The expert's experience: Ian's trip to Dusseldorf

'Delightful Dusseldorf'

Ian, who is one of our Travel Experts based in Newcastle, was recently invited on a trip to Dusseldorf with Newcastle airport for the Christmas markets. He describes his experience below:

 

'A quick 1hr 10min direct flight from Newcastle and we were touching down in Dusseldorf. On arrival the airport experience was very smooth, as quickly as we disembarked the aircraft, through passport control our baggage was already on waiting for us all very efficient and a perfect stress-free way to start the trip. 
 

 

Getting from the Airport into the city is very easy, a direct train (the S11) takes only ten minutes and you are in the main station Hauptbahnhof, once at the station you are walking distance to most areas, also the system is well connected for onward trains and trams if they are needed. 

 

This is a compact city yet it is bursting with so much to do, including river cruises, art and culture experiences and is very popular for football packages. All of this is very accessible on foot, or if you want to take it easier you can use the public transport with underground trains, overground trams and local buses too.  

 


Dusseldorf is a traditional city but with a modern touch, the main shopping street is home to many major well-known brands, but after a short walk down towards the River Rhine you reach the traditional old town, with its historic buildings, quaint narrow streets, independent local shops, bars, restaurants and cafes. Outdoor cafe culture is strong here, perfect for taking a rest and enjoying the local cuisines whilst watching the hustle and bustle of the town. 
 

 

There are five Christmas markets in Dusseldorf, which are spread out across the town, but all flow perfectly from one to the next.  The market stalls are all of a traditional wooden stall style, decorated and lit up to get you in the Christmas spirit.  You can see all the local festive products many of them handmade crafted products, also plenty of stalls selling the local foods, including Bratwurst and then to keep you warm you can either indulgent in a delicious hot chocolate or try the local gluhwein.  When you are shopped out the fun continues with the outdoor ice rink for skating, you can also try your hand at curling, then finish off by seeing the city all illuminated for the heights of the big wheel found down by the riverside. 
 

 

Düsseldorf Tourist Board recommend: 

• 24h-Ticket HopOn Hop Off € 18 / adult -> 24h-Ticket HopOn HopOff Ticket Adult | Düsseldorf Tourismus Special offers (duesseldorf-tourismus.de) 

• Art:walk48:  € 25 / adult -> Art:walk48 (duesseldorf-tourismus.de) 

• Düsseldorf in 120 minutes: € 169 / group -> *NEW:* Düsseldorf in 120 minutes | Düsseldorf Tourismus Tours (duesseldorf-tourismus.de) 

• DüsseldorfCard / adult: from € 11,90 -> Düsseldorf Card - free local transport and discounts. (duesseldorf-tourismus.de) 

 

In summary, the journey is very quick and easy, the city is amazing and steeped in local history, art and culture and also boasting a beautiful riverside and I look forward to returning in the future.'

Fancy a trip to Dusseldorf? Get in touch with us!