The Best Day Trips From Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf itself has plenty to offer its many visitors, but people rarely venture beyond the city border. We’ve had a look at what there is to do in the region and compiled a list of ideas for day trips, in case you find yourself with an extra day to spare.

1. Cologne

Cathedral

People in Dusseldorf might be reluctant to recommend a trip to Cologne due to the fierce yet somewhat jokey rivalry between the two cities, but it’s certainly worth it. Cologne is among Germany’s oldest cities with remnants of the Roman Empire scattered across the city. It’s most commonly known for its jaw-dropping cathedral, the Karneval celebrations and the local brew Kölsch.

Cologne Cathedral, Domkloster 4, Cologne, Germany

Roermond

The Dutch town just across the border is a magnet for shopping enthusiasts. A huge designer outlet with 186 stores lures shoppers with heavily discounted clothes and accessories by major brands from Adidas to Versace. If you’re a shopper and a foodie, you might want to check out Restaurant ONE at the Roermond harbour which spoils its guest with eight-course gourmet dinners.

Designer Outlet, Stadsweide 2, Roermond, Netherlands

2. Zeche Zollverein

Museum

The Ruhr region just north of Dusseldorf describes an urban area, previously known as a dominant coal mining region in Germany. The town of Essen is home to what’s often referred to ‘the world’s most beautiful coal mine’. The Zeche Zollverein XII was established in 1846 and after 140 years ceased operation. Today, the industrial complex is listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site, with exhibitions, events and a fascinating museum depicting the history and importance of the region

Zeche Zollverein, Essen, Germany

3. Maastricht and Valkenburg

Maastricht often falls under the radar of tourists, as the Dutch city is wedged in the southeastern-most corner of the Netherlands. Built on the remains of a 2,000-year-old Roman settlement, several noteworthy sights have emerged over the centuries, including the 17th-century City Hall and the Romanesque Basilica of Our Lady. Another highlight is the underground labyrinth of tunnels, casemates and caves which can be explored on a guided tour. If you head to Maastricht for a day, plan some extra time to stop at the neighbouring town of Valkenburg and its hill castle.

Maastricht, Netherlands

4. Dyck Castle

Approximately 25 kilometres west of Dusseldorf you’ll find one of the best preserved castles in the Rhineland region. The moated Dyck castle dates back to 1094 but was extended in 1658, and baroque elements were added in the 18th century. Today, it’s open to the public and a day is well spent exploring the rooms and beautiful gardens.

Schloß Dyck, Jüchen, Germany

5. Skihalle Neuss

Bar

What if we told you, you could go skiing 20 minutes outside of Dusseldorf? Well, you can. A quick drive takes you to the Jever Fun Skihalle indoor ski piste that has everything you need for a day of winter sports fun – snow, ski lift, sledge run, equipment rental and an aprês-ski bar.

Jever Fun Skihalle, An der Skihalle 1, Neuss, Germany

6. Langenfeld

Another option for a sporty, action-packed day trip waits for you in Langenfeld, some 20 kilometres south of Dusseldorf. The waterski and wakeboard cable park is open year-round, though hours vary each season. Beginners can book a slot on one of the courses which will teach you the basics. If you’re heading there in a group, you might even want to book a cable for yourselves.

Langenfeld Wasserski, Baumberger Straße 88, Langenfeld, Germany

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.