1-2 hours (tour), 3-4 hours (match) €12 (tour), varies (match tickets)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Dortmunder Bier

A locally brewed beer with a rich history, known for its smooth taste and high quality.

Drink Contains gluten

Rheinischer Sauerbraten

A traditional German pot roast marinated in vinegar and spices, served with red cabbage and potato dumplings.

Dinner Contains meat and gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking in Westfalenpark Biking along the Ruhr Valley Visiting spas and wellness centers Strolling through botanical gardens Visiting museums and art galleries Attending local festivals and events Boat tours on the Dortmund-Ems Canal Ice skating at the Christmas Market

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the best time to visit Dortmund for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. The city hosts many festivals and events during these months.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: German
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Dortmund is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as with any city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services

Getting there

By air

Dortmund Airport • 13 km from city center

By train

Dortmund Hauptbahnhof

By bus

Dortmund Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The tram system is efficient and user-friendly, with frequent services and clear signage.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Taxi Dortmund, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Innenstadt Kreuzviertel Hohensyburg

Day trips

Cologne

70 km • 1-2 days

Cologne is a vibrant city known for its stunning cathedral, rich history, and lively cultural scene.

Essen

30 km • Half day to full day

Essen is a city with a rich industrial heritage, known for its museums, parks, and the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex.

Festivals

Dortmund Christmas Market • Late November to December Dortmund Jazz Festival • October

Pro tips

Visit the Dortmund Christmas Market for a festive experience
Explore the underground tunnels of the Bergbau-Museum for a unique historical insight
Take a day trip to Cologne or Essen for a broader cultural experience
Try local specialties like Dortmund beer and Rheinischer Sauerbraten
Use the DVB app for real-time public transport information