Dortmund is an iconic city in the Ruhr region, a mecca for German football (signal Iduna Park) and home to local beer! But it's also a city of contrasts, particularly when it comes to safety.
While Germany is renowned for its tranquility, there are certain areas of Dortmund that deserve special attention, especially when looking for the perfect place to stay.
Here's a breakdown of Dortmund's safety, including a list of neighborhoods to avoid and tips on the safest areas for visitors.
Is Dortmund dangerous?
Dortmund has a moderate crime rate (48) for Germany in 2025. Two years ago, the crime rate had increased by approximately 12% compared to the previous year, reaching over 70,000 reported offenses. However, the local police have improved their performance, with a solved crime rate of over 57%, well above the regional average. Serious crimes such as crimes against life remain marginal (less than 0,05% of the total). Pickpocketing, although slightly decreasing, remains a problem around shopping centers and train stations.
It should be noted that Dortmund remains comparatively safer than Cologne or Berlin , but more crime-ridden than Munich or Stuttgart.
Top areas to avoid in Dortmund
To ensure your safety and peace of mind, certain areas require special vigilance and should be avoided at night.
Neighborhood to avoid in the Center
- Nordstadt (or Nord City): This is the least safe district of Dortmund. Located north of the central station (Hauptbahnhof – Hbf), Nordstadt is experiencing significant social problems, particularly related to drug trafficking and petty crime.
- Hauptbahnhof and surroundings As is often the case in large cities, the area around the central station is experiencing problems with theft, pickpocketing and nighttime noise.
- Dorstfeld : Known for certain social tensions and the presence of extremist groups, even if the police are closely monitoring the situation there.
Other sensitive areas on the outskirts
In some outlying suburbs, certain neighborhoods may present risks at night but remain accessible during the day, provided common sense and caution are exercised. These are mainly neighborhoods like Hörde or Eving.
Safe neighborhoods to stay in for tourists
For an ideal stay, combining security and easy access to tourist sites and event venues, choose the following areas:
Where to stay near Dortmund Stadium
To be closest to the Signal Iduna Park stadium and the Westfalenhalle, focus your search south of the city center.
Westfalenhalle and Kreuzviertel Sud are the most convenient areas to stay in for walking to the stadium and enjoying a pleasant neighborhood.
These hotels are perfect for match days or events at the Westfalenhalle, while also being well connected to the rest of the city.
- Dorint An den Westfalenhallen Dortmund :
- Closest to the stadium, ideal for match days (walking distance).
- Next to the Westfalenhalle.
- B&B HOTEL Dortmund-Messe :
- More affordable option near the exhibition facilities and stadium.
- Excellent access to the U-Bahn (metro) for travel.
Where to stay near tourist attractions
For museums, shopping areas, restaurants and nightlife, aim for the east or west city center, while remaining vigilant.
If you had to choose just one neighborhood, Kreuzviertel is the best compromise. It's a very safe, lively neighborhood with plenty of bars, cafes, and restaurants. It's close enough to reach the stadium on foot (about 20-30 minutes) or very quickly via the U-Bahn.
It excels in both safety and atmosphere and is close to the city center (Mitte), with nice shops and the German Football Museum.
These hotels place you near lively and safe neighborhoods ( Kreuzviertel and Kaiserviertel ) and also with very good connections to the stadium:
- NH DOrtmund :
- Located on the Cityring, offering quick access to the shopping streets and restaurants of Kaiserviertel.
- Good quality hotel with full services.
- Moxy Dortmund City :
- Modern, designer hotel, centrally located between Kreuzviertel and Kaiserviertel.
- Perfect for travelers who enjoy a dynamic and stylish environment.