Dusseldorf City Breaks

City Breaks in Dusseldorf

The city of Dusseldorf in Western Germany is Berlin's sophisticated, and more reserved, older sister. Exclusive and historic in one breath, Dusseldorf is a hub for culture, the arts and fashion. Dusseldorf city breaks are a wonderful alternative to Germany's larger destinations. The city is small enough to be explored in one trip, but offers plenty to keep the whole family interested.

Things to do in Dusseldorf 

• The Old Town (Altstadt). The city of Dusseldorf has grown enormously from what began as a small medieval village in the 12th century. And although the original old town was largely destroyed in WWII, it has been lovingly and meticulously rebuilt almost brick for brick. This district is home to one of the highest concentration of bars in Germany and comes alive in the evening. It is the ideal place to watch the crowds go by, soak up the Dusseldorf way of life, and enjoy a vibrant city break.

• City Art - As well as being a fashion hub, Dusseldorf is also one of Germany’s artistic centres. With a huge number of galleries, notably the Kunstsammlung (modern art) Museum and the Hetjens Ceramics Museum, the city is also home to the Goethe Museum, dedicated to Germany’s most famous writer. Dusseldorf also boasts a number of notable statues and sculptures, including the famous City Monument, a scene created by the artist Bert Gerresheim, depicting significant points in city’s long history. A short break in this city offers the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in its rich artistic heritage.

• Hitting the shops - Well-heeled Dusseldorf is Germany’s answer to Milan or Paris, and a trip to some of the city’s exclusive clothes stores is part and parcel of a Dusseldorf break. Be sure to dress to impress as many of the shops along the city’s most fashionable shopping street, Königsallee, have strict dress codes.

Top sights in Dusseldorf 

• The Rheinturm - One of Dusseldorf’s major landmarks, the 240-metre-high television tower, also happens to be the best place to catch a skyline view of the city. Atop sits a rotating bar and restaurant, a truly must-do experience, even for those on short Dusseldorf city breaks.
• Rhine Promenade - Arguably Germany's finest city promenade, a walk along the Rhine's embankment from the Oberkassel Bridge to the Parliament buildings, running along the western edge of the Old Town, is a glorious, car-free experience. Lined with al fresco cafes, galleries and independent shops, it also offers exceptional views of the river and landmarks such as the television tower, the Gehry buildings of Neue Zollhof, the Castle Tower and St. Lambertus church. Take a stop at the steps of Burgplatz, a popular meeting place and the ideal location for a ice-cream.

Best time of the year to visit Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf has a Sub-Oceanic climate with cool winters and mild summers. Families can visit the city in the height of summer without worrying about it being too hot. As a university city, July and August can even be refreshingly quiet times to visit too.

Couples often enjoy a visit to Dusseldorf in winter when the city's famous Christmas markets come alive, creating an unforgettable romantic atmosphere.

Those looking for cheap city breaks to Dusseldorf should consider Spring or Autumn when the tourist numbers are minimal, the weather remains mild and excellent hotel and flight deals are available.

How to get to Dusseldorf 

Numerous carriers operate flights from the UK to Dusseldorf, which land at the city’s only airport, located just 7km from the centre. Flight time from London is just 1 hour and from Glasgow just under 2 hours. Local time in Dusseldorf is Central European time, one hour ahead of the UK.

Dusseldorf is known for...

Dusseldorf has the third largest Japanese community in Europe and as a result Japanese culture, cuisine and tradition can be experienced all over the city, making it a fascinating destination for a city break. Most notably on the Japanese Day street festival which takes place in May each year and culminates in an exciting fireworks display.

Two thirds of the city are Christian, split almost evenly between Catholics and Protestants, but almost everyone gets involved with the week-long Karneval parades and celebrations marking the start of Lent each year. Things get going with Women's Day (the Friday before Ash Wednesday) when women in local dress storm the city hall. The following Monday, Rose Monday, a huge street parade takes place, providing a lively and colorful highlight for anyone enjoying a weekend away in Dusseldorf.

Extra tips

Those heading to Dusseldorf for the city's famous shopping experience should note that shops are closed on Sundays. Sunday is a quiet day in the city and the ideal time to take a stroll along the promenade or Old Town instead. Shops also close for the Rose Monday parade.

Despite the reserved nature of the locals, Dusseldorf residents know how to have a good time. Visitors should sample the regional brew, Altbeir, a top fermenting dark lager which is both delicious and deceivingly strong.