About the Port
Düsseldorf sits along the Rhine River, an affluent city long celebrated for its art galleries, museums, and fashion houses. Once dubbed "Little Paris" by Napoleon, it pairs elegant boulevards and luxury shopping with a compact, atmospheric old town packed with traditional pubs and bars. Along the riverfront, the Medienhafen harbor precinct contrasts centuries-old quay walls and warehouses with bold contemporary architecture, giving the city a striking blend of historic and modern character.
The old town lies within easy walking distance of the river, making it simple to explore on foot between galleries, churches, and market squares. Düsseldorf also serves as a convenient gateway for exploring the Rhine region further, with Cologne and its landmark cathedral reachable along the same waterway. The city rewards travelers with time to wander, offering a refined but approachable introduction to western Germany.
Pavlus Recommendations
How our planners would spend a day in Dusseldorf.
Explore the Medienhafen Waterfront
Wander among Gehry's curved silver buildings and converted brick warehouses along the old harbor quays, a short walk or taxi ride from the old town and a striking contrast of architectural eras.
Shop the Königsallee
Stroll this tree-lined boulevard split by a canal, lined with designer boutiques and grand 19th-century buildings, for a taste of the city's 'Little Paris' elegance.
Day Trip to Cologne Cathedral
Take the train along the Rhine (about 30 minutes) to see the twin-spired Gothic cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; climb its tower for panoramic river views if time allows.
Cruise Lines That Call Here
Cruises That Visit Dusseldorf
| Departs | Cruise Line | Ship | Itinerary | Nights | From |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jul 26, 2026 | Scenic Cruises | Scenic Pearl | 17 | $10,620 | |
| Jul 26, 2026 | Scenic Cruises | Scenic Pearl | 21 | $12,930 | |
| Jul 26, 2026 | Scenic Cruises | Scenic Pearl | 17 | $10,620 | |
| Jul 29, 2026 | Scenic Cruises | Scenic Pearl | 14 | $9,395 | |
| Jul 29, 2026 | Scenic Cruises | Scenic Pearl | 18 | $11,705 | |
| Jul 29, 2026 | Scenic Cruises | Scenic Ruby | 28 | $28,380 | |
| Aug 1, 2026 | Uniworld | S.S. Victoria | 14 | $11,199 | |
| Aug 5, 2026 | Tauck River | ms Grace | 10 | $8,640 | |
| Aug 9, 2026 | Tauck River | ms Grace | 10 | $8,290 | |
| Aug 11, 2026 | AMA Waterways | AmaStella | 11 | $6,709 | |
| Aug 12, 2026 | Scenic Cruises | Scenic Ruby | 14 | $9,395 | |
| Aug 13, 2026 | AMA Waterways | AmaViola | 13 | $7,409 | |
| Aug 13, 2026 | AMA Waterways | AmaLucia | 7 | $4,299 | |
| Aug 13, 2026 | AMA Waterways | AmaViola | 13 | $7,659 | |
| Aug 15, 2026 | AMA Waterways | AmaStella | 7 | $4,549 | |
| Aug 15, 2026 | AMA Waterways | AmaViola | 7 | $4,549 | |
| Aug 15, 2026 | AMA Waterways | AmaPrima | 11 | $6,559 | |
| Aug 15, 2026 | Uniworld | S.S. Victoria | 14 | $12,399 | |
| Aug 16, 2026 | AMA Waterways | AmaSiena | 11 | $6,809 | |
| Aug 17, 2026 | AMA Waterways | AmaCerto | 12 | $7,189 |
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