What to do in Düsseldorf, Germany: Travel Guide and Tips

What to do in Düsseldorf, Germany: Tips and Art and Culture Travel Guide

Travel guide for visiting the city of Dusseldorf in Germany with accommodation tips, how to get there, what to do, tourist attractions, tips and practical information.

Düsseldorf is a city in Germany that combines modernity and tradition, art and culture, history and innovation. It is the capital of the state of North Rhine-Westphalia and the seventh-largest city in Germany. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway, a cultural immersion, or a vibrant nightlife, Düsseldorf has something for everyone.

Here are some tips on what to do in Düsseldorf , how to get there, where to stay, and what to eat.

Table of Contents

Brief History of Düsseldorf, Germany

Düsseldorf has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the 8th century. It was first mentioned as a small fishing village on the banks of the Rhine river. In the 12th century, it became a town and a member of the Hanseatic League, a powerful trade association of northern European cities. Düsseldorf rose to prominence in the 17th and 18th centuries as the seat of the Electors of the Palatinate, who ruled over a large territory in western Germany.

The city was also a center of art and culture, attracting famous painters such as Peter Paul Rubens and Johann Wilhelm Schirmer. Düsseldorf suffered heavy damage during World War II, but was rebuilt and modernized after the war.

Today, it is a thriving metropolis that hosts many international events and fairs, such as the Kirmes, the largest funfair in Europe.

Where is Düsseldorf, Germany

Düsseldorf is the capital city of North Rhine-Westphalia, the most populous state of Germany. The city is located in the western part of Germany, on the eastern bank of the Rhine river. It is about 40 kilometers (25 miles) south of Cologne, and 220 kilometers (137 miles) north of Frankfurt. It is also close to the borders with Belgium and the Netherlands, making it easy to explore other European destinations.

How to go to Düsseldorf in Germany

Düsseldorf is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The Düsseldorf International Airport is the third-largest airport in Germany and serves many domestic and international flights. You can also take a train to Düsseldorf from other major German cities or neighboring countries. The main train station is Düsseldorf Hauptbahnhof, which is located in the city center. If you prefer to drive, you can use the extensive network of highways that link Düsseldorf with other parts of Germany and Europe.

Some services and transfer that can help your planning:

What are the best times to visit Düsseldorf

Düsseldorf has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. The best times to visit Düsseldorf depend on your preferences and interests. If you want to enjoy the warm weather and outdoor activities, spring (March-May) and summer (June-August) are ideal. You can also catch some of the city’s festivals and events, such as the Japan Day in May or the Rheinkirmes in July.

If you want to experience the festive atmosphere and cozy charm of Düsseldorf, autumn (September-November) and winter (December-February) are also great options. You can admire the colorful foliage in autumn or visit the famous Christmas markets in winter.

Düsseldorf: Winter Afternoon Boat Cruise on the Rhine – Enjoy Düsseldorf on a 2-hour winter cruise along the river Rhine. Relax on a decorated ship with Christmas vibes and the option to purchase seasonal food and beverage specialties on board.

Where to stay in Düsseldorf, Germany – Best Areas and Region

Düsseldorf has many options for accommodation, depending on your budget and preferences. If you want to be close to the main attractions and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the city, you can stay in the Altstadt (Old Town) or the Stadtmitte (City Center). These areas have a variety of hotels, hostels, and bed and breakfasts, as well as many bars, restaurants, and shops.

If you prefer a quieter and more scenic location, you can stay in the Medienhafen (Media Harbor) or the Kaiserswerth districts. These areas are located along the Rhine river and offer stunning views of the water and the skyline. You can find some upscale resorts, hotels, and apartments here, as well as some cozy cafes and bistros.

You can choose from resorts, hotels, hostels, and bed and breakfasts. Some of the best places to stay in Heidelberg are:

Hampton by Hilton Düsseldorf City Centre (1 km from center)
8.3 – Very Good in 8,372 reviews
Ideally located in Düsseldorf, Hampton by Hilton Düsseldorf City Centre has air-conditioned rooms, a fitness center, free WiFi and a bar. The property is close to several well-known attractions.
Holiday Inn Express Düsseldorf (1.6 km from center)
8.3 – Very Good in 11,705 reviews
Located in Düsseldorf and within a 4-minute walk of Capitol Theater Düsseldorf, Holiday Inn Express Düsseldorf – Hauptbahnhof, an IHG Hotel has a bar, non-smoking rooms, and free WiFi.
Hotel Sir & Lady Astor (1 km from center)
8.9 – Excellent in 2,389 reviews
This charming boutique hotel offers elegant accommodations in the heart of Düsseldorf, 550 yards from the main train station and a 10-minute walk from the famous Königsallee shopping district.
Business Wieland Hotel (1.1 km from center)
8.9 – Excellent in 3,207 reviews
Business Hotel Wieland is centrally located in Düsseldorf, just a 2-minute tram journey from the famous Königsallee shopping street. It offers its own beauty salon, free Wi-Fi and a breakfast room.
H2 Hotel Düsseldorf City (1.6 km from center)
8.3 – Very Good in 9,105 reviews
Conveniently set in the Pempelfort district of Düsseldorf, H2 Hotel Düsseldorf City is located a 19-minute walk from Central Station Düsseldorf, 0.9 miles from Capitol Theater Düsseldorf and a 17-minute walk from Düsseldorfer Schauspielhaus.
Fourty Three Luxury Serviced Apartments (0.7 km from center)
9.1 – Wonderful in 1,147 reviews
Fourty Three Luxury Serviced Apartments is a sustainable condo hotel in Düsseldorf near Central Station Düsseldorf. Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk, and an elevator, along with free Wifi throughout the property.

