Here I am back in Germany (see my article on the Black Forest), and this time it is to visit the city of Düsseldorf. I was thrilled to set off and discover this destination with my favorite photographer.
I was completely unfamiliar with Düsseldorf, and I must say I was pleasantly surprised by this city, which I found very trendy. It is worth noting that the German city was 80% destroyed during the Second World War, which paved the way for major reconstruction projects throughout the 20th century.
This city located in the western part of Germany is the second largest city (after Cologne) in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia. Düsseldorf is bordered by the Rhine, but most of the city was built on the right bank of the river. In the 19th century, it was the capital of the Grand Duchy of Berg.
It is also worth noting that there is a large Japanese community in Düsseldorf, as many Japanese companies have set up shop here over the decades.
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How to Get There and Practical Information
Getting to Düsseldorf by high-speed train (Eurostar, formerly Thalys) takes about 3h45 from Gare du Nord in Paris, which is remarkably fast and comfortable. During this trip, we had the opportunity to test the Eurostar Premier offer (Premium class), which made the journey even more enjoyable.
The benefits of the first-class travel offer:
- First-class travel with plenty of legroom and comfortable seats
- An individual power outlet per passenger (essential for working on a laptop or keeping your smartphone charged along the way)
- A full catering service served directly at your seat at any time of day (on international journeys over 50 minutes)
- Access to station lounges in France and Germany
What to See and Do in Düsseldorf
As usual, I share a curated selection of sightseeing ideas and activities tested during our stay in Düsseldorf. It is very easy to get around the entire city by public transport thanks to the efficient network of trams, subways, and buses.
I highly recommend strolling along the famous shopping boulevard Königsallee in the city center, lined with majestic trees and stylish boutiques. For fans of Japanese culture, don’t miss an immersion into Düsseldorf’s Japanese district, known as “Little Tokyo”, home to authentic restaurants and specialty food shops.
It is also delightful to take a walk along the river on the Rheinuferpromenade, very popular with both walkers and cyclists. At the end of the day, it is the perfect vantage point to admire a gorgeous sunset over the Rhine.
The good deal: the DüsseldorfCard provides free public transport across the city as well as discounts of up to 100% at more than 80 museums and attractions (rates: €13.90 for 24h / €20.90 for 48h / €27.90 for 72h / €34.90 for 96h).
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Shopping at Blaenk Store (closed)
This trendy pop-up store offered an exclusive showcase of digital brands to help them launch and connect with customers in real life. The temporary concept store closed at the end of 2019, but its memory perfectly illustrates the vibrant shopping scene of downtown Düsseldorf, packed with trendy boutiques.
It featured fashion designers as well as gourmet food, local wines, artisanal spirits, home decor, and tech items. It was a great opportunity to discover fine regional creations to take home.
Pop-up store Blaenk (closed)
Schadowstrasse 30, 40212 Düsseldorf
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Visit the Trendy Old Port District, MedienHafen
This is definitely the district of Düsseldorf that I found most captivating to explore! This former Rhine port has been completely reimagined by young media and creative companies, hosting stunning buildings designed by renowned international architects such as Frank Gehry (the famous tilted buildings of Neuer Zollhof) and David Chipperfield.
The area has preserved its historic port legacy with care: the old brick quays, wrought-iron stairs, and historic railway tracks are now listed as historical monuments, creating a fascinating harmony between industrial heritage and cutting-edge design.
You can also take the elevator to the top of the Rheinturm Düsseldorf, built between 1978 and 1981, which rises over 240 meters high (with a panoramic observation deck at 168 meters and a revolving restaurant). The panoramic view overlooking the Rhine meanders and the city skyline is simply breathtaking!
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Visit the Arthena Foundation Contemporary Art Space (KAI 10)
This contemporary art gallery is ideally situated in the heart of MedienHafen. Established in 2008 by the Arthena Foundation to foster young talent and international contemporary art, this non-profit institution has already presented exhibitions by hundreds of prominent artists at KAI 10.
