Ruhr, Germany: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Ruhr, Germany? If you're planning to go to Ruhr, I've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Ruhr, Germany

Based on the climate and weather in Ruhr, Germany, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Ruhr, Germany

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Ruhr, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Ruhr, Germany by month

January

If you visit Ruhr during January, you are likely to find that it is pretty cool. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 30s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 80 and 90% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain or snow/sleet about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Germany has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ruhr. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

February

February here is brisk. Temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains or snows about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Germany has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ruhr. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you pick the correct type. Many adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

March

If you vacation in Ruhr during March, you will probably see that it is pretty cool. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Germany has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ruhr. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to choose the necessary type. Most adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

April

April in Ruhr is crisp. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Germany has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ruhr. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you find the right kind. Most adapters available are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

May

May in Ruhr is crisp. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 40s F (single digits C). But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 50% to 60% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Germany has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ruhr. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to choose the correct kind. Most adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

June

June in Ruhr is mild. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C) to high 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Germany has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ruhr. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to choose the necessary kind. Most adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

July

In July, Ruhr is mild. Temperatures routinely are in the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Ruhr, with several of the days of the month having rain. In July, humidity reaches as high as 60%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Germany has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ruhr. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

August

If you are traveling to Ruhr in August, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Germany has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ruhr. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you pick the correct type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

September

September in Ruhr is crisp. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Germany has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ruhr. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you pick the correct type. Many adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

October

If you visit Ruhr during October, you may see that it is chilly. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Germany has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ruhr. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to find the necessary type. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

November

If you go to Ruhr in November, you will notice that it is pretty cool. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Germany has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ruhr. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you get the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

December

If you are traveling to Ruhr in December, you will notice that it can be brisk. Expect it to rain or snow about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Germany has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ruhr. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to choose the right type. The majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

What to do in Ruhr, Germany

Ruhr, a region in Germany, is a popular tourist destination for its rich history, cultural diversity, and picturesque landscapes. The region is characterized by a vibrant industrial past and world-class museums, parks, and other attractions, which draw visitors from all over the world. Here are some top tourist attractions in Ruhr, Germany.

1. Industrial Heritage Trail

The Industrial Heritage Trail is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Ruhr, Germany. It is a winding 400-kilometer cycle path that takes visitors through the former industrial heartland. Along the way, tourists can explore the old coal mines, steel mills, and factories that once drove the region's economy. Visitors can walk or cycle the trail while taking in the sights of the region's industrial past.

2. Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex

The Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex is one of the most iconic landmarks in Ruhr, Germany. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site that features modernist architecture, which serves as a reminder of the area's industrial heritage. Visitors can explore exhibitions, art galleries, and the Red Dot Design Museum that showcases exceptional design objects.

3. Dortmund Zoo

Dortmund Zoo is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ruhr, Germany. The zoo is home to over 1,500 animals, including tigers, lions, monkeys, chimps, and other exotic species from around the world. Visitors can explore the zoo's extensive collection while enjoying the picturesque views of the park.

4. Gasometer Oberhausen

The Gasometer Oberhausen is another iconic landmark in Ruhr, Germany. It is a former gas holder that has been turned into an exhibition space. Visitors can explore the exhibitions, which change annually, while enjoying breathtaking views of the Ruhr district from the top of the 100-meter tower.

5. Grugapark Essen

Grugapark Essen is a 700,000 square meter park located in the heart of Essen city. The park features an extensive collection of flora and fauna, recreational facilities, botanical gardens, and various sports facilities. The park is a popular destination for families and nature enthusiasts looking to enjoy outdoor activities.

In conclusion, Ruhr, Germany, is an excellent tourist destination, thanks to its rich cultural heritage, iconic landmarks, and countless recreational activities. Visitors can explore the region's industrial past while enjoying the picturesque views of its landscape. With its unique attractions, Ruhr is a perfect vacation spot for travelers looking for a mix of history and modernity.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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