Düsseldorf Profile ⏇ Experience Culture, History & Attractions

Discover the multifaceted metropolis of Düsseldorf ⬇ Attractive attractions ✔ Modern Media Harbor ✔ Rhineland hospitality ✔ Düsseldorf profile

Düsseldorf Profile - Between Rhine, Fortuna, and International Airport

Düsseldorf Steckbrief - Zwischen Rhein, Fortuna und Weltflughafen

Düsseldorf is a city that uniquely combines tradition and modernity. With a mix of Rhineland joie de vivre, international flair, and economic strength, the capital of North Rhine-Westphalia has secured a firm place among the most significant cities in Germany. Whether you are a fan of Fortuna Düsseldorf's football, enjoy traveling from one of Germany's largest airports, or simply want to explore the cultural and architectural highlights of the city – Düsseldorf has something to offer for everyone. Join me on an exciting journey through the city on the Rhine!

Düsseldorf - Attractions & Activities

This is what awaits you in Düsseldorf.

  1. Fortuna Düsseldorf: Experience an exciting home game at the stadium when Fortuna Düsseldorf takes to the field, and the fans create an impressive atmosphere with their red and white colors.
  2. Düsseldorf Airport: Start your journey to the world from one of the most modern airports in Europe. With around 25 million passengers per year, Düsseldorf Airport is an international hub.
  3. Königsallee ("Kö") and the Old Town: The famous luxury shopping street invites you not only to shop but also to stroll. In the nearby Old Town, you can find countless bars and breweries.
  4. Media Harbor: An architectural highlight, distinguished by its futuristic buildings. The Gehry buildings, in particular, are worth a look.
  5. Rhein Promenade: Walk along the Rhine and enjoy the vibrant life on the banks – perfect for a relaxing afternoon.

Exciting data and facts about Düsseldorf

  • Population: Around 650,000 people live in the city.
  • Area: The city covers 217 square kilometers.
  • First Mention: The city was first documented in 1135.
  • Düsseldorf Airport: The third largest airport in Germany, serving around 25 million passengers annually.
  • Fortuna Düsseldorf: Founded in 1895 and known for its significant successes in German football.
  • The Old Town: Over 260 pubs and bars provide the perfect location for nightlife – "the longest bar in the world."
  • Kö-Bogen: An architectural masterpiece by Daniel Libeskind that enriches the city center.
  • Messe Düsseldorf: One of the largest trade fair companies in the world, hosting numerous international events and exhibitions each year.
  • Carnival: Düsseldorf is one of the carnival strongholds along the Rhine – the Rose Monday parade is a highlight.
  • Economy: Düsseldorf is one of the leading financial and fashion centers in Germany.

The History of Düsseldorf: From Fishing Village to Metropolis

The first documentary mention of Düsseldorf dates back to the year 1135. At that time, it was still a small village at the mouth of the Düssel River into the Rhine. The pivotal turning point in Düsseldorf's history was the Battle of Worringen in 1288. Count Adolf V of Berg won the battle against the Archbishop of Cologne, granting Düsseldorf city rights and increasing its political and economic significance.

The Baroque Era and Art

A defining period for the city was the 17th and 18th centuries when the Dukes of Jülich-Cleves-Berg made Düsseldorf one of the cultural hubs of the Rhineland. Particularly Johann Wilhelm II, better known as "Jan Wellem," promoted the arts and commissioned magnificent buildings such as the Residence Palace, of which only the palace tower remains today.

Industrialization and Modernity

With the industrialization in the 19th century, Düsseldorf developed into one of Germany's most important industrial cities. Steel, mechanical engineering, and trade flourished, and the city grew rapidly. In 1909, Düsseldorf surpassed the population mark of 250,000 and became a major city. In the 1950s, Düsseldorf experienced a renewed economic upswing after the devastations of World War II.

Districts and neighborhoods in Düsseldorf

Düsseldorf is divided into ten city districts, which are further subdivided into numerous neighborhoods. Each district has its own charm and offers various attractions and housing options. Below are the columns “Description” and “Known for”:

District Neighborhoods Description Known for
1 (Center)
  • Old Town
  • City Center
  • Pempelfort
  • Derendorf
The center of city life with many cultural offerings and attractions
  • “Longest bar in the world”
  • Rhein river promenade
  • Shopping on the Königsallee
2
  • Flingern North
  • Flingern South
  • Düsseltal
Culturally characterized neighborhoods, trendy among creatives and young people
  • Trendy bars
  • Studios and startups
3
  • Bilk
  • Oberbilk
  • Unterbilk, Hamm
Student-populated district with many cafes and parks
  • University of Düsseldorf
  • Media Harbor
4
  • Oberkassel
  • Niederkassel
  • Lörick
  • Heerdt
High-end residential area near the Rhine, featuring historic buildings and a vibrant cultural scene
  • Historic buildings
  • Rhine riverbank
  • Japanese quarter in Niederkassel
5
  • Kaiserswerth
  • Kalkum
  • Angermund
  • Lohausen
Historic neighborhoods characterized by green landscapes and tranquility
  • Imperial Palace
  • Proximity to Düsseldorf Airport
6
  • Rath
  • Mörsenbroich
  • Unterrath
Mixed area with residential and commercial spaces as well as good connections to the airport
  • ISS Dome
  • Proximity to the airport
7
  • Gerresheim
  • Grafenberg
  • Ludenberg
Historical suburbs with plenty of greenery and nature
  • Grafenberg Forest
  • Gerresheim Glassworks
8
  • Eller
  • Vennhausen
  • Unterbach
More rural neighborhoods characterized by forests, lakes, and parks
  • Unterbach Lake
  • Recreation area
9
  • Benrath
  • Urdenbach
  • Hassels
Historical and nature-oriented neighborhoods in the southern part of Düsseldorf
  • Benrath Palace
  • Rheinauen
10
  • Garath
  • Hellerhof
Residential areas with modern architecture and affordable rents
  • Residential settlements
  • Rheinauen and parks

