Dusseldorf in February (Weather, Temperature and What do Do)

Why You Should Visit Dusseldorf In February

Enjoying The Festive Atmosphere Of The Carnival Celebrations

An explosion of color floods Düsseldorf every February, marking the height of the city's annual Carnival celebrations!

Along with Cologne and Mainz, Düsseldorf's carnival is one of the largest in Germany, making it a compelling reason to visit this Rhine city in February.

The city comes alive with vibrant parades, people in costumes, music and merry-making as locals dance on the streets or cheer at the spectacular floats passing by.

It's an unforgettable blend of tradition, creativity, fun, and German hospitality!

Avoiding The Crowds

Touring Düsseldorf in February generally means you're choosing to travel during the off-peak season, aside from the crazy Carnival days.

This strategic move means you can enjoy Düsseldorf without navigating through the sea of people that's typical of peak seasons.

That's great news if you're planning to visit any of the popular attractions, like Königsallee, the Old Town, and the Rhine Tower. Plus, it's easier to secure spots on brewery tours or book tables at the good local restaurants.

You're likely to find more affordable accommodations too, since lower demand often means lower rates.

Weather And Climate In Dusseldorf In February

Average Temperature And Precipitation

Düsseldorf in February is still experiencing winter, and is only a little warmer than January.

You can expect a crisp, chilly weather characterized by average daily high temperature of 6°C (43°F) and an average low of 1°C (34°F).

Cold breezes sweep across the city and occasional snow may bring an enchanting flurry of white. Unfortunately, it does rain pretty significantly in February in Düsseldorf, about an average 0.9 inches of precipitation.

The weather in Düsseldorf can be rather unpredictable, so one moment it might be sunny, and the next you might see grey skies with some drizzling, or it can get windy and freezing.

Dressing For The Weather

If you're used to cold weather, you might not need as many layers as I'll be suggesting.

But in general, layering is key to staying warm in the brisk German winter. You can peel off a few layers when entering a heated place, or add layers when temperatures dip.

If you come from a warmer climate, then having thermal undergarments can provide much needed warmth beneath your outer layers.

Since it can get freezing, especially during the night, winter clothing such as heavy sweaters on top of long-sleeved shirts, pants, and warm footwear are recommended.

Hats, scarves, and gloves also protect the most sensitive parts of the body like head and hands, which can go a long way to helping you feel warmer.

With rain and snowfall a possibility in February, waterproof shoes or boots will help keep your feet (and socks) dry!

Dusseldorf February Holidays And Events

Düsseldorf Carnival

The Düsseldorf Carnival is a major cultural event that takes place in Düsseldorf. It officially begins on 11 November each year, but the main festivities happen in February, starting with the Women’s Carnival day (Altweiberfastnach) and culminates on Rose Monday (Rosenmontag), which falls sometime between February 4th and March 10th each year. [1]

The carnival brings the city to life with festive celebrations, including parades, costumes, music performances, and a vibrant atmosphere. 

One of the highlights of the carnival is the Rosenmontag parade, where elaborate floats (sometimes political in nature) are displayed and candies and toys are thrown to the enthusiastic crowds. This tradition has been celebrated for many years and attracts both locals and visitors who want to experience this lively celebration firsthand.

Valentine's Day

The truth is, Valentine's Day isn't a big deal in Germany, including Düsseldorf. Most flower shops will probably raise their prices, but you're unlikely to find restaurants or attractions increasing prices on this day.

So if you're planning to celebrate Valentine's Day in Düsseldorf, you won't have to break the bank! Some romantic things to do in the city include taking a relaxing Rhine river cruise, walking along the Rheinuferpromenade, or spending a cute date in Little Tokyo!

Top Things To Do In Dusseldorf In February

Warm Up With Altbier

When it's cold outside, there's nothing more satisfying than popping into one of Düsseldorf's ancient brewpubs, and warming up yourself with a freshly poured 'becher' of Altbier — the local beer.

Only a few breweries produce their own Altbier today, and Brauerei Schumacher is the city's oldest, dating back to 1838. This traditional tavern is a little bit outside the city center, but worth the pilgrimage, especially for beer enthusiasts.

The brewpub, Uerige, is another cult favorite. Similar to Schumacher, they follow the classic Altbier service, bringing around a tray of freshly poured beer glasses and unceremoniously replacing your empty one before you can keep track.

