WIZZ Guides compiled by Universal Business Media Ltd. Dusseldorf. Overview. Places to Visit. The Old Town. page 1 / 5

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1 Dusseldorf Overview The thriving city of Dusseldorf is one of Western Germany s main areas for shopping, dining and nightlife. Located on the banks of the beautiful River Rhine, this city is becoming an increasingly popular destination with both international tourists and Germans alike, boasting stunning historical buildings alongside futuristic skyscrapers, giving Dusseldorf a striking, unique skyline. Visitors will have no trouble getting around and exploring the city. The transportation system is well-developed and easy to use, with travel possible by bus, boat, tram, train and plane. There are modern and convenient facilities in the city, such as numerous ATM machines and Bureau De Change booths, which can change foreign currency into the euro. Many locals can speak English fluently, and they are known for their friendly and hospitable nature. Dusseldorf is a multi-cultural city, which gives it numerous benefits such as delicious international cuisine. For an authentic German experience, try some hearty home cooked dishes such as Himmel und Äd, which translates as heaven and earth. This regional dish consists of black pudding, mashed potatoes and stewed apples. For desert take a trip to a local bakery, where cakes such as the popular Rote Grütze (a tasty red fruit pudding), are freshly baked on daily basis. No visit to Dusseldorf is complete without sampling the regions special brewed beers in one of the cities four brewpubs, while children can enjoy Apfelschorle - apple juice mixed with sparkling water. For a relaxing day check out one of the cities many art galleries and museums, take a stroll in one of the beautiful botanical parks, and pick up a souvenir or two in the Königsstrass district, where boutiques and traditional shops line the streets. For more adventurous souls there are a number of active options including go-carting, rock climbing and even sky-diving! At night the streets are transformed, and become filled with locals and tourists who are known to party until the small hours of the morning. When choosing where to stay for the duration of you trip, Dusseldorf offers a whole host of accommodation options. For a romantic weekend away try the Intercontinental in Koenigsallee, this hotel offers everything you would expect and more from a five star establishment, including a luxurious spa offering relaxing treatments, and several high quality restaurants. For those on a budget, the Alt Graz hotel offers great value, comfortable rooms, in a convenient location. If you want to try something different, it is possible to stay in a converted houseboat, and experience what it s like to live on the River Rhine. Alternatively the outskirts of the city are home to several campsites, which allow visitors to appreciate the beautiful green scenery. Dusseldorf enjoys a relatively moderate climate all year round, it has warm summers where temperatures can reach 25ºC, with up to 16 hours of sunlight a day. While the winters are mild, with temperatures averaging around 3ºC. The nearest ski resort is located 50km away, in the mountainous region of Wilderweise-Sundern, which has frequent snowfall between the months of October - February. Places to Visit The Old Town The historic Alsdatd district is one of the 49 boroughs in Dusseldorf. It is an area known for its beautiful historic buildings and narrow cobbled streets, and it is a lovely place to spend a few hours exploring. The area is also home to some of the cities most loved pubs that serve up traditional hearty meals, along with Dusseldorf s famous altbier. page 1 / 5

2 The Rhine Tower The modern Rhine Tower has become a major landmark in the city, standing at a total height of 240 metres, making it the tallest building in Dusseldorf. It is currently used as a telecommunications tower, but for a small fee you can take an elevator up to the observation platform, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and its surrounding districts. The outside of the building has a special light attraction - an abstract clock, which is also the largest digital clock in the world. St.Lambertus Church This stunning 14th century church is considered to be on of the architectural highlights of the city.the exterior of the church features a detailed crucifixion scene, while the inside is beautifully decorated and in great condition. It is Located on Stifplatx, in the Aldstadt Old Town district near to the River Rhine. Carlsplatz Market This large open air market is a favourite among locals and tourists alike. The hundreds of vendors offer unique handmade and traditional items, while several stalls serve up delicious and authentic cuisine, drinks and snacks. The market is located within walking distance from the main train station, and it is open all year round. Rheinuferpromenade Another outdoor area that is well worth a visit is the Rheinuferpromenade, located near to the River Rhine. This promenade has a huge selection of pubs, restaurants and shops and it is a great place to have a leisurely stroll and to sample some delicious German food. Dusseldorf Film Museum The Dusseldorf Film Museum displays a whole host of film memorabilia, including historic equipment previously used in film productions. The museum is open on Tuesday - Sunday, from 11am to 5pm, and entrance is currently 1.50 for adults. City Hall The beautiful and historical City Hall was built in the 16th century, and nowadays it is used to house the cities parliament. There are guided tours every Wednesday afternoon, which are provided free of charge, alternatively you are free to visit the outside of the building whenever you like. Regular Events January - New Year s Day After the high spirited festivities of New Year s Eve, visitors to Düsseldorf can relax at the annual New Year concert. Held on the banks of the Rhine River, the Düsseldorf Symphony Orchestra guides audiences through a programme of orchestral works and waltzes. February - Carnival page 2 / 5

