Characterized by avant-garde architecture that pushes boundaries, an out-of-this-world nightlife, and a prolific art scene to rival the world’s greatest cultural hubs, Dusseldorf is a remarkably posh and innovative city that offers so much more than first meets the eye. Avid travelers making their way through the streets of Dusseldorf can explore the longest bar in the world, Altstadt, up and coming neighborhoods like Flingern, Lorettostrasse and Unterbilk, and even discover new gems like the redeveloped harbour area of Medienhafen. Whatever your cup of tea is and no matter what kind of adventure you’re looking for, you’ll definitely find it at this business-by-day, party-by-night city.
Altstadt
Altstadt, also known as Dussledorf’s Old Town, is famous amongst travelers and locals alike for being a wondrous square kilometer with more to offer than any other district in the city. Visitors can get a quintessential German experience at Altstadt with several iconic areas located in the area such as Bolkestrabe, Burgplatz and Schlosstrum. Visitors eager to get a taste of a good old fashioned Altbier ought to head to the longest bar in the world, which consists of over 260 pubs, while those who want to soak up the state’s art and culture can head to landmarks like the NRW-Forum, the Museum Kunstpalast or Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen.
Altstadt, Dusseldorf, Germany
Rhine Embankment
One of the world’s most beautiful esplanades, the Rhine embankment promenade features a lovely view of Germany’s northern region. The embankment was planned and mapped out throughout most of the 1990s by Niklaus Fritschi and, till this day, stands as a symbol and remembrance of Dussledorfer’s Rhenish joie-de-vivre. Perfect for full day walking tour, the Rhine embankment connects Dusseldorf’s traditional town of Altstadt to the more modern locale of MedienHafen. Spectacular bars and restaurants line the embankment, ensuring that no traveler goes thirsty or hungry while walking their way around town. Special guided tours are also available around the Rhine embankment for travelers eager to hear more about the special relationship the city has with the River Rhine.
Rhine River, Dusseldorf, Germany
Rheinturm
Undoubtedly one of Dusseldorf’s most iconic and recognisable landmarks is Rheinturm or, in English, the Rhine Tower. Designed by H. Deilmann and constructed between the years of 1979 and 1982, the Rhine Tower is a breathtaking structure that stands proudly at the mouth of Media Harbour in the southern area of Dusseldorf’s city center. As expected, the Rhine Tower is best known for offering visitors an incredible view of the city. From the tower’s viewing platform, M168, visitors can take in a fantastic bird’s eye look at various landmarks like the Kingsallee, the Hofgarten, the historic town center, and more. Meanwhile, passionate foodies can take the lift all the way up to the top of the tower and dine at QOMO, a fine-dining modern Japanese restaurant, which rotates around its own axis pairing mouthwatering dishes with exquisite views.
Stromstrabe 20, 40221, Dusseldorf, Germany, Phone: +49-21-18-68-20-00
Medienhafen
Once the home of derelict warehouses, Medienhafen has quickly grown into one of Dusseldorf’s premier vacation destinations. Still retaining its original ambience as a harbour, Medienhafen’s old structures are now protected as historical monuments while new establishments continue to pop up and thrive. Although the architecture of the area is certainly a treat for the eyes, Madienhafen is best known for being a gastronomic haven with tons of premier league restaurants ready to please your taste buds. Some attractions travelers shouldn’t miss while in Medienhafen include the Meerbar, the Berens am Kai, and the Gehry buildings.
Phone: +49-211-17-20-28-67
Farmer’s Markets
Looking for a lazy activity to do during your downtime in Dusseldorf? Head out for an afternoon stroll, enjoy the fresh air of the city, and explore the many stalls at the Dusseltal Farmers Market. Dusseldorf is famous for its Christmas markets and trade fairs, but there are often small markets that pop-up all over the city with great finds and fantastic fresh produce. Dusseltal is perhaps one of the most popular of farmer’s markets. Located nearby the Brehmplatz tram station, visitors can find about a dozen shops and stalls with great foodie finds to sample. When you’ve had your fill of the farmer’s market, there are also other great attractions to walk to nearby.
