Hattingen

Introduction

You can find Hattingen nestled within the northern reaches of the Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis district. Located in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, this town offers a glimpse into the regional character of western Germany.

Before you go

Prepare for your visit by understanding the layered history of this region, which evolved from a medieval textile trade hub into a booming industrial center following the establishment of steelworks in the 19th century. You can explore a historic core that survived post-war demolition efforts to provide a glimpse into traditional German city centers. During your stay, you may experience local festivals, with the historic Christmas market serving as a major highlight for visitors.

Depending on your interests, you can choose from various surrounding settlements:

• Blankenstein offers a small historic center and an old castle overlooking the Ruhr valley.
• Niederstüter and Elfringhausen provide rolling hills and rural landscapes ideal for walking and hiking.
• Welper serves as a quiet garden suburb, while Niederwenigern sits on a hill featuring an imposing church.

Getting there

You can reach Hattingen by air via Düsseldorf or Dortmund airports, both of which offer connections ranging from domestic flights to international routes. If you fly into Cologne/Bonn Airport, you can reach the city by car or by taking public transport through Düsseldorf. For those traveling by train, long-distance IC and ICE trains stop at major hubs like Essen and Bochum. From Essen, you can transfer to a local S-Bahn train, while from Bochum, you can catch an express bus or tram to reach the central bus station in Hattingen Mitte.

If you prefer to travel by car, you can navigate via the A43 motorway, following signs for Hattingen from either the Witten-Herbede or Sprockhövel exits. Cyclists can access the city via the Ruhr Valley cycle path along the riverbanks or choose the Kohlenbahn route from the south, which follows an old railway line through the hills.

Getting around

You can explore the small historic centre on foot, though you should exercise caution when navigating the cobblestone in certain alleys if you have mobility issues. For longer journeys, low-floor buses and trams serve the area. You can purchase tickets from drivers, at information offices, or from various shops and ticket machines located at Hattingen Mitte. A public bike-share system is also available through several docking stations throughout the region.

If you prefer to drive, parking is available in garages and lots surrounding the town centre. You should watch for signs indicating resident-only parking to avoid being ticketed. Taxis are available at a stand under the pedestrian bridge at Hattingen Mitte or can be called to your location. For those traveling by coach bus, passengers can be dropped off at the Alter ZOB parking area.

Where to stay

You can choose between various accommodations ranging from campsites to local hotels. If you prefer a central location, your options include staying in the heart of the town or just a short walk away.

• Stay at a hotel located right in the middle of the center which offers friendly service, free wifi, and secure bike parking.
• Choose a nearby option situated just west of the center that features a spa, sauna, and secure bike storage.
• Opt for a stay in an old mill building next to the Ruhr River, which has been recognized by the German Cyclists Association.
• Select a campsite located near the bridge if you prefer outdoor accommodations.
• Stay at a hotel north of the center that provides free wifi and cycle storage.

Food & drink

You can find a variety of dining options throughout the city, with many restaurants concentrated in the historic centre. For a taste of local tradition, you can enjoy regional staples like currywurst and fries at long-established stalls or try house sauces at local snack stands. If you prefer international flavors, you can choose from authentic Italian cuisine, genuine Indian dishes, Mongolian grill, or Asian specialties. For those seeking a more refined experience, some venues offer rustic-modern settings with home cooking and regional specialties, while others provide a terrace with a beer garden.

When looking for a drink, you can find cozy spots to relax. You might enjoy the atmosphere of an Irish pub set in a half-timbered house or visit a small, hidden bar. For those seeking a sweet treat, several locations offer Italian gelato and coffee, with some providing outdoor seating during pleasant weather.

What to see and do

Explore the medieval city centre, where you can wander through stereotypical alleys lined with timber-framed houses. The area is particularly charming during the Christmas season when the market offers food and souvenirs nestled between historic buildings. You can also visit the old blast furnace of a former steelworks, which now serves as a museum. This site preserves its original state while hosting exhibitions and an annual gathering for Mercedes fans in the summer. Both the city centre and the blast furnace are accessible via independent exploration or through guided tours lasting a few hours.

Beyond the city centre, you can visit various historical sites and landmarks:

• The Old Town Hall, which features a special window display during the Christmas market.
• St. George's Church, known for its crooked steeple, located on a picturesque cobblestone square.
• The remains of the historic city wall and moat street.
• Various castle sites including the partially reconstructed ruins of Blankenstein Castle, the medieval water castle at Kemnade, and the ruins of Isenburg Castle.
• The Bismarck Tower, a stone structure built to honor Otto von Bismarck.
• The Ruhr Valley Bikepath, which offers scenic views of grazing cows in good weather or atmospheric fog in poor weather.
• The Glückauf-Trasse, a former railway line converted into a nature-filled foot and cycle path featuring tunnels and bridges.

Three days in Hattingen

Day one, you can begin your journey in the heart of Westphalia. Explore the local surroundings and experience the atmosphere of Hattingen Mitte as you settle into the region.

Day two, travel through the Ruhr Valley to see the nearby landscapes. You can explore areas such as Witten or Herbede while taking in the scenery of the northern German countryside.

Day three, you can plan your departure from the area. Whether you choose to travel toward cities like Essen and Bochum or head toward larger hubs like Düsseldorf and Cologne, you can navigate the region via the Bahn network.