Just 40 years ago, Dortmund was Germany's top brewing city, home to the world's biggest brewery and the birthplace of the famous Dortmunder Export. Less bitter than the eponymous Pilseners and a bit drier, other local favourites include DAB, Dortmunder Union Export and Kronen Export.

Dortmund Beer House: Zum alten Markt
Serving local beers on tap, Zum alten Markt (Markt 3) is right in the thick of it. Look out for a red brick building with hanging baskets.

Familiar Beers: Boomerang
Boomerang (Kuckelke 20) is an Australian theme pub serving British beers like Newcastle Brown and John Smith's, as well as Foster's and Carlsberg.

Outdoor Oasis: Solendo
This trendy new club (Speicherstrasse 2A) opened its doors last year. Billed as Germany's first year-round beach club, it's a great spot to chill out. DJs play regular slots and the football is shown on big screens.