I’ve had the privilege of exploring many cities across the continent. Dortmund, located in the heart of the Ruhr region of Germany, has a rich industrial heritage but also boasts vibrant culture, modern art, and excellent dining. However, what truly surprised me about this city was the selection of boutique hotels—places that blend style, comfort, and affordability seamlessly. Whether you’re visiting for the football, the museums, or simply to experience the local charm, Dortmund has a lot to offer.

In this guide, I’m excited to share with you my personal experience with five boutique hotels in Dortmund’s city center that offer incredible value for money. I’ll cover the details of each hotel—what makes them unique, their location, amenities, pricing, and what past guests have to say. Plus, I’ll provide some booking tips to help you get the best deals. Let’s dive in!

1. NYCE Hotel Dortmund City

Location: Kampstraße 102-104, 44137 Dortmund, Germany

Overview:

If you’re looking for a stylish and affordable stay in the heart of Dortmund, NYCE Hotel is an excellent choice. Located just a short walk from Dortmund’s city center, it offers a perfect balance of comfort, modern amenities, and a central location. I had the pleasure of staying at this property during my visit, and from the moment I stepped in, I was impressed by how well-maintained and contemporary the hotel is. Being part of the Wyndham chain, it carries a reputation for high standards, but what I particularly appreciated was how they’ve infused the space with local touches, giving it a cozy, personalized feel despite being part of a larger network.

The hotel is just a few minutes’ walk from the famous Signal Iduna Park, home of Borussia Dortmund, making it an ideal base for sports enthusiasts. But beyond football, the location places you right in the middle of all the action. The shopping district is nearby, with plenty of cafes, bars, and restaurants to explore. Whether you’re here for business, sightseeing, or a weekend getaway, this hotel offers the convenience of easy access to key attractions, making it an unbeatable option for both short and long stays.

Features & Advantages:

  • Modern Rooms: My room was a perfect blend of modernity and comfort. The design was simple yet chic, with neutral tones and bright, airy decor. The bed was large and very comfortable, offering a great night’s sleep after a long day of sightseeing. Flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, a mini-fridge, and free Wi-Fi were all provided, and I loved the small touches like the cozy seating area by the window. Whether you’re traveling alone or with someone, the room offers everything you need for a relaxing stay.
  • Proximity to Attractions: Location-wise, this hotel is a winner. Being within walking distance to Dortmund’s main attractions, you can easily explore the iconic Signal Iduna Park or take a leisurely stroll to the city’s shopping streets, like Westenhellweg. The area also offers many cultural experiences such as the Museum of Art and Cultural History, which is just a short distance away.
  • Pet-Friendly: A huge plus for animal lovers, NYCE Hotel is pet-friendly. I saw several guests with their dogs, and it was clear that the hotel made accommodations for pets to feel comfortable and welcome. It’s always a great bonus when a hotel offers pet-friendly amenities, especially for those traveling with furry companions.
  • Breakfast Buffet: One of my favorite aspects of staying at NYCE Hotel was the breakfast. They offer an extensive buffet that included both hot and cold dishes, ranging from fresh pastries, scrambled eggs, and sausages to fruit, cereals, and yogurt. I found this to be a great way to start my day and fuel up for the sightseeing adventures ahead.

Guest Reviews:

Guests rave about the NYCE Hotel’s modern ambiance, the comfortable rooms, and its central location. One reviewer from the UK mentioned, “I loved the fact that the hotel is so close to the train station and major shopping areas. The staff was incredibly helpful, and the room was spotless. It was definitely a home away from home!”

Another guest from France added, “The hotel exceeded my expectations. The staff was friendly, the location couldn’t be better, and the breakfast offered a variety of options that kept me satisfied every morning. I’d absolutely stay here again on my next trip to Dortmund.”

Booking Platform:

To get the best rates, I recommend checking out Booking.com. They offer competitive prices, free cancellation, and user reviews that can help make your decision easier. Alternatively, the hotel’s official website might feature special deals or package offers, so it’s worth a look.

Cost:

The prices at NYCE Hotel start at around €55 per night for a standard double room. This is an exceptional deal considering the quality of the hotel and its prime location in the city center.

Booking Tips:

  • Use Booking.com for competitive rates and free cancellation options. Be sure to check the cancellation policy before booking, as some deals allow for flexibility if your plans change.
  • Look out for special offers or discounts during off-peak seasons like late fall or early spring. Hotel prices tend to be lower during these times, and you might even find promotions or packages that add extra value.
  • Sign up for loyalty programs if you plan to visit other properties within the Wyndham group or similar hotels. Many programs offer exclusive deals and discounts, which could be a nice perk for future travels.

2. Sellmann’s Boutique Hotel

Location: Am Stift 12, 44263 Dortmund, Germany

Overview:

If you’re looking for a more intimate, personalized experience, Sellmann’s Boutique Hotel is the perfect choice. Located near the serene Phoenix Lake, this hotel offers a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of the city while still being close enough to explore Dortmund’s attractions.

