Destination Guide: Düsseldorf

Language: The official language of Düsseldorf is German. But locals are known to speak ‘Low German’ which sounds very similar to Dutch. English is also spoken widely throughout the city

Currency: Euro

Time: Düsseldorf is in Central European Summer Time = GMT + 1

Need to knows:

To tip or not to tip?

Generally speaking, service will be included as standard within the menu price/final bill in most restaurants. However, it is still customary to ‘round up’ the bill by 5-10% to the nearest 5 or 10 euros to leave a little extra for the waiter or waitress that served you.

Getting around Düsseldorf

You certainly don’t need a car to get around the city but if you’d like to have the freedom of having your own transport then Düsseldorf is relatively easy to navigate. You’ll be able to pre book a hire a car to collect from the airport, or, if you decide a little into your trip that you’d like a vehicle, there are several rental businesses located in the city centre.

If you’d rather not drive whilst away then fear not, the public transport network in Düsseldorf is extensive, regular and reliable. As a visitor to the city you can pick up a welcome card that will grant you not only unlimited use of trams and buses, but also discounted (sometimes free) entry to museums and other attractions throughout the city. The card costs 9 euros for a 24 hour pass although if you’re staying a little longer you can buy a 2/3 day card for a lower daily rate.

Where to work:

Düsseldorf plays host to more than 40 exhibitions annually and as a result the city isn’t short of business hotels and meeting facilities.

The Düsseldorf Hafen area is a trendy and popular place to do business. Düsseldorf’s old Rhine harbour is now a modern business and residential district that is home to many businesses in the creative and media industries.

This is a great resource for those looking to find the right contacts and authorities in Düsseldorf.

Where to play:

Schadowstrasse

The Schadowstrasse is known as ‘Germany's shopping mile'. As well as department stores and boutiques, the area is chock-full with restaurants and taverns; so if shopping isn’t your thing, the Schadowstrasse is still a great area to visit simply to take in the atmosphere, enjoy a glass of wine or just simply people watch.

Rheinpark

In the heart of the lively city is the Rheinpark where you can unwind after a day of meetings relaxing on the grassy banks of the River Rhine watching the barges sail on by.

Bars & Restaurants:

The "old town" is supposedly the "longest bar in the world". It is home to some 260 bars and restaurants in less than half a square mile. Here’s a couple that are definitely worth a visit:

En De Canon

If you’re after a traditional Rhineland meal then this is the place to visit. This cosy restaurant is located just a stone throw away from the riverfront and has outdoor seating for those lucky enough to enjoy a sun filled visit.

Dr Jazz

If you like music then you should absolutely visit Dr Jazz whilst in Düsseldorf. Dr Jazz is an underground jazz bar in with live music almost every night. Visit their website for their event listings.

Where to stay:

A.r.t Hotel Ufer

Hotel Ufer is a centrally located comfortable and quiet hotel. It is ideal for both the business and leisure traveller and is walking distance from all of the city’s main attractions. It will take you less than 15 minutes to stroll leisurely to the old city from here.

Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel

The Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel is an impressive sight against Düsseldorf’s skyline. The hotel is a short taxi ride from the airport and will set you back around 115 euros per night. For that you also get use of the gym all rooms include high-speed, wireless Internet access.