Things to do in Gelsenkirchen

Activities, attractions and tours

A historic building with a fountain in a garden.
A large brick building surrounded by trees and a body of water, with a sunset in the background.
An aerial view of a cityscape with a prominent red industrial tower, a large brick building, and a green park area.
A historic building with a large blue truck parked in front.
A rustic wooden structure with a thatched roof, surrounded by lush greenery and a small pond.

Things to do

Digital scavenger hunt around the Zeche Zollverein in Essen

Private city rally around the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex in Essen

RM189
per traveller
Private city rally around the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex in Essen
LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre Oberhausen Tickets

LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre Oberhausen Tickets

RM97
per adult
LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre Oberhausen Tickets
Adventure Darkness - Guided tour in the dark

Adventure Darkness - Guided tour in the dark

RM87
per adult
Adventure Darkness - Guided tour in the dark
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What to do in Gelsenkirchen

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A stadium surrounded by green fields and trees, with a clear sky and distant buildings.

Veltins-Arena

8.8/10 (260 reviews)
This state-of-the-art stadium features a retractable roof and movable pitch, home to FC Schalke 04. Take a guided tour through the mine shaft-inspired tunnel and exclusive player areas for behind-the-scenes access.
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Where to stay in Gelsenkirchen

Find the best Gelsenkirchen areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Gelsenkirchen
Learn more about Gelsenkirchen
A historic stone church with a prominent central tower and arched windows.

Schalke

The live music and zoo are a few reasons travellers visit Schalke. Though there aren't many top sights in the neighbourhood, you can visit ZOOM Erlebniswelt and Veltins-Arena, a few notable attractions nearby.

A historic building with a prominent tower and a large dome, surrounded by a well-maintained garden with outdoor seating.

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.

A river with a white tent-like structure, a red bridge, and lush greenery.

Gelsenkirchen-Mitte

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

A cityscape with a prominent red tower labeled 'Nordstern' and a statue in the distance.

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.

A large indoor stadium with a soccer field, surrounded by spectator stands.
Photo by Paul Devall
Open Photo by Paul Devall

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.

A large metal structure with a rotating mechanism, a brick building, and some trees.

Marl

CITY POINT building with CITY POINT and H&M signs, a Starbucks Coffee shop, and various other storefronts.

Bochum

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 neighbourhoods and leading sights within walking distance of the city centre, 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 kilometres from the centre, and Altstadt Gelsenkirchen, which is roughly 0.32 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Gelsenkirchen with kids?
Whether you're holidaying 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 neighbourhoods, 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.