Not far from Cologne lies Düsseldorf, the capital of the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia. The city is one of the most modern metropolises in Europe and is a showcase project in terms of well thought-out traffic planning and infrastructure. Unlike other cities, the planners here demonstrated real foresight after large parts of Düsseldorf were largely destroyed in World War II and rebuilt in the 1950s.
In stark contrast to the modern cityscape is Düsseldorf’s old town, large parts of which, however, also consist of buildings reconstructed according to historical models. But that doesn’t detract from the fun, because the old town is home to countless pubs that are so popular with locals and tourists alike and serve the typical Alt beer.
Things get really sophisticated on the Kö, the Königsallee, as the city’s most famous street is colloquially known. Here, posh boutiques are lined up next to posh boutiques and almost all well-known designers are represented. The Kö is one of the most magnificent shopping streets in Europe and was originally built as a promenade.
Düsseldorf is especially known for its rich offer and the lively scene in the art and culture area. In addition to several important museums, the largest art collection in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia is also located here. And if you want to get a breath of fresh air afterwards, you can do so in one of the magnificent parks just outside the city center.
Tip 1: Old Town Düsseldorf
The pulsating heart beats in the picturesque old town of Düsseldorf. When you stroll through the small, historic district of Düsseldorf, you will immediately be enchanted by the picturesque breweries, the cobblestone streets, the narrow alleys and the city hall. In addition, the Rhenish joie de vivre, cordiality and the lively hustle and bustle will captivate you in no time.
After all, you have to experience the incredible atmospheres for yourself. It is not for nothing that the Old Town is often called the “longest bar in the world”.
Due to the diverse culinary offer, you will almost certainly find the right gastronomic establishment for you. During your stay, you should definitely pay a visit to one of the numerous home breweries and let the delicious Altbier melt in your mouth.
But one of Düsseldorf’s top attractions has so much more to offer than the incredible abundance of restaurants, bars and pubs. For all the art lovers among you will find a colorful mix of cultural institutions, such as the Heine Haus or the K21 art collection, which will let you experience an exciting and unforgettable stay.
In addition, there are beautiful churches in this district, such as the St. Lambertus Church, which you can visit.
Tip 2: Königsallee
In the center of Düsseldorf you can find the Königsallee. Or as this sight is also called – Kö. It is known as a luxury shopping street like one of its kind in Europe is not often found.
Beautiful to look at and worth a visit, but also because of the characteristic architecture and the tree population.
One finds here the joy of life and the luxury on display – combined to a unique attitude towards life.
But also the love for details like the effort to keep the facades as green as possible make it a pleasure to stroll along here. If you want, you can also settle down here for a cup of coffee paired with exciting observations. Because all too often you can also see one or the other luxury car driving by.
Tip 3: Rhine Tower
When you arrive in Düsseldorf, the imposing Rhine Tower will immediately catch your eye. One of the top Düsseldorf sights is located at the entrance of the Media Harbor and offers you an incredible panorama of the surrounding areas.
If you catch a clear view, you even have the chance to catch a glimpse of the Cologne Cathedral.
First, you can let the wind blow around your ears on the open observation deck, before you can enjoy the breathtaking views once again behind the closed panorama windows on level M168 with a cafeteria.
If you want to satisfy your hunger, you should definitely pay a visit to the QOMO restaurant. At lofty heights, the revolving restaurant offers incredible atmospheres.
Tip 4: Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen
Fans of renowned art museums will of course also find what they are looking for in Düsseldorf. With the Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen (North Rhine-Westphalia Art Collection), two exhibition venues of important works of art from the 20th and 21st centuries await you in the state capital.
The K20 on Grabbeplatz and the K21 in the Ständehaus belong to the Kunstsammlung NRW. Works by Pablo Picasso, Paul Klee, Jackson Pollock and Andy Warhol, among others, are exhibited in these important art museums. Among connoisseurs, the Kunstsammlung NRW is sometimes even referred to as the secret national gallery.
If you’re interested, it’s best to buy a combination ticket that allows you to visit the exhibitions in the K20 and K21. By the way, the architecture of both buildings is worth a visit: The K20 impresses with its facade of black granite, the K21 Ständehaus with its location at the picturesque Kaiserteich.
By the way, the permanent room installation in orbit by the artist Tomás Saraceno in the K21 is also particularly worth seeing. The extraordinary installation made of steel nets and balloons can even be entered – art to experience and touch.
Tip 5: Medienhafen Düsseldorf
One of the top Düsseldorf sights captivates with breathtaking architecture and is considered one of the most popular photo backdrops in the city. The former industrial port area is now home to numerous renowned companies.
As soon as the buildings catch your eye, you will be amazed by the diversity of this part of town. Among buildings whose old industrial charm has been preserved are ultra-modern complexes. Among them are the famous Gehry buildings, with their leaning construction. During your stay here you not only have the opportunity to get beautiful motifs in front of your photo lens, but also to satisfy your growling stomach. Especially around the Kaistraße there are numerous restaurants and cafés where you can take a break.
