Best Places to Stay in Düsseldorf 🇩🇪: Top Hotels & Best Areas

Updated on September 25, 2024
by Alex Miller

Düsseldorf, a vibrant metropolis on the Rhine, offers visitors a perfect blend of history, culture, and modernity. As you plan your stay in this dynamic German city, you’ll find an array of best neighborhoods and top hotels catering to all budgets and preferences. From the charming Altstadt (Old Town) with its historic attractions to the trendy Flingern district, Düsseldorf’s diverse areas provide unique experiences for every traveler. Whether you want to stay near the main train station, close to the airport at the Sheraton Düsseldorf Airport Hotel, or in one of the city’s luxurious boutique hotels, you’ll discover accommodations to suit your needs.

Our Pick of the Best Hotels

As you explore the best areas to stay in Düsseldorf, you’ll encounter a wealth of attractions across the city. From the iconic Rheinturm tower offering panoramic views to the bustling Bolkerstrasse in the Old Town, filled with bars and restaurants, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. Friedrichstadt is also worth considering, with its mix of Turkish and Bulgarian influences, while art enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to museums like K20. With excellent public transport connecting the entire city, you’ll find it easy to navigate between neighborhoods, whether you’re seeking live music venues, places to eat, or simply want to immerse yourself in the rich history of German culture.

The Best Places to Stay: Quick Guide

  • 🏛️ For first-time visitors, history buffs, and culture enthusiasts: Altstadt
  • 🎨 For art lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and urban explorers: Medienhafen
  • 🛍️ For shopping aficionados, foodies, and luxury seekers: Stadtmitte
  • 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For families, nature lovers, and those seeking a quieter atmosphere: Oberbilk
  • 💰 For budget travelers, students, and young adventurers: Bilk
  • 🏙️ For those who enjoy a mix of traditional and modern vibes: Friedrichstadt

1. Altstadt: The Historic Heart of Düsseldorf 🏛️

🏙️ Vibrant Atmosphere: Altstadt, or the Old Town, is the beating heart of Düsseldorf, known for its lively atmosphere and historic charm. The cobblestone streets are lined with traditional German pubs, shops, and cultural landmarks, making it a must-visit for first-time travelers. The area is famous for its vibrant nightlife, often referred to as “the longest bar in the world” due to its dense concentration of bars and breweries.

🍺 Traditional Breweries: Altstadt is renowned for its traditional German breweries, where visitors can enjoy locally brewed Altbier. This area offers an authentic taste of Düsseldorf’s brewing heritage, with many establishments serving hearty German dishes alongside their beers. The rustic ambiance of these breweries provides a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural history.

🏞️ Scenic River Views: Situated along the Rhine River, Altstadt offers picturesque views and a scenic promenade perfect for leisurely walks. The proximity to the river enhances the area’s charm, providing stunning backdrops for photos and a relaxing atmosphere for visitors to unwind.

🏛️ The Best Sights in Altstadt

  • Basilica St. Lambertus: A stunning example of Gothic architecture with a twisted tower.
  • Schlossturm: The only remaining part of the former Düsseldorf Castle, now a maritime museum.
  • Marktplatz: A bustling square featuring the historic Town Hall and Jan Wellem’s equestrian statue.
  • Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen: A modern art museum showcasing works from the 20th century.

🍽️ The Best Places to Eat in Altstadt

  • Zum Schlüssel: Known for its traditional Altbier and pork knuckles.
  • Brauerei im Füchschen: Offers hearty Rhineland dishes and a cozy atmosphere.
  • Uerige: Famous for its Altbier and traditional German fare.
  • Im Goldenen Kessel: A popular spot for both locals and tourists, serving classic German cuisine.

🚶‍♂️ Exploring Altstadt: Navigating Altstadt is best done on foot, as many attractions and eateries are within walking distance. The area is well-connected by public transport, making it easy to reach other parts of Düsseldorf. For a unique experience, consider taking a river cruise to enjoy the city from a different perspective.

🏨 Where to Stay in Altstadt

⭐ Best Hotels in Altstadt

  • The Wellem Residences: Luxurious apartments in the heart of Düsseldorf’s Altstadt, offering fully equipped kitchens, balconies with city views, and high-end amenities. Perfect for both short and extended stays.
  • Epic Location: Stylish hotel in a prime location, featuring modern rooms, a fitness center, and on-site dining options. Ideal for travelers seeking comfort and convenience in Düsseldorf’s Old Town.

🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

  • The Wellem, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt: Upscale hotel offering elegant rooms, a fitness center, and a restaurant. Located in the city center, it provides a perfect blend of luxury and affordability.
  • Square Rooms 8: Modern, compact rooms with high-quality finishes and amenities. Located in the Altstadt, it’s an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking a central location.
  • Mont Apartments: Well-equipped apartments offering a home-away-from-home experience. Ideal for longer stays or families, with kitchenettes and comfortable living spaces.

🛏️ Best Hostels

  • Downtown Residence Düsseldorf: Centrally located hostel offering both private and dormitory-style rooms. Features common areas for socializing and is perfect for budget travelers and backpackers.
  • Apartment-Hotel am Rathaus: Comfortable apartment-style accommodations near the City Hall. Offers the convenience of a hotel with the comforts of home, suitable for both short and long-term stays.
  • Top Old Town Apartment 2 baths: Spacious apartment in the Old Town with two bathrooms, making it ideal for groups or families. Provides a local living experience with the convenience of a central location.

2. Medienhafen: A Modern Architectural Marvel 🎨

🏗️ Architectural Wonders: Medienhafen is a showcase of modern architecture, featuring iconic buildings designed by renowned architects like Frank Gehry. The area blends contemporary design with historical elements, creating a visually striking urban landscape. It’s a paradise for architecture enthusiasts and photographers.

🍽️ Gourmet Dining: This trendy district is home to some of Düsseldorf’s finest restaurants, offering a diverse culinary experience. From Michelin-starred establishments to chic waterfront eateries, Medienhafen caters to food lovers seeking exquisite cuisine and stunning views.

🎉 Nightlife and Entertainment: As night falls, Medienhafen comes alive with vibrant nightlife options. Trendy bars and clubs line the waterfront, offering a lively atmosphere for those looking to enjoy Düsseldorf’s social scene. The district’s modern vibe attracts a diverse crowd, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

🎨 The Best Sights in Medienhafen

  • Neuer Zollhof: Frank Gehry’s iconic swaying towers, a must-see for architecture fans.
  • Rheinturm (Rhine Tower): Offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.
  • Colorium: A colorful office building that stands out in the skyline.
  • Kunst im Tunnel (KIT): An underground art gallery showcasing contemporary works.

🍽️ The Best Places to Eat in Medienhafen

  • MEERBAR Restaurant: Known for its seafood dishes and elegant setting.
  • ROCCA 800°C: Offers a unique dining experience with its high-temperature grill.
  • Im Schiffchen: A Michelin-starred restaurant offering gourmet French cuisine.
  • DOX Restaurant: Located in the Hyatt Regency, known for its international menu and river views.

🚴‍♂️ Getting Around Medienhafen: The area is easily accessible by public transport, with tram and bus stops nearby. Walking or cycling along the Rhine promenade is a pleasant way to explore the district. For those interested in architecture, guided tours are available to provide insights into the area’s design and history.

🏨 Where to Stay in Medienhafen

⭐ Best Hotels in Medienhafen

🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

  • Hyatt Regency Dusseldorf: Upscale hotel offering stunning views of the Rhine River and Medienhafen, featuring modern rooms, a spa, and fine dining options.
  • 25hours Hotel Das Tour: Trendy and quirky hotel with uniquely designed rooms, a rooftop bar, and a French-inspired restaurant, offering great value in the Medienhafen area.

🛏️ Best Hostels

3. Stadtmitte: The Shopping and Cultural Hub 🛍️

🛒 Shopping Paradise: Stadtmitte is Düsseldorf’s central shopping district, home to the famous Königsallee, a boulevard lined with luxury boutiques and designer stores. It’s a haven for fashion enthusiasts and those looking to indulge in retail therapy.

🎭 Cultural Attractions: The area boasts a rich cultural scene, with theaters, galleries, and museums offering a variety of artistic experiences. Stadtmitte is the perfect place for culture enthusiasts to immerse themselves in Düsseldorf’s vibrant arts community.

🏨 Luxury Accommodations: Stadtmitte offers a range of high-end hotels and accommodations, providing comfort and convenience for travelers seeking a luxurious stay. The central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the city’s attractions.

🏛️ The Best Sights in Stadtmitte

  • Königsallee: A glamorous shopping street known for its high-end fashion stores.
  • Hofgarten: Düsseldorf’s oldest public park, offering a peaceful retreat in the city center.
  • Kunsthalle Düsseldorf: A contemporary art museum with rotating exhibitions.
  • Capitol Theater: A venue for musicals, concerts, and other performances.