Dusseltal, Dusseldorf, Germany
Nordpark
Nordpark is a spectacular oasis of lavish greenery and flora that was built in the 1930s during the Great Imperial Exhibition of Productive People. It’s one of Germany’s most important examples of garden architecture and is characterized by long symmetrical lines as well as its large axis of water. Within Nordpark are attractions like the Aquazoo, the Japanese Garden, and gorgeous ornamental blossoms. Visitors at Nordpark can enjoy views of the ornate water fountains, walk along vibrant and sophisticated flowerbeds, as well as snap lovely photos within the planted flower ring. While the Nordpark is a great place to enjoy Mother Nature, it’s also an awesome place to go for a run or brisk walk for those who need to get some exercise in.
Kaiserswerther Str. 365, 40474, Dusseldorf, Germany, Phone: +49-211-43-36-34
Hofgarten
Say hello to a lush green space with picturesque meadows, large flower beds, and more at Düsseldorf's Hofgarten. This tranquil greenspace is the perfect and obvious next stop once you’ve had your fill of the museums and shopping that Dusseldrof has to offer. Hofgarten is known for being Germany’s first and oldest park. It was built in 1769 and boasts of nearly 70 acres of carefully manicured gardens. From ancient trees to peaceful ponds, walking paths to bridges, Hofgarten has practically everything that makes a garden great. Don’t forget to look for the stunning sculptures that call the Hofgarten home like the Les Meninas sculptures, the “Admonisher” near the Jagerhof Palace, and the Fairytale Fountain.
40213 Dusseldorf, Germany, Phone: +49-21-18-99-48-00
Schloss Benrath
Built for the Elector Palatine Charles Theodor and his wife, the Countess Palatine Elisabeth August in 1755, the Schloss Benrath is a maison de plaisance that features Baroque-style architecture. French architect Nicolas de Pigage certainly spared no expense in creating this massive pink castle, which is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and most well-preserved landmarks in the region. History buffs visiting Schloss Benrath will love a stroll through its 148 acres of beautifully manicured gardens, or a walk through of the castle’s opulent halls, which still retains many of its original furniture. Guided tours of the Schloss Benrath are also available for guests who want to learn more about the castle’s history than meets the eye.
Benrather Schloballee 100-108, 40597, Dusseldorf, Germany, Phone: +49-21-18-92-19-03
Kaiserpfalz
Explore the other worldly remains of a 12th-century castle when you pay a visit to the Kaiserpflaz Kaiserswerth. Situated at the city’s fringe, Kaiserpfalz is often overlooked by tourists, and yet, this landmark is one of the most lovely historical areas that Dusseldorf has to offer. Kaiserpfalz, and its hometown of Kaiserswerth, is worthy of a full day of exploration with its charming baroque houses, circa the 17th and 18th centuries, and its thriving greenery. The Kaiserpfalz is is known for being the “Royal Palace” of the legendary Emperor Friedrich Barbarossa, and is famed for magnificent towering stone walls and eye catching architecture.
Burgallee 40489, Dusseldorf, Germany, Phone: +49-211-22-97-30-77
Koenigsallee
What would a trip to Dusseldorf be without experiencing the life-changing shopping that Koenigsallee has to offer? Known affectionately as the “Ko” by locals, the Koenigsallee is single handedly responsible for the elegant shopping culture and sophisticated lifestyle that Dusseldorf has come to be known for. So iconic is this shopping street that the Ko has seen the Who’s Who of the fashion industry visiting its many flagship stores, unique boutiques, and impressive shopping centers. A trip to the Koenigsallee is so luxurious that people can even hire personal shoppers for the day who are more than willing to show them around this shopping haven. Make sure to stop by one of the many street cafes for some rest and reenergizing between your shopping stops.
