24 Best Things to Do in Dusseldorf, Germany

Planning a trip to Düsseldorf can be overwhelming, as there's so much to do in this underrated city, but so little reliable information about it. As someone who's been here countless times, I've decided to make my own list of the best things to do in Düsseldorf.

From luxury shopping at the Könnigsalle, to checking out the ancient sites at Kaiserswerth, bespoke art galleries, and a one-of-a-kind beer culture, this guide will help you make the most of your visit – and create memories you'll be talking about for a long time.

24 Best Things to Do in Düsseldorf

Explore Altstadt (Old Town)

My favorite spot in Düsseldorf is undoubtably the Altstadt. People come here to have a good time – and with hundreds of bars, restaurants, cafés, and breweries dotted along narrow roads, it's known as the "longest bar in the world".

The lively nightlife here deserves special mention too. Folks in Düsseldorf are pretty chill, open-minded and outgoing. It's easy to chat with random locals at a shop, pub or on the street – it's just that kind of vibe.

But Altbier (the local beer) and cheeky waiters aside, the Old Town is filled with pockets of history too.

Strolling along its 700-year-old streets, you can't miss checking out St Lambert's Basilica, the oldest church in Düsseldorf from the 9th century.

See if you can spot the Jan Wellem equestrian statue located on Marktplatz – dedicated to the Elector Palatine of Düsseldorf, locals often use it as a reference point when arranging to meet in the Old Town.

Take a romantic walk on Rheinuferpromenade

At sunset, the Rheinuferpromenade is a treat for the senses. The Rhine river glows in warm golden hues, accompanied by the soothing calls of seagulls overhead. Along the promenade, restaurants come alive, preparing for the evening bustle. It's a magical moment.

As Dusseldorf's heartbeat, this promenade was once an industrial harbor. Today, it's a hub for leisure activities. Locals often unwind here after work; cycling, strolling, or rollerblading. It's a great spot to catch an authentic glimpse of Düsseldorf's way of life.

Aside from people-watching, taking a cruise along Rheinuferpromenade is also one of the highlights of visiting in Dusseldorf.

Take cool photos in Medienhafen

If you're into photography or quirky-looking buildings, then visiting Medienhafen is a must. In fact, standing among its cool mix of old and new architecture feels pretty surreal. Literally every nook I walk by is a photo op waiting to happen.

The real show-stealers are Frank Gehry's mind-bending towers, the Neuer Zollhof. Twisting at crazy angles, and gleaming with its mirrored walls and warped windows, they draw Instagrammers like a magnet.

Nearby, Claude Vasconi's Grand Bateau mimics an ocean liner, while William Alsop's Colorium, with its kaleidoscopic glass facade, adds a brilliant splash of color.

The history behind this eclectic harbor is worth digging into too. Imagine where dock workers once toiled, is now buzzing with top companies and world-class restaurants. This urban revitalization is nothing short of spectacular – and this interesting tour aims to tell its story.

Just a tip: Come here on a weekday if you can, there's less of a crowd and more space for that perfect photo.

Enjoy the views from Rhine Tower

Even if you're short on time in Düsseldorf, don't miss the Rhine Tower – it's a classic for a reason. Built in 1982, this 240-meter tower is the city's iconic landmark, offering fascinating views of Düsseldorf. We could even spot the Cologne Cathedral from here!

The €10 fee (or €6 before 11 am or after 10 pm) is a steal for the experience.

From the M168 observation deck, there's a mini bar offering drinks and cakes, creating a perfect spot to chill for 30 minutes to an hour, as the observation deck slowly revolves. It's a fantastic way to soak in the changing cityscape of Düsseldorf.

...Or you can take it up a notch at the Japanese restaurant, Qomo, upstairs. Here, you can enjoy a 360-degree panorama while digging into sushi.

The Rhine Tower is located on the banks of the Rhine River, and can be seen from many parts of Düsseldorf.

Admire modern art at K21 Ständehaus

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, K21 offers a mind-blowing experience with large-scale installations and unique rooms that push the boundaries of art.

The best part? Admission is free after 6 pm!

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! 

I say you can easily spend around 2 hours, or more if you're into modern art.

