Düsseldorf | A complete guide to a dream trip along the Rhine
Düsseldorf, a city located in western Germany, has both the charm of historical sedimentation and the vitality of modern fashion. Wandering through its streets and alleys, you can feel the fusion of tradition and innovation, and encounter an unparalleled travel feast.
1. Must-see classic views
1. Königsallee
Known as "the most elegant shopping street in the world", it is also affectionately called "Kö" by the locals. The streets are lined with lush chestnut trees, and under the trees are rows of luxury stores such as Chanel, Gucci, etc., showing the luxury. In the middle of the avenue is a clear canal, with swans swimming leisurely in the water, forming a unique picture. Even if you don't shop, strolling here, feeling the fashionable atmosphere and appreciating the beautiful scenery is also a kind of enjoyment.
📍Address: Through the center of Düsseldorf
2. Rhine promenade
The promenade along the Rhine is 1.5 kilometers long and extends from the old town to the river. Here, you can enjoy the river breeze, admire the ships coming and going on the Rhine, and see the Rhine Tower in the distance. In the evening, the setting sun shines on the river, the waves are sparkling, and the scenery is beautiful. There are many restaurants and cafes along the way. When you are tired, you can sit down, order a cup of coffee and enjoy a relaxing time.
📍Address: Unnamed Road, 40213 Düsseldorf, Germany
3. Düsseldorf Old Town (Altstadt) 🏮
It is located on the banks of the Rhine River within a radius of 1 kilometer. There are many historical buildings here, which have completely preserved the traditional German residential architecture. There are more than 260 pubs and restaurants here, which is known as the place with the highest concentration of restaurants and pubs in Europe. When you come here, you must taste the local specialty dark beer, sit in the open-air seats, and feel the German beer culture and lively atmosphere.
📍Address: Rhine River
4. Schloss Benrath
A magnificent Rococo palace, it was once the residence of Duke Karl Theodore, Elector of the Palatinate. The palace stands on the tranquil lakeside and combines late French Rococo and Baroque elements. It is one of the most exquisite buildings of its kind in Europe. Walking into the palace, the luxurious interior decoration, exquisite murals and gorgeous chandeliers make people feel as if they have traveled back to that glorious era. The gardens surrounding the palace are also worth a visit. The neatly trimmed lawns and colorful flowers make it look like a fairy tale world.
📍Address: Benrather Schloßallee 100 - 108, 40597 Düsseldorf
2. Travel Recommendations
Transportation
- Airplane: Düsseldorf International Airport is the third largest airport in Germany, with numerous routes connecting to many cities around the world. From the airport to the city, you can take a train (such as the S11 train, which takes about 12 minutes to get to the city, and the ticket price is 3.3 Euros), the airport bus, or a taxi, which costs about 30 - 35 Euros. In addition, the airport also has a special skytrain suspended track train. First take it to the airport train station, then transfer to a train or local train to the main train station. The whole journey takes 5-8 minutes and costs 3.3 euros. With an S1 ticket, you can ride the skytrain for free.
- Train: Germany has a well-developed railway network. Düsseldorf Main Station (Düsseldorf, Konrad - Adenauer - Platz) connects Germany and other European cities. Taking a train is a great way to travel as you can enjoy the scenery along the way.
- City transportation: Public transportation in Düsseldorf includes rail trains (S-bahn), subways (U-bahn) and buses. You can buy one-way tickets (3.3 Euros, valid for 90 minutes), 24-hour tickets (8.3 Euros for one person, 12.5 - 25.1 Euros for 2 - 5 people), etc. In addition, you can also choose to rent a car and drive yourself, but you need to pay attention to traffic rules and parking issues; you can also ride shared bicycles to travel around the city conveniently and flexibly.
Best time to travel
May to September is the best time to travel to Düsseldorf. The weather is warm and sunny, suitable for various outdoor activities, such as walking along the Rhine River and visiting palace gardens. Moreover, during this period, the city will hold various music festivals, food festivals and other activities, allowing you to better experience the local culture.
3. Notes⚠️
- Language: The main local language is German, but English can be basically communicated in tourist attractions and some shopping malls. Simply learning some common German words, such as greetings, thank you, etc., will make traveling more convenient.
- Currency: Euro is used and currency can be exchanged at airports, banks and exchange offices. Credit cards are accepted in most places, but it is recommended to carry some cash for small expenses or purchases where credit cards are not accepted.
- Cultural etiquette: Germans pay attention to etiquette and should keep quiet and observe order in public places. When dining in a restaurant, it is common to tip the waiter 5% - 10%.
- Weather changes: Germany's weather is changeable, so it is recommended to carry rain gear and a light jacket with you in case of sudden weather changes.
- Shopping tax refund: If you spend a certain amount of money at a tax-refundable store, you can apply for a tax refund. Remember to keep your shopping receipts and apply for a tax refund at the airport or border crossing when leaving the EU.
Are you ready to start this wonderful journey in Düsseldorf? Pack your bags and come experience the unique charm of this city! 🌟