Dusseldorf

Your Ultimate Guide to Exploring Düsseldorf

Düsseldorf, Germany’s vibrant fashion capital and a bustling hub on the Rhine River, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern charm. This guide will help you navigate the city like a pro, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler.

Things to Know:

• Location: Düsseldorf is located in the heart of Germany’s industrial Ruhr region, situated on the west bank of the Rhine River.
• Language: German is the official language, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas and by younger generations.
• Currency: The Euro (€) is the currency used in Düsseldorf.

Best Time to Visit:

Düsseldorf enjoys a pleasant climate throughout the year, with mild summers and cool winters. For milder weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn).

Getting Around:

• Public Transportation: Düsseldorf boasts an excellent public transport system. The city’s tram and bus network is extensive and efficient, covering all major attractions.

  • Rhinebahn: This is the public transport company in Düsseldorf. You can purchase tickets online, at kiosks, or from the driver. Consider a day pass for unlimited travel.

• Walking: The Altstadt (Old Town) and many other areas of Düsseldorf are easily explored on foot.

• Cycling: Düsseldorf has numerous bike paths making it a great city to explore by bicycle. You can rent bikes through various services in the city.

• Public Buses & Trams: These are the most common modes of transport and offer a convenient way to get around, especially for those who aren’t comfortable walking or cycling long distances.

• Driving: While Düsseldorf has good roads and infrastructure, driving within the city can be challenging due to traffic and limited parking.

• Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Düsseldorf and a reliable option for getting around quickly.

• Ride-sharing: Apps like Uber and Bolt are not widely used in Germany.

Things to see and do:

Historical Sites:

• Schloss Benrath: Explore this beautiful Baroque palace with its stunning gardens and museum showcasing its history.
• The Altstadt (Old Town): Immerse yourself in the historic charm of Düsseldorf’s Old Town, known for its traditional architecture, charming cobblestone streets, and vibrant nightlife.
• Altstadt Market Square: Enjoy the lively atmosphere of the market, browse local goods, and savor delicious street food.

Museums & Culture:

• Museum Kunstpalast: Discover a diverse collection of art, from ancient sculptures to modern paintings.
• Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen: Explore this museum’s impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by renowned artists like Picasso and Warhol.
• Kunsthaus Bregenz: This architectural masterpiece is worth visiting for its unique design alone.

Parks & Gardens:

• Nordpark: Enjoy the beautiful Japanese gardens, the “Rosarium” (rose garden), and the “Schlosspark**” in Düsseldorf.

Cultural Experiences:

• Rhine Promenade: Stroll along this picturesque walkway and enjoy breathtaking views of the Rhine River while exploring the city’s historical landmarks and museums.
• Düsseldorf Opera House: Attend a world-class opera or ballet performance at this architectural gem.
• Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen: Experience modern art in a stunning setting, with the building itself serving as a piece of art by Austrian architect Peter Zumthor.

Shopping & Dining:

• Königsallee (Kö): Stroll down the “fashion street” of Düsseldorf and explore high-end boutiques, department stores, and luxurious restaurants.
• The Königsallee Shopping Mile: Explore this bustling mile with flagship stores from international brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Chanel.

Where to eat:

• Königsallee (Kö): Enjoy a variety of international cuisines, but be prepared for higher prices.

Where to Stay:

Düsseldorf offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget:

• Luxury Hotels:

  • Hotel Hyatt Regency Düsseldorf Düsseldorf: Located directly on the Rhine River, this hotel offers stunning views and luxurious amenities like a rooftop bar and spa.
  • Hotel Nikko Düsseldorf: With a focus on Japanese hospitality, this hotel provides a unique experience for visitors seeking comfort and tranquility.

• Mid-Range Hotels:

  • Steigenberger Hotel Düsseldorf: A comfortable and well-equipped option with a central location and modern design.
  • InterContinental Düsseldorf: This hotel offers luxurious amenities and stunning views of the city, making it a popular choice for both business and leisure travelers.