This art gallery and museum in Düsseldorf is housed in a stunning Neo-Renaissance building that used to be the seat of the Parliament of North Rhine–Westphalia. [1] The architecture alone is worth checking out.

Marvel at the beautiful Schloss Benrath

Schloss Benrath is a gorgeous leisure palace built in the 18th century. Known for its baby pink exterior and extravagantly decorated interiors, couples often choose it for pre-wedding shoots and even hosting their weddings in the Corps de Logis, a beautiful domed hall.

Located in a quieter part of town, I arrived on a Monday during low season, so I found myself practically alone – which gave me lots of peace and space to explore.

Constructed in 1775, this palace south of Düsseldorf remains virtually unchanged. To explore it, you have to join one of the guided tours for a few euros. And while the regular ticket grants access to the first floor, the extra ticket for the second floor is worthwhile.

By the way, the luxurious 61-hectare palace park is free and open to the public. The peaceful grounds are ideal for a quiet walk, surrounded by the soothing sounds of chirping birds.

Many trains and buses serve the Schloss Benrath area, so make sure to include it on your itinerary!

You might also like: 25 Fairytale Castles Near Dusseldorf, Germany

Shop on Königsallee

Like how Paris has Champs Elysee and Barcelona has Las Rambla, Düsseldorf has Königsallee, also known as "Ko". It's the place to see and be seen.

This shopping boulevard right in the city center is exceptionally beautiful. Elegant shops and malls line a scenic tree-laden canal, creating a serene atmosphere.

The bridges over the canal add a picturesque touch, perfect for photos. The canal is also home to a family of ducks, which is fun to watch from benches under the shade of chestnut and sycamore trees!

If you love shopping (or window shopping) then the Ko combines the best of European brands like Prada and Chanel, as well as high-end boutiques and hotels. Along this prestigious street, you can also find a mix of classy restaurants, cafes, and bars.

Have a picnic in Hofgarten

When in Düsseldorf, pay a visit to the first and oldest public park in Germany: Hofgarten.

This 250-year-old oasis is a fairytale world of forests and meadows, dotted with beautiful lakes complete with white swans. I particularly liked the many ducks, geese, and rabbits around the park, which add to the charm.

Known for its lush landscapes, Hofgarten stretches from Jacobistraße to Heinrich-Heine-Allee and from Königsallee to the Rhine Terrace, making it a popular spot for strolling, jogging, and sunbathing. Locals fondly call it "the Green Lung of Düsseldorf".

There are plenty of great restaurants and cafes nearby, but I actually prefer to come here for a picnic – for the peaceful change of pace and fresh air. 

From Hofgarten, it's easy to explore nearby attractions like Koningsallee and the river.

Enjoy art exhibitions at Museum Kunstpalast

As an art destination, Düsseldorf is home to several art museums. Museum Kunstpalast is one of the most prominent, with a vast collection of 130,000 paintings, sculptures, crafts, and glassware spanning from the Middle Ages to the 21st century. [2]

I had the opportunity to explore Museum Kunstpalast on my last visit to Düsseldorf and saw the Death and The Devil exhibition. It was a interesting blend of fashion, music, Greek mythology, and interpretations of death by different artists.

I say don't miss Peter Paul Rubens' gallery too, along with its impressive Gallery of Paintings.

If you want to make your way down, it's easily accessible via public transit, with the Stadtbahn providing convenient access. Plan for at least 2 hours to fully appreciate the wide collection, and there are even lockers to help store your bags.

Wander around ruins at Kaiserswerth

The village of Kaiserswerth, dating back to the Roman Empire, is perfect for a peaceful retreat that gives you a glimpse into old Germany.

Walking through the town center, we encountered well-preserved Baroque houses from the 17th century, offering a unique glimpse into the past. And unlike the city center, the air is particularly refreshing here.

The village's historical significance dates back to its Roman origin as a humble monastery. Over time, Kaiserswerth gained prominence under the Holy Roman Empire, particularly during the era of Emperor Friedrich Barbarossa.

One of the highlights is exploring the ruins of Kaiserpfalz Kaiserswerth, the imposing Imperial Palatinate that once housed Barbarossa. Another must-see attraction is St. Suitbertus Basilica, located on Suitbertus Stiftsplatz.

