What to do in Gelsenkirchen

Advice on what to do in Gelsenkirchen, including culture, relaxation, nightlife, sport and food.

Cultural attractions in Gelsenkirchen

Berge Castle is a grand, baroque masterpiece in a sea of verdant, green grass. The lake, castle and gardens are a big tourist pull, especially given the incongruous urban areas that surround it. In addition to tours around the castle, there is a farm to visit and a restaurant.

Open-air concerts and plays can be caught at Gelsenkirchen Amphitheatre, which is based by the canal in the city. As well as plays and classical music, the summer also sees a cinema screen installed in the amphitheatre. There is also a bar and restaurant, to get refreshments from.

To experience some forward-thinking architecture, both visually and environmentally, try the Rheinelbe Science Park. Combining grand old buildings with cutting edge designs, the park is also home to the world's biggest roof-mounted solar power plants.

Relaxation in Gelsenkirchen

The Stadtgarten is ideal for a day of lounging on the grass by the riverbank beneath cherry blossom trees, as is the considerably bigger Nordsternpark. The latter is a heady mix of angular architecture, landscaped countryside, water features and the canal. For the more energetic, there is also a climbing wall you can try and conquer.

If you fancy a day on the slopes, one of the most convenient places is the Alpincenter, the world's longest indoor ski run. The slope is more than half a kilometre in length, and there is no chance of bad weather spoiling your fun. However, should the sun be shining, there is a pleasant terrace for you to catch some rays and enjoy a spot of lunch.

For a break from the norm, take a walk around recreated scenes and sets from some of the world's most famous films at Movie World. Whether you fancy spending the day with Batman or Roger Rabbit, going on white-knuckle rides, Movie World is ideal for a holidaying family.

Nightlife in Gelsenkirchen

Grab a bite to eat, enjoy a drink and dance to some lively music at Kronski in Springemarkt. The interior's stylings are artfully sleazy and the crowds are friendly and lively.

Later frolics can be had at the Venetian Danceclub, a beguiling mixture of dance music, baroque stylings and modernist décor.

Sport in Gelsenkirchen

A game of football can be caught with Schalke 04 at Arena Auf Schalke.

Recommended restaurants in Gelsenkirchen

Zum Burgerplatz boasts an intimidating ornate exterior, a slightly incongruous pink interior and reassuringly reasonable prices for a decent piece of steak.

For a little more cash, explore the rich and meaty menu of Laurin, which offers refined stews and finely herbed cuts of pork in swanky and bright surroundings.