🍽️ The Best Places to Eat in Stadtmitte

  • Breidenbacher Hof: Offers upscale dining with a focus on local ingredients.
  • PÉGA-Das Restaurant: Known for its innovative international cuisine.
  • Carlsplatz Market: A bustling market with a variety of food stalls and local delicacies.
  • Nagaya: A Michelin-starred Japanese restaurant offering exquisite sushi and sashimi.

🚇 Navigating Stadtmitte: The district is well-served by public transport, including trams, buses, and trains, making it easy to reach other parts of the city. The central location allows for convenient access to major attractions and shopping areas, perfect for those who prefer to explore on foot.

🏨 Where to Stay in Medienhafen

⭐ Best Hotels in Stadtmitte

  • Breidenbacher Hof, a Capella Hotel: Luxurious 5-star hotel offering elegant rooms, a spa with indoor pool, and fine dining options. Located in the heart of Düsseldorf, it provides top-notch service and amenities.
  • Steigenberger Parkhotel Düsseldorf: Upscale hotel with a rich history, featuring classically decorated rooms, a gourmet restaurant, and a prime location near the Königsallee shopping boulevard.

🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

  • Sleep Inn Düsseldorf Suites: Comfortable suites with kitchenettes, ideal for both short and extended stays. Offers good value for money in a central location.
  • Centerapartments Premium DeLuxe: Modern, well-equipped apartments providing a home-away-from-home experience with added luxury touches. Perfect for those seeking more space and independence.
  • Apartment Düsseldorf City: Cozy and affordable apartments in the city center, offering basic amenities and a convenient location for exploring Düsseldorf.

🛏️ Best Hostels

4. Oberbilk: A Family-Friendly Retreat 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

🌳 Green Spaces: Oberbilk is known for its abundance of parks and green spaces, providing a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. It’s an ideal area for families and nature lovers looking to enjoy outdoor activities.

🏡 Residential Charm: This neighborhood offers a more residential feel, with charming streets and local cafes. It’s a great place to experience Düsseldorf’s local culture and community life.

🎢 Family Attractions: Oberbilk is home to several family-friendly attractions, including theme parks and zoos, making it a perfect destination for those traveling with children.

🏛️ The Best Sights in Oberbilk

  • Volksgarten: The largest park in Düsseldorf, offering playgrounds and picnic areas.
  • Mitsubishi Electric Halle: A venue for concerts and events, popular with families.
  • Streichelzoo am Sudpark: A small petting zoo perfect for a family day out.
  • K-13 Gallery: A contemporary art gallery showcasing local artists.

🍽️ The Best Places to Eat in Oberbilk

  • Sattgrün: A vegetarian restaurant offering a variety of healthy dishes.
  • Luang Prabang: Known for its authentic Laotian cuisine.
  • Cafe Hüftgold: A cozy cafe serving delicious cakes and coffee.
  • MonDieu: Offers handmade goods and a selection of local delicacies.

🚍 Exploring Oberbilk: The area is well-connected to the rest of Düsseldorf via public transport, with frequent bus and tram services. It’s a peaceful neighborhood to explore on foot or by bike, offering a relaxing atmosphere for families and those seeking a quieter experience.

🏨 Where to Stay in Oberbilk

⭐ Best Hotels in Oberbilk

🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

🛏️ Best Hostels

  • Hotel Am Volksgarten: Budget-friendly hotel near Volksgarten park, offering basic comfortable rooms and a convenient location for exploring Oberbilk and surrounding areas.
  • Apart2Stay: Affordable apartment-style accommodation providing a balance between hostel prices and hotel comfort. Suitable for budget-conscious travelers seeking more privacy and space than traditional hostels.

5. Bilk: A Budget-Friendly Haven 💰

🏠 Affordable Accommodations: Bilk is known for its budget-friendly accommodations, making it an attractive option for students and young travelers. The area offers a variety of hostels and affordable hotels.

🎓 Student Vibe: With its proximity to universities and colleges, Bilk has a youthful and vibrant atmosphere. The neighborhood is filled with student-friendly cafes, bars, and entertainment venues.

🎨 Cultural Hotspot: Bilk is home to several cultural institutions and art spaces, providing a rich cultural experience for visitors interested in exploring Düsseldorf’s creative scene.

🏛️ The Best Sights in Bilk

  • Botanical Garden: A peaceful oasis with a diverse collection of plants and flowers.
  • Savoy Theater: A historic theater hosting a variety of performances and events.
  • Zakk: A cultural center offering concerts, exhibitions, and workshops.
  • Südpark: A large park with walking trails and recreational facilities.