You may have to take train from central Dusseldorf to get to Kaiserswerth, but it's absolutely 100% worth it.

Hand-feed animals at Wildpark im Grafenberger Wald

Our family had a delightful time at Wildpark Grafenberger Wald, spending a crisp winter day surrounded by nature and animals. The entire experience was free, except the €1 pots of animal food, which turned out to be the highlight.

We hand-fed adorable deer (they were the only animals not behind barricades) and the joy on the boys' faces as the deer approached for cuddles was priceless. There are over 100 animals here, and we also got to see the wild pigs and raccoons.

One of the oldest wildlife parks in Germany, established back in 1927. And what makes this place truly special is its location within a 200-year-old beech forest. [3]

But be warned – while the park is easily accessible by U73 or tram, finding it within Grafenberger Wald can be a bit tricky because the maps and signs can be quite confusing.

Aside from that, it's great for families. There's play areas for children, clean toilets, and nice picnic spots. There's even lots of free parking. Just be sure to bring your €1 coins for the animal food dispenser!

Shop and eat in Carlsplatz Market

I often make this my lunch spot in Düsseldorf. Sure, prices might be a bit higher than your regular supermarket, but Carlsplatz is a foodie's paradise, where you can taste your way around the world.

The history of this bustling farmer's market dates back to 1482 when it gained approval from Duke Wilhelm to operate weekly. Redesigned in the late '90s, Carlsplatz retains its charming appeal.

Open Monday - Saturday, there are over 60 stalls to shop from. Pop by this idyllic district to find delicious homemade pasta, organic bakeries, butcher shops, cheese vendors, fruit stalls, spice sellers, sushi spots, and more. German, Italian, Indian, French—you name it, they've got it.

I found myself drawn to the Dutch fish stall. It was close to closing time, but they happily whipped up a fresh piece of fried fish in a soft roll for me. Score!

Cruise the Rhine

We were surprised that our cruise up and down the Rhine River turned out to be the highlight of our visit.

We opted for an audio-guided one, which took us past the old town, with the Basilica of St. Lambertus and City Hall stealing the show. We also got to gaze upon the Medienhafen port district, where oddly-shaped buildings poked at the sky.

At the 4.30pm slot, our boat wasn't crowded at all, so we snagged a prime spot at the front. The audio guide provided interesting tidbits about the landmarks, though it was occasionally a bit hard to catch.

Nevertheless the hour breezed by, and we left relaxed, with a fresh appreciation for Düsseldorf's charm!

Let loose at Rheinkirmes

My Rheinkirmes tradition started early, tagging along with my parents since I was a wee two-year-old. If your idea of carnivals are cotton candy, corn dogs, and Ferris wheels that scrap the treetops... well, Düsseldorf's Rheinkirmes takes the game up several notches.

This annual fair lights up Düsseldorf every July, drawing crowds, although it's still somewhat under the radar for international tourists. Indeed, compared to the Oktoberfest, it's much smaller in scale. But the atmosphere is way more relaxed – not a place where you'll find people passed out drunk on the grass!

Everything you'd expect from a fantastic fair is here – dark beer, thrilling rides (with new ones each year), and food. Oh, the food. Come with an empty stomach because German fair food takes center stage here – bratwurst, grilled salmon, crepes, waffles, roasted nuts, candy, and more.

One of the best things about Kirmes is that it also caters to families with small children. There are plenty of merry-go-rounds and bumper cars for little ones to enjoy.

A quick tram ride from Düsseldorf Central Station lands you right at the entrance. Entrance is free, but the rides, which range from 3-6 euros per person, can quickly rack up. Pro tip: The best rides are usually farther from the entrance!

Geek out at cars at Classic Remise

My sons and I hopped on a little bus from Düsseldorf center, and soon found ourselves at the Classic Remise – a must-visit for car enthusiasts.

We were greeted by a parade of cars, from the timeless classics to the jaw-dropping million-dollar supercars. You name it, they had it – Ferraris, Porsches, and even some American models like Corvettes and Mustangs.

Now, my boys, being true "petrol heads", couldn't contain their excitement. We spent a good couple of hours wandering around, ogling at the automotives. There's something about the smell of vintage leather and the roar of a classic engine that gets everyone's adrenaline pumping.

