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Hey Wanderers! Embrace Dusseldorf, an enchanting destination nestled in Germany.
With a myriad of experiences waiting to be discovered, Dusseldorf is a treasure trove of adventure, culture, and indulgence that will leave you longing for more.
From exploring the city’s stunning architecture to savoring its world-renowned culinary delights, there’s never a dull moment in this vibrant destination.
So, buckle up and get set to embark on a journey of a lifetime as we explore the best things to do in Dusseldorf.
Dusseldorf is known for its vibrant art scene, with several renowned galleries and museums, including the Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen and the K20 museum.
In comparison, the picturesque town of ludinghausen offers a tranquil escape with its medieval castle and beautiful lakeside setting, while uberlingen, located on the shores of Lake Constance, is famous for its charming old town and panoramic views of the lake.
1. Rhine Tower
Rhine Tower (Rheinturm) is a 240 meter tall telecommunications tower located in Dusseldorf, Germany.
What to see or do: Head to the top of the tower for an incredible view of the city and the surrounding areas.
The tower also features a revolving restaurant where you can enjoy delicious cuisine while taking in the stunning views.
Don’t miss: Make sure to visit the observation deck at a height of 170 meters, offering breathtaking panoramic views over Dusseldorf.
Additionally, the tower’s unique digital clock face is a must-see attraction.
Insider travel tips: Visit the tower at night to watch the illuminated views of the city or go during the day for glorious blue-sky panoramas.
Make sure to make a reservation at the restaurant in advance as it is a popular spot and gets booked up quickly.
2. Königsallee
A luxurious shopping street located in the heart of Dusseldorf, known for its high-end fashion boutiques and beautiful canal.
What to see or do: Enjoy a leisurely stroll down the street while admiring the stunning architecture and designer storefronts.
Take a break at one of the many cafes and restaurants to indulge in some people-watching.
Don’t miss: The famous “Kö-Bogen” building, a modern architectural masterpiece that features a unique curved shape and a rooftop garden with panoramic views of the city.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the annual “Königsallee Lichterfest” (light festival) to see the street illuminated by thousands of twinkling lights.
Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning scenery both day and night.
3. Altstadt
Historical district in Dusseldorf, Germany with charming architecture and lively atmosphere.
What to see or do: – Explore the cobblestone streets and admire the old buildings.
Don’t miss: – The beautiful views of the city from the Rheinturm tower.
Insider travel tips: – Try a local Altbier, a dark beer brewed in traditional breweries in the area.
4. MedienHafen
MedienHafen is a former industrial harbor turned into a trendy and modern business district located on the Rhine River in Dusseldorf, Germany.
What to see or do: – Take a walk along the promenade and enjoy the stunning architecture of buildings designed by famous architects such as Frank Gehry and David Chipperfield.
Don’t miss: – Rheinturm, a 240-meter-tall tower with an observation deck that offers breathtaking views of Dusseldorf and the surrounding areas.
Insider travel tips: – Visit MedienHafen during sunset to see the buildings’ reflections in the river.
5. Hofgarten
Hofgarten is a beautiful 18th century park located in the heart of Dusseldorf, Germany.
What to see or do: Stroll around the well-manicured gardens and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Take a break at one of the several benches or picnic tables scattered throughout the park.
Visit the onsite museums, including the Goethe Museum, which is dedicated to the famous German writer.
Don’t miss: The large pond at the center of the park, which is home to numerous ducks and swans.
Make sure to also check out the beautiful walking paths and sculptures.
Insider travel tips: Pack a picnic and enjoy a leisurely afternoon in the park.
Hofgarten is also a popular spot for jogging or cycling, so don’t hesitate to bring your workout gear along.
Make sure to visit around sunset for some beautiful views.
6. Schloss Benrath
Schloss Benrath is an 18th-century palace located in Düsseldorf, Germany.
It was built for Elector Palatine Carl Theodor and has since become a popular tourist destination.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the palace, gardens, and museum.
Inside the palace, you can see the opulent living quarters of the Elector and his family.
The gardens are designed in a French baroque style and provide a picturesque backdrop for a stroll.
The museum exhibits showcase the history and culture of the palace, including the famous porcelain collection.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the Palace Chapel, which is dedicated to St. Anne.Its impressive baroque artwork and architecture are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the spring or summer when the gardens are in full bloom.For a unique experience, take a guided tour of the palace and gardens.
Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved.
7. Rheinuferpromenade
Rheinuferpromenade is a scenic walkway that spans along the Rhine river in Dusseldorf.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the promenade and take in the beautiful sights of the river.
You can also stop at one of the many restaurants and cafes along the way, or visit one of the nearby museums or attractions like the Rheinturm tower.
Don’t miss: Be sure to catch the sunset over the river – it’s a popular time to visit and the views are spectacular.
Insider travel tips: If you’re looking for a quieter experience, visit during the weekdays or early morning.
Alternatively, the promenade can get crowded during weekends and holidays, but it’s still worth it for the lively atmosphere.
8. St Lambertus Church
St. Lambertus Church is a historic church located in the heart of Dusseldorf, Germany.It is a popular landmark and a great example of Romanesque architecture.