Join In The Fun at Carnival

If you're in Düsseldorf during Carnival in February, don't miss out on the fun! The streets, especially in the Old Town, turn into a big party with people in wacky costumes and greeting each other, "Helau!"

On Altweiber, the first day of Carnival, it's customary for women to cut off men's ties - so if you're a man, you can wear a tie that you're fine being chopped off. You'll get a peck (kiss) in return.

There will also be parades all over the city, with the main one on Rose Monday, where revelers will toss candy and small gifts at spectators!

Take a Winter Hike in Grafenberger Wald

Hiking in winter? Yes! As the national pastime of Germans, we love hiking all year round.

And a great place to explore the beauty of nature with a relaxing hike is Grafenberger Wald – one of Düsseldorf's favorite nature spots without having to travel too far.

Established back in 1927, Grafenberger is one of the oldest wildlife parks in Germany. What makes this place truly special is its location within a 200-year-old beech forest.

Aside from that, it's great for families too. There's play areas for children, clean toilets, and picnic spots. There's even free parking. Just be sure to bring €1 coins for the animal food dispenser - our kids had a delightful time hand-feeding deer!

Savor an Authentic Bowl of Japanese Ramen

When it's cold outside, can you think of anything more satisfying than slurping up noodles in a bowl of savory, hot broth?

Then head to Little Tokyo, the popular Japanese quarter on Immermannstraße, bustling with restaurants serving the best ramen (a Japanese noodle dish) around.

This eclectic enclave offers a slice of Japanese life, with streets lined with Japanese restaurants, Asian grocery shops, and signs in Katakana – making it feel like you're right in Tokyo!

Just make sure you check out the stores' opening times beforehand, as many places close one or two days a week.

P.S. Popular ramen eateries here include Naniwa Noodles & Soups, Takumi, and Takeichi (but be prepared to queue)!

Indoor Activities In Dusseldorf In February (When It Snows)

Visit the Award-Winning Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum

Located in Nordpark, the Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum is AMAZING. From majestic rays to tiny shrimps, as well as adorable penguins and crocodiles, this place is an aquarium, zoo and natural museum rolled into one.

Our kids had a blast with the interactive stuff – peeping through microscopes and diving into a submarine simulation.

You'll also be glad to know the Aquazoo bagged some UN awards for their amphibian conservation and breeding efforts.

Good news for parents – admission is free for kids up to 6 years. And our Düsseldorf tourist card got us in for free too.

If your German is a bit rusty, grab an English leaflet at the info desk on your way in, and throw in the audio guide for just €3!

Enjoy A Relaxing Spa Day At Vabali Spa

Vabali Spa is like a slice of Bali right in Düsseldorf. Tucked next to the Elbsee, about 15 minutes from the city center, this place is a Southeast Asia oasis where you can escape the winter chill. 

The two-story haven includes 10 saunas, two steam baths, a laconium, a cozy fireplace room, and a landscape of waterbeds.

And let's not forget the infinity pool and plunge pools; you'll wish a day was longer to enjoy it all.

This spa even offers partner massages — an excellent option for couples seeking a unique bonding experience. And unlike many cramped saunas found elsewhere, Vabali is luxuriously spacious despite the high traffic.

I recommend the panoramic sauna with a lake view — watching the sunset from the sauna is a rare treat!

Admire World-Class 21th Century Art at K21

The K21 is part of the Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen, the art collection of the German Federal State of North Rhine-Westphalia.

Housed in the majestic Ständehaus, I found the art museum to be an awesome experience with large-scale installations and unique rooms that push the boundaries of art.

And trust me, it's not just for art buffs. There's plenty of interactive displays as well as thought-provoking installations, like the life-sized replica of the "Amazon Worker Cage".

Also, don't miss the chance to climb and walk on the spider net at the top floor – that was the highlight of our visit!

👉 Enjoy a reduced entry fee at K21 with your Düsseldorf tourist card.

Geek Out at Cars at Classic Remise

Only a 20 minute train ride from the city center, Classic Remise is little-known gem for car enthusiasts.

This museum houses an impressive collection of classic cars, motorbikes, and automobilia. You name it, they have it – Ferraris, Porsches, and even some American models like Corvettes and Mustangs.

As we explored, we stumbled upon a whole collection of motorbikes tucked away in another corner. Don't let it slip your radar; it's in a different spot from the cars, so keep an eye out.

Whether you're looking to buy a classic car or simply admire their elegance, Classic Remise is free to enter!