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.

And fair warning, the temptation to purchase one of these cars might sneak up on you – especially if your wallet is feeling generous.

Entry to Classic Remise Düsseldorf is free.

Relax at Nordpark

If you're in the mood for a bit of calm and quiet, Nordpark is the place to be. It's one of Düsseldorf's biggest (and most pretty in my opinion) public parks, a hidden from the city's hustle and bustle. 

It's perfect for a leisurely stroll, a hike, or just unwinding before you dive into the rest of what the city has to offer. [4] And keep an eye out for some wildlife – there are rabbits and birds to spot.

And here's a bonus: there's an aquarium, or aqua zoo, right in the park. If you've got the Düsseldorf tourist card, you get in for free. This is especially handy if you're bringing along the little ones.

And don't forget to check out the peaceful Japanese Garden deeper inside the park – a thoughtful gift from the Japanese community, complete with a lovely pond. It's a bit of a stroll from the entrance, but totally worth it.

Getting to Nordpark is a breeze with its own metro drop-off too. Just take a leisurely walk along the Rhine!

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. 

Now, here's the only hiccup – some of the info is only in German, so if you're not fluent, you might miss a bit here and there.

Discover evolution at Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum

Located in Nordpark, the Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum is A-MA-ZING. 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.

The exhibits trace the journey from primordial soup to the world of corals, jellyfish and mammals. It's like taking a stroll through our planet's history.

Our kids had a blast with the interactive stuff – peeping through microscopes at various objects 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 a mere €3.

Visit the Neanderthal Museum

This fascinating museum is at the site of the first Neanderthal man (pre-historic men) discovery – just outside the city of Düsseldorf in Mettmann.

From the museum, you can follow the path to where the remains were found. You start at the entrance with the early evolution and slowly spiral up.[5]

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

What struck me was how much I actually learned – it totally changed my assumption that Neanderthals were just a primitive bunch.

The museum actually painted a far more complex and fascinating view of them; how they lived together, communicated, made art, conducted funerals, and more!

Sample the famous “Alt-beer"

In Düsseldorf, you've gotta try the local beer – Altbier, or as they call it, "old beer." It's a classic dark German ale that's been around for ages, way before craft beer ever entered the scene.

The reason why I recommend sampling Altbier is because there are less than ten breweries, or Brauhaus, producing it in the traditional way.

Locals flock to these cozy breweries for chit-chats, good eats, and celebrations, all while sipping on glasses of Altbier. Try to visit more than one to taste the difference, and my top picks are Uerige, Brauerei Kürzer, and Zum Schlüssel.

Now, I'll admit that my loyalties are with Kölsch beer (the regional variety of Cologne) but when in Düsseldorf, you must try Altbier. The smooth malty taste with a toasty flavor is really delicious!

View pretty ceramics at Hetjens Museum

While looking for the film museum, my wife and I stumbled upon the ceramics museum, Hetjens Museum, near the Rhine River. We decided to pop in since we had the Düsseldorf card, which meant we could get in for free.

Expecting a small museum, we were pleasantly surprised to find a big one with tons of beautiful and remarkably interesting porcelain and pottery pieces, from China, Japan, French, Byzantine, Turkey and more.

It was so captivating that I practically had to drag my wife away!

I know the Hetjens Museum isn't on anyone's top ten list, but it's the definition of a hidden gem, and a must-visit if you're around the Old Town.

Get to know Goethe

Another hidden gem is the Goethe Museum dedicated to the famous German poet and writer, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. He was the one who penned notable works like Faust and Die Leiden des jungen Werthers.

The museum is filled with things connected to Goethe's life, like letters, paintings, busts, and other trinkets. You'll also find items related to his roles as an anatomist, artist, and natural scientist, along with his work as an author, poet, and statesman.

But even if you're not a Goethe fan, you'll appreciate the building where the museum is housed. Located in Schloss Jägerhof, a former hunting palace completed in 1772. If you like the Romantic period, you'll find it quite enjoyable.

P.S. Everything is in German, so best bring a German friend if you want to be able to understand the exhibits.

Visit Düsseldorf's "Little Tokyo"

This district, officially known as the Japanese Quarter, is situated around the Immermannstraße area, near the Düsseldorf Hauptbahnhof (central train station).

