Best things to do in Düsseldorf

What to see in Düsseldorf

We suggest you stay close to the city center, such as in our NH Düsseldorf City, a fantastic four-star hotel located 1 km from the center. 

To get a general idea of the city, you can use the HopOn HopOff tour bus system. In 90 minutes, it will take you through the most iconic sights of Düsseldorf. You can also take a one hour boat tour, which crosses the Rhine and the inner harbor. 

On the other hand, if you feel like taking a walk outdoors, we suggest you visit the Hofgarten, the largest garden in the city. Nearby, is the Academy of Fine Arts, theaters, the Goethe Museum and the opera house. 

Another place you must visit in the guide on what to do in Dusseldorf is the neighborhood of Medienhafen, a modern area located in the harbor. Here you will find the trends in architecture that span beyond decades, including the famous houses designed by Frank Gehry (Stromstrasse 26). Also, this area is teeming with restaurants and pubs where a local drink can be sampled. 

In addition, if you have a few days to explore the city, we recommend you embark on the following list of things to do in Dusseldorf: 

Start by the Gehry buildings, in the harbor area. Nearby, a short walk will take you to the Rheinturm or Rhine Tower. This famous telecommunications tower offers a unique panoramic view, overlooking the surrounding from 240 meters in the sky. At the top of the tower you can catch a bite to eat at the Günnewig restaurant. 

Then head north along the Rhine, along the Rheinuferpromenade, the promenade that traces the shape of the Rhine River. You´ll soon realize that this area is full of restaurants and all manner of people. It has become the 'it' area along the river for having a drink or relaxing with friends.

A flight of stairs will lead you to Burgplatz (Castle Square). A historic square popular with both locals and tourists. These will lead you to the old town, known as Altstadt. Wandering through its streets, you’ll find clues of the history that makes the city what it is today. Now, the only thing left to do is decide whether it's going to head to the restaurant, bar, or pubs (or all three) to finish the day off on the right foot…

Other places you must visit in the city

• Rathaus (Town Hall). One of the oldest buildings in the city, located in the Marktplatz, the heart of the historical center known as Altstadt. 
• Königsallee. Known as KÖ by locals, is a prominent fashion boulevard, with lots of shops. Düsseldorf has an important fashion industry and market, hence the nickname of the city as the "Little Paris" of Germany. The avenue was designed in the late 18th century as an enlargement of the city, and runs parallel to the Rhine. The street is divided by a large canal fed by the Düssel River. That is why it’s so important, that among the things to do in Dusseldorf, you always walk along its bridges.
• Lambertus Kirche, the Catholic church of St. Lambert is famous for its twisted tower. 
• Carlsplatz. In this marketplace, open all week, you can find a wide variety of high quality food, flowers and wines. 
• Benrath Palace. Surrounded by gardens, this palace is the home to the Museum of Natural History and the Museum of European Garden Art. 
• EKÖ Haus. The home of the Japanese Association. It is home to the largest community of Japanese citizens in Europe and it has one of the best Japanese gardens in the European Union.

About Düsseldorf gastronomy…

The most classic restaurants 

In an area of less than one square kilometer, the old town, Altstadt, boasts over 260 pubs, known as the 'the longest bar in the world'. Along its streets you will find all kinds of typical German foods such as Kholroulade (cabbage roll with meat), the Düsseldorfer Senfrostbraten (roasted sirloin) or the famous Eisbein (pork knuckle) with sauerkraut and mashed potatoes. Also, you'll find "Altbier", the popular local beer that is still manufactured in the traditional style. Zum Uerige is the right place to have an Alt craft beer. 

Although a cozy place, the Schweine James restaurant (Bolkerstrasse, 13) is famous for serving some of the best pork knuckles and Goulash in town. If you prefer fish and seafood we recommend you book a table at Andrej’s Oyster Bar & Restaurant, one of the most famous restaurants in the city. 

If among the things to do in Dusseldorf, you are looking for an authentic German experience, try the Bauernstube Deppe, a charming place run by the same owners for 30 years. It is located in a residential area north of the city, but it is well worth the journey if you're in the mood for a bit of fun. 

The most alternative restaurant 

In this cosmopolitan city you will also find international restaurants who learn towards contemporary cuisine and fusions. A good example is Lido, a glass cube suspended over the water and located in the harbor area.

Author: Max Martiny

Assistant F&B Manager at NH Hotel Düsseldorf City Nord

My name is Max Martiny, and since 2019, I have been working with great enthusiasm in the Food and Beverage department at the NH Hotel Düsseldorf City Nord. As a responsible employee, I love combining my passion for good food with my work and meeting interesting people. It brings me joy to contribute to the atmosphere of the hotel and to excite guests with creative ideas. In my free time, I enjoy exploring the best restaurants in the city and socializing with friends, always in search of new culinary experiences and interesting conversations. I look forward to welcoming you at the NH Hotel Düsseldorf City Nord and indulging you with our gastronomic variety.