Düsseldorf stands as a remarkable city where historic charm meets modern flair.
The city’s character shines through its diverse landscapes. Altstadt’s (Old Town) cobblestone streets lead to MedienHafen’s striking architecture, showcasing centuries of cultural heritage and advanced design. This German city along the Rhine River brings together world-class museums, serene Japanese gardens, traditional beer halls and advanced art galleries.
The city’s attractions fit every interest and budget, making it perfect for quick weekend trips or longer stays. Here are the 12 best experiences you shouldn’t miss in 2025 when you visit Düsseldorf.
Explore the Historic Altstadt (Old Town)
Image Source: Visit Düsseldorf
The historic center of Düsseldorf packs centuries of culture into just half a square kilometer. The Altstadt (Old Town) ranks among the city’s most popular spots. People call it “the longest bar in the world” because it fits over 260 establishments into this small area.
Altstadt Architecture and History
Each turn in Altstadt reveals architectural treasures. The magnificent St. Lambertus Basilica started taking shape in 1288, marking the city’s birth year. The Schlossturm (Castle Tower) stands proud on Burgplatz, while the Renaissance-style Old Town Hall from 1573 shows off the district’s architectural beauty. A walk through the area leads to the Jan Wellem equestrian monument, which shows the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Best Altstadt Beer Halls and Breweries
The district’s beer-making tradition lives on in its historic halls. These breweries deserve your visit:
- Zum Schlüssel: 173 years old, serves Original Schlüssel straight from the barrel
- Uerige: A local favorite since 1862, offers brewery tours and authentic Rhineland food
- Füchschen: 175 years old, loved for its warm atmosphere and special Altbier
Altstadt Walking Tour Routes
Walking lets you experience Altstadt best. Several self-guided routes take you past important landmarks. Castle Square makes a great starting point. From there, historic streets lead to Market Square, where old and new come together. Night tours with a watchman reveal the old town’s hidden tales and add extra charm to the experience.
Modern life blends naturally with historic charm in this district. The area between Heinrich-Heine-Allee and the Rhine embankment promenade buzzes with international restaurants, art galleries, and shops. Altstadt gives you a true taste of Düsseldorf, whether you love cultural sites or want to try traditional Altbier.
Visit the Iconic Rhine Tower
Image Source: Rheinturm Düsseldorf
The Rhine Tower[link_1] stands 240.5 meters tall and serves as Düsseldorf’s most striking landmark. This architectural marvel emerged between 1979 and 1982 and rewards visitors with spectacular views of the Rhine metropolis.
Rhine Tower Observation Deck Experience
Panoramic views of Düsseldorf’s attractions surround visitors at the M168 observation deck, which sits 168 meters above ground. The deck welcomes guests with these ticket options:
- Adult: €12.50
- Children (6-13 years): €8.00
- Teenagers (14-17): €9.00
- Family Ticket (2 adults + 3 children): €30.00
Visitors can take advantage of special €8.00 pricing before noon, making this one of Düsseldorf’s best value attractions.
Rhine Tower Restaurant Guide
QOMO restaurant sits proudly at 172.5 meters and elevates dining to new heights. The restaurant rotates completely every 72 minutes while diners enjoy changing views of the cityscape. Modern Japanese fusion cuisine fills the menu, alongside an extensive cocktail selection created by Hamburg’s celebrated restaurateur Uwe Christiansen.
Best Photo Spots and Viewing Times
Cleverly angled windows provide unobstructed 360-degree views that create perfect photo opportunities. Visitors can see all the way to Cologne Cathedral on clear days. The optimal visiting times include:
Morning Hours: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Less crowded
- Early bird pricing
- Clear visibility
Sunset Hours: Variable by season
- Spectacular city lights
- Golden hour photography
- Perfect riverside shots
The deck welcomes visitors until midnight Sunday through Thursday, and stays open until 1:00 AM on Fridays and Saturdays. This schedule allows plenty of time to capture both daytime panoramas and nighttime cityscapes.
Cer Museums
Image Source: Visit Düsseldorf
Düsseldorf packs an amazing art scene into a walkable area near the Rhine and Hofgarten. The city’s galleries and museums create an unforgettable experience.
The Museum Kunstpalast sits in the historic Ehrenhof complex. This buzzing art space holds paintings, sculptures, and glass objects from ancient times to today. You can stretch out on a giant couch to see Nam June Paik’s ceiling mosaic “Fish Flies on Sky” – it’s the best spot to take it all in.