Celebrities from Düsseldorf

Düsseldorf has produced many famous personalities who are known both nationally and internationally. Particularly influential in the music scene is the band Kraftwerk, which gained worldwide recognition as pioneers of electronic music. Also, die Toten Hosen, one of the most successful German punk bands, come from Düsseldorf and have shaped the music landscape since the 1980s.

Düsseldorf's landmarks: What should you see?

Every landmark in Düsseldorf tells its own story and shapes the image of the city. From the majestic Rheinturm, which dominates the skyline, to the baroque Benrath Palace, which enchants visitors with its magnificent gardens – there’s much to discover here. The landmarks reflect Düsseldorf's diversity, from the historic old town to the modern Media Harbor with its impressive buildings.

  • Rheinturm: At 240.5 meters tall, it is the tallest building in Düsseldorf and offers a fantastic view over the city.
  • Benrath Palace: A baroque pleasure palace that is now used as a museum and is surrounded by beautiful parks.
  • St. Lambertus Basilica: One of the oldest churches in Düsseldorf, immediately recognizable by its crooked tower.
  • Media Harbor: A symbol of the city's modern architecture, featuring the famous Gehry buildings.
  • Kö-Bogen: A modern architectural masterpiece that defines Düsseldorf's city center.

Rivers and bodies of water in Düsseldorf

Düsseldorf is characterized by several significant bodies of water. The Rhine is the most important, but the Düssel, after which the city is named, and the Nordkanal also play a role in the cityscape.

River Length Features
Rhine 1,230 km Shapes the cityscape, shipping, and leisure
Düssel 36 km Namesake of the city
Nordkanal 46 km Former construction project of Napoleon

Düsseldorf and Fortuna: A Strong Connection

Fortuna Düsseldorf is the traditional club of the city. Founded in 1895, the club is one of the oldest football clubs in Germany. Major successes such as the German championship in 1933 and the DFB-Pokal wins in 1979 and 1980 shape the club's history. Matches at the home stadium, the Merkur Spiel-Arena, regularly attract numerous fans.

You shouldn't miss these three recommendations!

Düsseldorf is a city full of possibilities – whether you want to explore the sights as a tourist, plan a romantic getaway, or are looking for exciting destinations as a family. With its numerous hotels, attractions, and leisure activities, the city has something for everyone. We have put together a selection of the top 3 that you should definitely try.

3 hotel recommendations in Düsseldorf

  1. Breidenbacher Hof: A luxurious 5-star hotel on Königsallee that combines tradition and modernity. Perfect for travelers seeking an exclusive stay with excellent service and a central location.
  2. me and all hotel Düsseldorf: A modern lifestyle hotel in the trendy Japanese quarter. Ideal for travelers who prefer a cool atmosphere and urban design.
  3. Ruby Coco Hotel: A stylish boutique hotel right on Königsallee, known for its minimalist design and relaxed atmosphere.

3 Destinations for Families in Düsseldorf

  1. Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum: An exciting museum and aquarium that captivates both children and adults alike. Here you can dive into the world of marine life and learn a lot about nature conservation.
  2. Benrath Palace: The baroque palace in the southern part of the city is surrounded by a vast park. Perfect for a family outing that combines history and nature.
  3. Unterbacher See: This lake in the eastern part of Düsseldorf offers numerous recreational activities such as swimming, sailing, pedal boating, and a nature playground – ideal for a relaxing day with the whole family.

3 Recommendations for Couples in Düsseldorf

  1. Rheinturm: A romantic dinner in the revolving restaurant of the Rheinturm with breathtaking views over the city is perfect for special evenings for two.
  2. Kaiserswerth: An idyllic district with charming cafés and historical buildings. Especially lovely for strolls along the Rhine or a romantic picnic.
  3. Königsallee: A walk along the illuminated chestnut trees of Königsallee, followed by a visit to one of the elegant restaurants, offers couples a luxurious break.

3 Recommendations for Singles in Düsseldorf

  1. Old Town: The "longest bar in the world" offers countless bars and clubs where you can easily strike up conversations with others and fully enjoy the nightlife.
  2. Media Harbor: This modern district features trendy bars and restaurants, perfect for singles looking to meet new people and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
  3. Rhine River Promenade: Ideal for a relaxed stroll or a visit to one of the many cafés – here you can wonderfully watch and enjoy life in Düsseldorf.

Düsseldorf - A city that inspires

Düsseldorf is a city full of diversity, where tradition and modernity coexist. From the Old Town with its many bars to the famous Königsallee and the modern media harbor, Düsseldorf has something for everyone. The international airport and vibrant culture make the city a significant travel destination even beyond Germany's borders. Whether you want to admire the architecture, experience the carnival, or simply feel the Rhineland joie de vivre – Düsseldorf will not disappoint you.

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