One Day in Dusseldorf Itinerary: The BEST 24 Hours

Explore the vibrant city of Dusseldorf in just one day with our meticulously crafted "One Day in Dusseldorf Itinerary."

This guide will take you on a whirlwind journey through the cultural, culinary, and history of this German gem, so you make the most of your limited time in the city.

From the picturesque Rhine promenade to world-famous art scene, and unique local beer, this itinerary promises an unforgettable day in Düsseldorf.

Dusseldorf 1-Day Itinerary

Start Your Day in The Old Town

Begin your day exploring Düsseldorf's Old Town, conveniently situated between Heinrich-Heine-Allee, Hofgarten, the Rhine promenade, and Carlstadt.

It's also affectionately known as "the longest bar in the world".

Great breakfast options are aplenty – grab a freshly baked pastry from the century-old bakery Bäckerei Hinkel or savor a plate of fluffy scrambled eggs and bacon at the rustic Bistro Zicke.

See The Most Beautiful Equestrian Statue at Marktplatz

When you're done with breakfast, take a short stroll to the Old Town's Marktplatz, one of the prettiest squares in Dusseldorf known for its Renaissance Rathaus (town hall).

It's also home to the impressive Jan Wellem equestrian statue – built in 1711 dedicated to the Elector Palatine of Düsseldorf, under whom the city prospered.

Interestingly, locals often use it as a reference point when arranging to meet in the Old Town.

Learn About The Rhine's Maritime History

The nearby Burgplatz square is home to the old Schlossturm, remains of a 13th century castle that now houses the Schifffahrtmuseum (maritime museum). [3]

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!

Spot The Twisted Spire of St Lambert's Basilica

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

Its construction took over 100 years to complete!

What's unique is that the basilica has a distinctively twisted spire, which was the result of a fire and hasty restoration using wet wood.

Spot The Cartwheelers' Fountain

The Cartwheelers' Fountain, or Radschlägerbrunnen, is a must-visit attraction in Düsseldorf's Burgplatz.

Erected in 1954, this fountain pays homage to the city's tradition of cartwheeling. [4]

The fountain features a sculpture of young boys joyfully performing cartwheels, and is symbol of Düsseldorf's commitment to keeping merry.

Pick Up A Jar of Düsseldorf Mustard

Did you know Düsseldorf is the mustard capital of Germany? 

The Düsseldorfer Senfladen, or Dusseldorf Mustard Shop, is a small shop and museum dedicated to Löwensenf mustard, which has a long tradition in Dusseldorf, dating back to 1903.

The shop stocks a variety of mustards, including classic, extra hot, and even unique flavors such as Altbier (the local beer) and even mustard pralines!

The most popular mustard is Löwensenf Extra Hot, a sharp Dijon-style mustard that makes a great souvenir from Düsseldorf.

Lunch at Carlsplatz Market

There's no lack of lunch options in the Old Town, but from Monday to Sunday, Carlplatz market is my favorite lunch spot in Düsseldorf.

This bustling farmer's market dates back to 1482 when it gained approval from Duke Wilhelm to operate weekly. 

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 and pick up something for home.

You'll 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.

Enjoy The Views from Rhine Tower

After a hearty lunch, taking a walk along the Rhine might help with digestion. On your way there, 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.

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, creating a perfect spot to chill for 30 minutes to an hour, as the observation deck slowly revolves. You might even spot the Cologne Cathedral on a clear day!

...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.

Take a Relaxing Walk On Rheinuferpromenade

Walking along the Rheinuferpromenade offers a stunning view of the Rhine River.

This fantastic boardwalk stretches through Düsseldorf's old town, Alstadt, and port area. Designed by architect Niklaus Fritschi in 1990, this promenade is 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. [2]

Take Cool Photos in Medienhafen

Stroll over to the Media Harbour, also known locally as Mediahafen, on the southern side of the Rhine river. Its architecture is unlike any other in Düsseldorf.

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. [1]

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.

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

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

Shop on Königsallee

Like how Paris has Champs Elysee and Barcelona has Las Rambla, Düsseldorf has Konigsallee, also known as "Ko".

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 canal's charming bridges are great for photos, and it's fun to watch the family of ducks from benches under chestnut and sycamore trees!

If you love shopping (or window shopping) then the Ko combines the best of European brands like Prada, as well as high-end boutiques and hotels.

Along this prestigious street, you can also find a mix of classy restaurants, cafes, and bars.

Dinner in Düsseldorf's "Little Tokyo"

This district, officially known as the Japanese Quarter, is dotted around the Immermannstraße area, near the Düsseldorf central station.

It all started in the 1950s when a wave of Japanese expats, primarily businessmen, made Immermannstraße their home – drawn by the growing economic ties between Japan and Düsseldorf.

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 really in Tokyo.

Immermannstraße is bustling with restaurants serving Japanese dishes like ramen, sushi, okonomiyaki (Japanese pancake), yakitori (grilled skewered chicken) and more.

Honestly, it's difficult to pick just one for dinner!

Unwind at The World's Longest Bar

What better way to end your day in Düsseldorf but to return to the Old Town, where the world's longest bar resides!

Locals and tourists alike come here to have a good time – and with hundreds of bars and breweries dotted along narrow roads, it's no surprise.

The drink of choice has to be Altbier, or Alt Beer, a delicious cold-fermented ale that originates from Dusseldorf – thanks to their warm summers and rarely freezing winters.