Koenigsallee, Stadtmitte, Dusseldorf, Germany
Dusseldorfer Schauspielhaus
Designed by Bernhard Pfau and built between the years 1965 to 1969, the Dusseldorfer Schauspielhaus is a theatre company and building that is beloved by performance arts lovers inside and outside of Germany. Today, the Dusseldorfer Schauspielhaus’ company performs timeless classics and new hits from the Graeco-Roman times to the present. Patrons of the Schauspielhaus’ plays can look forward to an uncanny gift of matching the classics to present day narratives, while raising awareness for contemporary problems, social issues and more. Of course, if all you’re after is an entertaining evening by skilled actors, producers and authors, then the Dusseldorfer Schauspielhaus has that in spades as well.
Gustaf Grundgens Platz 1, Dusseldorf, Germany, Phone: +49-21-18-52-30
Eko Haus
Who would have thought that within the thriving metropolis of Dusseldorf, there would stand a traditional Japanese temple, garden and cultural center? Not many people would, that’s for sure, and yet that’s exactly what visitors have to look forward to at the Eko Haus. Known locally as the Little Tokyo on the Rhine, the Eko Haus was built by the Japanese population in Dusseldorf, which also happens to be the largest population of its kind in Europe. Being part of the Japanviertel, or Japan quarter, in Dusseldorf, the Eko Haus offers colorful kimonos, exquisit sushi, Asian supermarkets and more. One of the most sought after experiences at the Eko Haus, however, are the Buddhist ceremonies and traditional tea ceremonies that are held regularly at the tea room.
Bruggener Weg 6, 40547, Dusseldorf, Germany, Phone: +49-21-15-77-91-80
Kunstsammlung
Referred to fondly as the North Rhine Westphalia’s “secret national gallery”, the Kunstsammlung is a state-owned gallery that is known for having one of the country’s most prestigious collections of contemporary art. The Kunstsammlung originated back in 1933 with the purchase of 88 spectacular works of art by Paul Klee. Since then, the exhibit has evolved into a fantastic museum that spans across three sites and over 10,000 square meters of exhibit space. The museum boasts an impressive collection with major classical modernism works of art like that of Pablo Picasso, Wassily Kandinsky, Piet Mondrian, Henri Matisse, and more.
Grabbeplatz 5, Dusseldorf, Germany, Phone: +49-21-18-38-12-04
Classic Remise
If there were ever an attraction in Dusseldorf that was perfect for hot blooded and car loving men, it would be the Classic Remise. This events venue turned warehouse is home to an impressive collection of classic cars, shops selling automobile paraphernalia, and even a restaurant with an amazing and busy beer garden. While the cars of all shapes and sizes are definitely the main draw of this attraction, the Classic Remise is perfect for car lovers and classic car owners as well thanks to their services, garages, spare parts, and more available. Specialists visiting the Classic Remise can also participate in car and motorcycle workshops like mechanical work, repainting, custom upholstery and interior work.
Harffstrabe 110A, 40591, Dusseldorf, Germany, Phone: +49-211-22-95-05-70
Neanderthal Museum
Have you ever found yourself wondering what it must have been like to be a neanderthal? Or maybe you’re mad about anthropology and want to know everything you possibly can about human evolution. If you answered yes to either question, then you may want to pay a visit to the Neanderthal Museum in Mettmann. The museum at the exact site that the first neanderthal man was discovered, and features galleries that showcase the evolution of man throughout the centuries. Apart from replicas and lifelike models of what neanderthals would have looked like, the museum also features a holistic view of the evolutionary history of human beings in an easily digestible and interactive way.
Talastrabe 300, 40822, Mettman, Germany, Phone: +49-210-49-79-70
Kunst im Tunnel
Ready to discover some of Dusseldorf’s best pieces of contemporary art? Head underground to the Kunst im Tunnel, or KIT for short, which is located right inside the Rheinufertunnel. This museum features 850 square meters of exhibition space, one of the newest of Kunsthalle Dusseldorf, and features hundreds of fantastic artworks curated by the KIT’s artistic director, Gertrud Peters. The Kunst im Tunnel showcases four to six alternating exhibits yearly, each one focusing on exhibiting emerging artists, and contemporary art across various genres and mediums like paintings, sculptures, photographs, videos and mixed media installations. You certainly won’t want to miss the works of art at this museum.
Mannesmannufer 1b, 40213, Dusseldorf, Germany, Phone: +49-21-18-92-07-69
St. Lambertus Church
A historic Roman-Catholic church in Dusseldorf, the medieval St. Lambertus Church is probably the oldest building in the city and arguably one of the most sacred. Known for being the home of the remains of the city’s patron saint, St. Apollinaris, the St. Lambertus Church is characterized by its famous leaning roof, and an important sculpture in Dusseldorf’s sculptural history, the tomb of Duke Wilhelm V of Julich-Kleve-Berg. Guided tours are the way to go at St. Lambertus, with guides available at the church’s entrance and several walking tours available from third party providers. The church is also just a stroll away to the Rhine Promenade for visitors eager for a walk and a great cup of coffee.
Stiftspl 7, 40213 Dusseldorf, Germany, Phone: +49-21-13-00-49-90
Radschlagerbrunnen
Did you know that cartwheeling is one of the oldest traditions in Dusseldorf? So iconic is this local tradition, that it was even immortalized through the erection of a historical landmark and fountain known as Radschlagerbrunnen in 1954. The fountain is located in the Burgplatz, right next to the Schlossturm, and features a sculpture of two cartwheeling children. Sitting at the heart of a city square, the Radschlagerbrunnen is a prime opportunity for a quintessential photo op in Dusseldorf, and a great spot to people watch in this busy locale. Drop by one of the neighboring coffee shops or cafes for a quick bite to eat or to savor a stupendous cup of coffee.
Burgpl 13, 40212, Dusseldorf, Germany
Stadttor
While Dusseldorf is inarguably known for its outstanding Old Town and rich history, it’s also known for its thriving modern cityscape and incredible innovative architecture. One such example of Dusseldorf’s modern splendor is the Stadttor, a 20-storey skyscraper located in the city’s Unterbilk neighborhood, which was completed in 1998. Marking the southern entrance of the Rheinufertunnel, the Stadttor is home to a 15-storey atrium which features double-facades, which gives the building a unique natural ventilation system. The building serves as the seat of the state-chancellery of the prime ministers of North Rhine-Westphalia, making it a politically significant building amongst noteworthy and distinguishing facts.
Stadttor 1, 40219, Dusseldorf, Germany, Phone: +49-211-60-00-60-20
Sattgrun
Plant based dining has never been more classy nor irresistibly mouth watering than at the Sattgrun. Serving dishes made exclusively out of plant-based ingredients, Sattgrun brings vegan food to an all new gastronomic level. Sattgrun’s menu is notably healthy as all of the menu offerings are cholesterol and lactose-free. Additionally, ingredients used in Sattgrun’s cooking are free of genetically modified foods, and chock full of fresh herbs, vegetables and tasty meat alternatives. The restaurant offers crisp and fresh salads, appetite whetting antipasti, delicious hot soups, exotic vegetable curries and more. Some dishes to sample include the sweet potato and coconut suit, the mango curry with deep fried tofu, and the indonesian noodles with mixed vegetables.
Hoffeldstrabe 18, Dusseldorf, Germany, Phone: +49-211-68-87-40-80
Laura’s Deli
Dedicated to serving food that helps her patrons stay healthy and happy always, Laura’s Deli is owned and operated by the local sensation Laura Koerver. Known for her cookbook, “Kiss the Cook” and for cuisine that highlights the use of fresh whole food ingredients, Laura’s Deli doesn’t just make eating healthy easy, it makes it absolutely delicious too. The deli offers a diverse range of dishes through innovative recipes and international food concepts. The culinary approach of Laura’s Deli is based on a unique nutrient-rich mix of ingredients, which are designed to take you far away from cheap fast food, which can wreak havoc on your body. Some food options to tuck into include gluten-free sandwiches, vegan and gluten-free dishes, as well as a large selection of salads.
Carlspl. 1, 40213 Dusseldorf, Germany, Phone: +49-211-86-93-38-80
Carrot Cake
A haven for vegans and carrot cake lovers alike, the Cafe Carrot Cake is the perfect spot to spend a breezy afternoon in Derendorf. Gone are the days when vegan options were relegated to a small corner section of the menu. At Cafe Carrot Cake, vegan menu options take center stage, including its iconic and best-selling carrot cake. Utterly moist, velvety and mouthwatering, the carrot cake is so delicious it’ll even make non-vegans beg for a slice. Apart from its carrot cake, the cafe is also known for incredible coffee, cocoa, a wide selection of teas, and other delectable menu items such as fresh sandwiches, an assortment of cupcakes, kiwi pie and blueberry crumble.
Moltkestrabe 75, 40479, Dusseldorf, Germany, Phone: +49-211-43-63-78-71
Frucht and Genuss
If there’s anything that Fruct and Genuss proves, it’s that a restaurant doesn’t have to be huge or loud to make a splash in the local foodie scene. This small and humble organic store is a stand-out bakery, a popular bistro, and a stunning flower shop all in one. What makes Frucht and Genuss so special, however, is how it keeps things simple. From Monday to Friday, the bistro faithfully serves up three different vegan or vegetarian dishes to eat at the bistro or have wrapped up to eat elsewhere. Every dish is made with spectacular organic ingredients and showcase regional and seasonal produce.
Stresemannstr. 29, 40210, Dusseldorf, Germany, Phone: +49-211-94-19-24-90
Fleischfrei
One of Dusseldorf’s top rated restaurants, Fleischfrei is known for its crowd-pleasing vegetarian delivery service and a spectacularly simple menu. Established in March 2015, Fleischfrei’s vegan-friendly cuisine features western recipes as well as pizza, salads, snacks, burgers and even a killer tiramisu. Fast, affordable and uncompromisingly delicious, the food at this fast-food spot is so good that even meat eaters can’t tell the difference between their vegan patties and a full beef burger. With food that is super fresh and lightning fast, hungry vegans and vegan-loving foodies don’t have to worry about or search far for a superb and filling meal.
256 Stadtbezirk 3, Oberbilker Allee 40227, Dusseldorf, Germany, Phone: +49-21-19-84-70-90
Jade Vegetarische Kuche
Passionate about creating nutritious and environmentally friendly dishes, the Jade Vegetarische Kuche is a vegan and vegetarian restaurant that will enchant and woo your tastebuds through mouth-watering plant based dishes. There’s no shortage of incredible dishes to try at the Jade Vegetarische Kuche either. Some fantastic starters to sample include the Peking Goulash Soup, the Thai Tom Yum Soup, and the Triple Mushroom Soup. Meanwhile, delicious mains to feast on and nourish your body with include the Vegetable Dumplings, Szechuan Style Salad, , the Curry Court with Rice, and Chopsuey. Jade even offers delectable vegan desserts like their Baked Banana with Agave Syrup.
Durener Str. 42, 40223 Dusseldorf, Germany, Phone: +49-211-15-67-88
Ready to go?
Step 1: Visit the website and book directly and/or call ahead to confirm their hours.
Step 2: If you are spending the night, search for Hotel Deals nearby. Read the reviews, then call the hotel directly to book and ask for a romantic, kid-friendly or pet-friendly amenity if you need it.
Step 3: If you are flying, compare Flights. Book directly with the airline, add your frequent flier number and reserve your seat.
Step 4: Estimate your driving time using Google Maps (click the blue 'Directions' arrow in the search box).
Need some more help?
Read our Reservations & Travel Planning Tips guide.