Where to Stay:

• Budget Hotels & Hostels: For those looking for affordable accommodations, there are many options along the Rhine Promenade and in other parts of the city.**

Here are some specific ideas for activities:

• Explore the Altstadt: This charming historical district is a must-see. Wander through the cobblestone streets, admire the architecture, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.
• Visit the Kunstpalast: Located on the banks of the Rhine River, the Kunstpalast houses a fascinating collection of modern and contemporary art.

Explore the “Rhine Promenade” (Rheinpromenade): This picturesque walkway is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. It’s a great place to walk, bike, or relax while enjoying the stunning views of the Rhine River and the city’s skyline.

• Shop ’til you drop:

The Königsallee is home to some of Düsseldorf’s most famous boutiques and department stores.

• Experience the “Old Town” (Altstadt): Explore the charming streets and squares of the Altstadt, with its traditional architecture and vibrant nightlife.

• Enjoy local cuisine:

Take a trip to the Kö’s neighboring restaurants and cafes for a taste of authentic German food.

Düsseldorf offers something for everyone:

• Art Lovers:

  • Immerse yourself in the world of art at the “Museum Kunstpalast”

  • Explore the historical charm of the Altstadt (Old Town) and its numerous museums, including the impressive “Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen”.

• History Buffs:

• Foodies: Enjoy a variety of culinary experiences on the Königsallee.

• Explore the “Rhine Promenade” (Rheinuferpromenade):

  • Stroll through the “Old Town” and discover historical landmarks like the “Altstadt Düsseldorf” museum or the historic “St. Lambertus Church”.
  • Explore the vibrant “Media Harbour” district, a former industrial area transformed into a trendy hub with restaurants and bars.

• Enjoy a brew at the “Uerige Brewery”:

  • Experience a taste of Dusseldorf’s history through its beer brewing tradition.

Things to See & Do:

• Rhine River Cruise:

A relaxing way to see the city from a different perspective and enjoy some local history.

• Explore the Altstadt:

Discover the heart of Düsseldorf with its charming streets and traditional architecture.

• Visit the Museums:

Experience the history of “Düsseldorf’s” beer brewing industry at the historic brewery.

Food & Drink Recommendations:

• Restaurant suggestions:
  • Traditional German:

The Altstadt (Old Town) is known for its diverse culinary scene, with traditional German restaurants offering classic dishes like Schweinshaxe (pork knuckle), Sauerbraten (marinated pot roast), and Kartoffelsalat (potato salad). For a truly authentic experience, try a “Düsseldorf” brewery.

• Food & Drink:

• Restaurants:

• Traditional German Food:

For traditional “German” food, the Altstadt has plenty of options.

• Cafes:

The Altstadt is also home to many historic restaurants and bars.

• Düsseldorf’s nightlife:

• The Altstadt is a great place to enjoy a night out.

• International Cuisine:

The “Old Town” offers a wide range of international dining experiences, making it a perfect destination for those who want to try something new.

Restaurants in Düsseldorf:

• Explore the culinary scene, including traditional German and international restaurants.
• Enjoy the unique ambiance and taste of local cuisine.
• Experience the “Japanese” influence:

The Altstadt’s vibrant atmosphere is complemented by its diverse culinary offerings.

• Family-owned “Altstadt” brewery:

Located in the heart of the city, this historic brewery offers a range of traditional beers,

as well as a chance to learn about the history of brewing in Düsseldorf.

• Explore the “Rhine Harbour” (optional):

• Düsseldorf’s Culinary Scene:

Enjoy a delicious and diverse meal at one of the many restaurants along the Kö.

• International Restaurants:

Try out the various cuisines available along Königsallee, such as the traditional German restaurant “Uerige” * Explore the “Old Town” and its vibrant culinary scene, which offers a variety of options beyond just German food.

• Eat & Drink:

Be sure to experience the unique ambiance of the Altstadt and enjoy a beer tasting at one of the local breweries.