Have Kaffee und Kuchen

Daily “Kaffee und Kuchen” (coffee & cake) is tradition here, so those with a sweet tooth can relax and enjoy themselves guilt-free!

As a matter of fact, Düsseldorf is famed for high-quality chocolates, cakes, biscuits, pastries, breads, doughnuts, and traditional sweets... you name it, they got it.

For the best baked goodies in town, head to Bäckerei Hinkel, a century-old bakery and try any of their pastries - it's guaranteed to be good. Be sure to pick up a bag of their Aachener Printen (a special gingerbread hailing from Aachen) too.

Sweet and Eat on Kapuzinergasse also produces the "best roasted almonds in the whole of North Rhine-Westphalia” - a type of German candied almonds that taste absolutely fantastic!

Visit the Neanderthal Museum

Not many are aware, but just outside Düsseldorf in Mettmann is where the first Neanderthal (caveman) was discovered!

So if you're up for the adventure and interested in that part of humankind's history, then Neanderthal Museum is an absolute must-visit.

Me and my boys loved our trip there. We got to see where they first found the Neanderthals and took an intriguing tour of Ice Age animals in the animal park.

My kids had a blast having their photos taken with life-size Neanderthal figures too. In fact, they kept asking questions about them even after we left the museum!

Get Artsy at The Filmmuseum

For anyone interested in movies, Filmmuseum is totally worth checking out – especially since it's free with the Düsseldorf tourist card.

Tucked away in the Old Town, this museum has been around since 1993, showcasing the world of filmmaking, from its earliest days to the current scene. They've even got some props from the Lord of the Rings movies!

You'll find nearly everything to do with "movie magic" – costumes, props, cameras, and editing techniques, all there to see, touch, and learn. My personal favorites were the exhibits that reveal the behind-the-scenes tricks of movie production.

Learn About The Rhine's Maritime History

At Burgplatz square sits the old Schlossturm, remains of a 13th century castle that now houses the Schifffahrtmuseum (maritime museum).

This is the oldest museum of its kind in Germany, and shows the importance of the Rhine river to Düsseldorf's growth and its role in trade and travel.

Getting to the top floor of the museum is a popular activity, where you can get a lovely view of the Rhine river from the café.

👋 TIP: If you have the Düsseldorf tourist card, admission to the museum is free!

Get to know Goethe at the Goethe Museum

If the English-speaking world has Shakespeare, then Germany has Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, one of the most important writers in Germany.

His writings have left a deep mark on German writing, and many even consider his book "Faust" as THE best work in all of German literature!

If you're interested in history and culture, then the Goethe museum will be totally up your alley. It's filled with things connected to Goethe's life, like letters, paintings, busts, and other trinkets that really tell you what he was like as a person.

You'll also find items related to his life as an anatomist, artist, and natural scientist, along with his work as an author, poet, and statesman.

👉 Enjoy free entry with the Düsseldorf tourist card!

Practical Tips For Visiting Dusseldorf In February

Saving Money With The Düsseldorf Card

Not many travelers to Düsseldorf know about the DüsseldorfCard, or they find out about it but it's too late. Don't let that be you!

This handy little-known card offers steep discounts on many attractions you might visit in Düsseldorf — museums, shopping, restaurants, and more.

For example, with the DüsseldorfCard you'd get FREE entry to the Aquazoo Lobbecke Museum, Filmmuseum, Hetjens Museum and 50% off other museums.

With this card, you can take advantage of deals at amazing food places like Bäckerei Hinkel, Hyatt Regency DOX Bar and Senfladen too.

But the best part is really free unlimited travel on all public transportation within the city!

Whether you're traveling alone or in a group, the savings from buses and trams can add up, especially if you like to move around.

Be Prepared For Possible Snowfall

While February isn't the coldest month of the year, it's still gets pretty cold, enough for it to snow in Dusseldorf during February.

With an average of 3.8 snowy days during the month, you'll want to make sure you have appropriate winter clothing and footwear.

The daily average high temperature is 6°C (43°F), but can dip to 1°C (34°F). So layers are key to staying warm.

Because weather can be unpredictable, keep an eye on the weather forecast for any potential snow (or rain) and plan your activities accordingly.

Download The Local Transport Apps

Düsseldorf offers a well-connected public transportation system that makes getting around the city a breeze. With buses, trams, and trains available, visitors have plenty of options to choose from.

Rental bikes are also an alternative mode of transport for those who prefer to explore on two wheels.

You can always check Google Maps to plan your routes, but I recommend downloading the local transport apps, which usually display real-time updates.

