Dusseldorf, a bustling city in western Germany, is a hidden gem. With its trendy boutiques, vibrant streets, and diverse dining scene, the city offers an unforgettable experience for all ages. Did you know that Dusseldorf has played a significant role in the fashion world, hosting the first Fashion Fair in 1949? Since then, it has earned the reputation of being the fashion capital of Germany and Europe, attracting young, talented designers to fashion weeks, shows, and shoots. Fashion enthusiasts will be delighted by the countless fashion boutiques, showrooms, and brand outlets lining the main streets. Let us look into the most exciting places to visit in Dusseldorf and the things to do in Dusseldorf.
Top Places to Visit in Dusseldorf
- Rhine Tower
- Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum
- Hofgarten
- Schloss Benrath
- The Wildpark Grafenberger Wald
- The Rhine Tower
The iconic Rhine Tower, designed by architect H. Deilmann and completed in 1982, stands as one of the most recognisable Dusseldorf tourist attractions. Located on the city centre's southern edge near the Media Harbour, the Rhine Tower neighbours the North Rhine-Westphalian state parliament and the WDR. At the tower's pinnacle, 172.5 metres high, you will find QOMO, a restaurant with 144 seats that revolves every 72 minutes. Secure your tickets early to skip the line.
Things to Do at the Rhine Tower
- Experience Dusseldorf's stunning skyline from the Rhine Tower, the city's tallest building
- Indulge in Japanese fusion cuisine while the QOMO restaurant revolves, granting a 360° panoramic view of the bustling city
- Hof Garden Dusseldorf and Rhine Promenade Dusseldorf are the top places to visit near Dusseldorf
- The Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum
This museum is one of the most remarkable places to see in Dusseldorf. It is a fusion of a zoo, aquarium, and natural history museum, offering visitors a captivating journey through the evolution of biological diversity. The museum boasts impressive highlights, including a magnificent sperm whale skeleton, a shark aquarium, and a vibrant living coral reef teeming with invertebrates and fish. The Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum actively contributes to preserving biodiversity through conservation, research, collections, and educational initiatives.
Things to Do at the Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum
- Explore the 25-themed rooms, delving into the evolution of various magnificent sea creatures, including their evolutionary transition from sea to land
- Take advantage to learn from the award-winning amphibian protection and breeding station, recognised by the UN for its conservation initiatives
- Hofgarten
Dating back to 1769, the Dusseldorf Hofgarten is one of the most relaxing places to visit in Dusseldorf. It stands as Germany's first and oldest public garden, presenting visitors with a lot of things to do in Dusseldorf. This 28-hectare park transitions from Baroque to English landscape garden styles. Over a third of the park features inviting meadows for nature enthusiasts to relish. The park's designer, Maximilian Weyhe, enjoyed living in the Hofgärtnerhaus, basking in the lush greenery at his doorstep.
Things to Do at Hofgarten
- Stroll amid lush greenery, flowerbeds, and modern sculptures by local artists
- Enjoy year-round events such as the Cherry Blossom Festival and summer concerts
- Bird watchers will delight in spotting peacocks, swans, and parakeets, among other species of wild birds
- Schloss Benrath
A Baroque pleasure palace in Dusseldorf's Benrath borough, Schloss Benrath was first commissioned by Elector Palatine Charles Theodor and Countess Palatine Elisabeth Auguste of Sulzbach. Construction began in 1755 and finished in 1770. The main building houses a museum with guided tours, while the wings host two other museums. With its rich history and elegant architecture, this stunning palace has become one of the most interesting Dusseldorf places to visit over the years.
Things to Do at Schloss Benrath
- Delve into 2,500 years of garden history at the Museum of Garden Art
- Discover special exhibitions such as historical clocks and annual flower displays
- Treat yourself to delectable cakes and drinks at the palace café
- The Wildpark Grafenberger Wald
This park is one of the most family-friendly Dusseldorf tourist attractions. The park offers feeding sessions to understand the resident animals' diets better. Children can enjoy the large playground, while families can relish picnics and savour traditional German cuisine at the on-site restaurant. A haven for nature lovers, Wildpark Grafenberger is a serene retreat open year-round, welcoming visitors to immerse themselves in the wonders of local wildlife.
Things to Do at the Wildpark Grafenberger Wald
- Kids can feed the animals with apples or carrots or buy special feed from automatic feeders
- Observe the animals in their natural habitats year-round, thanks to newly installed gates
- Visit the 18-hole Düsseldorf-Grafenberg golf course surrounded by forest, with several artificial lakes connected by streams and waterfalls
Best Time to Visit Dusseldorf
For the best experience of the places to see in Dusseldorf, plan your visit anytime from mid-May to mid-September, as you will experience mild temperatures and longer days. Early autumn offers fall foliage but can be colder and rainier. Winter also attracts visitors to the Christmas Markets and the lively Karneval celebration, including other things to do in Dusseldorf. But above all, spring and summer are the best times to visit and marvel at Dusseldorf tourist attractions.
Travel Insurance for Dusseldorf
Dusseldorf is a modern city with excellent healthcare facilities, wherein travel insurance is required if you need a Schengen visa. Even so, considering Germany's potentially high medical costs, obtaining travel insurance online is wise. Travel insurance covers emergency medical expenses, evacuation, and extension options if required. Trip cancellation insurance is also beneficial, reimbursing prepaid costs if your trip is cancelled for various covered reasons such as illness or family emergencies, or even missed connections.