Dusseldorf comes as a surprise to many first-time visitors. This city on the Rhine has an industrial past, but has reinvented itself for the 21st century, combining pride in its heritage with an eye towards the future.
The welcome is warm whatever time of year you choose to visit. Many people are attracted by the Christmas markets or the long-running Carnival season, when the old town is packed with revellers and the gaily lit stalls sell mulled wine and spicy sausages. During the summer months locals and visitors alike flock to outdoor events such as Japan Day on the Rhine Promenade or free concerts in the Hofgarten, one of the oldest public parks in Germany.
The old town (Altstadt) contains many heritage gems among its historic sites. The Neo-Renaissance and Baroque buildings of the City Hall (Rathaus) dominate the Marktplatz, the square that has been the social and commercial hub of civic life since the 14th century. The narrow streets are lined with bars and restaurants, earning it the nickname of “the world’s longest bar” – not without justification! The dark local brew, Altbier, is definitely worth sampling, soaked up with a soft, salty pretzel.
The city has plenty to offer culturally, with attractions for all tastes, including the fascinating Film Museum, the comprehensive art collection housed in the Museum Kunstpalast and the impressive sculptures dotted throughout the Hofgarten.
The revitalised Dusseldorf-Hafen has transformed the down-at-heel harbour into a fashionable waterfront destination, notable for its cutting-edge architecture. Frank Gehry’s Der Neue Zollhof has replaced the old customs house with a postmodern complex of leaning towers that have brought a striking new focus to the skyline. The panoramic views from the top of the Rhine Tower are well worth the ride, especially after dark book a table at the revolving restaurant to watch the lights of the city slip past far below.
The centre of Dusseldorf is flat and fairly compact, so it's easy to navigate on foot. Alternatively, most of the main sights are well served by public transport, including buses, trams and metro.
Düsseldorf Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit Düsseldorf
Popular places to visit
Messe Düsseldorf
Learn about the events happening in Messe Düsseldorf during your trip to Düsseldorf. While you're in the area, find time to visit its shops.
Konigsallee
Browse the luxury brands on display beside the picturesque canal and elegant bridges on one of Germany’s busiest upscale commercial avenues.
Classic Remise Duesseldorf
Learn about some of the chicest vintage cars in the city at this exceptional roundhouse with showrooms and a beer garden.
Marktplatz
The vibrant heart of Dusseldorf’s historic old town pulsates with life all year round.
Rhine Promenade
Once a busy main road, this pleasant pedestrianised boulevard links the old town with the river.
Marina Düsseldorf
The old shipping port is enjoying a new lease of life as an architectural and gastronomic landmark.
Reviews of Düsseldorf
4/5 - Good
The Old Town which is full of bars and restaurants is a nice,safe place to walk around. There are a number of breweries in that area in which you can try the local Altbier. The River Rhine is on the edge of the Old Town and it has a very nice walk.
3/5 - Okay
main city was expensive for costs.
5/5 - Excellent
Went to Rhine Tower, Altstadt, Aquazoo, Classic Remise car museum, Sankt Sakrament, Wuppertal Schwebebahn suspended monorail, Kaiserswerth old town, Duisburg tiger and turtle. All very good experiences, buy a Dusseldorf card for cheap transport.
4/5 - Good
Parkrun in Volksgarten was very enjoyable on Saturday. The old town and the walk along the river with the sunset was a treat. Very busy town.
4/5 - Good
Great and easy transport system
4/5 - Good
Difficult to find anywhere decent to eat.
