Solingen City Guide

Traditional German and regional food along with international choices like Italian, Turkish, and Asian. Vegetarian and vegan options are growing. Late-night options are mostly döner or pizza shops.

Nightlife is modest with pubs, bars, and a few clubs. Not a big party city but good for relaxed evenings.

Mix of traditional and modern cafés. Good coffee available but fewer specialty roasters.

Tipping is customary but not required. Usually 5-10% or rounding up in restaurants and taxis.

SIM cards are sold at Telekom, Vodafone, O2 shops, and electronics stores like MediaMarkt. ID or passport is required. Telekom and Vodafone offer the best coverage and speed.

City is clean with good waste and recycling services.

Limited 24/7 options. Some petrol stations and emergency pharmacies operate round-the-clock. Late-night food options are few.

Supermarkets like Edeka, Rewe, Aldi, and Lidl have international products. Shops open Mon-Sat, usually from 8 AM to 8 or 9 PM. Most close on Sundays, except some bakeries and station shops.

Card payments are accepted at most places, but some smaller shops may prefer cash. Carry euros to be safe.

ATMs are common at banks like Sparkasse and Deutsche Bank, as well as some supermarkets. Fees vary depending on your bank and ATM operator.

Local schools teach in German. For international schools, nearby Düsseldorf or Cologne have options.

Very small digital nomad community. Most nomads prefer larger German cities.

Excellent green spaces including parks, forests, and river valleys.

Good running routes along rivers, parks, and forests with safe paths.

Several gyms with standard facilities.

Tennis courts available at local clubs like Solinger Tennis-Club 1902 e.V.

Padel is less common but available at some sports centers.

Several yoga studios offer classes and drop-in options.

Offerings include Judo, Karate, Taekwondo, boxing, and BJJ.

No local skiing; nearest resorts are hours away.

Possible kayaking and paddleboarding on the Wupper River during warm months.

No surfing opportunities; city is inland.

No diving or snorkeling sites here.

Good healthcare with hospitals like Städtisches Klinikum Solingen. Many staff speak English. Pharmacies (Apotheke) are marked with a red "A" sign. Emergency number is 112.

Tap water is safe to drink and well-regulated.

Many playgrounds and family-friendly cafés. Baby supplies are easy to find. Attractions include Müngsten Bridge Park and Solingen Animal Park.

Generally accepting with some inclusive venues. Low discrimination risk.

Pet-friendly city with parks and vets. Pet supplies are easy to find but check pet policies in advance.