Your guide to Düsseldorf / Things to do if you only have 24/48 hours in Düsseldorf

Schadowstraße
Königsallee

Düsseldorf is a commercial and retail hub known for its high-end shops as well as intimate boutiques. Many visitors will fill a one-day Düsseldorf itinerary with shopping destinations alone. Start your day at one of the most well-known streets: Schadowstraße. It's home to massive department stores and major brands with offerings for any budget. Then make your way a few blocks east to the lovely Königsallee. This luxury boutique-lined boulevard along the Stadtgraben canal is a sight to behold, even if you're not planning to splurge on designer bags and clothes. 

Don't be afraid to wander off the beaten retail path, however, to find hidden gems among smaller local boutiques. These areas also typically have excellent cafes and beer gardens when you need a respite from walking. A day of shopping might not be the best use of your time if you're visiting on a Sunday, however, as most shops are closed.

The Hafen

Part of Düsseldorf's allure is its vibrant riverside locale. If you only have 24 hours in Düsseldorf, exploring the bustling area along the Rhine's banks will give you a good feel for the city. Start at the iconic Rheinturm (Rhine Tower), a nearly 250-meter communications tower-turned bar and restaurant. Travel to the top to enjoy rotating 360-degree views of the city, plus a bite to eat. 

Next, head toward the Media Harbour that sits in the Rheinturm's shadow. This district, known as The Hafen, is home to art exhibits and stunning examples of modern architecture. You can't miss the distinctive and warped-looking Gehry Buildings by famed architect Frank Gehry. After you've wandered the harbor, take one of the hourlong boat tours that depart from the docks and cruises up the Rhine. It will not only give you another perspective on Media Harbour but it will also allow you to view other parts of the city.

Finish your day with a high-end meal on one of the hip restaurant patios overlooking the water. Many transform into bars and nightclubs after the sun sets, where you can enjoy live music, cocktails and dancing. Afterward, stay the night at the Intercontinental Hotel, a sophisticated spot within walking distance to all the Hafen and city center attractions.

Burgplatz

Altstadt is Düsseldorf's charming old town neighborhood. It's sandwiched between the shopping district and the waters of the Rhine. You could easily spend a full day wandering the cobblestone streets and stumbling upon historic landmarks.

You might start your day at the lovely Burgplatz square, with a stop into the Schifffahrtsmuseum (Maritime Museum). From here you can either walk a few blocks north via the Rhine Embankment Promenade to the 13th-century St. Lambertus Basilica or just south to the Marktplatz square, home of the Jan-Wellem-Reiterstandbild statue and 16th-century city hall (Rathaus). Depending on the season, the Marktplatz might be hosting a special event or celebration.

Get a meal at the Bolkerstrasse, dubbed the longest bar in the world. It's a stretch of street that's home to hundreds of bars, cafes, clubs and restaurants, ranging from traditional German fare to all varieties of international cuisine. If you want to enjoy the nightlife, this is the place to be.

Other historic sites to make a point to visit in Altstadt include Neander Church and St. Andrew's Church. If you have time, take public transportation upriver to the Kaiserpfalz Kaiserswerth ruins. Here you can explore what remains of a 12th-century castle. Cap off your evening with a pint of local Altbier in a quaint beer garden or at one of the old town breweries.

Niederkassal

Düsseldorf is home to one of the largest Japanese populations in Europe. As such, its Niederkassal neighborhood (locals fondly call it Little Tokyo) features authentic Japanese cuisine and exquisite examples of Asian culture. Visit the EKŌ-Haus of Japanese Culture to truly transport yourself to another time and place during your 48 hours in Düsseldorf. Here, the public can explore stunning gardens, a Buddhist temple and a tea house, as well as experience seasonal exhibits and events.

Then get your fill on ramen noodle bowls or sushi at one of the top-rated restaurants. If you head back across the river toward the Japanese business district and the main train station, it's well worth the wait in line to dine at Na Ni Wa. 

Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen, K20

If you're an art aficionado trying to craft the perfect two-day Düsseldorf itinerary, then you definitely want to pencil in visits to these world-class establishments. The Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen features a pair of modern art museums known as K20 and K21. As the name would suggest, K20 houses priceless 20th-century works by the likes of Pablo Picasso, Jackson Pollack and Andy Warhol. K21 delves into more contemporary art, including mixed media and photo and video installations.

Head north past the Kunstakademie, a prestigious German art academy, to Museum Kunstpalast, a fine art museum that showcases everything from ancient works to modern-day masterpieces. It's known for its massive and unparalleled glass exhibit.

When you need a break to get some fresh air, it's only a few blocks walk to the city's famed 70-acre Hofgarten park. It's the country's oldest public green space and features well-maintained walking paths, bridges, ponds and fountains. And, of course, its French- and English-inspired gardens are filled with more sculptures and monuments to feast your eyes upon.