Tips for Finding an Apartment in Dusseldorf
Dusseldorf is known globally as a commercial powerhouse and is unquestionably one of the leading business cities in Germany. Hence, the influx of keen young professionals looking to hit the ground running with a new job and a furnished apartment can be intimidating for new arrivals. Here you can get an idea of the most popular neighbourhoods while searching for a short-term rental in Dusseldorf.
Living in Dusseldorf-Stadtmitte
Stadtmitte is a good choice for new residents looking to live at the heart of the action or close to the office. Both the city’s cultural and financial centre, Stadtmitte has a lot to offer in terms of business and entertainment.
The Dusseldorf-Stadtmitte Neighbourhood
Shoppers in Stadtmitte flock to the Königsallee, the city’s best shopping street with a wide variety of luxury boutiques. Additionally, culture fans enjoy the Schauspielhaus (theatre), which is a modern architectural landmark of its own. Without having to leave the city centre, those in Dusseldorf on business also benefit from their proximity to financial influencers WestLB, also known as the central bank of North-Rhine Westphalia, and the stock exchange.
Rent Prices in Dusseldorf-Stadtmitte
Given its role as a business centre of the highest order, it is hardly surprising that Stadtmitte is one of the more expensive areas in Düsseldorf with prices around €950 - €1.380 per month for a furnished one-bedroom apartment.
Living in Dusseldorf-Eller
In contrast to Stadtmitte, Eller is an area with a local feel. It is a great environment for young families looking for a quiet, residential district. Highlights include the largest skatepark in Germany, which caters both to professionals and beginners. It even has a dedicated skate area for kids.
The Dusseldorf-Eller Neighbourhood
Eller is laid out somewhat like a town within the city. The area has its own unofficial centre in Getrudisplatz, which is home to a central landmark, the district’s local church. The area includes a range of high-rise apartments that are contrasted with smaller, older buildings for an eclectic aesthetic.
Rent Prices in Dusseldorf-Eller
With many large apartment buildings in the area, Eller offers short-term rentals in Dusseldorf at a more affordable rate than business districts such as Stadtmitte. The average prices are between €800 - €1.200 per month for a furnished one-bedroom apartment.
Living in Dusseldorf-Bilk
Bilk is a popular area amongst young people due to its role as the home of Heinrich-Heine-University. Yet Bilk is not only a residential area - with both the Kunstsammlung, with its impressive selection of art, and the Botanical gardens situated here, tourists and new citizens like to visit as well.
The Dusseldorf-Bilk Neighbourhood
Bilk is a fairly lively area that is home to a wide range of cafes and restaurants as well as several nightclubs. Its impressive cityscape has a sharp and unusual contrast between smaller and older buildings like the Alte Bilker Church and newer colossi such as the Rheinturm telecommunications tower.
Rent Prices in Dusseldorf-Bilk
Located in District 3, which is the most densely populated district in the city, tenants can expect to pay an average of €780 - €1.300 per month for a furnished one-bedroom apartment.
Living in Dusseldorf-Gerresheim
Gerresheim is one of the oldest areas in the city and is located at the Eastern edge of the municipality. It has its own unique style and aesthetic thanks to the fact that it was an independent city until it merged with Dusseldorf in 1909.
The Dusseldorf-Gerresheim Neighbourhood
Gerresheim is considered to be a hidden gem in the city and is ideal for singles or older professionals looking for a quiet area. The neighbourhood is a great choice for culture buffs who enjoy a local exploration, as the area is chock full of lesser-known historical sights, theatres, art galleries, and even a Belgian chocolatier.
Rent Prices in Dusseldorf-Gerresheim
Prices in Gerresheim are generally lower than those in central areas (such as Stadtmitte and Bilk) due to its distance from the city centre, but higher than other suburbs due to its desirability. Expect prices around €800 - €1.250 per month for a furnished one-room flat.
Living in Dusseldorf
The first days in a new city can be hard to navigate. Here are some tips for getting to know the city and its services.
Transport in Dusseldorf
Whether you prefer navigating new cities by bike, by train, or by car, Dusseldorf offers options for all three. Not only is there a robust public transport network, but innovative bike and car-sharing schemes are available as well.