The city’s main museums include:
- K20 – featuring Modern Art collections
- K21 – home to International contemporary art
- Kunsthalle – showcasing avant-garde exhibitions
- NRW-Forum – dedicated to photos, pop & digital art
The Hetjens Museum stands as the world’s only institute focused on ceramic history. This unique space spans 8,500 m² and houses over 20,000 pieces that cover 8,000 years of ceramic art from different cultures. The collection ranges from ancient Anatolian vessels to modern ceramic pieces, with rare stoneware, Islamic ceramics, and valuable porcelain.
Movie buffs will love the Filmmuseum Düsseldorf. The space lets you explore vintage cameras, projectors, and a complete film studio. The museum’s “Black Box” cinema runs special film events regularly.
The Kunstakademie adds another layer to the city’s artistic depth. Famous artists like Joseph Beuys, Gerhard Richter, and Andreas Gursky studied and taught here. Students showcase their work twice a year when the academy opens its doors.
Photography lovers should check out the “Düsseldorfer Fotoschule,” started by Bernd and Hilla Becher. The school produced talented artists like Andreas Gursky, whose “Rhine II” photograph sold for 3.1 million euros.
These museums welcome visitors Tuesday through Sunday, with some staying open later on certain weekdays. You can take guided tours in several languages and grab a coffee at museum cafes between exhibits.
Discover Little Tokyo
Image Source: Visit Düsseldorf
Welcome to a piece of Japan right in Europe! You’ll find one of the most authentic Japanese districts outside Japan between Düsseldorf’s main station and city center. The city has become a vibrant cultural hub with over 8,400 Japanese residents – Europe’s third-largest Japanese community. This thriving community centers around Immermannstraße and Klosterstraße.
Best Japanese Restaurants
Little Tokyo has amazing authentic Japanese dining spots. These places should be on your list:
- Nagaya: A Michelin-starred restaurant that blends modern Japanese and European cuisine
- Takumi: The authentic ramen here is so good, people queue outside
- Soba-An: Germany’s only female soba master makes fresh buckwheat noodles here
- Naniwa: This 38-year-old gem serves 20 different types of fresh ramen daily
Japanese Cultural Centers
The EKŌ-Haus, opened in 1993, stands as the cultural heart of Japanese Düsseldorf. The center lets you experience:
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Tea Ceremonies | Traditional Japanese tea rituals |
| Cultural Workshops | Calligraphy and ikebana classes |
| Buddhist Events | Regular spiritual gatherings |
| Film Screenings | Japanese cinema showcases |
Japanese Shopping Experience
Immermannstraße feels like a Japanese shopping paradise. The street features:
- Shochiku: A premium grocery store with fresh fish, sushi, tofu, and Japanese drinks
- Manga and anime stores that pop culture fans will love
- Traditional ceramic shops selling hand-painted chopsticks and silk kimonos
- Japanese bookshops with literature in multiple languages
The bilingual street signs in Japanese and German show you’re in a special place. Little Tokyo gives you a unique chance to taste authentic ramen, buy traditional crafts, or dive into Japanese culture – it’s one of Düsseldorf’s most distinctive experiences.
Tour the MedienHafen
Image Source: Ausländer, a Germany Travel Blog
MedienHafen exemplifies one of Europe’s most remarkable urban renewal success stories, where industrial heritage seamlessly blends with avant-garde design. This transformed commercial harbor has evolved into a bustling business district that houses more than 700 companies.
MedienHafen Architecture Highlights
The Neuer Zollhof complex, designed by Frank O. Gehry, stands as the district’s architectural masterpiece. This three-part ensemble captivates visitors with its distinctive facades: white plaster, reflective stainless steel, and red brick that create a mesmerizing interplay of textures and light. The district boasts other architectural marvels including:
- The Colorium by William Alsop with its 2,200 vibrant glass panels
- The Wolkenbügel building draws inspiration from 1920s Russian constructivism
- The sleek Sign skyscraper designed by Helmut Jahn
MedienHafen Dining Options
Kaistraße area has transformed into a culinary hotspot that offers diverse dining experiences. Here are some notable restaurants:
| Restaurant | Specialty | Setting |
|---|---|---|
| MEERBAR | Mediterranean seafood | Riverside views |
| ROCCA 800°C | American steakhouse | Waterfront dining |
| Okinii | Japanese fusion | Modern atmosphere |
| Lido Hafen | Gourmet cuisine | Harbor views |
Photography Spots
The best shots of MedienHafen’s architectural wonders depend on timing. Early mornings provide fewer crowds and better lighting conditions. Photographers should explore these prime locations:
- The pedestrian bridge offers panoramic harbor views
- Gehry buildings’ reflective surfaces create magic at sunset
- Historic quay walls present striking contrasts with modern architecture
Summer evenings can make photography challenging due to crowds. The buildings serve as active workspaces, so photographers should respect the privacy of office workers in the area.
