Perched at the southern end of the Dortmund-Ems canal, lively Dortmund has a long history as a hub of trade and industry. It’s also an appealingly artistic city, with a plethora of museums and galleries. Brilliant for a weekend escape or a business trip, the city boasts a number of excellent accommodation options. Our Gurus’ pick of the best places to stay in Dortmund are cool and contemporary hotels, well-placed for discovering all that the city has to offer.

A Free Imperial City from 1220, Dortmund grew as a booming centre of the Hanseatic Trade League in the Middle Ages, but fell into decline until its development as an industrial hub, with coal and iron ore mined from the 19th century. Much of the city was rebuilt after the Second World War, and modern-day visitors can step into the striking Marienkirche or the impressive St. Reynold's Church. The city’s two big art galleries — Museum Ostwall and the Museum fur Kunst und Kulturgeschichte — are real highlights. The Steinwache, a former Gestapo police station, serves as a reminder of Nazi brutality; visits offer a sobering reflection upon recent history.

Step further back into the past with a walk around the ruins of the Hohensyburg, a 12th century fortress, or enjoy a scenic stroll through the ferns and lemon trees of the acclaimed Botanischer Garten Rambergpark. Ride to the top of the Florianturm for panoramic city views from 140 metres up, or brush up on your beer-making knowledge at the Brewery Museum. Come evening, join city residents for a cold beer in the lovely Alter Markt, or sip drinks on the terrace at one of the best places to stay in Dortmund.

The Best Places to Stay in Dortmund

For Slick City Style

• The Grey is a sleek, minimalist design hotel in the heart of the city. Ultra-modern guest rooms are decorated in blue-grey tones, with contrasting orange details and have a trendy, fresh feel. In-room breakfasts are available and there's an onsite bowling alley. One for business travellers or couples.
• Hotel Ambiente, by contrast, sits in leafy gardens closer to the edge of the city. Contemporary spaces have parquet flooring, clean lines and crisp white linens. There's a great gourmet restaurant and sunny terrace for an evening tipple or two. Smart and well-situated for cultural explorations.

FOR A PRIVATE HOUSE OR APARTMENT

• If you’d prefer to stay in an apartment or private house, visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Fly to Dortmund Airport, and hop aboard a bus or taxi to your destination. Most hotels will also be happy to organise an airport pick up in advance.
• The North Rhine-Westphalia region is great for a road trip! Contact our partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Peak season falls in July and August, when visitors can expect the most sunshine. However this is also when the city is at its busiest. Travel in the shoulder seasons of May and September for fewer crowds and great hotel deals.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Expand your search to see the best places to stay in Düsseldorf.
• Alternatively, explore our pick of the best places to stay in North Rhine-Westphalia.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.