Public Transport
Train services in Dusseldorf can be broken down into U-Bahn (underground) and S-Bahn (overground). U-Bahn trains are best-suited for getting around the city, while S-Bahn services travel faster and can connect you to different districts quickly. All tickets are purchased from the Rheinbahn and cover many tram and bus services as well. A day ticket covering both buses and trains can cost as little as €7.30 and as much as €30, depending on the zones you wish to cover.
Taxi
While taxis are more expensive than car sharing, they are convenient for your first few days or for a trip to the airport. The price starts at a base fare of €4.50 and you pay an additional price of €2.20 per kilometre.
Sightseeing in Dusseldorf
There is no shortage of sights and experiences in Dusseldorf. Here are some of the things to see and do while you are here.
The Altstadt (Old Town)
The Altstadt or 'Old Town' of Dusseldorf is a small section at the heart of the city that is filled with culinary and drinking delights. Some 260 different pubs and restaurants line the street known as the 'longest bar in the world', and a range of art galleries and museums are also located here.
The Alter Golzheimer Friedhof (Old Golzheim Cemetery)
Golzheimer Friedhof is a cemetery no longer in use, with famous tombstones now listed as historical monuments. Residents include the painters Otto Rethel, Christian Sell, and sculptor Dietrich Meinardus.
The Carlsplatz Market
This farmers’ market is an evolved version of a traditional market. Not only are fruits and vegetables sold, but there is also a wine stand and even gourmet chefs are selling their dishes here.
Königsallee
For those who want to go on a luxury shopping spree in beautiful surroundings, the Königsallee or 'Kö' is an upscale shopping avenue that is lined with an impressively landscaped canal.
The Embankment Promenade
This stretch of the street-lined riverfront reaches its zenith during the summer months when a Mediterranean spirit arises in visitors who like to drink coffee, enjoy meals, and soak up some sun.
Schloss Benrath (Benrath Palace)
This Baroque-style palace offers visitors a chance to take in remarkable architecture as well as garden art and natural history exhibits all less than 30 minutes away from the city centre.
The Rheinturm (Rhine Tower)
The tallest building in Dusseldorf, the Rhine Tower, is a 240.5-metre telecommunications tower similar to the TV tower of Berlin. An observation deck that is open to the public offers impressive vistas of the city.
Nordpark's Japanese Garden
Just north of the city lies Nordpark, which contains a Japanese botanical garden. Designed by the Japanese community in Dusseldorf it offers tranquillity with its trimmed firs and still ponds.
Useful Services in Dusseldorf
As a vibrant financial city, Dusseldorf is filled with a number of useful services that help residents and short-term guests get more out of their life here.
Car Sharing
Car sharing is a great way to get the benefits of a premium vehicle without high costs. Share Now offers a number of BMWs, Minis, Smarts, and more. You will be charged by the minute and prices are all-inclusive.
Food Delivery
For new citizens who have just arrived and want to enjoy restaurant-quality food from the comfort of their short-term rental, delivery is an optimal choice. Lieferando is an online delivery website that connects at-home diners with food from the best restaurants in the city.
Cleaning Service
Starting a new job in a new city can mean that daily chores like cleaning your apartment can get put on the long finger. Mr.Cleaner is an easy and flexible way to get your apartment cleaned with minimal effort and commitment.
Gym Membership
De-stressing at the end of a long day is best done at the gym. Fitness First is a gym with multiple locations in Dusseldorf including one with a 2.800 square metre pool and various fitness classes. For a premium gym close to work or your apartment in Düsseldorf, take a look at the website of the Urban Sports Club.
FAQs
Do apartments in Germany come furnished? ›
In Germany, most long-term apartments are unfurnished – by unfurnished, this means that there are often no curtains, light fittings or even a kitchen! By opting for a furnished, short-term apartment, you will have all the furnishings you need for a comfortable start in Germany.
What does a fully furnished flat include? ›What is the meaning of fully furnished? Fully furnished flat or apartment means any space that is equipped with basic as well as luxurious amenities like electricals, fridge, AC, and even some furniture.