Relax at Nordpark Gardens
Image Source: Visit Düsseldorf
You’ll find peace and quiet at Nordpark in the heart of Düsseldorf, where 35 hectares of beautifully designed gardens welcome visitors. The Japanese Garden on the Rhine sits in the park’s northwestern corner and stands out as one of the city’s most peaceful spots.
Japanese Garden Experience
This 5,000-square-meter sanctuary came to life through the vision of Japanese garden architect Iwakii Ishiguro and his son Shojiro in the 1970s. The garden’s elements tell their own stories – from elegant arched bridges to black pines shaped like clouds through careful pruning. You’ll see:
- Traditional stone lanterns carved from natural stone
- Peaceful ponds where koi fish swim freely
- Japanese maples and pine trees chosen with care
- Gentle waterfalls that create nature’s music
Seasonal Flower Displays
Nature puts on different shows at Nordpark throughout the year:
| Season | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Spring | Cherry blossoms and azaleas in full bloom |
| Summer | Vibrant ornamental flowers and water features |
| Fall | Japanese maples in autumn colors |
| Winter | Sculptural beauty of pruned pines |
The garden looks its best from mid-April through October during peak blooming season. Water features run during these months and add to the garden’s calm atmosphere.
Garden Events and Activities
The garden lets you get closer to Japanese culture beyond just walking its paths. Photographers love capturing everything from traditional stone lanterns to the mirror-like ponds. Japanese community celebrations bring special cultural events to the garden.
You can find quiet spots near the water features that are perfect to meditate, read, or just soak in the peaceful surroundings. While you won’t find restaurants in the garden itself, Nordpark has great picnic spots nearby.
Pro tip: The garden feels most peaceful early in the day when fewer people are around.
Visit Benrath Palace
Image Source: Schloss Benrath
A pink-hued masterpiece sits just 20 minutes from downtown Düsseldorf. Benrath Palace, completed in 1771, represents one of Europe’s most significant Baroque architectural achievements.
Palace Architecture and History
French architect Nicolas de Pigage created this summer retreat for Elector Palatine Carl Theodor and his wife Elisabeth Augusta. The palace’s 80 rooms showcase remarkable features such as:
- Underground tunnels connecting to Cavalier’s Wings
- Innovative 18th-century dewatering system
- Integrated water management using nearby ponds
Palace Gardens Guide
The spectacular park covers 150 acres and extends to the Rhine River. Each garden area perfectly matches its corresponding palace room, creating a harmonious design. You’ll find:
| Garden Type | Features |
|---|---|
| French Garden | Fountains and flower beds |
| English Garden | Rare trees collection |
| Kitchen Garden | Historic herbs and vegetables |
Exhibition Highlights
The palace complex houses three distinct museums you can visit. Current exhibitions feature:
RETROSPECTIVE! – This photographic experience traces 150 years of palace history through October 2024.
Neozoa: Animal Newcomers & Native Exotics – An ongoing exhibition about new animal species in Germany.
Guided tours run every 30 minutes and last an hour. These tours take you through richly decorated rooms with detailed parquet floors, wall paneling, and stunning stucco work.
Pro tip: The park welcomes visitors free of charge year-round, but palace photography needs prior permission. Spring and summer visits offer the best chance to see the historic citrus tree collection, part of the palace’s 300-year-old orangery tradition.
Experience Carlsplatz Market
Image Source: Carlsplatz
Carlsplatz Market has served as Düsseldorf’s culinary heart since 1247. Today, 60 vendors create an array of flavors and experiences. This covered marketplace sits just south of the Altstadt and gives you a perfect blend of traditional and contemporary gastronomy.
