How to Spend 1 Day in Düsseldorf

Düsseldorf, one of Germany’s wealthiest and most modern cities, was all but rebuilt from the ground up after World War II. Today, it’s the elegant capital of North Rhine–Westphalia, known for its excellent nightlife and stellar art scene. If you’re only in town for a day, here’s how to make the most of your time in Düsseldorf.

Morning: City Sightseeing

Kick off your day in Düsseldorf with a zip around town by Segway. Follow your guide across the Rhine River to see the city’s bridges, harbor district, old town, and shopping areas, all while getting an introduction to the history and culture of the city. Alternatively, climb aboard the hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus to tour the city at your own pace. The open-top, double-decker bus stops at eight spots around town, with audio commentary in several languages (including English). Be sure to spend some time exploring the Old Town (Altstadt), St. Lambertus Church, and the Königsallee shopping district.

Afternoon: Rhine River Cruise

You’ve seen Düsseldorf by land, now it’s time to see it from the water. Spend the afternoon floating down the Rhine River on a relaxing sightseeing cruise. Bring your camera to capture images of the city’s waterfront, including architectural landmarks like the Rhine Tower. You can even combine the hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus and a river cruise into a single ticket to use at your leisure. Most cruises last about an hour, giving you some extra time in the afternoon to rest up for a night out on the town.

Night: Altstadt Barhopping

The Altstadt is sometimes referred to as the world’s longest bar, thanks to its numerous bars and historic beer taverns. Treat yourself to a taste of the city’s legendary nightlife during a guided pub crawl through this fun and atmospheric part of town. Walk from one bar to the next, enjoying a welcome shot at each venue. Be sure to try some altbier, Düsseldorf’s signature brew.