Passing time at an unfamiliar airport can be a real drag. That’s why we put together this list of 8 things to do on a layover at Düsseldorf Airport to help you make the most of your time.
1. Enjoy a meal
Choose from over 30 eateries here to start your layover on the right note. You’ll find plenty of cafes, plus bars and sit-down restaurants serving German, Italian, and American, plus sushi, deli sandwiches, and baked goods. The Rewe City Market sells groceries and fresh produce, located in the Arrivals Hall. For overnight campers, one eatery inside Security and two pre-Security are open 24-hours.
2. Hang out in a lounge
Plan on eating, drinking, relaxing, and getting online during your layover? Make it easy and do it all in one place! Three airport lounges here are available to any traveller, no matter your airline or class flown. For a single fee, you can access food, drinks, WiFi, news and TVs, and maybe even shower facilities – all in a peaceful environment. Simply pre-book your visit online or use your lounge membership program to gain entry. See our Düsseldorf Airport Guide for locations and details.
3. Shop
Nearly 40 shops here can help you while away significant time. Window shoppers and big spenders will like the many high-end boutiques here, including the German brand van Laack. Of course, you’ll find plenty of usual airport shops, like tech stores, convenience shops and newsstands, and Duty Free areas.
4. Tour the airport
Flying fanatics will enjoy a tour of the airport, with behind-the-scenes views and entrance to the observation deck and the SkyTrain. Tours are offered 4 times/day, Mondays through Fridays: 9:00AM, 11:30AM, 2:30PM, and 5:00PM, and twice on Saturdays: 10:30AM and 1:00PM. Tours last for 90-120 minutes and the rate is €9.50 for adults and €6 for children.
5. Watch the flights take off and land
Head to the Observation deck’s visitor terrace for great views of the airport action from Pier B. The terrace is open daily, with entrance fees at €2.20 per person. (Bonus for summer travellers: on July weekends, the OpenAirportCinema event plays outdoor movies on a large screen, against the backdrop of the airport.)
6. Go sightseeing
The airport is located just a few kilometers north of the Düsseldorf city center, so your best option for passing time during your layover may be leaving the airport behind. As long as you have at least 6 hours before your next flight, exploring the city is definitely doable and fun!
The most affordable way to the city is by S-Bahn train, which departs from the airport’s train station frequent and the S11 route will have you downtown in 17 minutes. Taxis will cost a bit more, but do provide door-to-destination service. Other trains and buses serve area destinations.
Once in the city center. Head to the Rheinufer, the historic city centre that contrasts against the city’s modern, innovative architecture. Stroll along the Rhine River or opt for a short ferry ride for pleasant views. Do some high-end window browsing along the tree-lined Koningsallee. Take in both classic and local artwork at the Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen. The Auto enthusiasts will love a visit to Classic Remise Dusseldorf, a small, free museum with a range of historic cars. Farther afield, tour the Schloss Benrath, a Baroque castle built in the 1760s and capped with lovely gardens.
Don’t forget to leave plenty of time to make it back to the airport, pass through Security, and reach your next flight.
7. WiFi
WiFi is free, but you may also opt to pay for upgraded/premium options.
8. Sleep
Rather just spend your layover napping? Airport staff here are generally tolerant of sleepers, whether day or night. If you’re inside Security, you should be able to find some seats without armrests. Pre-Secure, travellers report that the check-in areas are more comfortable than the Arrivals Hall. A few hotels are located nearby, including two within walking distance that offer day rooms. See our Düsseldorf Airport Guide for details and locations.
These are just a few things to do on a layover at Düsseldorf Airport. Visit our Düsseldorf International Airport Guide for more information about more services and facilities available, such as food, WiFi, mobile charging, luggage storage, nearby airport hotels, and much more.
