Dusseldorf is one the largest cities in western Germany and takes it’s position along the River Rhine. The river flows from Switzerland through Germany until it reaches the Netherlands making Dusseldorf a key location for transporting goods and industrial work. The city is also famous for fashion and Dusseldorf is the fashion capital of Germany. High end designers and new designers are at large here and innovative fashion introduced.

We explored the best things to do in Dusseldorf, where to stay and how to get around the city. There is so much to do in the city and we highlight the main things to see.

Area’s in Dusseldorf and where to stay

Stademitte

Stademitte is undoubtedly the fashion capital of Dusseldorf and a variety of shops can be found from high end designer shops and boutiques, high street brands to new designer shops.

Altstadt

Altstadt is Dusseldorf’s old town and one of the liveliest parts of Dusseldorf. Tons on lively bars line the streets, whilst quieter more local bars offer a traditional atmosphere to drink the local drink altbier a dark beer. Walking through the old town the pubs and bars are packed full of locals drinking this red looking beer. Smaller shops and market places can be found for local food and drinks.

Downtown

The downtown area is located around the main train station in Dusseldorf. The city is edgy and has it’s fair share of edgy vibrant bars, cafes and restaurants. Small roof top terraces and bars can be found here where you can marvel over the roof tops of Dusseldorf and caste a glimpse at some of the street art. Only a 20 minute walk to the Rhine promenade, Downtown is a good location for younger travellers.

Oberbilk

Not too far from the Old Town, however far away enough to leave the noise behind at the end of the day Oberbilk is a good choice for those looking for a quieter trip. Families often stay in this area for the neighbourhoods close proximity to the zoo and theme parks.

Hafen

Located west of Dusseldorf and located right on the River Rhine in the area of the harbour this area is close to the Rhine promenade but further away for a peaceful start to the day with more coastal like vibe. New unique cafes and bars have opened up making it a good choice for those looking to brunch. The water front place is called Mediahafen and is a architectural heaven for those in the fashion and media industry.

Getting around Dusseldorf

Taxi’s

Local taxi’s can be hailed from designated spots or called for you from your accommodation. Uber also works in the city and usually at a slightly lower price than taxi’s as they charge less by kilometre. Uber’s can be booked directly via the app.

Public transport

Dusseldorf has an excellent public transport system that spams from buses, taxi’s and trains. Day tickets can be purchased as well as single journey’s but do not forget to validate your ticket.

Bikes and electric scooters

Renting pedal bikes and electric scooters is an exceptionally good and fast way to see the city and can be done in the same way as the locals.

Things to do in Dusseldorf

Walk along the Rhine promenade

The Rhine Promenade is a river front promenade with an array of restaurants and bars. Time can be spent eating and drinking whilst gazing out at the Rhine River. Boats can be boarded here for a cruise along the Rhine to see the full city from the outskirts. The Rhine promenade is made even more beautiful by the two bridges that grace it’s presence and make for a perfect photo opportunity.

Rhine tower

Rhine Tower is the tallest building in Dusseldorf measuring 260 meters tall. Tickets can be purchased to take the lift to the top of the tower for 9 euros. At the top of the tower you are treated to 360 degree views over the city and all of its neighbourhoods. All 3 bridges over the Rhine River can be seen. A bar and coffee shop is located on the observatory and makes for the perfect place for a sky high drink.

Altstadt Old Town

Visit the old town and drink the local dark beer altbier. Sit amongst locals in the old town and eat and drink like locals do. Full streets are full of bars spilling out into the street with laughter and chatter in the air.

Marktplatz

The main market square is a hub in the old town just outside of Rhine promenade packed full of restaurants, bars and shops.

Carlsplatz Market

The marktplatz in the old town is where locals come to do their food shop. The glass covered market offers an array of food stalls selling fresh produce such as butchers, fruit and vegetables and flowers. Street food stalls also cook up fresh food and locals can be found eating and drinking wine throughout the day.

Eat spit roasted pork knuckles

Restaurants throughout the old town offer traditional foods such as roasted pork knuckles, schnitzels and bratwursts. Spit roasts are in place showing the cooking process and you can eat the traditional foods al fresco in the Old Town.