Welcome to Dortmund Airport (DTM) – Your Gateway to Germany’s Ruhr Region

Conveniently located approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) east of downtown Dortmund, Dortmund Airport (DTM)serves as a vital entry point for both leisure and business travelers exploring the Ruhr metropolitan area and beyond. From Bundesliga football matches at Signal Iduna Park to industrial heritage routes in the surrounding region, DTM offers a streamlined travel experience with low-cost carrier connections and efficient passenger services. In this airport guide, learn everything you need to navigate Dortmund Airport—from terminals and transportation to parking, dining, and essential travel tips.

1. Quick Facts & Overview

1. Airport Code: DTM
2. Location: Holzwickede, approximately 10 km (6.2 mi) east of central Dortmund
3. Primary Airlines: Wizz Air, Ryanair, Eurowings, and seasonal charter flights
4. Passenger Volume: Over 2 million passengers annually (pre-pandemic figures)
5. Terminals: A single terminal building dedicated to both Schengen and non-Schengen flights
6. Runway: One main runway supporting short- to medium-haul aircraft

With a focus on short-haul routes, Dortmund Airport connects travelers to popular European cities and holiday destinations, offering budget-friendly fares and quick turnarounds.

2. Terminal Layout & Facilities

2.1 Check-In & Departures

• Check-In Counters
  • Positioned on the ground floor—airlines typically post counter numbers on overhead screens.
  • Some carriers (e.g., Wizz Air, Ryanair) encourage online check-in; check if bag-drop counters are still needed.
• Security Check
  • Centralized security screening beyond the main check-in hall.
  • Plan 1–1.5 hours for domestic/Schengen flights, or 2 hours for non-Schengen departures, especially during peak times.

2.2 Arrivals & Baggage Claim

• Baggage Reclaim
  • Located on the ground floor near arrivals; digital boards indicate carousel numbers for each flight.
• Customs & Passport Control
  • For non-Schengen flights, passengers clear immigration upon arrival. EU/Schengen arrivals pass minimal checks.
• Information Desk
  • Staff can assist with onward transportation, lost property, and general inquiries.

2.3 Key Amenities

• Free Wi-Fi
  • “DOKOM21 Free Wi-Fi” is available throughout the terminal—follow on-screen prompts after connecting.
• ATMs & Currency Exchange
  • Limited foreign exchange facilities—plan accordingly for currency needs.
• Travel Essentials & Shops
  • Post office corner, pharmacy kiosk, and convenience stores.
• Baby-Changing Areas
  • Restrooms equipped with changing tables—look for signage in both arrivals and departures halls.

3. Ground Transportation

3.1 Bus Services

• AirportExpress (Bus) to Dortmund Central Station
  • Operated by DSW21, typically departs every 30 minutes from Arrivals.
  • Journey time ~25 minutes; adult fare ~€9 (check exact rates).
• AirportShuttle to Holzwickede Station
  • Short 5–10-minute ride, connecting you to regional trains (Deutsche Bahn) for further travel.

3.2 Trains (via Holzwickede Station)

• Deutsche Bahn (DB) Connections
  • Regular regional trains link Holzwickede (“Dortmund Flughafen” station) to Dortmund Hbf (main station), Hamm, and other destinations in North Rhine-Westphalia.
  • Tickets available at DB machines or online. Validate or keep proof of purchase ready for inspection.

3.3 Taxis & Ride-Hailing

• Taxi Rank
  • Outside the main arrivals exit—fares to Dortmund city center ~€25–€35, travel time ~20–30 minutes.
• Ride-Share Apps
  • Services like Uber may be limited; check local availability. Official taxis remain the most common option.

3.4 Car Rentals

• Rental Companies
  • Desks from major brands (Europcar, Sixt, Hertz, Avis) in the arrivals area.
  • Book ahead for better rates, especially during peak travel or local events.

4. Parking at Dortmund Airport

1. Short-Term Parking (P1, P2)

   • Closest to the terminal—perfect for quick pick-ups or drop-offs.
   • Hourly rates apply; pay at machines before exiting.

2. Long-Term Parking (P3, P6)

   • More cost-effective daily/weekly rates, but a slightly longer walk or shuttle to the terminal.
   • Ideal for extended holidays or business trips.

3. Premium Parking (P1—VIP Area)

   • Larger parking spaces with direct terminal access—reserve in advance for guaranteed availability.
   • Typically higher fees but maximum convenience.

(Always consult Dortmund Airport’s official site for real-time parking occupancy, pricing deals, and multi-day offers.)

