World Cuphotels cluster around Gelsenkirchen's Hauptbahhof (main station) and the pedestrianised streets of Bahnhofstrasse and Hochstrasse. Early booking is essential, with the best places filling up fast. Gelsenkirchen's English-speaking booking service helps with advance reservations for World Cup hotels (+49 (0) 209 951 970).

Central Favourite: Ibis Gelsenkirchen
Two minutes from the main station, this World Cup hotel is central and good value. The 104 rooms, with private bathroom and TV, are clean and functional. Hotel facilities include Wi Fi access and a bar. Breakfast costs an extra ¿9.
Train Station: Hauptbahnhof
Address: Bahnhofsvorplatz 12, 45879 Gelsenkirchen
Phone: +49 (0) 209 17020
Rates: Doubles 47-51 (Euro)
Web: www.accorhotels.com

Pitch A Tent: Nordsternpark Campsite
Close to the stadium, this huge campsite is in the grounds of the Nordsternpark. Purpose-built for the FIFA World Cup, there's space for 2000 fans, with all the standard facilities and a young, lively vibe.
Bus Stop: Nordsternpark
Address: Am Bugapark, 45899 Gelsenkirchen
Phone: +49 (0) 209 951 970 (booking service)
Rates: 19 (Euro) per person
Web: www.fifawm2006.gelsenkirchen.de

Cheap Digs: Jugendherberge Essen
A 10-minute train ride from Gelsenkirchen, Essen is home to this youth hostel, sleeping 174 fans during the FIFA World Cup. Facilities include a bistro, barbecue area, TV room and table football. Rates include breakfast.
S-Bahn Stop: Essen-Werden
Address: Pastoratsberg 2, 45239 Essen
Phone: +49 (0) 201 49 11 63
Rates: Dorm 19.80 (Euro); double 24.90(Euro) per person; single 30 (Euro)
Web: www.jugendherberge.de/jh/essen