Public Transportation: Dusseldorf

Transit System Overview

Düsseldorf's public transport system is well-integrated and efficient, operated by Rheinbahn AG as part of the VRR network.

Düsseldorf Hauptbahnhof is the central hub for all types of public transport. Heinrich-Heine-Allee is an important U-Bahn and tram interchange.

Transit Types

U-Bahn (Underground/Tram-train): Combines underground sections with street-level tram lines.
Trams (Straßenbahn): Surface tram lines good for shorter distances within the city.
Buses: Extensive network, including NightExpress services throughout the night on weekends.
S-Bahn (Suburban Rail): Connects Düsseldorf with surrounding towns and cities, and to Düsseldorf Airport.

Hauptbahnhof

The central hub for all public transport types.

Heine-Allee

Important U-Bahn and tram interchange in the city center.

Route Maps

Obtain maps at Rheinbahn customer centers or online. Google Maps is good for real-time routing.

Ticket Options

Single & Multi-Trip

Single Tickets (Einzelticket): For one journey within a specific zone.
4-Trip Ticket (4er-Ticket): A set of four single tickets, slightly cheaper per trip.
24-Hour Ticket: Unlimited travel for 24 hours within chosen fare zones. Available for one person or groups.

Special Passes

48-Hour Ticket: Same as 24-hour but valid for 48 hours. Longer durations (72 or 96 hours) are also available.
DüsseldorfCard: Free public transport within Düsseldorf and discounts on museums and attractions. Good for tourists.
Deutschland-Ticket (49-Euro-Ticket): Monthly subscription for unlimited travel on all local and regional public transport throughout Germany (not high-speed trains).

Ticket Purchase & Use

Purchase Points

Buy tickets from machines at U-Bahn stations and major tram/bus stops.

Direct from Driver

Purchase single tickets directly from bus drivers.

Digital Apps

Rheinbahn App or DB Navigator app for digital purchases.

Validation

Always validate paper tickets by stamping them before starting your journey. Fines for unvalidated tickets are substantial.

Public Transport Ticket Comparison

This table shows various ticket options for Düsseldorf's public transport (Preisstufe A/B).

Single & Multi-Trip Options

Einzelticket: Valid for 90 min, 1 trip. Price (approx.): €3.00. Good for a single, short journey.
4er-Ticket: Valid for 90 min/trip, 4 trips. Price (approx.): €11.20. Good for multiple single journeys.
24-Stunden-Ticket (1 Pers): Valid for 24 hours, unlimited in zone. Price (approx.): €7.60. Good for an active sightseeing day.
24-Stunden-Ticket (5 Pers): Valid for 24 hours, unlimited in zone. Price (approx.): €11.40. Good for small groups/families.

Special Pass Options

DüsseldorfCard: Valid for 24/48/72/96 hours, unlimited transport + discounts. Price (approx.): From €15 (24h). Good for tourists visiting multiple attractions.
Deutschland-Ticket (49-Euro-Ticket): Monthly, unlimited regional/local Germany. Price (approx.): €49/month. Good for long stays, extensive regional travel.
Hours of Operation: U-Bahn & Trams: Generally run from early morning (~4:30 AM) until late night (~1:00 AM).
Buses: Similar hours. NightExpress services run throughout the night on weekends and before public holidays.

Specialized Transport & Accessibility

Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tours: Available and give an overview of the city's main attractions with informative commentary.
Rhine River Cruises: Various operators offer scenic cruises on the Rhine. These are mainly for sightseeing.
Accessibility Services: Many buses and newer trams feature low-floor designs. Some U-Bahn stations have lifts.

Taxis often accommodate wheelchairs, but it is advisable to call in advance.
Many public buildings and attractions are improving accessibility.
No cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport systems due to the city's flat topography.

Rental Options

Car Rental

To rent a car, you typically need to be at least 21 years old and possess a valid driving license. A major credit card for deposit. IDP is good. Major companies operate.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Less common for tourists within Düsseldorf. Specialized rental shops offer them. You will need an appropriate motorcycle license.

Bicycle Sharing

Nextbike is a popular bike-sharing system. Register through the app, locate a bike, unlock it, and pay per minute/hour/day. Local bike shops also offer rentals.

Taxi & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing services provide convenient alternatives to public transport, especially for direct routes or late-night travel.

Licensed Taxis

Identification: Taxis in Düsseldorf are typically cream-colored, with a "TAXI" sign on the roof.
Hailing: Hail a taxi on the street if its "TAXI" light is on. Find them at designated taxi stands or order by phone/app.
Fares: Metered. Starting fare around €3.50-€4.50, then €2.00-€2.50 per kilometer.
Payment: Pay with cash or card. Good to ask if paying by card beforehand.

Ride-Sharing & Safety

Recommended Apps: FREE NOW (popular, licensed taxis). Bolt (traditional taxis and private hire). Uber (operates, often connects to licensed taxis).
Safety (Taxis): Licensed taxis are generally very safe and operate under regulation. Drivers are professional.
Safety (Apps): Apps offer tracking features and driver information. Always confirm driver and vehicle details before entering.
Be aware of surroundings and personal belongings.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian Areas

Altstadt, Königsallee, MedienHafen, Hofgarten, and Rhine Promenade are excellent for walking.

Enjoy exploring on foot.

Walking Tours

Many companies offer themed walking tours (historical, brewery, architecture). Online resources and guidebooks provide self-guided routes.

Guided and self-guided options.

Bicycle Infrastructure

Düsseldorf has a growing network of bike lanes. Cycling is popular and generally safe. Helmets are recommended (not mandatory).

Cycling is a good way to get around.

Road Use & Safety

Driving Laws & Etiquette

Drive on the right-hand side. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
Daytime running lights are good. Turn headlights on during poor visibility.
Strict adherence to traffic lights, signs, and right-of-way rules.

Parking & Environmental Zones

Parking in the city center is limited and often expensive. Look for underground garages or Park-and-Ride facilities.
The Düsseldorf city center is an environmental zone. Vehicles must display a "green sticker" to enter.
Illegal parking can result in fines and towing.

Important Safety Reminders

Drink-driving limits are strict in Germany (0.05% Blood Alcohol Content).
Traffic jams can occur during rush hour, specifically around major cities and on Autobahns.
No specific "no-go" areas for pedestrians or cyclists exist, but crowded areas can be challenging for cycling during peak times.
Always be aware of conditions and traffic.

Driving on the Autobahn needs attention due to the potential for high speeds.
Always keep right unless overtaking on the Autobahn.
Industrial areas might not be as pleasant for walking or cycling.
Use hand signals to indicate turns when cycling.

Efficient Travel

Düsseldorf's public transport system is highly efficient. Consider a DüsseldorfCard for easy movement and savings on attractions.

For city exploration, walking or cycling along the Rhine promenade and through the Altstadt offers scenic views and a relaxed experience.

Public Transportation