Green metropolis
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Wednesday, 10, May 2006 07:07
Dortmund is one of the biggest cities in Germany and the cultural and economic heart of Westphalia. Traditionally known for its coal industry and beer, it is now a more cosmopolitan place. With its extensive green parks and open spaces it has earned the name Westphalia's 'green metropolis'.
There have been extensive preparations made for the World Cup and even if you don't have tickets for the games, there is plenty to see and do, without missing a minute of the action.
Germany welcomed over 20 million foreign visitors in 2004 and this figure looks set to rise with the World Cup this summer. Dortmund's World Cup stadium has been expanded to a capacity of 82,932 and 250,000 visitors are predicted, so don't expect to be sightseeing alone for long.
Stadium guide
Facts
Population: 580,000
Area: 280 square kilometres
London to Dortmund by road is approximately 358 miles
Matches
10th June - Trinidad & Tobago v Sweden
14th June - Germany v Poland
19th June - Togo v Switzerland
22nd June - Japan v Brazil
27th June - Final 16
4th July - Semifinal
Travel
Dortmund Airport (DTM) is home of several low-cost airlines, including easyJet, and serves mainly national and European travellers.
Shuttle busses run between the airport and Dortmund central station, opposite the main bus station. The journey lasts 25 minutes and costs ?5. From here you can take the bus or metro into the city centre
The metro line U45 and several regional trains are available as a direct connection from the main train station to the stadium. Metro station 'Stadion' is a mere 300m from the pitch.
More on transport
Sights
Museum of Natural History: The museum was founded in 1910 to document the last 55 million years, which is no mean feat. Visitors can see a huge collection of fossils and 150,000 preserved insects as well as a variety of exotic fish in one of the largest aquariums in Germany.
Haus Bodelschwingh Castle: This moated thirteenth century castle is the largest and best known in the Dortmund area. It is one of a number of historical buildings that deserve a visit if you want to catch a glimpse of the Germany of old.
Westfallen Park and the 'Florian': This large park is found to the south of the city. With sweeping lawns and lakes, it offers the perfect place to relax and escape the crowds in the city centre. For a special touch you can enjoy a meal in the 'Florian'. This revolving restaurant, set atop a 209m TV tower, offers unrivalled panoramic views of the city and the surrounding area.
Dortmund Zoo: The city is very proud of its zoo and the great facilities the animals enjoy. On show are 1,500 animals representing 240 native, exotic and endangered species. Attractions range from panthers to penguins, offering something for all animal lovers.
Dortmund Brewery Museum: This new museum was opened on German Beer Day in April 2006 on Steigerstrasse. Visitors can trace the roots of beer production in Germany, allowing them to appreciate the fine tradition that underpins the litres they consumed the night before.
Entertainment
Hohensyburg Casino: Ranked the number one casino in Germany in 2000, an evening's entertainment here could give your holiday a real boost, regardless of how your team is faring. Three floors of gaming tables and machines as well as restaurants and floor shows will easily keep visitors occupied for an evening or longer.
Friedenspaltz: 'Peace square' is found in the heart of the city and is home to the main civic buildings including the town hall. If you don't have a ticket for the games then this could be the place to come to enjoy the action. Matches will be shown on giant screens, while large crowds and a variety of bands and other entertainment will ensure a great atmosphere.
Fan Festival: If you are not lucky enough to have a ticket for every match being played in Dortmund, then the Fan Festival may be the answer. This will offer entertainment and accommodation in an international atmosphere.
Found opposite the stadium, the 'Westfalenhallen' offers unrivalled accommodation and entertainment to football fans. Next door the 'fan hall' will provide entertainment to visitors, including live transmission of the games, concerts, food and drink and internet access.
World Cup Mile: This will run from the city centre to the stadium. Hohe Strasse will be easily recognisable thanks to a red carpet that will literally line the route. Numerous snack and drink stalls, music shows and even a history of the World Cup should keep fans entertained.
Shopping: Situated on an old trade route, Dortmund has not lost its affinity for commerce and it remains a safe bet for eager shoppers. For high fashion and luxury, head for Hansastrasse, or for younger tastes try Bruckstrasse. The Westenhellweg is a major shopping street that runs through the centre of the city, which can cater for all tastes.
More on what to do
Food, Drink & Accommodation
B&B's ("Pensionen" or "Fremdenzimmer"): Although they may not be as plush as some of Dortmund's hotels, bed and breakfasts (B&Bs) do offer visitors a comfortable and affordable base from which to explore the city. Residents are also more likely to meet Germans and experience a more German style of living, as opposed to some of the more international hotels.
International Youth Hostels ("Jugendherbergen"): These are owned and run by the association "Deutsches Jugendherbergswerk" (DJH). They form part of the Hostelling International (HI) network. If you want to stay there, you must become a member of a youth hostel that belongs to the HI network.
Not every establishment entitled "jugund" is members only. There are some hostels and guesthouses that open their doors to anyone under-26, so even if you are not a member you may still find a cheap deal.
Check on the rules before you appear with your suitcase off the midnight flight
The World Cup Camp: This 35,000 sq m camp site on the outskirts of Dortmund will allow 2,000 guests to pitch tents, park caravans or share communal tents. The stadium can be reached within 15 minutes and there are shops and restaurants on site. This is a great value option for the cost-conscious visitor.
Fan Festival: As part of the Fan Festival, the 'fan camp' will have nearly 4,000 beds pitched in a huge air conditioned hall. Situated in the Westfalenhallen opposite the stadium, this offers convenience and value for money. These will be simple bunk beds so don't forget your sleeping bag.
Beer: The Germans take their beer very seriously and a Reinheitsgebot (purity law) was even introduced in 1516 to regulate production and ensure quality. Although most fans may only wish to choose between Dunkles (dark) and Helles (light) or ein Grosses and ein Kleines (large or small), for the more discerning beer drinker, Germany offers huge variety.
Fast Food: Look out for the sign 'Schnellimbiss' which literally means 'quick snack'. You are likely to find sausage (Wurst) and fries (Pommes Frites). A potentially popular option with British visitors is the Currywurst: a sausage chopped up and covered in spiced ketchup, sprinkled with curry powder.
Bars: Although it is slightly south of the city centre, the Kreuzviertel area of the city, found just west of hohe-strasse, is at the centre of Dortmund's evening entertainment. Alter Markt is another good place to look for a drink and entertainment. Found just north of Freidensplatz, you can enjoy a night out without having to stray too far from the big screens.