There are also some other accommodation options in hotels, hostels and inns, be sure to check them out at Booking.com page.

What to do in Düsseldorf, Germany

There are many things to do in Düsseldorf, Germany, depending on your interests and mood:

If you love art and culture, you will be amazed by the museums and galleries in Düsseldorf. Some of the most popular ones are the Kunstpalast (Art Palace), which showcases paintings, sculptures and other works from various periods and styles; the K20 and K21, which display modern and contemporary art; and the NRW Forum, which focuses on photography, design and media.
If you want to experience the history and charm of Düsseldorf, you should visit the Old Town, where you can see the historic buildings, churches and monuments that survived the World War II bombings. You can also stroll along the Rhine Promenade, which offers a beautiful view of the river and the city skyline.
If you are looking for some shopping and entertainment, you should head to the Königsallee, which is one of the most famous shopping streets in Germany. You can find luxury brands, department stores and boutiques here, as well as cafes and restaurants. You can also visit the Schadowstraße, which is another popular shopping street with more affordable options.
If you want to have some fun and nightlife, you should check out the Media Harbour, which is a former industrial area that has been transformed into a trendy district with modern architecture, bars, clubs and restaurants. You can also go to the Bolkerstraße, which is a street in the Old Town that has over 300 pubs and bars. You can enjoy the local beer called Altbier here, which is a dark and malty brew.

Guided Tour with a Night Watchman – Journey back in time and walk the lively streets of Düsseldorf’s Altstadt with a night watchman. Hear interesting facts as your guide leads you by lantern light to landmark attractions.

Top 10 tourist attractions in Düsseldorf, Germany

Düsseldorf has a rich and diverse history, and you can see it in its many attractions. Here are some of the top 10 tourist attractions in Düsseldorf, Germany, that you should not miss:

Rheinturm: This is the tallest building in Düsseldorf, and it offers a stunning panoramic view of the city and the Rhine river. You can also enjoy a meal or a drink at the revolving restaurant or the observation deck.
Königsallee: This is the most famous shopping street in Düsseldorf, and it is lined with luxury boutiques, cafes, and galleries. You can stroll along the canal, admire the window displays, or treat yourself to some retail therapy.
Altstadt: This is the old town of Düsseldorf, and it is full of charm and character. You can explore its narrow streets, historic buildings, and cozy pubs. It is also known as the “longest bar in the world”, because of its high concentration of bars and restaurants.
Schloss Benrath: This is a beautiful baroque palace that was built in the 18th century as a summer residence for the Elector Palatine. You can visit its elegant rooms, gardens, and museums, and learn about its history and art.
MedienHafen: This is the media harbor of Düsseldorf, and it is a showcase of modern architecture and design. You can see some of the most innovative and creative buildings in Düsseldorf, such as the Gehry buildings, the Roggendorf House, and the Colorium.

Düsseldorf: Altstadt Guided Tour – Enjoy the sights of Düsseldorf’s old town on a 1.5-hour guided tour of the lively and historical Altstadt. Visit the longest bar in the world and learn the history of the area from an expert guide.

Kunstpalast: This is one of the most important art museums in Düsseldorf, and it has a collection of paintings, sculptures, graphics, and glass from various periods and styles. You can see works by artists such as Rubens, Monet, Picasso, and Warhol.
Hofgarten: This is the oldest and largest park in Düsseldorf, and it is a green oasis in the heart of the city. You can relax on its lawns, walk along its paths, or enjoy its fountains, statues, and monuments.
Rheinuferpromenade: This is the promenade along the Rhine river, and it is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. You can walk, bike, or skate along its paved surface, or sit on one of its benches and watch the boats go by.
Kaiserswerth: This is a historic district in the north of Düsseldorf, and it was once an independent town. You can visit its medieval ruins, such as the Kaiserpfalz (the imperial palace of Emperor Frederick I), or its charming churches, such as St. Suitbertus Basilica.
Neanderthal Museum: This is a museum that tells the story of human evolution, from the Neanderthals to modern humans. You can see fossils, artifacts, and reconstructions of ancient humans, as well as interactive exhibits and activities.

