Düsseldorf and the region
Germany is at the top of the list of international destinations for visitors. This is especially true for the Rhine and Ruhr region in western Germany. Düsseldorf Airport is the gateway to this region.
Here you will find numerous sights, a wide range of cultural attractions and exciting excursion destinations. We will give you suggestions that will allow you to delve deeper into the culture, history and geography of Düsseldorf and the surrounding region. The people of the Rhineland will welcome you.
Rhine embankment promenade
Stroll along the promenade for a delicious bite to eat or something to drink. In summer, the vast staircase is a must for people-watching, sunbathing and spectacular sunsets.
The “Kö” (Königsallee)
Looking for a place where you can shop ‘til you drop? Then this is the go-to address for you, with its 1 km stretch of designer stores. The street is lined with magnificent trees, serving as the perfect backdrop to a day of luxurious retail therapy.
Little Tokyo
Find the city’s best ramen here where the streets are not only named in Japanese letters, but are also lined with Japanese restaurants, shops and supermarkets. It’s as close as you’ll get to authentic cuisine without the trip to Japan. After all, Düsseldorf is home to the third largest Japanese community in Europe.
Urban Art
There’s a thriving urban art scene in the state’s capital, courtesy of its brimming counterculture. Kiefernstrasse in particular is one of the most unique streets, with every building adorned with drawings and colorful details.
Green Architecture
As urban green zones increasingly become an integral part of architecture, Düsseldorf sets a stunning example with several sustainable building projects like the Kö-Bogen II – its surface is covered by eight kilometers of green hedges with 30,000 plants in total.
The Region
Cologne
With a population of around 1.1 million, Cologne is one of Germany’s biggest cities – as well as one of its oldest, with the city’s origins dating back to the 1st century CE. It’s a quaint city with a big atmosphere, moreish chocolate and buzzing squares. You’ll be swept away by its beauty. Visitors flock to the city for the annual carnival celebrations, and it’s a great spot for a breezy boat trip too. Perusing the many galleries, boutiques and buzzing squares of Cologne proves there’s more to the city than its iconic gothic cathedral.
Bonn
Bonn is the former capital of West Germany and one of the oldest cities in Germany, with origins dating back to the 1st century BC. Today, it’s considered the second unofficial capital of the country, with the headquarters of Deutsche Post, DHL and Deutsche Telekom/T-Mobile, and a total of 20 United Nations institutions based here. Lovers of classical music can’t resist a trip to Bonn; after all, it’s the birthplace of Beethoven and hosts the annual Poppelsdorfer Palace concerts.
Aachen
Aachen was founded as a spa town by the Romans. Its cathedral is the last surviving relic of the palace of Charlemagne, founder of the Holy Roman Empire, revealing the medieval origins of the European Union. Today, sulfurous water fills the fountains of the “Elisenbrunnen” building and the water flowing from the 30 natural springs in the area is said to have healing powers! Immerse yourself in the thermal baths, charming Christmas markets and impressive beer of the westernmost city in Germany.
The Ruhr Region
Western Germany’s Ruhr region is the largest urban area in the country made up of 53 cities and towns, including Dortmund, Essen and Duisburg. It is primarily known for its industrial heritage, with many coal mining plants converted into museums and imposing steel sculptures, serving as unmistakable backdrops and destination architecture. Today, it has acquired a more green status since becoming the headquarters of RWE and E.ON energy, as well as 20 United Nations institutions. Essen even became the “Green Capital” in 2017.
The Bergisch Three
Together Wuppertal, Solingen and Remscheid are a triangle of neighboring cities collectively known as the “Bergisch Three”. Set on a hilly location and sharing an industrial heritage, each city has its own special attractions, including a trip on the world famous suspension railway, a visit to the German Tool Museum or a relaxing break in Müngsten Viaduct Park. Nature is the backdrop of each city, with woods, forests and greenery everywhere - a perfect reset for those in need of a nourishing break.
