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How to Get to Duisburg

How to Get to Duisburg

Duisburg North Rhine-westphalia, Germany Travel Guide

Air Travel

Major Airports & Airlines

Duisburg has no international airport, but several major airports serve the region, providing excellent connections. Flight costs are generally rise during summer and around major holidays.

Closest Airports & Carriers

  • Düsseldorf Airport (DUS): Closest (25 km), major international hub (Lufthansa, Eurowings, Ryanair, KLM).
  • Dortmund Airport (DTM): 50 km east, low-cost carriers (Wizz Air, Ryanair, easyJet).
  • Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN): 80 km south, diverse flights (Eurowings, Ryanair, Lufthansa).

Airport Transfers to Duisburg

Efficient transfer options connect the airports to Duisburg, mainly by train.

Transfer Details

  • From DUS: Direct local trains (RE, S-Bahn S1) to Duisburg Hbf (10-15 min).
  • From DTM: Shuttle bus to Dortmund Hbf, then train to Duisburg Hbf (approx. 1 hour).
  • From CGN: Direct regional/intercity trains that go to Duisburg Hbf (45-60 min).

Flight Deals

Check Dollar Flight Club for great flight deals to the region.

Compare Flights

Use Skyscanner to compare routes and prices from various airlines efficiently.

Best Value Flights

Shoulder seasons (April-May, Sep-Oct) often provide better flight value than peak the summer season or holidays.

Airport Facilities & Services

Standard Amenities

  • Variety of stores and eateries.
  • Car rental desks.
  • Currency exchange and ATMs.
  • Lounges and free Wi-Fi access.

Comfort & Convenience

  • Cafes and dining options for every taste.
  • Comfortable waiting areas.
  • Family-friendly facilities.
  • Accessibility attributes for all travelers.

Quick Airport Transfer Tip

Düsseldorf Airport DUS

Purchase train ticket to Duisburg Hbf right at the airport's train station.

Regional Trains

Regional trains from DUS are frequent and offer the quickest transfer to Duisburg.

Flight Compensation

If flights are delayed or canceled, AirHelp can assist with compensation claims.

Land Transportation

Train Travel to Duisburg

Germany’s extensive and efficient land transportation network makes reaching Duisburg by train a convenient choice.

Duisburg Hbf & Connections

  • Duisburg Hauptbahnhof (Duisburg Hbf) is a major railway junction in the Ruhr Area.
  • Excellent connections to major German cities (Cologne, Düsseldorf, Berlin) and international destinations (Amsterdam, Brussels).
  • Book "Sparpreis" (saver fare) tickets in advance on Deutsche Bahn for discounts.

Long-Distance Buses

Long-distance buses offer a budget-friendly alternative to train travel, though typically with longer journey times.

FlixBus & Services

  • FlixBus is the main long-distance bus operator in Germany.
  • Duisburg has a FlixBus stop, connecting to various German and European cities.
  • Generally a cheaper alternative to trains.

Self-Driving & Car Rentals

Driving offers flexibility, but be aware of particular requirements and regulations.

Requirements & Rules

  • Driving License: Valid national license + International Driving Permit (IDP) for non-EU/EEA citizens.
  • Rules Of the road: Drive on the right. Seatbelts are required. Speed limits enforced.
  • Environmental Zones: Duisburg requires a green environmental sticker (grüne Plakette).

Road Conditions & Car Rental Companies

Germany's roads are well-maintained. Major international car rental companies operate in Duisburg.

Roads & Rentals

  • Road Conditions: Generally excellent, including Autobahn network.
  • City Driving: Heavy traffic and not much parking in city centers.
  • Rental Companies: Sixt, Europcar, Hertz, Avis, Budget, DiscoverCars.com.

Border Crossing Information

  • Germany shares land borders with nine countries within the Schengen Area.
  • Generally abolished internal border controls between Schengen states.
  • Always carry your passport or valid ID, as random checks can occur.
  • Zero-tolerance alcohol policy for new drivers, 0.05% BAC for experienced drivers.
  • Consider parking outside city centers and using public transport for urban exploration.
  • Environmental zones restrict vehicle access without proper stickers.

Sea/River Arrivals

Duisburg-Ruhrort Port

Duisburg's identity is inextricably linked to its rivers, specifically the Rhine. Its port holds unique significance, mainly for cargo.

Port Functions & Connectivity

  • World's largest inland port (Duisport), mainly handling cargo.
  • Important logistical hub for Europe.
  • Well-integrated into the city's public transport network.

River Transportation & Tours

Although not a conventional tourist entry point by sea, river cruises offer an unique perspective on the city's waterfront.

Cruises & Immigration

  • River cruises on the Rhine occasionally stop at Duisburg or nearby cities.
  • Sightseeing boat tours operate on the Inner Harbour and Rhine.
  • No separate immigration procedures for typical tourists arriving by river within Schengen.

Port Tour

Consider a port tour to experience the sheer scale of Duisburg-Ruhrort Port.

Unique Insight

This tour offers an unique insight into a working industrial landscape.

Riverine Views

Enjoy sightseeing boat tours for an alternative perspective on the city's waterfront.

Departure Information

Exit Procedures & Fees

Germany typically does not charge separate exit fees or taxes at its airports or land borders. These fees typically incorporate into your flight or travel ticket price. You should expect no additional charges upon departure.

Timing Recommendations

  • Airports (Schengen): Arrive at least 2 hours before scheduled departure.
  • Airports (Non-Schengen): Arrive 2.5-3 hours before for international flights.
  • Train/Bus Stations: Get there at LEAST 15-30 minutes before departure.

Security & Facilities

Expect standard security screening procedures at airports. For non-Schengen departures, you will also travel through passport control.

Airport/Station Amenities

  • Airports: Full range of facilities, including duty-free shops, restaurants, cafes, lounges.
  • Wi-Fi, currency exchange, ATMs for convenience.
  • Duisburg Hbf: Various shops, eateries, newsstands for departing travelers.

Reconfirm Travel Details

Check Flight Status

Reconfirm your flight schedule 24-48 hours before departure.

Train/Bus Updates

Verify train or bus schedules for any potential delays or changes.

Stay Informed

This helps you stay informed about any potential delays or changes to your travel plans.

Departure Readiness

Allow ample time for airport procedures, particularly for overseas flights. Train and bus travel typically involves less rigorous checks.