Local Delicacies Guide
The market welcomes you with diverse local and international specialties. A modern glass canopy shields shoppers while they discover delicacies from Germany, Italy, India, Persia, France, and Turkey. Here are some must-try items:
| Specialty | Description |
|---|---|
| Truffle Ravioli | Fresh pasta at Casa Cortilla |
| Persian Flatbreads | Handcrafted at Fladi |
| Falafel | Traditional recipe at Falafel House |
| Fish Soup | Famous at Fischhaus Obst |
Best Market Vendors
These standout vendors showcase exceptional quality and variety:
- KaffeeReich: Premium coffee roasted on-site
- Inka & Mehl: Rare dried beans and exotic spices
- Pure Pastry: Exquisite patisserie and sweets
- Französisches Käseparadies: Fine French cheese selections
Market Shopping Tips
The market opens Monday through Saturday, with busy hours around lunchtime. Here’s how to make the most of your visit:
- Early morning visits guarantee fresh produce and shorter queues
- Bring cash, though many vendors accept cards
- Look for seasonal specialties, especially at the flower stalls
- The seven-course open-air dinner events make special occasions memorable
The market features everything from exotic fruits and local vegetables to fresh fish, meat, and artisanal cheeses. Modern amenities and a well-planned layout make shopping comfortable, while the historic setting adds a unique charm to your experience.
Explore K20 and K21 Art Museums
Image Source: Kunstsammlung NRW: Startseite
Düsseldorf’s art scene features two remarkable venues ready for your artistic exploration. The K20 at Grabbeplatz and K21 in the Ständehaus combine to create one of Europe’s most important modern art collections.
Modern Art Collections
K20 houses masterpieces from the 20th century. Its 25 rooms display more than 200 works created between 1904 and 2023. Art lovers will see works by giants like Picasso, Matisse, and Mondrian. K21 showcases state-of-the-art contemporary installations under a spectacular glass dome.
Exhibition Schedule
Here’s what’s coming up in 2025:
- K20 Highlights:
- Marc Chagall (March 15 – August 10)
- Modern Oblivion – Queer Modernism (September 20 – February 15, 2026)
- K21 Features:
- Bracha Lichtenberg Ettinger (February 22 – August 31)
- Julie Mehretu (May 10 – October 12)
- Land and Soil (November 29 – April 19, 2026)
Guided Tour Options
These tours will boost your visit:
| Tour Type | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| German Language | 60 min | <citation index=”1″ link=”https://www.kunstsammlung.de/en/visit” similar_text=”Pre-registered guided tours Guided tour in German language |
| Foreign Language | 60 min | <citation index=”1″ link=”https://www.kunstsammlung.de/en/visit” similar_text=”Pre-registered guided tour with workshop part Workshops for Adults |
| Workshop (Adults) | 90 min | <citation index=”1″ link=”https://www.kunstsammlung.de/en/visit” similar_text=”Pre-registered guided tour with workshop part Workshops for Adults |
| Workshop (Children) | 90 min | <citation index=”1″ link=”https://www.kunstsammlung.de/en/visit” similar_text=”Pre-registered guided tour with workshop part Workshops for Adults |
The museums welcome visitors Tuesday through Sunday from 11 AM to 6 PM. A combined ticket costs €20 and gives you access to all exhibitions at both venues for one year. You can visit free during “Open House” events on the first Wednesday evening of each month from 6 PM.
Pro tip: Reserve your guided tour ahead of time, especially for groups with more than 10 people. Groups max out at 20 people, which helps create an intimate experience with these world-class collections.
Stroll Along Rhine Promenade
Image Source: Visit Düsseldorf
The Rheinuferpromenade stands out as one of Europe’s most beautiful riverside walks. This 1.5-kilometer stretch, designed by architect Niklaus Fritschi between 1990 and 1997, links Düsseldorf’s bustling districts and gives you amazing views of the Rhine.
Rhine Promenade Attractions
The walk showcases Düsseldorf’s charm, both old and new. You’ll find yourself moving from the traditional Old Town to the modern MedienHafen. Here’s what you’ll see:
- Historic Burgplatz Castle Tower: The perfect spot to start your trip
- Open Staircase: A great place to watch the world go by
- City Beaches: Summer spots that locals love
- Art Installations: Beautiful pieces along the way
Riverside Dining Options
The promenade’s Kasematten area is packed with amazing restaurants and cafes. You’ll find everything from German classics to world cuisine that suits any taste. These spots are worth checking out:
| Location | Best For |
|---|---|
| Tonhallen-Terrasse | Cocktails with sunset views |
| KIT | Cold drinks near art installations |
| Pebble’s Terrasse | Media Harbor vistas |
Sunset Walk Routes
You can pick from three different ways to explore:
City Route: A 4.2-kilometer loop from Rhinekneebridge to Oberkasseler Bridge shows off the city’s skyline beautifully.
Family-Friendly Path: Rheinpark Golzheim makes a great destination. Just hop on the U79 tram to Golzheimer Platz. Kids will love the playgrounds, and there are plenty of spots to watch the sunset with a picnic.
Photography Walk: The stretch from Altstadt to MedienHafen offers the best photo spots. The MedienHafen area gets quiet on weekends, so you can take your time getting those perfect sunset shots.
The best time to visit is at the golden hour. The setting sun bathes everything in warm light, and the promenade comes alive. Street performers entertain crowds while locals take their evening walks, showing off Düsseldorf’s spirit perfectly.
Take a Rhine River Cruise
Image Source: www.k-d.com
The Rhine River glides through Düsseldorf, and you can discover the city’s charm from a unique viewpoint. These river cruises start from the lively Old Town and showcase the city’s landmarks beautifully.
Cruise Options and Prices
KD Cruises runs daily panorama tours from April to October. You can choose from six departures between 10:30 AM and 6:00 PM. The one-hour trip comes with informative commentary about the city’s landmarks. Here are the current prices:
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Adult | €18 |
| Child/Student | €9 |
| Senior | €14.40 |
| Family (2 Adults + 2 Children) | €46 |
Day trips to nearby destinations like Cologne, Zons, or Duisburg are a great way to get more from your Rhine adventure. These longer cruises let you explore multiple Rhine cities in one trip.
Best Time for Cruising
The seasons substantially change your cruise experience:
Spring (March-May): The moderate 40-60°F temperatures create perfect conditions to take photos of blooming flowers along the riverbanks.
Summer (June-August): The peak season brings warm 70-80°F weather and long daylight hours that make evening cruises spectacular.
Fall (September-November): You’ll enjoy comfortable 50-60°F temperatures and stunning autumn colors during your cruise.
Photo Opportunities
Your camera will capture amazing views of:
- The historic Altstadt’s skyline with St. Lambertus Church
- Frank Gehry’s twisted buildings in MedienHafen
- The Rhine Tower’s sunset reflections
- Bridges spanning the Rhine with city panoramas
Evening panorama cruises give you the best shots as golden sunlight bathes the city. The boat’s open deck provides clear views, and the commentary helps you spot perfect photo moments.
Pro tip: The port side (left) gives you the best city views when leaving Old Town. The boat’s cleverly angled windows help you take photos without reflections.
Visit Burgplatz Square
Image Source: Visit Düsseldorf
Burgplatz stands proudly between the bustling Altstadt and the majestic Rhine River as one of Germany’s most beautiful post-war squares. This historic gathering place tells the story of Düsseldorf’s rise from medieval times to today.
Historical Landmarks
The Schlossturm (Castle Tower) dominates the square as the last remnant of a mighty 13th-century castle. Local counts of Berg once called this castle their home. Modern visitors can explore the SchifffahrtMuseum (Maritime Museum) inside the tower and learn about the region’s rich nautical history.
The square’s distinctive features include:
- The Radschlager Fountain (installed 1954), depicting cartwheeling boys
- Ancient cobblestone paving adding historic charm
- The iconic Wheel of Vision Ferris wheel offering city views
Cultural Events
Burgplatz reshapes the scene into a vibrant event space year-round. The square will become a dynamic Fan Zone during EURO 2024 with space for 5,000 people. The zone features:
| Event Highlights | Details |
|---|---|
| Match Screenings | All 51 EURO 2024 matches |
| Entertainment | Live music and cultural performances |
| Food Options | Local and European cuisine |
| Special Features | eFootball Festival tournaments |
The Christmas market brings a magical touch to the square each year. Visitors can enjoy traditional crafts, seasonal treats, and festive decorations.
Photography Spots
Perfect shots at Burgplatz depend on timing. The square looks exceptional during blue hour and at sunset. Best spots include:
- Riverside shots capturing both the historic tower and modern Rhine promenade
- Evening views when the square lights up
- Panoramic scenes where Altstadt meets the Rhine
Pro tip: The square is less crowded early morning or late evening. These quiet times let you capture clear views of architectural details and riverside scenery.
Burgplatz’s location makes it perfect to start exploring other attractions. The square connects naturally to the Rhine embankment promenade and historic Altstadt. History buffs, photographers, and casual visitors will find Burgplatz one of Düsseldorf’s most rewarding experiences.