🍽️ The Best Places to Eat in Bilk

  • Café Fleur: Known for its brunch menu and cozy atmosphere.
  • DreiRaum: Offers a mix of international and German dishes.
  • Café Velo: A bike-themed cafe serving organic coffee and snacks.
  • Sattgrün: A popular spot for vegetarian and vegan options.

🚲 Getting Around Bilk: Bilk is easily accessible by tram and bus, with several stops throughout the neighborhood. The area is bike-friendly, making cycling a convenient option for exploring the local attractions and nearby areas.

🏨 Where to Stay in Bilk

⭐ Best Hotels in Bilk

🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

  • Downtown Apartments Bilk: Affordable apartments in the Bilk district, providing a comfortable stay with easy access to public transportation and local amenities. Suitable for budget-conscious travelers looking for a home-like experience.

🛏️ Best Hostels

  • Downtown Suite: Centrally located suite offering a balance between hostel affordability and hotel comfort. Ideal for solo travelers or couples looking for a more private budget-friendly option in Düsseldorf’s downtown area.

6. Friedrichstadt: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity 🏙️

🏛️ Historical Architecture: Friedrichstadt is known for its beautiful historical buildings, offering a glimpse into Düsseldorf’s architectural past. The area is a blend of traditional charm and modern development.

🛍️ Shopping and Dining: The neighborhood boasts a variety of shops and restaurants, catering to diverse tastes and preferences. It’s a great place for those looking to enjoy a mix of local and international cuisine.

🎭 Cultural Scene: Friedrichstadt is home to several theaters and cultural venues, providing a rich cultural experience for visitors interested in the arts.

🏛️ The Best Sights in Friedrichstadt

  • St. Peter’s Church: A stunning example of neo-Gothic architecture.
  • K21 Ständehaus: A contemporary art museum with a unique glass dome.
  • Savoy Theater: Offers a range of performances, from plays to concerts.
  • Volksgarten: A nearby park perfect for leisurely walks and picnics.

🍽️ The Best Places to Eat in Friedrichstadt

  • Restaurant Setzkasten: Known for its innovative dishes and stylish setting.
  • Ristorante Maranello: Offers authentic Italian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
  • Tokyo Lounge: A Japanese restaurant with a wide selection of sushi and sashimi.
  • Meat Atelier: A steakhouse known for its high-quality meats and elegant decor.

🚶‍♂️ Discovering Friedrichstadt: The area is well-connected by public transport, with several tram and bus lines running through the neighborhood. Its central location makes it easy to explore on foot, with many attractions and dining options within walking distance.

🏨 Where to Stay in Friedrichstadt

⭐ Best Hotels in Friedrichstadt

🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

🛏️ Best Hostels

  • Down-Town-Oasis: Centrally located hostel offering a peaceful retreat in the bustling downtown area, ideal for budget travelers seeking a social atmosphere.
  • Bellevue Hotel: Budget-friendly hotel providing basic amenities and a convenient location for exploring Düsseldorf.
  • Stilvolle Wohnung Zentrum: Stylish apartment in the city center, offering a more upscale hostel alternative with the privacy and amenities of an apartment.

Where to Stay in Düsseldorf

Düsseldorf offers a diverse range of neighborhoods, each with its unique charm and attractions. Whether you’re a first-time visitor seeking historical and cultural experiences, a luxury traveler looking for modern architecture and fine dining, or a budget-conscious student in search of affordable accommodations, Düsseldorf has something for everyone.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to visit Düsseldorf?

The best time to visit Düsseldorf is from May to September when the weather is mild and pleasant, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city.

How easy is it to get around Düsseldorf using public transportation?

Düsseldorf has an excellent public transportation system, including trams, buses, and trains. The city is well-connected, making it easy to navigate between different neighborhoods and attractions.

Are there any must-try local dishes or restaurants in Düsseldorf?

Some must-try local dishes include Düsseldorfer Senfrostbraten (mustard-roasted pork), Rheinischer Sauerbraten (marinated beef stew), and Reibekuchen (potato pancakes). For traditional Altbier, head to breweries like Füchschen, Uerige, or Zum Schlüssel.

What are some top attractions that shouldn’t be missed in Düsseldorf?

Don’t miss the Altstadt (Old Town) with its historic buildings and lively atmosphere, the Medienhafen with its stunning modern architecture, the Rhine Promenade for scenic river views, and the Königsallee for luxury shopping.

Are there any budget-friendly accommodations in the city center of Düsseldorf?

While the city center tends to have more expensive accommodations, there are some budget-friendly options, particularly in the Bilk neighborhood. Hostels and budget hotels can be found in various parts of the city, offering affordable alternatives for cost-conscious travelers.