Things to Consider:

• Budget: Restaurants in the “Old Town” area tend to be pricier, but you can find more affordable options outside of it.
• Time: The “Altstadt” is known for its lively atmosphere, especially in the evenings and on weekends. It’s a great place to experience

Düsseldorf’s vibrant nightlife scene.

• Type: While Düsseldorf offers a variety of restaurants, the Altstadt area is particularly known for its traditional German establishments.

• Transportation: Getting around the Altstadt can be done easily on foot, by bike or bike sharing service.

Things to do:

• Explore the historic “Old Town” district and its charming cobblestone streets.

• Take a stroll along the Rhine River, enjoying the beautiful views and fresh air.

• Visit the “Rhine River” (optional)

• Food: Enjoy traditional German cuisine at the Altstadt’s restaurants and cafes.

• Experience the city’s history:

Düsseldorf offers a variety of historical attractions, including:

• The Old Town: Explore the historic Altstadt with its cobblestone streets and charming architecture.
• “Altstadt” Brewery:

Enjoy a unique “German” experience, at one of Düsseldorf’s famous breweries.

• Brewery Tours:

Enjoy a tour of the brewery and learn about the history of beer brewing in the city.

• Historical Restaurants:

Enjoy a meal and a drink at the “Old Harbour” restaurant.

• “Düsseldorf” (Kö) Brewery:

The historical “Altstadt” district offers a variety of experiences, from

traditional food and drink to museums and art galleries.

• Traditional Food: Enjoy local specialties like Altbier (a type of beer brewed in Düsseldorf’s traditional style),

bread, and sausages.

• Explore the Altstadt:

Düsseldorf has numerous “beer gardens” where you can enjoy a traditional German meal and a cold brew.

• Traditional German Drinks:

Enjoy a glass of Kölsch, a traditional

German beer served in small glasses to ensure it’s always fresh.

• The Old Town (Altstadt) Beer Tours:

Experience the unique brewing process of

“Düsseldorf’s” famous beer.

Exploring the Altstadt:

• Explore the Altstadt: Enjoy a variety of “traditional German” dishes and drinks at one of the many restaurants in the area.

• Enjoy the Rhine River: Take

a bike ride along the “Rhine River” cycle path to explore the charming atmosphere

and enjoy a meal with a view.

• Brewery Experience: The Altstadt

is a great place to

experience the city’s vibrant nightlife scene, but it’s also a good idea

to check out local breweries and try their

traditional beers. *

Explore “Düsseldorf” (optional):

This is a suggestion for a website or blog post about Düsseldorf’s attractions.

Experience “Altbach”:

Enjoy the atmosphere and the history of this

famous “German” district, and learn about its rich culture.

Things to consider:

• Location: The Altstadt is conveniently located in the heart of

the city, making it easy to explore other attractions.

• Time:

• Traditional German Food:

Enjoy a traditional meal at one of the restaurants.

• “Altbier” brewing experience:

You can find numerous bars and restaurants offering “Düsseldorf’s” famous beer, Altbier. Explore the Altstadt:

• Brewery Tours: Experience the vibrant nightlife and enjoy the local culture and history.

• Traditional German Food:

Enjoy the Altstadt’s traditional food scene.

• Koenigstrasse (Kö) in Düsseldorf: Visit a “traditional German” restaurant, such as a Biergarten or a restaurant specializing in regional cuisine. Enjoy “Düsseldorf’s” rich culture and history.

A few tips for finding them:

• Look for signs advertising “Brewery Tours”

• Check online for reviews and information on which breweries offer tours.

• Ask your hotel concierge or local tourist information center about the best “Düsseldorf” restaurants.

• Consider a brewery tour as part of your

“Düsseldorf” experience.

• Check the website:

You can search for “Dusseldorf Brewery Tours” to find

options and book online.

Enjoy a variety

of experiences, from sampling different beers to enjoying a traditional German

meal with a view.

• Traditional German Restaurants:

Many are located

in the Altstadt (Old Town) district,

which is easily accessible on foot or by bike.

• Consider “Düsseldorf” brewery tours for a unique experience. Enjoy a variety of “German” cuisine and drinks.

