Düsseldorf has no iconic attractions and the Rheinturm is its only major landmark. Its K20 Kunstsammlung NRW art collection is undoubtedly world class but the real attraction of the city is the Altstadt and its huge range of places to eat and drink, which has earned it the nickname of ‘the longest bar in the world.' On a summer's evening, when the whole Altstadt parties alfresco, the atmosphere is more akin to a Mediterranean resort than a north European banking metropolis.

An attractive promenade now runs the whole way from the Altstadt to the recently developed uber-trendy Media Hafen, featuring world-class architecture by Frank Gehry and co. When the sun shines the Altstadt riverfront is the place to be, boarding a river cruise, feasting on locally caught fish, drinking Düsseldorf Altbier or maybe chilling out with your feet in a mini paddling pool in the Havana Bar, listening to salsa while watching the Rhine barges passing to and fro.

Düsseldorf Tourismus
Website: www.duesseldorf-tourismus.de

There are three tourist offices in the new city: at Immermannstr 65B, opposite the railway station (tel: (0211) 1720 2844); at Berliner Allee 33/corner with Steinstrasse (tel: (0211) 172 02841); and in the Altstadt at Burgplatz 2 (tel: (0211) 172 02840). 

The Düsseldorf Welcome Card gives free or discounted admission to most visitor attractions as well as unlimited travel within the city. Choose between 24-, 48- and 72-hour cards, all available for individuals or families.