3 Düsseldorf s Carnival officially begins in November, with festivities running across a number of months. February brings a spectacular parade that passes through the Old Town and is watched by over one million onlookers. Visitors can also enjoy street parties, dancing and sample local food and beers. March - Hoppenditz Düsseldorf s Carnival season comes to a close on Ash Wednesday. Residents gather in front of the Town Hall to witness the burning of the Hoppenditz, a jester like figure that was erected at the start of festival. April - Easter Fun Fair Every Easter Düsseldorf enjoys its annual Fun Fair located at Staufenplatz. Great for families, the fair features a host of exciting rides, traditional fair ground games and stalls selling snacks and souvenirs. In the evenings the skies are illuminated by a series of stunning firework displays. May - Japan Week Düsseldorf has one of Europe s largest Japanese communities and in honour of its residents, annually hosts Japan Week. The vibrant festival features an elaborate cultural programme that includes stage shows, sports demonstrations and stalls. The grand finale is a magnificent display ignited of Japanese fireworks. June - Six Days of Opera Düsseldorf s Six Days of Opera is a renowned biannual event and a must for all music lovers. The festival features an eclectic programme of musical theatre and chamber music by contemporary composers. Experimental and groundbreaking works are also showcased at venues around the city. July - The Largest Fair on the Rhine July brings to life Düsseldorf s largest festival, in honour of its patron saint. Millions of thrill seekers and families flock to the left bank of the Rhine River to enjoy a huge fun fair. The event features beer and food tents, exciting rides, games and a range of associated activities. August - Brazilian Night August nights in Düsseldorf are warmed by the rhythmic and sultry sounds of Brazil. Complete with dancing, competitions and stage shows, this festival showcases the best of Latino music and culture. September - Old Town Autumn Culture Festival In September Düsseldorf hosts its annual Altstadtherbst, a sophisticated festival that celebrates the performing arts. The event presents an array of unique and experimental work by opera, dance theatre and jazz artists. Venues include many of the city s churches, galleries, museums and squares. October - German Unity Day This national holiday commemorates the day when East Germany officially joined the Federal Republic. Düsseldorf marks the occasion by hosting a number of events across the city. page 3 / 5

4 November - St Martin s Festival Düsseldorf celebrates St Martin s Day on November 11th. The event features re-enactments of historical events and a night time procession of children with lanterns. Visitors can enjoy sampling Martinsgans a delicious goose dish, traditionally cooked at this time of year. December - Christmas Markets Düsseldorf s Christmas Markets are some of the most charming in Germany. Staged at six different locations across the city s Old Town, over 200 stalls transform Düsseldorf into a festive wonderland. Visitors can browse handicrafts, sample seasonal foods or even take a trip on the outdoor ice rink. Getting Around Airport Transfers Düsseldorf is served by airport is Düsseldorf International Airport which is located around 9 km from the city centre. As a major hub for flights to Germany the airport operates flights to many major International destinations. There are a number of transport links between the airport and downtown Düsseldorf, including taxis, trains and buses. Taxis can be hailed from outside the Arrivals Terminal, but be sure to use only official vehicles. The journey takes around 20 minutes depending on traffic and costs 20. The airport offers a number of buses from the front of central arrivals with frequent services running between the airport, railway station, city centre and surrounding areas. The fare is usually around 2 and the journey to downtown takes around 25 minutes. Tickets can be purchased from kiosks or when boarding the bus. The airport also operates a rapid train service that runs every twelve minutes, taking passengers to the city centre for a cost of 2. Buses and trams Düsseldorf has an extensive fleet of buses and trams that traverse the city and surrounding suburbs. Tickets must be purchased and validated prior to boarding from vending machines on the tram way or at bus stops. It is possible to buy direct from the driver, but is often more expensive. Multi trip or family tickets are also available for added convenience. Long distance buses arrive and depart from the central bus station located on Worringer Strasse, with services to many international destinations including Paris and Amsterdam. Tickets can be purchased at the terminal building or via contacting the bus companies directly. Metro Düsseldorf s metro or U-Bahn system with its comprehensive network and reliable service is a great way of getting around the city. Numerous lines connect stations throughout the city centre, with trains running every few minutes. Operating from 5.30am through to 1am the U-Bahn system is by far the most convenient mode of transport, but be aware it can get busy during rush hour. Tickets can be bought from manned booths on the station concourse, or from automatic kiosks. Train Düsseldorf main station or Hauptbhanhof is a major stop for German state railways and operates S-Bahn, RegionalBahn and Regionalexpress trains. Direct daily services run to numerous local and international destinations such as Munich, Berlin, Cologne, London and Brussels. Tickets can be purchased via rail operators or at the station. page 4 / 5

5 Powered by TCPDF ( WIZZ Guides Taxi There are many official taxis that operate throughout Düsseldorf, which can be hailed on the street, from a taxi stand or pre-booked by telephone. All licensed vehicles are fitted with meters, and rates are usually reasonable and include all additional charges. page 5 / 5