By Taxi: Taxi service is available, and it's about a 35-minute ride to the city's Konigsallee shopping street. On Foot: If you plan to walk to Konigsallee, it'll take you about 35 minutes from the riverfront, while reaching the trendy modern MedienHafen harbor district takes about 40 minutes.

THE 25 BEST Cruises to Dusseldorf 2024 (with Prices) - Dusseldorf Cruise Port Terminal on Cruise Critic

About Cruising to Dusseldorf

The symbol of Dusseldorf is the Radschlager -- a human figure executing a joyful cartwheel -- which embodies its joie de vivre. Residents put its annual Carnival on par with the famous festivities in New Orleans and say Dusseldorf's main shopping street, Konigsallee, gives the Champs-Elysees a run for its money. (Oil-rich Arabs and Russian oligarchs agree, and they jet in for weekend shopping sprees to prove it.) Travelers planning to visit the country will want to add a day in port as part of their German cruise itinerary.

Dusseldorfers are also immensely proud of their MedienHafen (harbor district), an area of the docks transformed into a masterpiece of modern architecture. Dominated by architect Frank Gehry's gorgeously designed Gaudi-esque Neue Zollhof, the MedienHafen also is home to the 768-foot-high Rheinturm (Rhein Tower), which offers panoramic views across the city.

Dusseldorf is a delightful mix of ancient and modern, with urban trendiness and back-to-nature tranquility. Reach the end of Konigsallee, for example, and you'll find yourself in the Hofgarten, Dusseldorf's version of New York's Central Park. The Hofgarten is home to the fabulous Schloss Jagerhof palace, a magnificent reproduction of 18th century Rococo architecture. You can also enjoy a leafy stroll -- and lovely views of the rolling Rhine -- in the Rheinpark, a glorious tree- and cafe-lined promenade area.

Dusseldorf's perfectly formed Aldstadt (Old Town) might only cover one square kilometer, but it packs a heck of a lot into its cobbled alleys, including offbeat jewelry and craft shops,, high-spired churches and numerous bars (260-plus at last count).

The city is rapidly becoming one of Europe's top destinations for weekend and short breaks. You'll be hard pressed to decide how to spend your time. My tip for river cruise visitors: Keep it simple and don't try to do too much; you can always come back for more.

18 Night

Romantic Rhine & Moselle With Switzerland

88 Reviews

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7 Night

Captivating Rhine

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More about Dusseldorf

Why Cruise to Dusseldorf?

Pros:

Stunning architecture, a historic Old Town and beautiful outdoor spaces are highlights in Dusseldorf

Cons:

There's a lot to see in this charming city -- be sure not to lose track of time

Bottom Line:

Dusseldorf has become an increasingly popular European destination, and for good reason

Dusseldorf Cruise Port Facilities?

Riverboats stop near a pretty park, adjacent to an outdoor cinema. You'll be about a 30-minute walk (or a 12 euros taxi ride) from Dusseldorf's Altstadt (Old Town).

Good to Know?

The effects of those potent local beers -- don't lose track of time or your riverboat.

Getting Around?

By Taxi: Taxi service is available, and it's about a 35-minute ride to the city's Konigsallee shopping street.

On Foot: If you plan to walk to Konigsallee, it'll take you about 35 minutes from the riverfront, while reaching the trendy modern MedienHafen harbor district takes about 40 minutes.

Currency & Best Way to Get Money?

The official currency is the euro. Many banks in Dusseldorf offer ATMs, including Deutsche Bank, Postbank and Commerzbank. The main banking district is around Schadowstrasse, a few streets inland from the riverfront.

Language?

Younger Dusseldorfers study English at school, so it's widely spoken. But that's no excuse for not learning a few key German phrases, and the locals will love you for it.