Welcome to Düsseldorf in the Spring!
Travel Dates: March, April, May
Spring in Düsseldorf can be quite varied, so layering is your best bet. Start with a short sleeve shirt and add a warm jacket or sweater for the cooler mornings and evenings, especially in March and April. As the weather warms up in May, lighter layers will suffice, but it’s always a good idea to have a rain jacket on hand for those sudden spring showers. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring Düsseldorf’s charming streets, especially the picturesque Altstadt and the scenic Rhine River Promenade.
Dress Code
Düsseldorf is known for its chic yet understated fashion scene, so packing stylish yet practical clothing is key. During the day, casual yet polished outfits like jeans or lightweight pants paired with a nice top will work well for exploring the city and enjoying its outdoor cafes. For evenings, particularly if you’re dining out or attending a cultural event, consider smart casual attire—a dress or tailored trousers with a stylish blouse is perfect. Düsseldorfers have a keen eye for fashion, so opt for classic, well-fitted pieces that you can easily dress up or down depending on the occasion. Comfortable shoes are a must, especially for walking along the cobblestone streets of the Altstadt or shopping on Königsallee.
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MARCH
37 – 52F (3 – 11C)
Cool, partly cloudy, occasional rain
2.5 inches of rain
APRIL
41 – 59F (5 – 15C)
Mild, partly sunny, with showers
2.4 inches of rain
MAY
48 – 66F (9 – 19C)
Mild, sunny, with light rain
2.8 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for staying comfortable during Düsseldorf’s mild spring afternoons. I loved having these for exploring the Rhine River Promenade.
2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Great for cooler mornings and evenings, especially when strolling through the Altstadt.
3. Warm Jacket: Essential for the cooler days, especially in March and April.
4. Rain Jacket: Important for the occasional spring showers, particularly in April and May.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Jeans: Comfortable and versatile, perfect for casual outings and exploring the city. These were great for walking around the shopping district of Königsallee.
2. Pants: Lightweight pants are useful for both day and evening, providing comfort in mild weather.
3. Skirt: A stylish option for casual dining or a day out in Düsseldorf’s trendy neighborhoods.
4. Dress: A versatile piece that can be dressed up or down, perfect for evenings out in Düsseldorf’s vibrant Altstadt.
5. Jumpsuit: Great for a chic, all-in-one outfit that’s comfortable and perfect for Düsseldorf’s fashionable scene.
6. Leggings: Ideal for cooler evenings or if you plan to do any outdoor activities like walking along the Rhine River. I liked having leggings for the cooler mornings.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Comfortable Walking Shoes: Essential for exploring Düsseldorf’s many attractions and outdoor sites. I found these to be really practical for long days on my feet.
2. Flats: A stylish yet comfortable option for casual outings or dining out.
3. Sunglasses: A must for those sunny spring days, especially when spending time outdoors along the Rhine River.
4. Hat: Great for sun protection during outdoor activities and while exploring the city.
5. Scarf: Useful for adding a stylish touch to your outfit and for extra warmth on cooler days.
6. Swimsuit: Essential if you’re planning to visit a hotel pool or take a day trip to nearby spa towns.
7. Pajamas: Comfortable sleepwear for mild spring nights in Düsseldorf.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Perfect for a weekend getaway, with enough space for your essentials and a few outfits.
2. Daypack: Useful for carrying water, snacks, and extra layers while exploring the city or taking a day trip.
3. Purse: Handy for carrying your essentials when going out for dinner or attending events.
4. Tote Bag: Great for carrying additional layers, shopping, or purchases from local markets.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Layering is key: Düsseldorf’s spring weather can vary, so pack layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.
- Rain gear: Showers are common, so a small umbrella or a light rain jacket is a good idea.
- Smart casual: Düsseldorf has a stylish yet practical vibe, so pack outfits that can transition from day to night.
- Comfortable footwear: The city is best explored on foot, so bring comfortable walking shoes that are also suitable for casual dining or sightseeing.
Düsseldorf Spring Travel FAQs
WHICH SPRING MONTH IS THE BEST TO VISIT DÜSSELDORF?
May is the best month to visit Düsseldorf during spring, with warmer temperatures and vibrant events like Japan Day.
WHAT SPRING FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN DÜSSELDORF?
March: ProWein – One of the world’s leading trade fairs for wines and spirits, held in Düsseldorf.
April: Düsseldorf Photo Weekend – A weekend dedicated to photography exhibitions, workshops, and events across the city.
May: Japan Day – A popular cultural festival celebrating Japanese culture with food, music, and a spectacular fireworks display along the Rhine River.
May: Jazz Rally Düsseldorf – A lively jazz festival featuring performances across various venues in the city.
May: Rhine in Flames – A stunning fireworks and music event held along the Rhine River.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN DÜSSELDORF IN THE SPRING?
