In Oberhausen (222 000 pop.) Are old and new, past and future close together. Only a few, but significant structural legacies of the past are preserved like the Gasometer or even an entire factory, the former Zinkfabrik Altenberg. In the 90s was on a former industrial wasteland in the north of the city the newest district built: the Neue Mitte Oberhausen, with the Centro, Europe's largest shopping mall.

Gasometer An absolute must! The widely visible ton of steel was built in 1929 as a buffer for a coke-oven and closed in 1988. Now it is the most unusual exhibition hall of Europe. Right next door: the CentrO Oberhausen the biggest shopping centre of Germany/Europe. Essener Str. 3

SeaLife Germany's largest freshwater and saltwater aquarium allows in 3300 sq meters of exhibition space a fascinating journey into the depths of the local underwater world. The themes are Rhine, North Sea and Atlantic Ocean. 100 species and 20 000 sea animals you can see. daily 10am-8pm. Zum Aquarium 1

Siedlung Eisenheim The oldest municipal workers district of the Ruhr Valley has been a myth: 1897 finalized, the settlement should have been destroyed in the 70s. A citizens' initiative succeeded and its now a protected monument. Siedlung Eisenheim, Werrastr. 1

food                                                                                                                                                                   Frintrop 100 years old inn with international kitchen, on whose card you can also find dishes from the Ruhr. The wine list is unique. daily. Mühlenstr. 116                                                                                                                                      Hackbarth's Restaurant Kitchen for the highest demands in a stylish atmosphere. Im Lipperfeld 44

where to stay                                                                                                                                                           Hotel zum Eisenhammer Central, but quiet small hotel. 22 rooms. Zum Eisenhammer 8                                                     Hotel Gerlach-Thiemann Family run 4-star hotel, located a bit outside. In the restaurant you can eat very well. 21 rooms. Buchenweg 14                                                                                                                                                         Hotel Gasthof Zum Rathaus "Bed & Bike" is the motto of this quiet yet centrally located, comfortable hotel with a restaurant. 23 rooms. Freiherr-vom-Stein-Str. 41