Düsseldorf Altstadt
Düsseldorf's Altstadt, the 'longest bar in the world,' offers a vibrant mix of historic charm, lively pubs, and the scenic Rhine Promenade.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Düsseldorf Altstadt
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Düsseldorf's Altstadt, the 'longest bar in the world,' offers a vibrant mix of historic charm, lively pubs, and the scenic Rhine Promenade.
"The Altstadt is a must-visit for its buzzing nightlife and the unique experience of hopping between countless pubs."
🍻 Longest Bar Experience
Hop between the numerous pubs in the Altstadt for a true 'longest bar' experience. Try local Altbier!
🍣 Taste of Little Tokyo
Explore Immermannstraße for authentic Japanese snacks, ramen, and unique groceries.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rhine Promenade
Along the Rhine River
Stroll along the scenic riverfront, enjoy sunset views, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Perfect for photos!
Little Tokyo
Immermannstraße
Experience a slice of Japan with authentic eateries, supermarkets, and unique snacks. A must-visit for foodies!
Burgplatz
Central Altstadt
A picturesque square with the historic Düsseldorf Castle Tower, perfect for people-watching and enjoying the city's heart.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the 'Longest Bar in the World'
Navigating the Old Town Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🍻 Longest Bar Experience
Hop between the numerous pubs in the Altstadt for a true 'longest bar' experience. Try local Altbier!
🍣 Taste of Little Tokyo
Explore Immermannstraße for authentic Japanese snacks, ramen, and unique groceries. +1
🚶♀️ Walk the Rhine Promenade
Enjoy stunning sunset views along the Rhine. Great for photos and a relaxing evening stroll.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
Cobblestone streets are common, so wear comfy footwear for exploring the Altstadt.
Tips
from all over the internet
🍻 Longest Bar Experience
Hop between the numerous pubs in the Altstadt for a true 'longest bar' experience. Try local Altbier!
🍣 Taste of Little Tokyo
Explore Immermannstraße for authentic Japanese snacks, ramen, and unique groceries. +1
🚶♀️ Walk the Rhine Promenade
Enjoy stunning sunset views along the Rhine. Great for photos and a relaxing evening stroll.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
Cobblestone streets are common, so wear comfy footwear for exploring the Altstadt.
cashless payment issues
Some establishments, especially smaller bars, might be cash-only. Always have some Euros handy.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise Düsseldorf Altstadt for its vibrant atmosphere, especially the 'longest bar in the world' experience and the scenic Rhine Promenade. The unique Japanese quarter, 'Little Tokyo,' is a highlight for foodies. However, some find the area can get overwhelmingly crowded on weekends, and payment methods can sometimes be inconvenient.
"We loved our panoramic cruise on the river!! It was a one hour cruise that allowed us to see more of Cologne that we would have been able to see on foot. Highly recommend this tour!"
April Zawlocki
"A bit confusing to where the meet point was. But the ease of access once established was good. Beer was affordable and the commentary whilst on the boat was good in both German & English!
We picked an excellent day for it, 6pm in the evening & sunny with the sun going down over the Rhyne!! Good value, good atmosphere & well worth the money for they memory's made!!
Definitely worth the money.
As an adage, get there early in the line so you can get the best seats, it can be a bit of a free for all to get the best seats, but don't worry if you get stuck on the side, the ship turns so you get the opposite view on the return."
Daniel Doherty
"KD is the largest Rhine cruise line but the experience needs to improve. First, we didn't have cash for onboard drinks as the staff cannot accept digital payments. This was embarrasing as the year is 2025 and even public toilets across Europe accept credit cards! There is no Wifi on board (again, the year is 2025). We ended up using ChatGPT to understand the sites we were seeing along our tour as the narration is garbled, hard to hear and rather incomplete. KD needs to make serious upgrades to the experience."
Chris Bowler
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Altstadt is easily accessible by public transport. Take trams or buses to stations like 'Heinrich-Heine-Allee' or 'Altstadt'. The main train station (Hauptbahnhof) is a short tram ride away. Many visitors also arrive via the Rhine river cruises.
Parking in the Altstadt itself can be challenging and expensive. Several multi-story car parks are available nearby, such as 'Tiefgarage Schadowstraße' or 'Parkhaus Kö-Bogen'. Consider public transport to avoid parking hassles.
It's about a 20-30 minute walk from Düsseldorf Hauptbahnhof to the Altstadt. Alternatively, you can take a tram (lines 704, 705, 706, 708, 709) which will get you there in about 5-10 minutes.
Yes, the Rhine Promenade is a popular disembarkation point for Rhine river cruises, offering scenic views as you arrive.
The Altstadt is best explored on foot. Its narrow streets and hidden courtyards are best discovered by wandering. Wear comfortable shoes!
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Altstadt itself is a public area and does not require an entrance ticket. You only need tickets for specific attractions within or near the Altstadt, such as museums or boat tours.
The Altstadt is always open as it's a public district. However, individual shops, restaurants, and bars have their own operating hours, with many bars staying open late into the night.
