Want a mix of sleek modernity, Old Town charm, and Rhine River flair? Head to Düsseldorf, Germany! This stylish city is known for its fashion scene, art museums, vibrant Altstadt (Old Town), and riverside walks. Whether you're visiting for culture, business, or beer, Düsseldorf blends elegance with warmth on every cobbled corner and sleek avenue.
Düsseldorf, Germany Highlights:
- For Art Lovers: Visit Kunstsammlung NRW – A world-class modern art collection with works by Picasso, Klee, and Warhol.
- For Culture Seekers: Stroll through Altstadt (Old Town) – The “longest bar in the world” with over 260 pubs and a historic atmosphere.
- For Shoppers: Walk the Königsallee – A luxury shopping boulevard lined with designer boutiques and tree-lined canals.
- For Architecture Fans: Explore MedienHafen – Frank Gehry-designed buildings and trendy restaurants in a revitalized port area.
- For Nature Lovers: Relax along the Rheinuferpromenade – A scenic riverside promenade perfect for biking, walking, or café hopping.
Best Time to Visit Düsseldorf, Germany
The best time to visit Düsseldorf is in spring (April–June) and early fall (September–October) when the weather is mild and events are in full swing. Winter is festive with Christmas markets, and summer offers long daylight hours and lively beer gardens along the Rhine.
How to Get to Düsseldorf, Germany
- By Air: Düsseldorf International Airport (DUS) is one of Germany’s busiest, with direct flights from major cities worldwide. It’s just 15 minutes by train or taxi to the city center.
- By Train: Düsseldorf Hauptbahnhof (main station) offers high-speed ICE and regional train connections to Cologne, Berlin, Amsterdam, and beyond.
- By Car: Easily accessible via the A3, A52, and A57 autobahns with well-signposted exits for the city center.
Where to Stay in Düsseldorf, Germany
- Recommended for Families: Me and All Hotel Düsseldorf – Stylish, centrally located, and family-friendly with fun common areas and great views.
- For Couples: Hotel Orangerie – A cozy boutique hotel in the Carlstadt district with romantic charm and walkability.
- For Luxury Travelers: Breidenbacher Hof – A historic 5-star hotel offering elegant suites and world-class service on Königsallee.
Best Things to Do in Düsseldorf, Germany
⮕ Altstadt
Stroll cobbled streets and enjoy a lively, romantic Old Town experience.
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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
Walk along the river and enjoy a peaceful, scenic outing.
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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
Take in city views and enjoy an exciting trip to the top.
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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
Explore modern architecture and enjoy a trendy, waterfront stroll.
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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.
Recommended Activities for Families
⮕ Farmer’s Markets
Browse local goods and enjoy an affordable, flavorful morning trip.
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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 Farmer’s Markets. 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
Relax in gardens and enjoy a quiet, family-friendly nature escape.
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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
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
⮕ Hofgarten
Picnic under trees and enjoy a peaceful retreat in the city.
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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
Tour a baroque palace and enjoy a romantic, historical visit.
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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 medieval ruins and enjoy an unusual step into the past.
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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
Shop high-end boutiques and enjoy a stylish, exciting day out.
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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
Where to Eat in Düsseldorf, Germany
- Recommended for Families: Brauerei Schumacher – A traditional brewery with hearty German fare and a lively, kid-friendly setting.
- For Upscale Dining: Nagaya – A Michelin-starred Japanese-European fusion restaurant, reflecting the city’s large Japanese population.
- For Casual Local Flavor: Zum Uerige – A must-visit Altstadt brewery for schnitzel, sausages, and signature Altbier in a rustic tavern.
If you are interested in local events:
- For Carnival Fans: Düsseldorf Karneval (February) – One of Germany’s biggest Carnival celebrations with parades, costumes, and street parties.
- For Music Lovers: Jazz Rally Düsseldorf (May) – A city-wide jazz festival with open-air and club performances.
- For Holiday Cheer: Düsseldorf Christmas Markets (Late Nov–Dec) – Festive lights, mulled wine, and artisan gifts at several markets across the city.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30–90 Minutes of Düsseldorf:
- For Cathedral Lovers: Cologne (Köln) (30–40 min) – Visit the iconic Gothic cathedral, enjoy riverside walks, and explore world-class museums.
- For Castles: Schloss Dyck (35–40 min) – A moated castle with gardens and exhibitions near Jüchen.
- For Dutch Flavor: Roermond, Netherlands (60–70 min) – A charming town with canals, outlets, and a relaxed Dutch vibe.
- For Art & Industry: Essen (45–60 min) – See the UNESCO-listed Zollverein Coal Mine and explore the Museum Folkwang.
- For River Cruises: Bonn (75–90 min) – Germany’s former capital with Beethoven heritage and scenic Rhine cruises.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Question: What defines Dusseldorf’s architectural style?
Answer: Dusseldorf is characterized by avant-garde architecture that pushes boundaries.
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Question: What makes Dusseldorf’s nightlife unique?
Answer: Dusseldorf offers an out-of-this-world nightlife, making it a dynamic city to visit.
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Question: How does Dusseldorf’s art scene compare to other cities?
Answer: Dusseldorf has a prolific art scene that rivals the world’s greatest cultural hubs.
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Question: What is the Altstadt in Dusseldorf known for?
Answer: The Altstadt is known as the longest bar in the world.
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Question: What neighborhoods should travelers explore in Dusseldorf?
Answer: Travelers should explore neighborhoods like Flingern, Lorettostrasse, and Unterbilk.
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Question: What is special about Medienhafen in Dusseldorf?
Answer: Medienhafen is a redeveloped harbour area featuring modern attractions and gems.
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Question: What type of experience can visitors expect in Dusseldorf?
Answer: Visitors can find a mix of business by day and parties by night, ensuring something for every kind of adventure.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit |
Budget-Friendly Places to Stay |
Tips for Exploring |
Spring (March-May) – Mild weather and blooming parks. |
Hotel Rubin – Affordable and centrally located near public transport. |
Book early – Spring is a popular time for tourists. |
Summer (June-August) – Warm weather and outdoor festivals. |
Max Brown Midtown – Budget-friendly boutique hotel with modern design. |
Use public transport – Düsseldorf’s trams and buses make exploring easy. |
Fall (September-November) – Pleasant temperatures and autumn colors. |
B&B Hotel Düsseldorf-City – Budget hotel with comfortable rooms and good amenities. |
Visit off-peak – Fall offers lower hotel prices than summer. |
Winter (December-February) – Christmas markets and a cozy atmosphere. |
A&O Düsseldorf Hauptbahnhof – Budget hostel/hotel close to Düsseldorf’s main station. |
Check out the Christmas Markets – Enjoy festive lights, mulled wine, and handcrafted gifts. |
Plan Your Trip