Spring in Düsseldorf is the perfect time to explore the city’s cultural and outdoor attractions. Start your day with a walk along the Rhine River Promenade, where you can enjoy views of the river and the city’s skyline. Next, head to Königsallee, Düsseldorf’s famous shopping street, where you can browse luxury boutiques and relax in stylish cafes. In the afternoon, explore the Altstadt (Old Town), known for its historic buildings, vibrant bars, and the longest bar in the world. Don’t miss a visit to the Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen, one of Germany’s most important art museums, where you can see works by Picasso, Klee, and other modern masters. If you’re visiting in May, be sure to experience Japan Day, a cultural festival celebrating Japanese culture with food, music, and a spectacular fireworks display along the Rhine River. End your day with dinner at a traditional German restaurant, where you can enjoy local specialties like Altbier and Rheinischer Sauerbraten.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT DÜSSELDORF IN THE SPRING?
A 5-7 day visit is ideal for experiencing the best of Düsseldorf in the spring, including its cultural events, historic sites, and beautiful riverfront.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: Day 1: Start with a morning walk along the Rhine River Promenade, then explore the Altstadt (Old Town) in the afternoon. In the evening, enjoy dinner and drinks at one of the local bars. Day 2: Spend the morning shopping on Königsallee, followed by a visit to the Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen art museum in the afternoon. End the day with a relaxing evening at a rooftop bar overlooking the city.
5 Days: Copy the itinerary of the 2-day schedule. Add: Day 3: Visit the Düsseldorf Zoo and the nearby Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum, where you can learn about marine life and biodiversity. In the afternoon, explore the MedienHafen district, known for its modern architecture and trendy restaurants. Day 4: Take a day trip to the nearby town of Kaiserswerth, where you can visit the historic ruins of the Kaiserpfalz and enjoy a walk along the Rhine. Day 5: Spend the day relaxing at one of Düsseldorf’s thermal baths, such as the Vabali Spa, where you can unwind with a view of the city.
1 Week: Copy the itinerary of the 5-day schedule. Add: Day 6: Explore the Benrath Palace and its beautiful gardens, followed by a boat cruise on the Rhine River. In the afternoon, visit the Rheinturm, Düsseldorf’s iconic TV tower, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city. Day 7: Take a day trip to the charming town of Zons, where you can explore the well-preserved medieval architecture and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local café.
10 Days: Copy the itinerary of the 1-week schedule. Add: Day 8: Spend the day at the Museum Kunstpalast, which houses a collection of European art, including works by Rubens and Caravaggio. In the evening, return to Düsseldorf for a relaxing night. Day 9: Visit the Classic Remise Düsseldorf, a unique center for vintage and classic cars, followed by a tour of the NRW-Forum, a museum dedicated to contemporary art and photography. Day 10: Revisit your favorite spots or discover new areas, ending with a final dinner at one of Düsseldorf’s top-rated restaurants.
2 Weeks: Copy the itinerary of the 10-day schedule. Add: Day 11: Take a day trip to the Rhine Valley, where you can visit castles, vineyards, and charming villages along the river. Day 12: Explore the vibrant neighborhood of Flingern, known for its independent shops, art galleries, and cafes. In the evening, attend a live music performance at one of Düsseldorf’s famous jazz clubs. Day 13: Spend the day exploring the nearby city of Cologne, where you can visit the Cologne Cathedral, the Roman-Germanic Museum, and enjoy a walk along the Rhine River. Day 14: Spend your final day revisiting favorite spots, shopping for souvenirs, or enjoying one last meal at your favorite Düsseldorf restaurant.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN DÜSSELDORF?
2 Days
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 1 Warm Jacket
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Pair of Jeans
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
5 Days
- 3 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Warm Jacket
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Pair of Jeans
- 1 Skirt
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 1 Dress
- 1 Jumpsuit
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
1 Week
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Warm Jacket
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Pair of Jeans
- 1 Skirt
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 2 Dresses
- 1 Jumpsuit
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
10 Days
- 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Warm Jacket
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 2 Pairs of Jeans
- 1 Skirt
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Jumpsuits
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
2 Weeks
- 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Warm Jacket
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 2 Pairs of Jeans
- 2 Skirts
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 3 Dresses
- 2 Jumpsuits
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR DÜSSELDORF IN THE SPRING?
Heavy Winter Coats: Düsseldorf’s spring weather is mild to warm, so heavy coats are unnecessary.
High Heels: The city’s cobblestone streets and public transportation are better navigated in comfortable, flat shoes.
Thick Sweaters: The temperatures are mild, so thick sweaters will likely be too warm.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO DÜSSELDORF IN THE SPRING?
Airfare: $600 – $1,200, depending on the departure location and booking time.
Accommodation: $150 – $300 per night, with variations based on the location and hotel class.
Transportation: $20 – $50 for local travel, including public transport and Ubers.
Meals: $50 – $100 per day, depending on dining choices.
Activities: $30 – $80 for museum entrance fees, tours, and other activities.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN DÜSSELDORF? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in Düsseldorf. Around 10% is typical in restaurants, and $1-3 per drink depending on location. Tip $1-2 per bag for hotel bellhops. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare is common practice.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT DÜSSELDORF BEFORE I VISIT?
- Düsseldorf’s spring weather can be unpredictable: Always be prepared for sudden rain, so keep your rain gear handy.
- Public transportation is efficient: The trams, buses, and trains are excellent ways to get around the city.
- The city is very walkable: Bring comfortable shoes and be ready to explore on foot.
- Plan for crowds: Düsseldorf is a popular tourist destination, especially during festivals, so book tickets and reservations in advance for popular attractions.