The space stands out for its thoughtful curation and immersive displays, showcasing installations, modern paintings, and multimedia works in a refined environment.
Kaistraße 10, 40221 Düsseldorf, Germany
Open Tuesday to Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm (closed on public holidays) / Free admission
The good deal: a free guided tour is offered on the 2nd Sunday of each month at 3 pm.
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Visit the Kunstpalast Museum in Düsseldorf
This prestigious museum complex, founded in the mid-19th century, brings together exceptional collections of master paintings, sculptures, a world-famous glass collection, modern art galleries, and an extensive collection of prints and drawings in a remarkable architectural setting.
The museum also stages world-class temporary exhibitions, such as the one celebrating visionary couturier Pierre Cardin during our visit. Here is a glimpse in photographs captured by my favorite photographer.
Ehrenhof 4-5, 40479 Düsseldorf, Germany
Open Tuesday to Sunday from 11 am to 6 pm (late opening Thursday until 9 pm), closed on Mondays
Permanent collection admission: €10 regular / €8 reduced / free for children under 18
The good deal: admission to the permanent collections is free for everyone on the 1st Thursday of each month from 6 pm to 9 pm.
My Favorite Addresses in Düsseldorf
Below are my top recommendations tested during the trip, ranging from traditional breweries and local snacks to a vegan buffet and a stylish boutique hotel.
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Where to Go Out for a Beer? Brauerei Kürzer
A must-visit address in the Altstadt to sample traditional local beer brewed on-site and experience the welcoming nightlife vibe of the old town. I highly recommend stopping by for a drink!
As a reminder, Düsseldorf’s signature beers are Altbier, a top-fermented amber style. Here, the local tradition is to stand outside on the street chatting and clinking glasses, creating a lively atmosphere in any weather.
Kurze Straße 18-20, 40213 Düsseldorf
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Where to Eat on the Go? Schwarzer Peter
This traditional quick-bite spot located in the Altstadt is great for grabbing something hearty in the evening. The portions are filling and very budget-friendly.
What to try: the Original Spießbratenbrötchen (roast pork roll) or the classic Currywurst mit Brötchen (be warned, the curry sauce has quite a kick!).
Schwarzer Peter
Mertensgasse 27, 40213 Düsseldorf
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Where to Eat Vegan? Sattgrün
This plant-based dining concept offers an excellent 100% vegan buffet of high quality. Even if you’re not strictly vegan, it’s a delicious and healthy spot for lunch or dinner.
The concept is simple: choose your plate size and help yourself to a wide variety of fresh salads, flavorful hot dishes, and hearty toppings.
Brückenstraße 12, 40221 Düsseldorf
Open Monday to Sunday from 12 pm to 10 pm (closed on public holidays)
Buffet pricing: small plate €12.90 / medium €15.90 / large €17.50
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Where to Stay? Ruby Coco Hotel Düsseldorf
A major favorite from our stay, this upscale boutique hotel is centrally located right next to the Königsallee. The design is trendy, rooms are whisper-quiet and comfortable, and the overall vibe is relaxed and welcoming.
Special mention for the lovely green rooftop terrace on the 2nd floor, perfect for relaxing outdoors.
The breakfast buffet serves an organic and gourmet selection of great quality in a cozy setting.
The extra touch: a 24/7 self-service hot drinks station for guests, and a fun musical nod with in-room Marshall guitar amps and free guitar rentals at the bar.
Ruby Coco Hotel Düsseldorf
Steinstraße 13, 40212 Düsseldorf
Thanks to Eurostar and the Düsseldorf Tourist Office for this invitation to visit the city of Düsseldorf and for this wonderful discovery.
I hope that with all this, I have inspired you to visit Düsseldorf, and if you also have your own favorite addresses and tips for this destination, feel free to share them in the comments below!
To extend your stay in Germany, also check out my article to visit the Black Forest in 5 steps.
Photo credits: Nicolas Diolez All rights reserved, photographer's permission required prior to any use