What to see or do: The church is known for its stunning architecture, including its unique twisted spire and ornate portal.
Visitors can take a guided tour to explore the interior of the church, which features beautiful stained glass windows, intricate wood carvings, and a beautiful altar.
Don’t miss: One of the most unique features of St. Lambertus Church is its twisted spire, which is said to have been caused by a drunk carpenter.
Visitors should also take a moment to admire the ornate portal, which features intricate carvings of biblical scenes.
Insider travel tips: Climbing to the top of the church tower provides stunning views of the city skyline.
The church is best viewed at sunset, when the light casts a warm glow over the beautiful facade.
Visitors should be respectful of the church’s religious significance and dress appropriately when entering.
9. Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum
A popular natural history museum and aquarium located in Dusseldorf, Germany.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore a variety of interactive exhibits featuring marine and freshwater habitats, exotic animals, and numerous species of fish.
There are also multimedia displays, a butterfly garden, and outdoor enclosures for small primates, turtles, birds, and other creatures.
Don’t miss: The museum’s impressive collections of fossils, skeletons, and preserved specimens, including a giant whale skeleton and a life-size model of a prehistoric woolly mammoth.
Insider travel tips: Avoid the crowds by visiting the museum on weekdays or arriving early in the morning.Don’t forget to bring a camera and comfortable walking shoes.
10. Kaiserpfalz Kaiserswerth
Medieval fortress ruins in Kaiserswerth, a historic district of Dusseldorf.
What to see or do: Explore the remnants of the former imperial palace, including the surviving tower and stone walls.Enjoy the scenic view of the Rhine River from the castle hill.
Visit the St. Suitbertus Basilica nearby.
Don’t miss: The medieval market square and the picturesque alleys of Kaiserswerth offering various dining and shopping opportunities.
Insider travel tips: Check the opening hours beforehand as they may vary depending on the season.Wear comfortable shoes as there are hilly areas to walk.
Visit during the annual Kaiserswerth Historic Festival for an immersive medieval experience.
11. Flughafen Düsseldorf Visitor’s Terrace
Flughafen Düsseldorf Visitor’s Terrace is a viewing platform located at Dusseldorf Airport.
What to see or do: The viewing platform offers panoramic views of the airport including the runways and terminals.Visitors can see the planes take off, land and taxi around the airport.
There are also informative displays about the airport and the planes that fly in and out.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the airport from a different perspective.
The terrace offers great photo opportunities and is a fun experience for both aviation enthusiasts and casual visitors.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit the terrace is during the day when there are more flights arriving and departing.
Make sure to bring sunscreen and a hat during the summer months as the terrace is mostly uncovered.
There is also a cafe on the terrace where visitors can enjoy a drink or a bite to eat while watching the planes.
12. Kunst im Tunnel (KIT)
Art museum located in an underground tunnel in Dusseldorf.
What to see or do: View contemporary art exhibitions, attend workshops and events related to the current exhibition.
Don’t miss: The unique and industrial atmosphere of the underground tunnel which adds an extra layer to the art experience.
Insider travel tips: Check the website for upcoming exhibitions and events before visiting.
The museum can get crowded on weekends, so plan to visit on a weekday if possible.
Additionally, the museum is free of charge on the first Wednesday of each month.
13. Tonhalle Düsseldorf
Tonhalle Düsseldorf is a concert hall located in the heart of the city, known for its impressive architecture and superb acoustics.
What to see or do: Experience world-class classical music performances at the Tonhalle.
The hall features a variety of concerts ranging from symphonic, chamber, and solo recitals to jazz and pop music concerts.
Don’t miss: The Tonhalle’s iconic glass facade, which looks particularly stunning when illuminated at night.
Also, be sure to check out the unique design of the hall’s interior, featuring a stunning modern chandelier.
Insider travel tips: – Book your tickets in advance to secure the best seats.
14. Neanderthal Museum
The Neanderthal Museum is a museum dedicated to the study of human evolution and the history of the Neanderthal.
What to see or do: Explore the interactive exhibits, excavated artifacts, and life-size reconstructions of Neanderthals and their environment.
Learn about the history of human evolution from the early Stone Age to the present day.
Don’t miss: The life-size diorama of Neanderthals in the museum’s core exhibit is a must-see.Also, take a walk-through ‘cave experience.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to bring comfortable shoes as the museum offers a walking path through a beautiful park with a view of the original Neanderthal find site.
Check for any seasonal events, including special temporary exhibitions and educational programs.The audio guide is also strongly recommended.
15. NRW-Forum Düsseldorf
Contemporary art exhibition center and cultural events venue
What to see or do: Explore the diverse exhibitions of contemporary art, photography, and design.Attend lectures, workshops, and events related to art and culture.
Don’t miss: The iconic architecture of the building, designed by the renowned architect, Aldo Rossi.Also, make sure to check out the unique exhibition concepts and interactive installations.
Insider travel tips: Visit the NRW-Forum on a Thursday evening for the “After-Work” event with live music, food, and drinks.
Additionally, the outdoor courtyard is a pleasant spot to relax and enjoy the atmosphere.And make sure to check their website for the current exhibition program and events.