This industrial German city, once a coal-mining hub, now centers on steel production. Its landmarks include a 13th-century Gothic City Hall, Bismarck Tower and botanical gardens.
Bottrop, a city in Germany's North Rhine-Westphalia, has given its former mining sites new life. You can glide down a 640-meter indoor ski slope at Alpincenter, float in a vertical wind tunnel at Indoor Skydiving, or ride roller coasters at Movie Park Germany. Look out over the city from the Tetraeder, a 50-meter steel pyramid perched on an old mining heap.
Modern Entertainment in Former Industrial Sites
At Alpincenter, you'll find the world's longest indoor ski slope stretching 640 meters, open year-round in any weather. The adjacent Indoor Skydiving Bottrop lets you experience freefall in one of Europe's highest vertical wind tunnels, with winds reaching 286 km per hour. Visit the former Zeche Prosper II colliery to explore the Grusellabyrinth, where you can navigate through 16 different horror-themed mazes and watch interactive shows.
Movie Park Germany
In Bottrop's Kirchhellen district, Movie Park Germany spreads across seven zones including Hollywood Street Set, The Old West, and Streets of New York. Take in stunt shows and ride roller coasters themed after popular movies and TV shows. Children will enjoy the gentle rides in Nickland, while thrill-seekers can head to Adventure Lagoon for high-speed experiences.
Industrial Architecture and Art
The Tetraeder stands as Bottrop's most recognizable structure since 1995. Climb the suspended staircases of this walkable steel pyramid, positioned on top of a 90-meter slag heap, to reach multiple viewing platforms. At BernePark, walk along the Rhine-Herne Canal where a former sewage treatment plant now houses restaurants and public spaces.
Museums and Historical Buildings
Visit the Quadrat museum in Stadtpark to see works by Bottrop-born Josef Albers, including his "Homage to the Square" series and early lithographs. His geometric art and color theory studies form the core of the collection. Take your children to Schloss Beck, an 18th-century Late Baroque castle that now includes a theme park designed for ages 3-13.
Annual Events
Join local celebrations throughout the year. Listen to classical music at the Festival Orgel PLUS in January, watch the carnival parade on Rose Monday in February, or visit the Horse Market and Asparagus Farmers' Market in Kirchhellen during May. Traditional Schützenfeste (marksmen festivals) take place throughout summer.
Getting Around
Drive to Bottrop via the A2, A3, and A42 motorways. Take regional trains to Bottrop Hauptbahnhof from surrounding cities. If you're arriving at Düsseldorf Airport, reach Bottrop by train or car in approximately 30 minutes.