Neanderthal Museum Admission Ticket – Embark on a journey through 4 million years of human history with a ticket to Mettmann’s Neanderthal Museum. Find the answers to all of your questions in a multimedia exhibit with hands-on stations.

Tip itineraries for 1 day to visit Düsseldorf

If you only have one day to visit Düsseldorf, you might wonder how to make the most of your time. Here are some tip itineraries for 1 day to visit Düsseldorf:

If you want to see the highlights of Düsseldorf’s history and culture, you can start your day at the Rheinturm and enjoy the view of the city. Then you can head to the Altstadt and explore its historic sights and pubs. After that, you can walk along the Königsallee and do some shopping or window-shopping. Finally, you can end your day at the MedienHafen and admire its modern architecture.
If you want to see some of Düsseldorf’s art and nature, you can start your day at the Kunstpalast and marvel at its collection of artworks. Then you can head to the Schloss Benrath and visit its palace and gardens. After that, you can walk or bike along the Rheinuferpromenade and enjoy the scenery of the river. Finally you can end your day at the Hofgarten and relax on its green spaces.

GUIDED TOUR in Düsseldorf: E-Scooter City Tour!

Where to eat in Düsseldorf, Germany – Tips for bars and restaurants

One of the best things to do in Düsseldorf is to taste its local specialties, such as Altbier, a dark beer brewed in the city, and Rheinischer Sauerbraten, a marinated beef dish with a sweet and sour sauce. You can find these and other delicacies in the Altstadt, the old town, where you can also enjoy the lively atmosphere of the bars and pubs.

If you’re looking for more variety, you can head to the MedienHafen, the media harbor, where you can find trendy restaurants and cafes with views of the Rhine river. Here you can sample international cuisines, such as Japanese, Italian, or French.

Another option is to visit the Carlsplatz market, where you can buy fresh produce, cheese, bread, and other snacks. You can also try some street food, such as currywurst, a sausage with curry sauce, or döner kebab, a Turkish sandwich with meat and salad.

Where to eat in Düsseldorf, Germany – Tips for bars and restaurants

Brewery Tour with Alt Beer Tastings – Experience Düsseldorf’s renowned brewing culture up close and personal with a shared or private brewery tour. Learn about the city’s most interesting, hilarious, and weird legends and fun facts while enjoying tastings of the brewery’s famous “Alt-beer”.

Key Tips and Practical Information

Practical information for your best visit to the city of Düsseldorf:

The best time to visit Düsseldorf is from May to September, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the city hosts many festivals and events. You can also visit in December, when the city turns into a winter wonderland with Christmas markets and lights.
The currency in Germany is the euro (EUR). You can exchange money at banks, ATMs or exchange offices. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it is always good to have some cash on hand for small purchases or tips.
The official language in Germany is German, but many people speak English as well. You can get by with basic phrases and gestures, but it is always polite to learn some common words and expressions, such as hello (hallo), thank you (danke) and excuse me (entschuldigung).
The public transportation system in Düsseldorf is efficient and convenient. You can use buses, trams, subways and trains to get around the city and the surrounding areas. You can buy tickets at machines or kiosks, or use a day pass or a travel card for unlimited rides.
The main attractions in Düsseldorf are concentrated in the Old Town (Altstadt), the modern Media Harbour (Medienhafen) and the elegant Königsallee (King’s Avenue). You can walk or bike between these areas, or take a boat tour along the Rhine River.

What Not to Forget for the Best Travel Experience

To make your trip to Düsseldorf more enjoyable and comfortable, you should not forget to pack some essential items, such as:

A valid passport and visa (if required)
A travel insurance that covers medical expenses, theft and cancellation
A power adapter that fits the German sockets (type F)
A map or a guidebook of Düsseldorf
A camera or a smartphone to capture your memories
A water bottle and a sunscreen to stay hydrated and protected
A hat and a scarf to keep warm in winter or cool in summer
Some snacks and drinks to keep your energy up
Some souvenirs or gifts for your friends and family

Düsseldorf is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you are looking for culture, history, shopping or fun, you will find it here. You will also discover the friendly and welcoming spirit of the people who live here.

So don’t hesitate to book your trip to Düsseldorf today. You will not regret it!

Best Touristic Attractions and Guided Tours in Germany

Suggestions of guided tour deals and touristic attractions in Germany. For planning a trip to Germany, we have some publications that can help a lot:

We also write about 8 of the best attractions on the Romantic Road in Germany with up-to-date tips, be sure to check it out .

Search for the best place to stay at Berlin, including hotel and hostel at different prices.

Are you traveling to Germany?

Specifically about international travel by plane to Frankfurt Airport, we have the best post:

Tips and steps for your arrival in Frankfurt Airport in Germany

Where to stay near Frankfurt Airport Germany – FRA, Frankfurt/Main

Search for the best place to stay near Frankfurt Airport, including hotel and hostel at different prices.