How much money do you need to live in Dusseldorf? ›Summary of cost of living in Dusseldorf, Germany: A family of four estimated monthly costs are 3,851.5$ (3,503.9€) without rent. A single person estimated monthly costs are 1,111.0$ (1,010.7€) without rent.
How much is rent in Dusseldorf? ›| Rent | Price |
|---|---|
| Furnished flat outside the city (85m2) | €1,306 |
| Furnished studio in the city centre (45m2) | €942 |
| Furnished studio outside the city centre (45m2) | €755 |
| Private room in a shared flat | €550 |
In Germany, unfurnished flats are the norm; it's very unusual to find furnished accommodation. Those that are furnished are more geared towards the holiday market and short-term lets, and come at a premium.
Can I rent an apartment in Germany as a foreigner? ›You'll need the following required documents for renting in Germany as a foreigner: Your ID or passport. A Mietschuldenfreiheitsbescheinigung—a document to prove you don't owe previous landlords money. Your potential landlord might not ask for this but it's best to have it if possible.
Does a fully furnished apartment include a TV? ›At the least, a living room within a furnished apartment will include a couch, coffee table, end table and lamps. The end table may double as a desk, ideal for those who need a home workspace. A chair, ottoman or bookshelf may also be present, as well as electronics such as a TV (possibly a smart TV) or stereo system.
What to expect in a fully furnished? ›Fully furnished and equipped – In this instance, all household items are included: everything from kitchen utensils and cutlery to beds and desks. Fully furnished – You, as the landlord, provide all the furniture to the tenant that would expect to live freely and easily without buying all the items themselves.
What is the difference between fully furnished and semi furnished flats? ›While unfurnished houses do not usually have light and fans installed, furnished properties are like serviced apartments with every amenity you would like. A semi-furnished home is a kind of in the middle with light and fan fixtures and cupboards, cabinets and shelves in most cases.
Can you live with $1,000 a month in Germany? ›Can I live on 1000 euros a month in Germany? What is the cost of living in Germany? It would be hard to get by for less than €1,000 a month in Germany, and this rises to around €1,500€ - €2,000€ in the cities where rents are higher. Students can usually cover living costs for around €850 a month.
What is a good salary to live comfortably in Germany? ›
This can vary depending on your lifestyle and location, but generally speaking, it's safe to say that a salary of €70,000 to €80,000 per year is considered more than comfortable in Germany.
What is a good salary to live in Germany? ›Is 60.000 Euros A Good Salary In Germany? 60.000 euros a year in Germany is considered a good gross salary as it is well above the average salary of 47.700 euros a year for the whole country. Most Germans who earn 60.000 euros or more are very happy with their salary.
How much is rent in Germany in US dollars? ›Housing Costs in Germany
A one-bedroom apartment in the city center of the Bavarian capital ranges from USD$1,227-$1,500, while a three-bedroom rents for USD$2,201-$2,690. Outside the city center, prices drop significantly.
Additionally, the city is known for its high quality of life, with a low crime rate and a wide variety of recreational activities. On the other hand, the cost of living in Dusseldorf is relatively high, and the weather can be unpredictable.
Where do expats live in Dusseldorf? ›Bilk is the most populated part of Düsseldorf; here you'll find lots of foreigners and also students, as the university is nearby. There's a great underground scene, plus nightlife as well as lots of green.
Do German apartments come with kitchens? ›In Germany, apartments do not always come with a furnished kitchen. The kitchen will be completely empty. You must install your own kitchen counter and sink. Einbauküche or EBK means that the apartment comes with a furnished kitchen.
What are the unique characteristics of German apartments? ›German houses and apartments usually have no built-in closets or storage space. Closet cabinets (furniture) are used instead. A clothes washer and dryer are common in American houses and apartments. A clothes dryer is far less common in German houses and apartments.
Do apartments in Germany have air conditioning? ›Most apartments in Berlin (and the rest of Germany) do not have air conditioners. There are a few exceptions though– Some very modern, expensive luxury flats have them. However, it is safe to say that you won't need air conditioning anyway.
What is Germany's housing like? ›Most Germans live in multi-family houses with up to ten apartments. Roughly one quarter live in large housing blocks or high-rise buildings and one third in single-family homes. Statistically, each household consists of two people. Roughly one in six Germans lives alone.