The VRR (public transport association in the region) has their own app where you can plan routes and even buy and pay for tickets.

Another popular app is the Rheinbahn app!

Also worth downloading is the DB navigator app, which is managed by Deutsche Bahn, the national railway company of Germany. It covers regional and long-distance travel outside of Düsseldorf.

Weather In Dusseldorf In February: FAQs

Does It Rain In Dusseldorf In February?

Yes, Düsseldorf experiences moderate rainfall in February, with an average of around 0.9 inches (23 mm) of rain. Out of the whole month, you can expect rain on around 12 days. This makes it a wet month, but not excessively so!

So if you're planning a trip to Düsseldorf in February, be prepared for some rain and consider bringing an umbrella or raincoat just in case.

What’s The Best Time Of Year To Visit Dusseldorf?

The best time of year to visit Dusseldorf is during the spring and summer months, from mid-May to mid-September. This is when the weather in Düsseldorf is at its best, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine.

If you prefer warmer weather, then mid-June to early September would be the most suitable time to plan your trip.

However, if you prefer fewer crowds and lower hotel rates, early autumn can also be a good option. So whether you choose springtime, summertime, or early autumn, there are plenty of opportunities throughout these months to make the most of your visit to Düsseldorf.

When Is The Shoulder Season In Dusseldorf?

The shoulder season in Düsseldorf is spring (April and May) and fall (September and October).

During these months, the weather is mild and enjoyable. For example, in May the average temperatures range from 9°C (48°F) to 18°C (64°F). In October, it's still a comfortable 8°C (46°F) to 15°C (58°F).

The number of visitors is also relatively low compared to the peak season, resulting in lower prices for accommodations and other tourist activities.

How Cold Is It In Dusseldorf In February?

Düsseldorf can be quite cold in February. The average daily high temperatures range from 1°C (34°F) to 6°C (43°F), making it necessary to bundle up and dress warmly.

With a cold winter climate that brings low daytime temperatures, strong winds, and mostly cloudy skies, make sure to pack your warmest layers if you're planning a visit during this time of year.

Is It Sunny In Dusseldorf In February?

No, Düsseldorf is not known for sunny weather, especially in February. The city experiences limited sunlight during this time of year, with an average sunshine duration of less than 3 hours a day.

Grey and cloudy skies are common too.

So if you're hoping for bright and sunny days, it's best to manage your expectations when visiting Düsseldorf in February!

What Is The Average Temperature In Dusseldorf In February?

The average temperature in Düsseldorf in February ranges from a high of 6°C (43°F) to a low of 1°C (34°F).

Should I Go To Dusseldorf In February?

In February, Düsseldorf can be a great destination for those who don't mind the cold weather. 

And while it may be cold, there are still plenty of indoor and outdoor activities to enjoy, such as winter hiking in Grafenberger Wald or visiting the world-class art museum, K21.

Just be prepared for potential rainfall and colder temperatures during your visit to this gem on the Rhine!

Are There Any Major Dusseldorf Holidays In February?

Yes, Carnival is the biggest festival to look out for in Düsseldorf in February! In fact, many make their yearly trip to Düsseldorf specifically for Carnival — it's really a one-of-a-kind experience that you can only get in the Rhineland.

Aside from Carnival, there are other cultural events to enjoy all month long, given that Düsseldorf is a creative hub. But because these tend to be seasonal, it's best to check the updated event calendar by the Tourism Board.

Whether you're looking for cultural experiences or fun festivities, Düsseldorf has plenty to offer in February!

Are There Mosquitoes In Dusseldorf In February?

Mosquitoes are not typically found in Düsseldorf in February due to the cold weather. Mosquitoes thrive in wet and hot climates, which is not characteristic of the climate during this time of year.

So, if you're planning a trip to Düsseldorf this time of year, you can enjoy your time without worrying about mosquito bites or pests bothering you.

Conclusion: Dusseldorf in February

Experience the winter charm of Düsseldorf — with cool temperatures and Carnival atmosphere, it's your chance to see the city at its wackiest in February!

Aside from Carnival parties and parades, you'll also have your hands full exploring the city's traditional breweries and tasting Altbier with the locals, to exploring the charming Little Tokyo (my favorite!). 

You'll wish you had more days to spend in this exciting city on the Rhine 😊

Just don't forget to pack your warm clothes (and Carnival costume) to embrace all that this vibrant city has to offer in February!