5. Lounges & Priority Services

5.1 Lounge Westfalen

• Location
  • Airside, after security—follow signage near departure gates.
• Access
  • Typically open to certain airline status holders, business class passengers, or via paid passes if capacity allows.
• Amenities
  • Light snacks, complimentary beverages, Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, flight info screens.

5.2 Fast Track Security

• Eligibility
  • Some airlines or ticket classes include priority lines. Purchase online or at airport if offered.
• Time-Saver
  • Great for skipping queues during rush hours or busy holiday seasons.

6. Dining & Shopping

6.1 Food & Beverage

• Cafés & Bakeries
  • Enjoy fresh German bread, pastries, or coffee from local chains in departures or arrivals.
• Quick Meals
  • Fast-food counters serving burgers, sandwiches, pizza slices—ideal for a quick bite before boarding.
• Bars & Lounges
  • Some establishments offer beer, wine, or spirits—sample local brews if time allows.

6.2 Duty-Free & Retail

• Duty-Free Store
  • Alcohol, tobacco, perfumes, and cosmetics at tax-reduced prices for eligible routes.
• Souvenir Shops
  • German chocolates, local football merchandise (Borussia Dortmund items), postcards, and region-themed gifts.
• Travel Essentials
  • Magazines, snacks, electronics, accessories—useful if you forgot phone chargers or earphones.

7. Nearby Accommodations

1. B&B Hotel Dortmund-Airport

   • ~3 km from the terminal—budget-friendly option with modern rooms and free Wi-Fi.
   • Taxi or short bus ride from DTM.

2. Hotel Lohenstein (Holzwickede)

   • Near Holzwickede train station, offering quick airport access.
   • Mid-range property—ideal for overnight layovers or early flights.

3. City-Center Hotels (Dortmund)

   • 20–30 minutes by taxi or bus from the airport.
   • Range from budget hostels to upscale chain hotels—close to shopping, dining, and Dortmund’s nightlife.

8. Top Attractions Near Dortmund

1. Dortmund City Center
   • Known for the Reinoldikirche, shopping on Westenhellweg, and the Dortmund U (former brewery turned cultural center).
2. Signal Iduna Park
   • Home stadium of Borussia Dortmund football club—catch a match or stadium tour if time permits.
3. Zeche Zollern
   • Industrial heritage museum in nearby Bochum—showcasing Germany’s coal mining past.
4. Hohensyburg Ruins
   • Scenic viewpoint over the Ruhr valley, about 15 km south of Dortmund’s center.

9. Travel Tips for Dortmund Airport

1. Arrive Early
   • 1–1.5 hours prior for domestic/Schengen flights; 2 hours for non-Schengen.
2. Online Check-In
   • Many budget carriers (e.g., Wizz Air, Ryanair) charge extra if you haven’t checked in online—avoid additional fees by doing it beforehand.
3. Mind Baggage Rules
   • Low-cost airlines enforce strict cabin bag policies—ensure your luggage meets size/weight limits.
4. Use Public Transport
   • Dortmund’s bus/rail links are efficient—take advantage to avoid parking fees if your stay in the region is short.
5. Explore the Ruhr
   • With quick train routes from Dortmund Hbf, discover Essen’s UNESCO Zollverein Coal Mine or Duisburg’s inner harbor.

10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How far is Dortmund Airport from Dortmund city center?
A: Around 10 km east—roughly 20–30 minutes by bus or taxi, depending on traffic.

Q2: Are there direct train connections at the airport?
A: Not exactly on-site. You can use the AirportShuttle to reach Holzwickede station (5–10 min), then regional DB trains to Dortmund Hbf or other destinations.

Q3: Does DTM have a left-luggage facility?
A: Currently limited or unavailable—confirm at the airport information desk for short-term luggage storage.

Q4: Is free Wi-Fi reliable?
A: The “DOKOM21 Free Wi-Fi” typically works well for emails and basic browsing. For high-bandwidth tasks, consider a mobile data plan or lounge access.

Q5: Does Dortmund Airport handle late-night flights?
A: Operations can be limited at night; check your airline’s schedule. Some carriers avoid flights during restricted hours due to noise regulations.

Conclusion

Dortmund Airport (DTM) is a convenient, traveler-friendly gateway to both Dortmund’s urban attractions and the broader Ruhr area’s industrial heritage. From low-cost flight options to direct bus links and short train connections, DTMcaters to seamless regional travel. Keep this airport guide by airport.co at your fingertips for details on ground transport, parking, dining, lounge access, and top local attractions, ensuring every aspect of your journey through Dortmund Airport is smooth and enjoyable.