Features & Advantages:

  • Charming Design: This boutique hotel is filled with character, from its quaint, cozy rooms to its artfully designed common spaces.
  • Breakfast Delights: Every morning, the hotel serves a delicious buffet that includes fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
  • Peaceful Location: Unlike other city-center hotels, Sellmann’s provides a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for those who want to relax after a busy day exploring.
  • Free Parking: It also offers free parking for those traveling by car.

Guest Reviews:

Guests appreciate the boutique hotel’s unique charm and the friendliness of the staff. A reviewer from The Netherlands stated, “The hotel feels like a hidden gem—beautifully designed, peaceful, and the breakfast was superb.”

Booking Platform:

Check Booking.com or the hotel’s own website for the best deals.

Cost:

Rooms start at around €100 per night, which is quite reasonable given the hotel’s quality and location.

Booking Tips:

  • Book directly through the hotel’s website to get early check-in or late check-out options.
  • Look for off-season discounts or long-term stay promotions.

3. Hotel Esplanade Dortmund

Location: Burgwall 3, 44135 Dortmund, Germany

Overview:

For those seeking a hotel with both classic elegance and modern amenities, Hotel Esplanade is an excellent choice. Situated in the heart of Dortmund, it’s perfect for both business and leisure travelers.

Features & Advantages:

  • Historic Charm: The hotel blends its historic architecture with modern conveniences. The rooms are comfortable and feature elegant furnishings, creating a luxurious atmosphere.
  • Convenient Location: A short walk from the Old Town and the central train station, it’s ideally located for tourists.
  • Business Facilities: It’s an excellent choice for business travelers with meeting rooms and conference facilities.
  • Private Dining: The restaurant offers fine dining, making it an excellent spot for both casual and formal meals.

Guest Reviews:

Guests consistently praise the hotel’s central location and the high level of service. One guest shared, “A gem in Dortmund. The hotel’s proximity to the city center was ideal. I enjoyed the restaurant’s atmosphere and the luxury of my room.”

Booking Platform:

Expedia and Booking.com both offer great rates for this hotel.

Cost:

Expect to pay around €90 per night for a standard room.

Booking Tips:

  • Book early to secure the best rates.
  • Consider weekday stays as they tend to be cheaper than weekends.

4. The Grey Design Hotel

Location: Schmiedingstraße 11-13, 44137 Dortmund, Germany

Overview:

The Grey Design Hotel is the epitome of modern chic. It’s sleek, stylish, and has all the amenities you would expect from a high-end boutique hotel, but at a fraction of the cost.

Features & Advantages:

  • Stylish Interiors: Every corner of the hotel is designed with a contemporary flair. The rooms feature minimalist decor and modern touches.
  • Comfort & Quality: The beds were incredibly comfortable, and the amenities in the room were perfect for a relaxing stay.
  • Location: It’s just a few minutes’ walk from Dortmund’s central shopping areas, making it a convenient choice for those who want to explore the city on foot.
  • Fitness Center: For those who like to stay active while traveling, the fitness center provides a great space for a workout.

Guest Reviews:

Travelers rave about the hotel’s design and proximity to key attractions. One guest noted, “Stylish rooms, great location, and very reasonable prices. I loved the comfort of the beds and the spaciousness of the rooms.”

Booking Platform:

For the best deals, check Booking.com or Hotels.com.

Cost:

Prices start around €80 per night.

Booking Tips:

  • Check for last-minute deals on booking platforms.
  • Sign up for loyalty programs to earn points or get discounts on future stays.

5. Moxy Dortmund City

Location: An den Teichen 1, 44143 Dortmund, Germany

Overview:

Moxy Dortmund City offers a vibrant, youthful vibe that appeals to the modern traveler. It’s perfect for those looking for a stylish place to stay without breaking the bank.

Features & Advantages:

  • Lively Atmosphere: The Moxy chain is known for its social spaces, and Dortmund’s location is no different. The lobby bar and lounge area are great places to relax and meet fellow travelers.
  • Tech-Savvy: The hotel incorporates modern technology into its rooms, including smart TVs and keyless room entry.
  • Fitness Center: The on-site fitness center is perfect for those who don’t want to miss their workout while on the road.
  • Pet-Friendly: For those traveling with furry companions, this hotel is an excellent choice.

Guest Reviews:

Guests love the energetic vibe of the hotel and the attention to detail. One traveler said, “Moxy’s design is fresh and fun. The location is perfect, and I felt at home here.”

Booking Platform:

Book directly through Marriott’s website or use Booking.com.

Cost:

Rooms start at approximately €70 per night, offering incredible value for the quality of service and the trendy atmosphere.

Booking Tips:

  • Book in advance to secure the best rates.
  • Sign up for Marriott Bonvoy to earn loyalty points and get special offers.

Where to Book Your Next Stay

Booking accommodation in Dortmund is made easy with a variety of platforms. Here are a few that I recommend for finding great deals across Europe:

  • Booking.com: One of the most reliable platforms for booking hotels worldwide.
  • Hotels.com: Offers great rewards for frequent travelers.
  • Airbnb: For a more home-like stay, Airbnb provides options in and around Dortmund.
  • KAYAK: Ideal for comparing multiple platforms at once.

For the best deals, always remember to book early, look for promotions, and sign up for loyalty programs where possible. Happy travels, and I hope you enjoy your time in Dortmund as much as I did!