I enjoy strolling down this street packed with Japanese shops and restaurants. Whether you're into traditional sushi or authentic ramen spots, and even the occasional manga/anime shop, this special neighborhood is definitely worth checking out.

If you're wondering why Düsseldorf has such a prominent Japanese community, it all started in the 1950s, when many Japanese workers came to help with the city's post-war reconstruction.

As the Japanese community expanded, businesses tailored to their needs started popping up, giving rise to what we now call "Little Tokyo"!

Get free tickets & rides with your tourist card

Not many travelers to Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf - museums, shopping, restaurants, the zoo and more.

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

With this card, you can take advantage of freebies or discounts at amazing places like Bakeries Josef Hinkel and the restaurant and brewery, Zum Schiffchen, 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.

Conclusion: Things to See in Dusseldorf

Among travelers, Düsseldorf is often overlooked as a snobby financial center and luxury shopping hub. But, this highly-connected city has a lot more to offer despite its small size, making it one of my favorite German cities.

Whether you're going on a spontaneous weekend getaway, embarking on a solo adventure, or planning an itinerary filled with artsy museums or cool day trips, this underrated German city has something for everyone.

If you're into art and culture, then the many world-class museums, such as the Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen and the Kunsthalle, will be totally up your alley.

For history lovers, a visit to the exceptional churches such as St. Lambertus Church, or the historical MedienHafen district should be on your agenda.

But Düsseldorf isn't just about daytime or indoor activities; it also boasts a thriving nightlife scene. After sunset, exciting restaurants, night clubs and pubs come alive at the Old Town, where live music venues and theaters also open their doors.

So, whether you're a couple seeking a romantic escapade, a solo traveler looking for unique experiences, or just someone seeking magic at the Christmas Markets, Düsseldorf will be a city you'll find hard to forget.

Key Takeaways

• Explore Altstadt, Düsseldorf's Old Town with its historic buildings like the St Lambert's Basilica and sample Altbier at "the world's longest bar".
• Take a walk on Rheinuferpromenade for breathtaking views of the river and check out the quirky buildings at the trendy Medienhafen district.
• Shop at Königsallee, the fashion capital of Düsseldorf, offering high-end shops and chic cafes, and pop by Carlsplatz for the farmer's market.
• Admire art at the many museums, such as K21 Ständehaus, Museum Kunstpalast, Classic Remise, Filmmuseum, Hetjens Museum or Goethe Museum
• Take a day trip and hang out at Schloss Benrath, a gorgeous 18th century palace, or wander around ruins at Kaiserswerth district.
• Spend time with nature and animals at Wildpark im Grafenberger Wald, Nordpark or Hofgarten, and enjoy a picnic lunch.
• Experience the best views of the city on a sight-seeing cruise along the Rhine River.
• Let loose once a year in July at the Rheinkirmes fair.
• Discover evolution at the Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum and the Neanderthal Museum.
• Feel like you're in Japan in "Little Tokyo" district.

FAQs

1. What are some of the best things to do in Dusseldorf?

Some of the best things to do in Dusseldorf include visiting the Old Town, exploring art galleries and museums, shopping on Königsallee, enjoying a boat ride on the Rhine River, and trying local cuisine.

2. Are there any famous landmarks or attractions in Dusseldorf?

Yes, Dusseldorf is home to several famous landmarks and attractions such as Rheinturm (Rhine Tower), Schloss Benrath (Benrath Palace), St. Lambertus Church, and MedienHafen (Media Harbour).

3. Can you recommend any interesting museums in Dusseldorf?

Certainly! Some interesting museums worth visiting in Dusseldorf are Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen, K20 and K21; Museum Kunstpalast, which houses an extensive collection of art; and Filmmuseum.

4. Is there a popular shopping street or district in Dusseldorf?

Yes, Königsallee is a popular shopping street known for its luxury boutiques and high-end fashion brands. It's often referred to as "Kö" by locals.

5. Are there any outdoor activities available in or near Dusseldorf?

Absolutely! You can enjoy outdoor activities like walking or cycling along the banks of the Rhine River promenade, exploring Grafenberg Forest with its hiking trails, picnicking at Hofgarten Park, or taking a relaxing boat tour on the river.