The Rhine Promenade is a public walkway and is free to access at all times. Enjoy the views and atmosphere without any cost.
Yes, booking river cruises in advance is recommended, especially during peak season. You can often book online through the cruise line's website or third-party providers.
Many attractions are free, including walking the Rhine Promenade, exploring Burgplatz, and simply soaking in the atmosphere of the historic streets.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
Key sights include the Rhine Promenade for sunset views, Burgplatz with its castle tower, and the vibrant streets filled with pubs. Don't miss 'Little Tokyo' on Immermannstraße for a unique cultural experience.
This nickname refers to the high concentration of pubs and bars in the Altstadt, creating a continuous stretch of drinking establishments. It's a popular spot for bar hopping.
The Altstadt is known for its lively and bustling atmosphere, especially on weekends. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, with a vibrant nightlife.
Absolutely! The Rhine Promenade offers fantastic sunset shots, Burgplatz provides historic backdrops, and the colorful buildings of the Altstadt itself make for great photos.
Consider a Rhine river cruise for city views, exploring the Japanese quarter ('Little Tokyo') for unique snacks, or joining a guided walking tour to uncover hidden history.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Altstadt is renowned for its traditional pubs serving hearty German fare and, of course, the local 'Altbier' (old beer). Immermannstraße offers a fantastic array of Japanese cuisine.
Head to Immermannstraße, often called 'Little Tokyo,' for authentic ramen, sushi, and other Japanese specialties. +1
While traditional pubs focus on meat dishes, many restaurants in and around the Altstadt now offer vegetarian and vegan options. Exploring Immermannstraße also yields plant-based choices.
Altbier is a dark, top-fermented beer brewed in Düsseldorf. It has a rich, malty flavor and is a must-try when visiting the Altstadt.
While some restaurants can be pricey, you can find more affordable options in the smaller pubs and eateries, especially for traditional German dishes. Street food and bakeries also offer budget-friendly choices.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning sunset shots along the Rhine Promenade, the historic Düsseldorf Castle Tower at Burgplatz, and the vibrant street scenes of the Altstadt. The colorful buildings and lively atmosphere offer endless photographic possibilities.
The 'golden hour' just before sunset offers beautiful lighting for the Rhine Promenade. Weekday mornings can be great for capturing architectural details without crowds.
Definitely! The Rhine Tower, the Rheinuferpromenade, Burgplatz with its castle tower, and the historic Rathaus (City Hall) are iconic photo spots.
Yes, river cruises offer unique perspectives of the city skyline and landmarks from the water. Be sure to get a spot near a window or on the open deck.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for street scenes and landmarks. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the expansive Rhine Promenade. Don't forget a tripod for low-light or sunset shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look out for seasonal events like Christmas markets or the summer 'Rollnacht' (inline skating night) which can be exciting for older children. While the Altstadt's nightlife is geared towards adults, daytime exploration offers plenty of family-friendly activities and sights.
💰 Budget Travelers
For dining, explore Immermannstraße for budget-friendly Japanese eateries and supermarkets offering delicious and affordable snacks. Bakeries and smaller cafes also provide good value for meals. Consider packing some snacks and water to save on costs throughout the day.
couples
Consider a relaxing Rhine river cruise for a shared experience with beautiful city views. Explore the charming streets of the Altstadt, discover hidden cafes, and perhaps enjoy a tasting of local Altbier together. The vibrant nightlife offers plenty of options for a lively evening out.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring 'Little Tokyo'
Beyond the groceries, Immermannstraße is a culinary paradise for lovers of Japanese cuisine. From steaming bowls of ramen and delicate sushi to savory okonomiyaki and sweet mochi, the options are endless. Many restaurants offer a cozy and authentic dining experience, making it a perfect spot for lunch or dinner. It's a cultural immersion that delights the senses and offers a unique perspective on Düsseldorf's international flair.
The Charm of the Rhine Promenade
During the day, you'll see people jogging, cycling, or simply enjoying the fresh air. As evening approaches, the promenade transforms into a lively hub, with street performers, outdoor cafes, and the magical glow of the setting sun painting the sky. It's also a popular starting point for Rhine river cruises, offering a different perspective of the city from the water.
During the Christmas season, the promenade often features festive markets and a giant Ferris wheel, adding a magical touch to the winter months. It's a versatile space that embodies the spirit of Düsseldorf, offering beauty and activity year-round.
Düsseldorf's 'Longest Bar in the World'
The undisputed star of the Altstadt's drinking scene is Altbier, a dark, top-fermented beer brewed locally. Many pubs brew their own Altbier, each with a slightly different taste profile. Bartenders, known as 'Köbes,' often serve Altbier with a practiced efficiency, and it's customary to be served a fresh glass as soon as you finish your current one, unless you place a coaster on top of your glass.
While the Altstadt is famous for its nightlife, it's also a historic and charming area to explore during the day. The narrow cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and lively squares offer a rich tapestry of culture and history. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and perhaps pace yourself if you plan to experience the full extent of the 'longest bar'!
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit