Things to do in Gelsenkirchen

Activities, attractions and tours

Photo by Trembich Moving Moments
Photo by Trembich Moving Moments
Photo by Michael Gerlach
Photo by Michael Gerlach
Photo by Michael Gerlach
Photo by Michael Gerlach
Photo by Paul Devall
Photo by Paul Devall
Photo "Gelsenkirchen" by HansPeter (CC BY) / Cropped from original
Photo by HansPeter (CC BY)
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What to do in Gelsenkirchen

Popular places to visit

Veltins-Arena

Veltins-Arena

Catch an event at Veltins-Arena during your trip to Gelsenkirchen. Experience the area's theater scene or attend a football game.

Veltins-Arena
ZOOM Erlebniswelt

ZOOM Erlebniswelt

Why not see the exotic and native animals who live at ZOOM Erlebniswelt during your travels in Gelsenkirchen? Experience the area's theater scene or attend a football game.

ZOOM Erlebniswelt

Golf Club Schloss Horst

Enjoy a round of golf in Gelsenkirchen at Golf Club Schloss Horst. Experience the area's theater scene or attend a football game.

Golf Club Schloss Horst

Nordsternpark

Explore the great outdoors at Nordsternpark, a lovely green space in Gelsenkirchen. Experience the area's theater scene or attend a football game.

Nordsternpark

Alma Park

Bring the kiddos to Alma Park and have a fun-filled day at this theme park in Gelsenkirchen.

Alma Park

Club Museum

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Club Museum during your travels in Gelsenkirchen. Experience the area's theater scene or attend a football game.

Club Museum

Hans-Sachs-Haus

After visiting Hans-Sachs-Haus, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Gelsenkirchen.

Hans-Sachs-Haus

Schloss Berge

You can find out about the history of Gelsenkirchen with a trip to Schloss Berge. Make some time to visit the shops while you're in the area.

Schloss Berge

Areas of Gelsenkirchen

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Photo by HansPeter (CC BY)

Buer

Appreciated for its restaurants and shopping, you might consider exploring Buer. Check out the variety of things to see and do like Schloss Berge, and jump on the metro at Hugostraße Tram Stop or Gelsenkirchen Buer Nord S-Bahn to get around the city.

Buer
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Gelsenkirchen-Mitte

While visiting Gelsenkirchen-Mitte, you might make a stop by sights like ZOOM Erlebniswelt and Nordsternpark.

Gelsenkirchen-Mitte
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Schalke

The live music and zoo are a few reasons travelers visit Schalke. Want to see more of the surrounding area? ZOOM Erlebniswelt and Veltins-Arena are a few top sights nearby.

Schalke
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Gelsenkirchen-Ost

While you're in Gelsenkirchen-Ost, take in top sights like Veltins-Arena and jump on the metro at VELTINS-Arena Station to see more of the city.

Gelsenkirchen-Ost
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Erle

The restaurants and sporting events make Erle worth a stop. Make a stop by Veltins-Arena, and jump on the metro at VELTINS-Arena Station to get around the area.

Erle
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Photo by HansPeter (CC BY)

Gelsenkirchen-Nord

When in Gelsenkirchen-Nord and the surrounding area, you'll want to check out sights like Beck Castle or Veltins-Arena and hop on the metro to see more the city at Gelsenkirchen Buer Nord S-Bahn or Gelsenkirchen Hassel S-Bahn.

Gelsenkirchen-Nord
Bochum showing modern architecture, a city and street scenes

Bochum

Photo by Trembich Moving Moments

Dorsten

Essen

Essen

Frequently asked questions

Is Gelsenkirchen worth visiting?
Offering a mix of festivals and history, there are many things to do in Gelsenkirchen. While you're here, check out Ikonen-Museum, a major attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Gelsenkirchen?
Movie Park Germany and Alma Park are two excellent places to start your sightseeing adventures. Be sure to explore the dining and retail options in Gelsenkirchen while you're there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Gelsenkirchen?
The top tourist attraction in Gelsenkirchen is Ikonen-Museum, so make sure to add it to your sightseeing agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Gelsenkirchen?
If you only want to enjoy the most popular attractions, three days will be more than enough time for a break in Gelsenkirchen. Stay for a week or longer for the chance to truly experience the local vibe, visit nearby highlights and discover a few hidden gems.
Is Gelsenkirchen a walkable city?
With vibrant neighborhoods and leading sights within walking distance of the city center, Gelsenkirchen is a great place to experience on foot. Enjoy wandering between Nordsternpark and Alma Park. Then take a stroll around Gelsenkirchen-Mitte, located 2 kilometers from the center, and Altstadt Gelsenkirchen, which is roughly 0.32 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Gelsenkirchen with kids?
Whether you're vacationing with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, a schedule filled with fun activities makes all the difference. Take a look at our ideas for what to do in Gelsenkirchen with kids.

What to do in Gelsenkirchen for adults?
Adults of all ages will have lots of things to do in Gelsenkirchen. Whether you're into art, history, outdoor adventures or just enjoy visiting new places, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Gelsenkirchen?
In Gelsenkirchen, Nordsternpark is an unmissable spot for anyone looking to enjoy the city without opening their wallet. Also, wander around the parks and other neighborhoods, and ask a local tour guide for ideas. It's a top way to find out about the best free things to do in Gelsenkirchen.