Dusseldorf is a beautiful city in Germany set right on the Rhine River. We have now made multiple visits, each time finding new and exciting things to do. Follow along as we take you through Dusseldorf Old Town, up the Rhine Tower, and even to the Little Tokyo neighborhood. So is Dusseldorf worth visiting? Here’s 8 reasons we say yes!
Our Visits to Dusseldorf Germany
This most recent trip to Dusseldorf was actually our 2nd time visiting. The first occasion was last year, when we had the chance to spend 3 nights exploring the city.
This was our first experience at a historic Altbier brewery, where we got to taste the famous beer from Dusseldorf Germany. Can you believe this place has been in business for over 160 years?
While we had a chance to see Dusseldorf old town, we knew we needed to return and see more! On our next visit, we traveled to Dusseldorf as it was the departure point for our VIVA Cruise.
After 7 amazing days sailing on the Rhine and Moselle rivers, we came back and had one full day. This time we would not only stroll around old town, but head out into more of the unique neighborhoods of Dusseldorf.
Will you have limited time on your visit to the city? Be sure to check out our 1 day in Dusseldorf itinerary here.
8 Reasons to Visit Dusseldorf Germany
1. It’s Super Well Connected
The first thing we love about Dusseldorf Germany is that it’s very easy to get around. This past visit we were staying just outside old town at the amazing Henri Hotel. After a delicious breakfast buffet, we headed out on the town!
Honestly, the city is super walkable and we did so almost everywhere. Yet, having the DüsseldorfCard was a nice bonus once we got tired. Not only does it get you access and discounts to so many great museums and activities, but public transit is included in your pass.
We used the train to get to the Rhine Tower and other major attractions around the city. However, know that many of the best things to do in Dusseldorf are located centrally around old town and the riverfront area.
2. Dusseldorf Old Town Is Beautiful
Speaking of Dusseldorf old town, this is a reason to visit the city in itself! We can’t get enough of the cobblestone walking streets and stunning architecture here.
If it’s your first trip, we highly recommend grabbing a map from Visit Dusseldorf tourist center to follow their city walking trail. This will take you to the best places around old town before you head off to see more of the city.
As we mentioned, the Altbier breweries are a must when you’re ready for a drink! Also, don’t miss out on all the incredible German cuisine as you’re strolling your way around the old town streets.
We went to Schweine Janes for a pork sandwich ourselves, and it was so delicious. History buffs will want to visit the Schifffahrtsmuseum to discover Dusseldorf’s maritime past. Additionally, make sure to stop into Carlsplatz Market to pick up some tasty local goods.
3. Festivals & Events
Something to also consider is the time of year you plan to visit Dusseldorf Germany. Like many cities in Germany, they hold very exciting festivals throughout the summer months.
This includes special concert events, with many centered around the food and wine from the region. However, if you’re heading to Dusseldorf in the winter, you’re in for a real treat!
From late November through the end of the year, the city turns into one big Christmas market. Take advantage of this winter wonderland by hitting the many stalls around old town, sip on some gluewine, and enjoy a bratwurst with sauerkraut.
4. Location on the Rhine River
As we explained, this past trip we came to Dusseldorf to board a river cruise! It’s location in the heart of the Rhine makes cruising a great way to stop into the city.
If you’re keen to get out on the water during your stay, you can also take a day tour on the river like this popular one. Many of these boat rides are dinner or sunset cruises that make for the perfect way to end your day.
There is even ferries that goes directly to Cologne and back! The cities are so close to each other that you can easily visit one or the other in a day trip.
Another thing we enjoyed about Dusseldorf was all the restaurants and bars on the river. Head down to the waterfront for happy hour, or grab some dinner with a view.
5. The Longest Bar in the World
While we’re on the topic of drinks, you should know that Dusseldorf is certainly known for its bars! So much so, that its old town district has earned the title of “the Longest Bar in the World.”
These will be in full swing during the summer and fall months, especially during the evening hours. Stopping into a local bar can be a fun way to break up your day of walking around the city.
You can simply go on your own, or join a group tour to learn more about the brewing process.
6. The Shopping Scene
One thing that we didn’t expect was all the great shopping in Dusseldorf Germany. If you have some extra time, there are so many great stores to stop in and find some souvenirs to bring home with you.
Königsallee is the most famous shopping street and full of luxury brands and designer goods. We were only winding shopping here, but it was definitely impressive!
Still, we should tell you that we did buy some local goods nearby at the mustard museum. Keep an eye out for local products like Löwensenf mustard, altbier, and sour cherry schnapps on your own trip.
7. Little Tokyo Dusseldorf
Wait, Dusseldorf has a Little Tokyo?? This was quite the surprise to us, as we had no idea the city was home to such a large Japanese population.
We decided to head over to Little Tokyo to check it out for dinner. As you can imagine, this unique neighborhood is home to so many great restaurants!
Eventually, we ended up at Tamuki for some delicious bowls of Ramen noodles. This was a nice switch up from all the German cuisine we’d been eating and we can’t recommend it enough.
Are you craving some amazing Asian food like we were? Then you may want to jump on a Sushi, Sake, and lifestyle tour of the city.
8. Day Trips From Dusselforf Germany
One more reason we fell in love with Dusseldorf is it’s proximity to other awesome places in Germany. We already talked about Cologne, which is 100% worth visiting in itself!
However, know that there are also so many beautiful small cities and towns to experience not far away. On our recent cruise from Dusseldorf, we got to see many of these each day.
If river cruising is not your thing, then renting a car is a great way to make a day trip from Dusseldorf. Check out the best prices here to compare different rental companies.
Some of our favorites included Koblenz, Cochem, Rudesheim am Rhein, Bonn, and Trier. We also highly recommend exploring the vineyard villages of the Moselle Valley if your travels take you there.
Is Dusseldorf Worth Visiting?
Yes! In fact, we’re already planning our next trip back.
Dusseldorf is a city with a one of a kind history and food scene to discover. We could spend hours just in the historic old town, eating and drinking our way through the local establishments.
We also love how it is a great jump off point to other fun places in this region of Germany. So is Dusseldorf worth visiting? Absolutely! Be sure to include it in your next trip to Europe.
Have any questions on this article or want to share your own favorite things to do in Dusseldorf Germany? Leave us a comment below.
Safe Travels,
Brigitte & Jake
This experience was made possible in partnership with Visit Dusseldorf. As always, any opinions and recommendations remain our own.
Pin For Later ↓
We’re Brigitte and Jake! American travel bloggers currently based in Spain. If you can believe it, we started Nothing Familiar way back in 2015 on an Ipad in the Ecuadorian jungle. Ever since, we haven’t stopped traveling! We’ve now been to over 60 countries around the world, with our expertise being Europe and Southeast Asia. We love outdoor adventures, tasting local specialties, and island hopping through tropical destinations. Hopefully, our guides and authentic experiences will inspire you on your own travels!