It's worth visiting the few remaining traditional breweries in Düsseldorf, to sample the nuances in their Altbier's taste!

Alternative Activities For A One Day Itinerary In Düsseldorf

Have a Picnic in Hofgarten

This 250-year-old oasis is the first and oldest public park in Germany, a fairytale world of forests and meadows, dotted with beautiful lakes. 

My children were delighted by the many ducks, geese, and rabbits around the park, which added to the charm.

Hofgarten is perfect for a relaxing picnic, and is also a popular spot for strolling, jogging, and sunbathing. Locals fondly call it "the Green Lung of Düsseldorf".

While there are plenty of fantastic restaurants and cafes nearby, but I like a picnic on Hofgarten's grass – for the peaceful change of pace and fresh outdoor air.

Visit the Jägerhof Palace & Goethe Museum

Holders of the Düsseldorf tourist card often make a stop at the Jägerhof Palace, home of the Goethe Museum,. [5]

Not only do they enjoy free entry, it's conveniently near the D-Schloß Jägerhof tram stop (or 10 mins' walk from Hofgarten)!

This historical palace was constructed in 1772 by the Elector Carl Theodor, to serve as a hunting lodge and his residence.

Today, the palace houses the Goethe Museum , which is dedicated to the life and works of the renowned German writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.

He had 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!

Discover Evolution at Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum

Good news for parents – admission to the Aquazoo is free for kids up to 6 years. And holding the Düsseldorf tourist card will get you in for free too.

From majestic rays to tiny shrimps, as well as adorable penguins and crocodiles, this is an aquarium, zoo and natural museum rolled into one.

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

You'll also be glad to know the Aquazoo bagged awards for their amphibian conservation and breeding efforts too!

Street Art at Kiefernstrasse

In Dusseldorf, graffiti gets a whole street to itself.

Kiefernstrasse in Flingern-Süd once attracted squatters and gangs in the 1980s, and while they've since moved on, their rebellious spirit lives on – in an underground art scene.

Colorful buildings with detailed graffiti, painted by squatters and artists, some who live here, stretch the length of Kiefernstraße.

This street is also home to AK47, Düsseldorf’s last punk rock club since 1983.

Unlock Free Tickets & Transport With Your Tourist 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, the zoo and more.

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

With this card, you can take advantage of discounts at amazing eateries like Bäckerei 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: Dusseldorf 24 Hours Itinerary

If you only have one day to spare in Düsseldorf, don't worry! You can still experience the city's rich history, culture, and beauty.

By following our recommended itinerary above, you'll have the chance to visit the top attractions in Düsseldorf such as the Rhine Tower and discover lesser-known gems like the Japanese Quarter.

Remember to plan your time wisely, try the local ale, Alt Beer, and take breaks when needed.

If it happens to be raining on your one day in Düsseldorf, fear not. Check out our guide on the best things to do in Dusseldorf on a rainy day here.

You might also like:

• The Perfect 2 Days Dusseldorf Itinerary
• The Perfect 3 Days Itinerary for Dusseldorf
• How Many Days in Dusseldorf is Enough?

Key Takeaways

• The 24 hour hop-on-hop-off bus is the most efficient and economical way to get around to the top sights in Düsseldorf in one day.
• Explore the vibrant Media Harbour and admire its unique architecture, including the iconic Gehry Buildings.
• Soak in panoramic views of Düsseldorf from the Rhine Tower.
• Immerse yourself in the charm of Altstadt (Old Town) by visiting historical sites like Marktplatz, St. Lambert's Church, and Cartwheeler's Fountain.
• Discover tranquility at Hofgarten, where you can visit Jägerhof Palace, Goethe Museum, and explore beautiful gardens.
• Experience luxury shopping on Konigsallee ("Kö"), Germany's busiest high - end shopping street known for designer brands and upscale boutiques.
• Don't forget to order your DüsseldorfCard to enjoy free admission to some of our recommended activities and free unlimited public transport.

FAQs

1. What are the must-visit attractions in Düsseldorf for a 1-day itinerary?

For a 1-day itinerary in Düsseldorf, you should visit attractions such as the Old Town (Altstadt), Rhine Tower (Rheinturm), and Königsallee shopping street.

2. How can I get around Düsseldorf during my 1-day visit?

Düsseldorf has an efficient public transportation system, including buses, trams, and trains, which makes it easy to get around the city during your 1-day visit.

For convenience, I recommend the 24 hour hop-on-hop-off bus as the best and cheapest way to see the main attractions in Düsseldorf in one day.

3. Are there any recommended restaurants or cafes in Düsseldorf for lunch or dinner?

Yes, there are many great restaurants and cafes in Düsseldorf offering various cuisines. Some popular options include Brauerei Schumacher for traditional German food and Zum Schiffchen for its famous Rhenish cuisine.

4. Can I fit a boat tour along the Rhine River into my 1-day itinerary?

Yes, you can incorporate a scenic boat tour along the Rhine River into your 1-day itinerary to enjoy beautiful views of the city skyline and landmarks from the water.

5. Is it possible to explore both art galleries and historical sites within one day in Dusseldorf?

Absolutely! You can easily combine visits to art galleries like Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen with historical sites like Rheinturm and Jägerhof Palace for an enjoyable blend of culture and history on your 1-day exploration of Düsseldorf.