One Day in Dusseldorf: The Ultimate Guide – Itinerary + map


In my opinion, Dusseldorf is a gem often overlooked in Germany. The city has so much personality with many different sides to explore. If you only have one day in Dusseldorf it can be difficult to know what to see first, that’s why I’ve made my perfect one-day Dusseldorf itinerary!

I’ve put together my Dusseldorf one day itinerary to ensure you won’t be wandering aimlessly. Each destination flows onto the next, to make getting around quick and easy, allowing you to maximize a day in Dusseldorf!

Looking for day trips from Dusseldorf? Check out my guide here!
Want to know the best parks in Dusseldorf? Here’s my guide!
Visiting Dusseldorf at Christmas? Here’s all you need to know!


One day in Dusseldorf: What to do, see and visit

What you need to know

  • Is one day enough for Dusseldorf? One day in Dusseldorf will give you enough time to hit up all the best-known spots.
  • Is Dusseldorf worth going to? Absolutely! Dusseldorf is often overlooked when people choose where to go in Germany, but it has so much to offer, even for a day trip!
  • How much time do I need in Dusseldorf? If you want to explore the city and see it all I think a few days or a long weekend in Dusseldorf is the perfect amount of time. However, you can certainly still see a lot in one day!
  • Are there enough things to do in Dusseldorf in one day? There’s certainly enough to keep you busy in Dusseldorf. There are museums, markets, towers and more waiting to be explored.
  • What is Dusseldorf best known for? Dusseldorf is known for so much! It’s art scene, fashion, high-end shopping and a seamless blend of history and modernity.

Public transportation in Dusseldorf

During my time in Dusseldorf, I rarely used public transportation as the weather was nice and most things are within walking distance. However, if you find yourself in need of travel assistance, there are options available:

  • S-Bahn (overground subway)
  • U-Bahn (underground subway)
  • Buses
  • Trams

All of the public transportation in Dusseldorf is operated by Rheinbahn with one ticket covering all modes. You can acquire tickets through machines at transportation stops, online, from bus drivers, or via the VRR app. For physical tickets, validation is required at designated machines located at stops.

DusseldorfCard

Considering a visit to multiple attractions in Dusseldorf? The DusseldorfCard is a fantastic money-saving option to consider. With free public transport and discounts of up to 100% at certain restaurants, tours, and museums, including some of those mentioned in this list, this card is a great way to save money while making the most of one day in Dusseldorf!

Map of attractions in Dusseldorf

How to use this map: Click on the markers for more information about each destination. The blue line shows the fastest walking route between each point. To save this map to your Google Maps, click the star in the top left corner.


A morning in Dusseldorf

Frank Gehry buildings

Designed by architect Frank Gehry, the trio of Gehry buildings stands out as a focal point in Dusseldorf Medienhafen (Media Harbour). These distinctive structures vary in shape, size, and colour, serving as a visual representation of the revitalization and modernization within the harbour. The buildings accommodate two restaurants, making them an excellent dining destination within the harbour area.

Frank Ghery Buildings in Dusseldorf
The Frank Gehry buildings in Dusseldorf

Rhineturm – Rhine Tower

One of the top things to do in the city, the unmissable Rhine Tower is a must-visit if you only have one day in Dusseldorf. Ascend to the observation platform at 168 meters for breathtaking views of the city and Rhine River. Hungry? Grab some food at the QOMO rotating restaurant above and savour a meal while enjoying panoramic views of Dusseldorf.

Rhineturm / Rhine Tower, a must see if you only have one day in Dusseldorf!
The Rhine Tower

Rhine embankment promenade

After your visit to the Rhineturm carry on your journey by the river on the Rhine embankment promenade. This charming waterfront invites visitors to take a stroll next to one of Europe’s major riverways. Serving as a hub for festivities and celebrations throughout the year, the promenade stands as a compelling focal point in the city, making it a great place to stop by if you only have one day in Dusseldorf Germany.

Dusseldorf Aldstadt – Old town

Dusseldorf Aldstadt may be small but it’s full of personality. Home to Dusseldorf Rathaus (town hall), around 300 bars and pubs, fantastic restaurants, art galleries and the Schlossturm (castle tower) there’s so much to see! Winding lanes connect cobbled streets adorned with picturesque buildings, making this one of my favourite spots to hang out in the city centre. If you find yourself with just one day in Dusseldorf, a visit to the Dusseldorf Aldstadt is a must. There’s something here for everyone, a small gem brimming with history and charm!

Buildings from Dusseldorf Altstadt, a must visit if you only have one day in Dusseldorf
Some of the beautiful buildings within Dusseldorf Aldstadt

Visiting Dusseldorf Altstadt? Here’s everything you need to know!

