Visiting Düsseldorf
Düsseldorf is a primary destination in Germany, especially if you want to explore the western part of the country. The capital of North Rhine-Westphalia offers plenty to do, from high-end shopping to walking tours and uncovering the cultural heritage of the Ruhr area, the most populous industrial region in Germany. At the foot of the 240-meter television tower, the Rheinturm, the Media Harbor district stands out with its modern skyscrapers designed by contemporary architects like Frank Gehry.
Visiting the German Fashion Capital
Do not miss a chance to walk the entire length of the Königsallee for some luxury shopping. This nearly one-kilometer-long street, which translates to "King's Avenue," was renamed in 1851 to honor the King of Prussia Friedrich Wilhelm IV. Legend has it that years earlier, the king had horse manure thrown onto his coat from the windows by unhappy locals.
Lined with moats fed by the Düssel river, the avenue begins near the Hofgarten park, one of the city's main green spaces. It separates the old town, the Altstadt, from the Japanese district, Stadtmitte. If you enjoy Japanese culture, take a walk through Nordpark. Part of the park features carefully maintained Japanese gardens that are covered in flowering maple trees in April.
Discovering the Old Town along the Rhine
The old town has preserved the classic Rhenish architecture of the region. From the central square, the Burgplatz, walk through the surrounding streets. Near the town hall, you will find a small music box built into a wall. Its chimes ring up to five times a day, playing a tune from the classic Rhenish play, Schneider Wibbel.
Düsseldorf is culturally rich, with numerous museums like the North Rhine-Westphalia Art Collection, the Kunstpalast Museum, and the birthplace of the German poet Heinrich Heine. Several former mansions now serve as art galleries, such as Jägerhof Palace, which houses the Goethe Museum. Further out, visit Benrath Palace, a prime example of Rococo style.
When to visit
Try to time your visit to Düsseldorf with a local trade fair or exhibition. Otherwise, choose one of the major carnival dates, such as the season launch on November 11 or the peak of the festivities, the famous Rose Monday parade, which traditionally takes place at the end of February before Shrove Tuesday.
How to get there
Düsseldorf is well-connected to other European cities thanks to its international airport. Trains are another practical option, with high-speed rail connections from Paris reaching Düsseldorf in about 4 hours.
Getting around
Whether you use regional trains, subway lines, trams, buses, or simply walk, the city is well-equipped for easy navigation. Public transportation is managed by Rheinbahn.
Behind the modern buildings of this city, there is an old center that is much warmer, right on the banks of the Rhine, with plenty of little restaurants and beer bars. Between the pints of blonde beer and the huge sausage sandwiches, plan on a little diet for when you get back ;)
The center is nice, but there is not enough to keep you amazed for a whole week. A weekend is enough