Weekend in Dusseldorf: The Perfect 2 Days Itinerary

If you find yourself with a weekend in Dusseldorf and want to make the most of your time, our comprehensive Dusseldorf two-day itinerary is your ultimate guide to experiencing the best this captivating city has to offer.

From the enchanting Old Town with its charming architecture and bustling markets to the modern marvels along the Rhine River, this itinerary is your ticket to a memorable weekend in Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf Two-Day Itinerary: Day 1

Start your first day in Dusseldorf by exploring the trendy Media Harbour, followed by a visit to the iconic Rhine Tower for panoramic views of the city. Take a stroll along the picturesque Rheinuferpromenade before immersing yourself in the charm of Altstadt, where you can discover historical landmarks like Burgplatz and St. Lambertus Church. Don't forget to wander through Hofgarten and shop till you drop on Konigsallee.

Media Harbour

In the heart of Dusseldorf, you'll discover Media Harbour, a striking urban development on the southern side of the Rhine river.

The area is known for its unique architectural design that draws tourists from all over.

Once a hub for private TV and radio broadcasting after World War II, it now fosters an array of creative industries.

Whether you take public transportation or decide to stroll through this cultural hotspot, visiting Media Harbour promises to be an intriguing part of your city tour with its easily accessible waterfront location.

Rhine Tower

Your adventure in Dusseldorf isn't complete without a visit to the towering Rhine Tower. Standing tall as the city's landmark, this tower offers skyhigh thrills like no other.

Overlooking the charming skyline of Dusseldorf, it boasts majestic panoramic views that stretch across the horizon.

At 164 meters above ground level, you find yourself on the observation deck enveloped by an awe-inspiring scenic vista. The cityscape unfolds before your eyes and presents an aerial view that is nothing short of spectacular.

Then ascend even further to QOMO, the rotating restaurant nestled at a stunning altitude of 172.5 meters.

Here, not only do you bask in top-of-the-tower views but also enjoy delightful culinary offerings amidst swirling panoramas!

Rheinuferpromenade (Rhine Embankment Promenade)

The Rheinuferpromenade is a lively area that gives visitors an unforgettable window into the city of Dusseldorf. It serves as a beautiful pedestrian promenade, designed by architect Niklaus Fritschi and constructed between 1990 and 1997. [1]

As you walk along this riverside pathway, you'll discover it stretches from the Media Harbor to Burgplatz, crossing through historical districts like old town and Karlstadt.

The Rheinuferpromenade overlooks the majestic Rhine River and lures countless tourists with its stunning cityscape views.

Since it's at a waterfront location, expect an enchanting environment perfect for recreational activities or simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of Dusseldorf.

Altstadt (Old Town)

Next, let's take a little adventure into Dusseldorf's Altstadt, or as some fondly call it, the Old Town. It's a cultural gem with its medieval architecture and charming cobblestone streets.

Don't miss Burgplatz, which is home to Castle Tower (Schlossturm) and the Rhine Maritime Museum.

You can learn about the city's maritime history while enjoying stunning views from the tower. Nearby, Cartwheeler's Fountain is a beloved landmark that adds a touch of whimsy to the area.

And for a dose of Gothic architecture, visit St. Lambertus church, an impressive three-aisled hall church founded in 1288. 

The Old Town is also known for its vibrant nightlife, as seen by its nickname: the longest bar in the world.

Explore Hofgarten

The Hofgarten in Dusseldorf is a beautiful park that offers more than just green spaces. Within the park, you will find the Jägerhof Palace, which houses both the Goethe Museum and the Ernst Schneider Foundation.

The Goethe Museum holds the most extensive private collection of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's work worldwide. [2] It's an incredible opportunity to explore the life and works of this renowned literary figure.

Meanwhile, the Ernst Schneider Foundation focuses on cultural and historical exhibitions. Together, these attractions make for a fascinating visit in Dusseldorf's Hofgarten.

Konigsallee

Konigsallee is a one kilometer long luxury shopping boulevard in Dusseldorf. It is the go-to destination for anyone looking for exclusive fashion and high-end retailers.

This bustling street is filled with fashion boutiques, upscale stores, and designer labels.

If you're into premium brands and trendy fashion, Konigsallee has got you covered. From renowned fashion showrooms to high-fashion stores, there's something here for every style-savvy shopper.

Located in the heart of the city, Konigsallee offers a convenient and easily accessible shopping experience for both locals and tourists alike. So get ready to indulge in some serious retail therapy at this prestigious shopping destination!

If you only have one day in Dusseldorf, these are the must-sees in our opinion.

Dusseldorf Two-Day Itinerary: Day 2

On the second day in Dusseldorf, explore the beautiful Nordpark and immerse yourself in Japanese culture at the EKO House of Japanese Culture and Little Tokyo Dusseldorf. Take a relaxing Rhine River cruise and then wander down Kiefernstraße to admire its street art before ending your day at the Botanical Garden.

Nordpark

Nordpark is an expansive public park in Dusseldorf, covering 70 hectares of green space.

It offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities and is famous for its landscaped gardens and nature trails.

The park features beautiful fountains, shady trees, and open-air spaces perfect for picnics or relaxing under the sun.

One of its highlights is the Japanese garden, designed by Japanese expats living in the area.

Nordpark also provides scenic views that make it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll and enjoying the tranquility of nature.

EKO House of Japanese Culture and Little Tokyo Dusseldorf

The EKO House of Japanese Culture in Dusseldorf is a must-visit attraction on your second day in the city. Here, you'll find a Buddhist temple, a traditional Japanese-style house, and beautiful Japanese gardens.

