Over the years, my parents have visited us in Düsseldorf quite a few times—and by now, we’ve got our must-do list down to a science. Whether it’s their first time or their tenth, we love mixing a bit of sightseeing, food, and relaxing strolls with some easy day trips. If you’ve got family visiting and want to show off the best of the city (and beyond), here’s our go-to list of places I take my parents when they visit Düsseldorf—organized, laid-back, and parent-approved.
1. Explore the Altstadt (Old Town)
We like to start with a walk down the cobblestone streets, maybe stopping at Mandelbrennerei Gagliardi for roasted almonds. Then it’s time for food—my dad loves the pork knuckle sandwich from Schweine Jane’s, while my mom prefers the full pork knuckle and Altbier at Füchschen. Vegetarians? Pinocchio or Lupo have great pizza. Don’t miss Löwensenf for mustard tasting and Uerige for a traditional Altbier, Soleier, and Mettbrötchen.
2. Boat Tour from the Altstadt
Hop on a boat from the Rheinuferpromenade for a cruise through the MedienHafen or even up to Kaiserswerth.
3. Stroll Through Kaiserswerth Old Town
Walk through the Kaiserpfalz ruins and enjoy a drink on the terrace at Galerie Burghof, overlooking the Rhine.
4. MedienHafen to Lorettostraße
We walk along the MedienHafen, stop for drinks at DOX Bar, then head to Unterbilk for Currywurst at Curry or lunch and boutique shopping on Lorettostraße.
5. Kiefernstraße Street Art + History
This colourful street is full of murals, history, and an activist spirit from its squatter roots in the 1980s. It is always a hit with artsy visitors!
6. Unterbacher See Loop Walk
This scenic 6km loop is great for walking, and there’s also swimming, boat rentals, and a Biergarten nearby. Check out 10 more Unterbacher See activities I’ve shared on the blog!
7. Benrath Palace & Gardens
We love grabbing ice cream at Eiscafé am Schloss, sitting by the water, and enjoying the view of Schlos Benrath. Then, it’s time for some strolling around the gardens. Castle tours are also available.
8. Ferry to Zons + Medieval Town
From Benrath, take the Rhine ferry to Zons and explore the fairytale-like walled town with cobblestones and towers.
9. Müngstener Brücke + Schloss Burg Hike
Our go-to active day trip. Hike between the Müngstener Brücke and Schloss Burg (about 10km). Or drive to each. For thrill seekers, book a bridge climb!
10. Kettwig + Peters Bakery
A charming riverside town. We stop for a treat at Peters Bakery or relax at Zwölf Apostel’s Biergarten by the water.
11. Monschau Day Trip
One of my favourite towns in NRW. Cozy cafés, riverside strolls, and fairytale views—it’s well worth the longer drive.
12. Aachener Platz Flea Market
Every Saturday morning in Bilk, this flea market has live music, great street food, and vintage finds.
13. Himmelgeister Strand
Perfect for a relaxed afternoon. We usually grab pizza at Messina Due and sit by the water with ice cream from a nearby spot.
14. Dutch Day Trips – Maastricht, Venlo or Roermond
Maastricht is great for shopping and market days. Or try Venlo for cheese and flowers, and Roermond for outlet shopping. All three are fun “2 countries in one day” kind of trips!
15. Dreiländerpunkt + Labyrinth
Near Aachen, visit the point where Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands meet. Don’t miss the giant labyrinth—it’s technically for kids but definitely a challenge!
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16. Köln Day Trip
We take the train to Cologne for a day of sightseeing. The Kölner Dom is stunning. Grab lunch at Früh em Veedel, and if you’ve got kids with you, visit the chocolate museum.
Want More Day Trip Ideas?
I wrote a full post on the best day trips from Düsseldorf over on Life in Düsseldorf.
Life in Düsseldorf – Day Trips Guide
These spots have become our go-to stops for a reason—they’re easy to reach, fun for all ages, and show off the best of Düsseldorf and its surroundings. Whether you’ve got parents visiting or just want to rediscover your own city, I hope this list inspires a few great days out.
Have a favourite I didn’t mention? Let me know in the comments!
