A Perfect Day in Düsseldorf
02/2023 - Martina Papagni
Start your day at Burgplatz
The best way to start the day is to take a nice walk along the banks of the Rhine at Burgplatz. This picturesque square is full of bars and cafes, perfect for chilling and getting a first taste of the local cuisine. Bordered by the river Rhine, Burgplatz is located in the heart of the Altstadt (old town), and it was once the home of the Burganlage, the former Düsseldorf Castle, demolished in the 19th century. The main attraction of Burgplatz is the Schlossturm, the only remnant of the castle, which houses the oldest maritime museum in Germany.
Visit Düsseldorf's City Hall: the Rathaus
For every history enthusiast, Düsseldorf’s Rathaus is a must-see. The City Hall consists of a total of 5 wings, three of which enclose the market square, located in the heart of the old town. Each branch tells a piece of Düsseldorf's tale, making the Rathaus the ideal place to dive into the local history. The oldest wing, the Altes Rathaus, dates back to the 1500s and is a real symbol of the city with its architectural style. Marketplatz also hosts the Jan-Wellem equestrian monument by Gabriel Gupello, one of the prominent landmarks of Düsseldorf.
Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen
The modern art collection of the German Federal State of North Rhine-Westphalia is a must-see for art connoisseurs and for those who simply want to get a taste of contemporary art. It consists of three buildings: K20, K21, and Schmela Haus. K20, a majestic building with a beautiful black granite façade, hosts works by famous international artists such as Kandinsky, Picasso, Jackson Pollock, Andy Warhol, and Paul Knee.
K21 is a historical palace from the 1800s built in the neo-Renaissance style that serves as an additional venue for the Kunstammlung. Its main attractions are the distinctive glass and steel dome and the Pardo bar, one of the most unique bars in the city, designed by artist Jorge Pardo.
Schmela Haus is located in Düsseldorf's historic district and is now under landmark protection. This beautiful grey pumice building alternates private residential and public exhibition spaces.
Kaiserswerth
If you’re looking for a quiet afternoon in Düsseldorf, Kaiserswerth is the place for you. Located along the banks of the river Rhine, this is one of the city's oldest neighbourhoods, hosting old but perfectly well-preserved buildings and beautiful historical ruins. Among the places worth visiting in the district are the Basilica of St. Suitbertus and the ruins of the Kaiserpfalz, Friedrich Barbarossa's stronghold, destroyed by bombing in the 18th century.
Carlsplatz market
If you’d like to take a break from all the historical and cultural stuff and shop, swing by the city market at Carlsplatz! A great opportunity to shop for household goods, souvenirs, fresh-cut flowers, and local groceries. The best time to visit the market is at lunchtime: German culinary specialities such as Bratwürste, Döner, soups, pancakes, and crêpes will definitely win your heart (and stomach!).
Taste the Sauerbraten
Hunger strikes after a long day of exploring the city? Take the opportunity to try the Sauerbraten, a typical dish of the Rhineland. It’s a beef stew, marinated in the famous “Düsseldorf mustard”, and usually served with potatoes and sauerkraut. You can find it in any restaurant in the city, but the best Sauerbraten is served at Brauerei Schumacher, near the Oststraße metro station.
Königsallee
The trendiest street in Germany — and where else if not in the country's fashion capital? Königsalle, divided into two lanes by a river canal lined with flourishing trees, is one of the most beautiful things to see in Düsseldorf. This boulevard hosts ateliers and haute couture boutiques, perfect for some luxury shopping, as well as stunning art galleries and chic cafes that will make you fall in love with this fascinating place.
The Rheinturm
Climb up high on the Rhein Tower! This 240-meter-high tower is visible from practically every part of the city. If you love breathtaking views, you can climb to the top of the observation platform, which enjoys beautiful views of the entire city. The perfect way to end a day full of adventures? Enjoy a stunning 360° view of the sunset on the slowly rotating terrace of the tower.
Chill in Nordpark
Another way to finish a pleasant but tiring day is to take a few moments to relax surrounded by nature at Nordpark. Located in the north of the city centre and easily accessible by transport, this beautiful 40 hectares park is home to many beautiful gardens, ponds, water fountains, and colourful flowerbeds, as well as the stunning and relaxing Japanese Gardens, a gift from the Japanese community to the city of Düsseldorf. Looking for some ideas to keep the kids entertained? Visit the Aquazoo Museum!
There you go! After reading this, we’re sure it will be impossible for you to think that Düssledorf has nothing special to offer!
