Skip to content

City Topics

Sights in the Ruhr

While most large cities have impressive sights and monuments, the Ruhr Metropolis is unique in its polycentric structure and low-rise architecture. Furthermore, there is no escaping the industrial past of the region. The result is a collection of fascinating modern and unusual beauty spots.

Vistas of natural landscapes and post-industrial landmarks can be discovered all across the Ruhr region. Heading east reveals a curious and at the same time, impressively large glass elephant in the Maximilianpark Hamm.

Several creations, structures and sculptures appeal to the senses in the region too. Fine examples include the Tiger & Turtle in Duisburg and the Tetraeder in Bottrop. Both are surprisingly delicate in appearance yet walkable and offer terrific views.

Other fascinating sights to visit are to the west of the region the Halde Rheinpreussen in Moers, the Halde Hoheward in Herten to the north or the more centrally located Halde Rheinelbe in Gelsenkirchen. These hills are manmade from the slag left over from coal mining during countless decades.

The Nordsternpark in Gelsenkirchen and the four hundred kilometres of the Route Industriekultur may also of interest, along with many quaint villages and neighbourhoods that reveal pockets of ancient architecture and ambience.

By Vincent Green, Jul 25 2021

Ruhr Tourismus GmbH

Centroallee 261
46047 Oberhausen

+49 180 618 1620

River with weir

WALKING IN RUHR

A great way to get to know the Ruhr Metropolis is to take inspiring and rewarding walks. Whether in urban or rural landscapes, take a pause, interact and allow details to become noticeable. Admiring quaint architecture, strolling side streets, the riverbanks or numerous woodlands brings joy to the soul.

Subway station

PUBLIC TRANSPORT IN RUHR

The public transport system in Ruhr is extensive, safe and normally efficient. A dense network of trams above and below ground as well as buses serve the cities and suburbs. Links via the local and S-Bahn train systems interconnect many neighbouring communities.

Original language movies are popular among expats living across the Ruhr Metropolis. Films are screened regularly in English original with subtitles, known as OmU and without, portrayed as OV. A wide variety of cinemas or movie theatres can be found, both large and small.

Cinema, movie theatre frontage