Carlsplatz market

I love a good market and the Carlsplatz market did not disappoint. Bursting with an abundance of fresh produce, flowers, meats, fish, cheeses, and more, there’s so much to see. It’s the perfect destination when you’re hungry, as the market is surrounded by restaurants, cafes, and little eateries, all serving amazing regional and exotic food. I can’t recommend visiting Carlsplatz enough if you only have one day in Dusseldorf!

Some of the produce available at Calsplatz market in Dusseldorf
A flower stall at Carlsplatz Market

An afternoon in Dusseldorf

Konigsallee luxury shopping

Undoubtedly a top attraction for tourists in Dusseldorf, Königsallee stands out as a beacon of luxury. Along the Kö-Graben canal, this iconic street is adorned with the finest high-end shopping brands and upscale hotels, presenting a scene straight out of a postcard. From Prada and Dior to Chanel and Louis Vuitton, Königsallee hosts a parade of prestigious names that make it a must-visit destination if you only have one day in Dusseldorf!

A statue in the Konigsalle
The Tritonenbrunnen (Triton fountain) on Königsallee

Kiefernstrasse

To see the city’s more unconventional charm, make your way to Kiefernstrasse and the surrounding area to discover a mesmerizing world of street art. Entire houses are transformed with dynamic designs, with one even featuring a giant crossword puzzle. If you have one day in Dusseldorf and are looking for fantastic Instagram-worthy shots, Kiefernstrasse is the perfect stop!

A crossword building in Kiefernstrasse, Dusseldorf. A grea tplace to visit if you only have one day in Dusseldorf
The crossword house on Kiefernstrasse

Museums

If you’ve only got one day in Dusseldorf I highly recommend checking out one of the museums. The city boasts an array of exceptional museums, and here are some of the best:

The Goethe Museum

Commemorating the life of the German writer J. W. von Goethe, the Goethe Museum houses thousands of artefacts that narrate his life story. Showcasing a diverse range of exhibits, including paintings, drawings, manuscripts, and more. Located in Jägerhof Palace alongside the Ernst Schneider Foundation, it stands as a testament to the legacy of Goethe’s work.

K20 Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen

The K20 Kunstsammlung is a hub of 20th-century art in Dusseldorf. It plays host to a remarkable collection including work from artists such as Picasso, Pollock and Matisse. For art enthusiasts with only one day in Dusseldorf, this is an absolute must-visit.

Museum Kunstpalast

Another one for art lovers, the Museum Kunstpalast features an impressive collection, showcasing art that spans across styles and periods. Featuring glass, sculptures, paintings and more, there’s something to suit everyone’s artistic tastes here.

Looking for the best museums in Dusseldorf? Check out my guide here!


An evening in Dusseldorf

Aldstadt – The world’s longest bar

If you’re a beer lover with just one day in Dusseldorf, you can’t miss an evening in the “World’s Longest Bar.” The title is apt, given that over 250 bars and pubs are packed into half a square kilometre within the Altstadt, making it a paradise for beer enthusiasts. Be sure to indulge in an Altbier (Old beer), the distinctive speciality beverage of the region.


Got more time?

Schloss Benrath – Benrath Palace

Constructed between 1756 and 1773, Schloss Benrath stands as an opulent palace enveloped by picturesque gardens and waterways. Head inside to see the grandeur of this Baroque maison, or visit the Museum of Natural History for insights into local wildlife. With its 61 acres of meticulously landscaped natural beauty, the Palace Park offers an ideal setting for a stroll. If you’re a history lover with just one day in Dusseldorf a visit to Schloss Benrath is a great option!

Schloss Benrath in Dusseldorf
Schloss Benrath surrounded by blossom in the spring

Guided tours

Want to explore Dusseldorf and learn more about the local history? Then guided tours are the way to go! Here are a few options:

  • Hop-on Hop-off bus: An easy and informative means of exploring the city while gaining insights into its history, feel free to hop on and off at your leisure, all while enjoying the onboard audio guide.
  • Dusseldorf segway tour: Looking for a fun way to see the city? Cruise through major attractions on a segway with a knowledgeable local guide and cap off your excursion with a beer at an old town brewery!
  • Guided walking tour: If you prefer a classic walking tour experience, this one’s tailored just for you. Expert guides lead you through renowned landmarks and uncover hidden gems, offering information about the city along the way.

Summary

Often overlooked for neighbouring Cologne, Dusseldorf may not be the first choice for many when planning a visit to a German city, but this city is worth exploring! With its museums, palaces, and a delightful blend of the old and the new, there’s certainly plenty to keep you busy during one day in Dusseldorf!

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