• Check out the “Altstadt” breweries website

for information on their offerings.

Explore the “Media Harbour” (Medienhafen) area:

The “Media Harbor” is a popular spot for tourists to enjoy the city’s modern architecture and vibrant nightlife.

• This is a great place to

learn about Dusseldorf’s history. *

**Visit the brewery and Media Harbour,

enjoying the unique atmosphere and learning opportunities.** **

Things to Consider:

• Budget: Check for free “Media Harbour” tours or special events.
• Time:

Allow enough time for a full “Rhine River” experience, as they can last

several hours.

• Food & Drink:

Enjoy the unique atmosphere and nightlife of the

“Medienhafen”.

• Location:

The Altstadt is a popular tourist destination in “Dusseldorf”, so it’s

important to plan your visit accordingly. ** **

Other things to enjoy:

• Taste a variety of beers:

Try traditional German dishes like

Schnitzel, Currywurst

and Sauerbraten.

• Experience the Rhine River: Sample

local brews and

enjoy the unique ambiance of the “Media Harbour”.

• Visit a “Dusseldorf” brewery or restaurant

• **Enjoy a variety of “German” food

in a local setting.**

**

• Explore the Altstadt: This is

a great place to explore the history of brewing in Düsseldorf.

• Try traditional German beers and dishes:

A good way to experience the local culture

is to enjoy a

taste of what they have

to offer, and get a taste of the city’s heritage.

For information on “Düsseldorf” breweries and their offerings,

check out

websites like:

• https://www.visit-dusseldorf.de/en/what-to-do/drinking-and-dining/restaurants/dusseldorf-brewery-experiences.html:

This website provides a variety of experiences, including brewery tours and beer tasting events.

• https://www.duesseldorf-tourismus.de/en/things-to-do/dusseldorf-highlights/what-to-expect-from-a-visit-to-the-old-town:

This website provides information on the history of Düsseldorf, and

highlights the unique “Düsseldorf” experience you can get at the

breweries.

• https://www.altstadt-dusseldorf.de/en/information/restaurants-in-dusseldorf:

Enjoy a variety of “D Düsseldorf” experiences in the Altstadt

**

• Booking:

Contact them directly for information and booking options.

**

• Accessibility:

The “Medienhafen” is easily accessible by public transport, walking tours, and bike rentals are readily available.

• “Local” breweries often offer traditional German beer tasting sessions.

**

Check out the “Düsseldorf” Altstadt:

• “Altbach” (Media Harbour)

• Website:

For information on brewery tours and events in the Altstadt

• https://www.visit-dusseldorf.de/en/things-to-do/drinking-and-dining/food-experiences/dusseldorf-brewery-tours:

Explore the history of this historic area, including a visit to a

local brewery for a taste of “Düsseldorf”

• “Düsseldorf’s” history:

You can learn about it and experience the unique atmosphere.

• https://www.duesseldorf-tourismus.de/en/things-to-do:

Explore the history of the city through its

unique “Media Harbour” experiences.

**

**Enjoy the variety of traditional Dusseldorf beer gardens,

from small and intimate to large and lively.**

• Enjoy:

• Düsseldorf’s renowned hospitality*:

Try a

variety

of beers and enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many “Düsseldorf” restaurants.

• “Dusseldorf” Beer Culture:

Enjoy the variety of beer styles available in

the Altstadt district. **

**

**

• Enjoy the Altstadt’s charming atmosphere:

Experience

the historical “Altstadt”.

• “Dusseldorf” Beer Tours:

Explore

the history

of Dusseldorf’s

own brewing tradition,

including

its unique beer styles and

traditional

German restaurants.

**

This is a great place to enjoy the local culture and

try

a variety of beers and food

**

• Brewery Tours: Enjoy a variety of “Dusseldorf” brewery experiences.

• Local German breweries:

Consider a tour of one

of these unique breweries.

Remember,

local breweries often offer special events

and tours that

feature

their

traditional

German

beer.

To make the most of your trip:

• **Book a Düsseldorf Brewery Tour in advance