Things To Do
in Düsseldorf
Nestled on the Rhine in western Germany, Düsseldorf blends classic Rhine romance with a modern design scene. The city is famed for its elegant Königsallee shopping street, its lively Altstadt with the 'longest bar in the world', and striking architecture in MedienHafen. Its riverside promenades and expansive parks make it ideal for strolling, cycling, and art-laden strolls.
Düsseldorf also serves as a gateway to the Rhine-Ruhr region, offering a cosmopolitan mix of culture, cuisine, and business energy.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café in the Altstadt while enjoying a traditional German pastry. Afterward, stroll through the cobblestone streets and admire the architecture of St. Lambertus Church, known for its unique twisted tower. Don't forget to visit the Marktplatz, where you can see the impressive statue of Jan Wellem, a symbol of the city.
Spend your afternoon exploring the Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen, home to a stunning collection of modern and contemporary art. After immersing yourself in culture, take a leisurely walk along the Rhine promenade, soaking in the picturesque views of the river and the city skyline. Stop by a riverside beer garden for a refreshing Altbier, a local specialty.
As the sun sets, make your way to the Rheinturm for breathtaking panoramic views of Düsseldorf's skyline. For dinner, indulge in regional cuisine at a cozy restaurant, sampling dishes like Rheinischer Sauerbraten. End your evening with a stroll along the Rhine, where you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps catch some live music.
Begin your day with a visit to the Museum Kunstpalast, where you can appreciate the beautiful art collections ranging from the Middle Ages to contemporary pieces. Take your time wandering through the galleries and don’t miss the stunning glass collection. After immersing yourself in art, enjoy a light lunch at the museum café, surrounded by inspiring artwork.
In the afternoon, head to the NRW-Forum, a cultural institution that often features innovative exhibitions on photography, design, and digital culture. Engage with the interactive displays and consider attending a workshop if available. Afterward, take a leisurely walk through the nearby Hofgarten, a serene park perfect for reflection and relaxation.
For dinner, treat yourself to a dining experience at a Michelin-starred restaurant, where you can taste exquisite dishes crafted with local ingredients. Post-dinner, explore the nightlife in the Altstadt, known as the 'longest bar in the world,' where you can hop from one bar to another. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, mingling with locals and other travelers alike.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $18-25 |
| 🏨One night in mid-range hotel | $120-180 |
| 🚆1-day public transport pass | $7-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant riverside city with a refined cultural scene
- Excellent shopping on Königsallee and lively Altstadt
- Strong public transport and easy access to nearby nature
- Can be pricey in peak seasons and central areas
- Weather can be changeable with frequent rain
- "Guten Tag" - Good day/Hello
- "Danke schön" - Thank you very much
- "Bitte" - Please/You're welcome
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Ich hätte gern..." - I would like...
- "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me / Sorry
Places to Visit in Düsseldorf
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic city views from the observation deck above the Rhine.
Luxurious canal-side boulevard with elegant storefronts and canal-side reflections.
Bold, Gehry-designed buildings along the harbor—great for modern cityscapes.
Narrow lanes, historic churches, and atmospheric corners at sunrise or sunset.
Impressive baroque palace with expansive lake-adorned gardens for formal photography.
Food in Düsseldorf
Düsseldorf Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fresh herb sauce served with potatoes and often meat or hard-boiled eggs; best enjoyed in spring and early summer.
Must-Try!
Heaven and Earth—mashed potatoes with apples and black pudding, a quintessential Düsseldorf comfort dish.
Marinated pot roast served with gravy, red cabbage, and dumplings; a Rhine region classic.
A potato-based baked pancake, typically served with onions or apples; a regional favorite in North Rhine-Westphalia.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A daily market near the old town offering fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and ready-to-eat bites.
Casual bites along the riverfront—pretzels, sausages, currywurst, and other quick eats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be on time for appointments and social gatherings; punctuality is valued.
A firm handshake when meeting; use formal titles (Herr/Frau) until invited to a first-name basis.
German is preferred; learning a few phrases is appreciated.
Tip discreetly in restaurants; cash tips are common, but card tips are also accepted.
Safety
Tipping in Düsseldorf
Ensure a smooth experience
In Germany, rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants and cafes.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in towns and major venues; cash is still common in markets and smaller eateries; contactless payments are popular.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with long daylight; occasional rain. Ideal for riverfront strolls, open-air events, and outdoor dining.
Mild to cool weather with colorful foliage; harvest markets and cultural festivals color the city.
Chilly temperatures with possible snow; Christmas markets bring festive lights and warm drinks.
Rising temperatures and blooming trees; parks and gardens are particularly photogenic and lively.
Düsseldorf at Night
Hiking in Düsseldorf
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails just outside the city center offering shaded routes and city viewpoints.
Central green spaces with easy walking trails and scenic spots within the city.
Expansive gardens and lake views on the outskirts perfect for long, scenic walks.
Airports
How to reach Düsseldorf by plane.
Main international gateway with direct rail links to the city center.
A major alternative within easy reach by rail or road.
Smaller regional airport; reachable by bus and train connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A cosmopolitan population with a strong international presence, including Turkish, Italian, Russian, Polish, and Asian communities, plus a thriving expat scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local club with matches at Merkur Spiel-Arena and a loyal fanbase.
Popular pastime along the Rhine; city hosts cycling events and has numerous bike paths.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Düsseldorf.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetarian versions of local dishes; look for Grüne Soße without meat and ask for veggie sides.