Best things to do in Düsseldorf to experience the Rhine Valley

A sprawling financial, industrial and heritage centre Düsseldorf has lots of option to offer for travellers of all age group. On one side you have modern architecture and sights and across the Rhine is the historic old town or Altstadt. The city caters to regular fashion events and trade fairs which are very popular. Also, Düsseldorf is famous as the financial capital of Europe along with cities like Geneva, London etc. This makes way for umpteen things to do in Düsseldorf for everyone. The scenic Rhine river divides the old and new town. Many of the prominent attractions and public spaces are along the river. In northern Germany, the city is second largest after Cologne and is the seventh-largest city in the country overall.

Also Read: Best of German Festivals: World-class Food, Music and Culture!

Top Things to Do in Düsseldorf

1. Altstadt – the historic old town.
2. Rheinturm or the Rhine tower.
3. Museum Kunstpalast.
4. Unterbacher See – the ultimate outdoors.
5. Hofgarten – the city centre public gardens.
6. Neandertal Museum and valley.
7. Maritime Museum – Catch the history of Rhine navigation.
8. Schloss Benrath – the unique mansion.
9. Burgplatz – The city square.
10. Marktplatz in the old town.
11. Classic Remise Düsseldorf.
12. Markt auf dem Carlsplatz.

1. Altstadt – the historic old town.

Make your way across the narrow lanes and cobblestone walkway into history. It is a pleasure to stroll across the town which is home to about more than 100 chic pubs and clubs. Do try the legendary Altbier which is the traditional drink of the city for sure.

2. Rheinturm or the Rhine tower.

An iconic landmark of the city, Rhine tower is a telecom tower inaugurated in 1981. Catch a birds-eye view of the city sitting in either QOMO Restaurant (Open 5:30 pm – 11:00 pm) or M168 Bar & Lounge (Open: 2:00 pm – 11:00 pm) as you sip your favourite drink. Notably, this is the highest viewpoint in the city which is bound to give you awesome panoramic views. Surely a must-do from things to do in Düsseldorf.

3. Museum Kunstpalast.

One of the best museums in the city to check out its history, art and culture, Kunstpalast is home to a lot of rare German collections. There is a separate section devoted to modern art, which is very popular among tourists. Also, you can catch some regular exhibitions by renowned art collectors at the exhibition centres.

4. Unterbacher See – the ultimate outdoors.

A pristine lake and outdoor recreation park, this place is a short ride from the city centre by tram or bus. There are a lot of scenic formations and spots as you circle the lake at your own pace. Also, artificial beaches with fine sand is a feature of this lake in case you want to take a dip. Otherwise, just lose yourself in the serene woods surrounding the lake among pure nature. Definitely an offbeat activity among best things to do in Düsseldorf.

5. Hofgarten – the city centre public gardens.

An immaculately maintained public garden in the centre of the city, Hofgarten is very much in the popular local culture. Get to see some unique style of benches and park amenities which have been thoughtfully designed. This makes the park visit a must among things to do in Düsseldorf. Also, see a number of bird species which flock around the waters of the park.

6. Neandertal Museum and valley.

The site of first Neandertal man discovery, this valley is made by river Düssel from which the town derives its name. The museums have rare exhibits from the Neandertal man era. Catch the exhibition “A valley and its secrets” to understand the lives of our forefather when they lived about 40,000 years ago. Definitely a must-do from the things to do in Düsseldorf.

7. Maritime Museum – Catch the history of Rhine navigation.

Visit the museum to witness the rich shipbuilding, trade and its cultural impact on the Rhine region. The museum popularly known as Schlossturm is situated in the historic city palace. Its rich collection of pictures, film and archive material brings to life the rich history of the affluent region. Also, there is a cafe on the top floor from where you can witness the ships in the Rhine passing by as you sip your favourite cuppa.

8. Schloss Benrath – the unique mansion.

Translating to Pleasure Palace, this mansion was build in 1770 for the King of the Rhine region Elector Palatine Charles Theodor. Two unique arched symmetrical wings Maisons de cavalière, flanks the main tower corps de logos giving it a distinctive architectural splendour.

9. Burgplatz – The city square.

Considered the heart of the city, Burgplatz is one of the most beautiful squares in Germany. One of the best things to do in Düsseldorf, a stroll in the Platz which connects the Rhine embankment with Old town should be high on your list. There is a staircase which connects the embankment and Platz and it is the best place to witness the sunset.

10. Marktplatz in the old town.

A prominent square of the city, it is fringed by Chic clubs and bars and houses the famous equestrian statue of Jan Wellem. The architecture of the place is stunning which utilises a lot of open spaces with experimental urban designs. If you are around the Christmas season, the Marktplatz houses one of the best Christmas markets in Europe – making this an unmissable activity among things to do in Düsseldorf.

11. Classic Remise Düsseldorf.

A rustic industrial place which houses a vintage collection of cars – Classic Remise is probably the only place where you can see the old powerhouses free of cost! For more avid car lovers there is also a paid guided tour for 45 mins which will introduce you to the history of the fine German automotive. Surely a unique experience among things to do in Düsseldorf.

12. Markt auf dem Carlsplatz.

A trip is never complete without the tour to a local market checking out the fresh produce of the region. Feel the buzz of the place as you check out the locals selling and buying fresh daily essentials. Do indulge in trying out food from the street eats and relishing some local delicacies.

From modern buildings to historic city centres, Düsseldorf is a quintessential German city worthy of a visit for sure. The colourful local culture and the city vibes make this place a perfect family or friend vacation getaway. The connectivity among Düsseldorf and other major European cities is really good making it perfect for a short trip. To plan a trip to Germany or any other place in the wide world, do visit pickyourtrail. You can also customize your own trip on our DIY platform or check out the run of the mill packages.

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