Take some time to relax in the tea room and soak up the serene atmosphere.

The EKO House is located just outside the city and can be easily accessed by the hop-on/hop-off bus. This area is also known as Little Tokyo due to its vibrant Japanese community and influence.

It's fascinating to explore this unique cultural enclave and learn more about the history and traditions of Japan.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to experience authentic Japanese culture right in the heart of Dusseldorf!

Rhine River Cruise

Embark on a charming experience with a Rhine River cruise during your visit to Dusseldorf. This city sightseeing cruise takes you along the picturesque Rhine River, allowing you to admire the stunning ruins and old town in the twilight hours.

With KD (Köln-Düsseldorfer) as the recommended riverboat cruise line, you can choose from various durations ranging from 2 to 8 days.

Whether you're looking for a festive holiday market tour or simply want to soak in the old-world holiday spirit, this first-class cruise offers it all.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to explore Dusseldorf in a unique way while enjoying the beautiful scenery along the Rhine River.

Kiefernstraße and Botanical Garden

Kiefernstraße is a captivating street adorned with vibrant graffiti adorning nearly every conceivable surface, from buildings and trailers to trash cans and more.

After immersing yourself in this artistic wonderland, you can take a leisurely stroll or catch a southbound U-bahn to Dusseldorf's botanical garden.

Maintained by the University of Dusseldorf, this garden boasts an impressive collection of over 6,000 different plant species, with approximately 400 hailing from diverse regions such as South Africa, Chile, Asia, and the Mediterranean. [3]

Here, you'll have ample opportunities to marvel at and gain knowledge about this rich tapestry of plant life.

If you have more time...

Schloss Benrath

Schloss Benrath is a must-visit landmark in Düsseldorf, Germany. This historical palace is famous for its charming cupcake-colored exterior and its stunning architecture.

Located about 12km southeast of Dusseldorf, Schloss Benrath offers visitors the opportunity to explore its beautiful palace grounds, which include gardens and a museum.

The palace is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 11am to 5pm, and entrance to the castle grounds is free. Discover the cultural heritage of this architectural beauty at Schloss Benrath.

Try Altbier

Düsseldorf is famous for its traditional breweries and rich beer culture, and if you have more time in the city, trying Altbier is a must-do.

One of the oldest breweries in Düsseldorf, Uerige, offers the perfect opportunity to experience this iconic local beer specialty.

Altbier comes in various styles, ranging from dark brown to copper-colored beers. It is known for its firm bitterness typically achieved using Spalt hops, one of the oldest hop varieties.

Unlike other altbiers in the area, Düsseldorf's Altbier has a lighter color but still retains all the historic brewing techniques and German beer traditions.

So don't miss out on indulging in this unique and flavorful brew during your visit to Düsseldorf!

Carlsplatz Market

Carlsplatz Market, located in the heart of Düsseldorf, is a bustling farmers' market that offers an incredible selection of fresh produce.

This central market stands out for its varied offerings, from seasonal fruits and vegetables to homemade breads and cheeses.

Visitors can choose to dine outdoors while enjoying their purchases, as there are plenty of seating options available.

Carlsplatz Market is not only a popular tourist attraction but also a favorite gathering spot for locals.

With its unique offerings and community vibe, it's no wonder that this market has become such a beloved destination in Düsseldorf.

Related: How Many Days In Dusseldorf is Enough?

Conclusion: Weekend (2 Days) in Dusseldorf

Explore the best of Düsseldorf in just two days! From the breathtaking views at Rhine Tower to the historic charm of Altstadt, there's something for everyone. Immerse yourself in nature at Nordpark and learn about sustainable living at EKO-Haus.

Don't miss out on this exciting itinerary packed with must-visit attractions and hidden gems!

Related: 3 Days in Dusseldorf: The Perfect Itinerary

Key Takeaways

• Media Harbour: Visit this striking urban development on the Rhine river, known for its unique architectural design and creative industries.
• Rhine Tower: Don't miss the iconic Rhine Tower for panoramic views of Düsseldorf from its observation deck and rotating restaurant.
• Altstadt (Old Town): Explore the medieval architecture of Altstadt, including Burgplatz, St. Lambertus Church, and the Rhine Maritime Museum.
• Nordpark: Immerse yourself in nature at Nordpark with its landscaped gardens and Japanese garden designed by Japanese expats living in Düsseldorf.

FAQs

1. What are the must-visit attractions in Dusseldorf for a 2-day itinerary?

Must-visit attractions in Dusseldorf for a 2-day itinerary include the charming Altstadt (Old Town), Rheinturm (Rhine Tower) with its panoramic views, and the beautiful Königsallee shopping street.

2.How should I plan my time efficiently to make the most of my 2 days in Dusseldorf?

To make the most of your 2 days in Dusseldorf, it is recommended to prioritize visiting key attractions such as the Altstadt and Rheinturm on day one, while exploring museums like Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen or Museum Kunstpalast on day two.

3. Is public transportation easily accessible in Dusseldorf for getting around during my 2-day visit?

Yes, public transportation is easily accessible in Dusseldorf. The city has an extensive tram network along with buses that can conveniently take you to various attractions within your 2-day visit.

4. Can I explore areas outside of central Dusseldorf within a 2-day itinerary?

While it may be challenging to explore areas outside of central Düsseldorf thoroughly within just two days, you can consider taking a short trip across the Rhine River to visit nearby towns like Kaiserswerth or Neanderthal Museum if time permits.