A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Dusseldorf vs. Paris for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Dusseldorf or Paris?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Dusseldorf and Paris. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is a vibrant, historic, and fun-filled city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Paris

Paris is a beautiful, iconic, and bustling city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Dusseldorf and Paris: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dusseldorf or Paris?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paris than Dusseldorf, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Paris is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Dusseldorf is known for its historical sights. Paris is more touristy than Dusseldorf and is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. It is also home to The Eiffel Tower. Dusseldorf is popular for its music and art scene, as well as being the fashion capital of Germany.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Dusseldorf different from Paris?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Paris and Dusseldorf. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Dusseldorf or Paris?

Paris is very popular for its museums and landmarks. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Paris that are not to be missed. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

Dusseldorf offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are museums, palaces, and many cultural sights. Make sure you check out Schloss Benrath, the Rheinturm, the North Rhine-Westphalia Art Collection, and Museum Kunstpalast.

Is Dusseldorf or Paris Better for Theater?

Paris is very popular for theatre. However, Dusseldorf is not a theatre destination.

Paris is considered to be a world-class theater destination. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Dusseldorf is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Dusseldorf or Paris? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Paris is very popular for its restaurant scene. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Paris, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

Dusseldorf has a huge number of terrific restaurants. You'll find a mix of regional specialties and international restaurant options. Traditional dishes include Rheinischer Sauerbraten (Rhine style marinated roast), Haxe (shin), Flönz (blood sausage), and Ähzezupp (pea soup).

Is Dusseldorf or Paris Better for Nightlife?

Paris is very popular for nightlife. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Paris is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

If you're looking for night time activities Dusseldorf has a few options to choose from. You'll find the highest concentration of bars and pubs in the old town area. Try to find a brewerie where you can try Dusseldorf's famous altbier.

Is Dusseldorf or Paris Better for Music?

Paris is very popular for live music. However, Dusseldorf is not a live music destination.

Paris is a world class music destination. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Dusseldorf is not a live music destination.

Is Dusseldorf or Paris Better for its Old Town?

Dusseldorf is great for its historic old town. However, Paris does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Dusseldorf. The old town is popular for its bars and pubs, which serve up the local altbier. The atmosphere is charming and there are restaurants that spill out onto the streets.

Paris does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Dusseldorf or Paris?

Paris is very popular for shopping. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Paris is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Dusseldorf. Head to the popular shopping street of Königsallee. You'll find luxury brands and boutique shops. The city also has department stores and large shopping malls.

Is Dusseldorf or Paris Better for Christmas?

Paris is very popular for its Christmas activities. However, Dusseldorf does not offer Christmas activities.

Paris is a world class destination for shoppers. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.

Dusseldorf does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Dusseldorf or Paris Better for Families?

Paris is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Paris is very family-friendly. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Dusseldorf is very family-friendly. It has many great playgrounds and parks where kids can run around. Animal lovers will appreciate Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum and Grafenberger Wald which has about 100 animals. If the weather's nice you can head to Unterbacher See, which is a lakefront beach. Other kid-friendly activities in town include the Neanderthal Museum and Museum Kunstpalast.

Is Dusseldorf or Paris Better for Couples?

Paris is very popular for romance. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Paris is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

Dusseldorf is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. There is live theater, spa hotels, historic palaces, and many parks and gardens where couples can enjoy their time together. Popular activities for couples in town include visiting Rheinturm, taking a Rhine River cruise, and exploring Schloss Dyck.

Is Dusseldorf or Paris Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paris is very popular for backpackers. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Paris is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Dusseldorf. There are plenty of hostels and activities around town. There are also affordable restaurants and a nice nightlife scene.

Is Dusseldorf or Paris Better for Students?

Paris is very popular for students. However, Dusseldorf is not popular with students.

Paris is a very popular place to visit for students. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

Dusseldorf is not popular with students.

Is Dusseldorf or Paris Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Dusseldorf and Paris.

Dusseldorf has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. All of the public transportation in town is operated by Rheinbahn. There's a city railway, (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses. Dusseldorf is also easily connected to the many other nearby towns and cities including Cologne.

With a huge network, the transit system in Paris can get you around easily. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

Is Dusseldorf or Paris a more walkable city?

Dusseldorf and Paris both are superb when exploring on foot.

Dusseldorf is very walkable. It's easy to explore most of the city on foot.

Paris is a very walkable city. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Dusseldorf Worth Visiting? and Is Paris Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Paris or Dusseldorf?

How long in Dusseldorf or Paris?

Both Dusseldorf and Paris have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Paris than in Dusseldorf. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Dusseldorf, and 3-7 days is enough time in Paris.

Families should spend more time in Paris than Dusseldorf. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Paris, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Paris than Dusseldorf. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Paris that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paris than Dusseldorf if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Paris.

One day in Dusseldorf or Paris?

In Dusseldorf, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

When visiting Paris, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Dusseldorf or Paris?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dusseldorf. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

When visiting Paris, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Dusseldorf or Paris?

Dusseldorf is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Dusseldorf. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Paris, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Dusseldorf or Paris?

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Dusseldorf. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Paris is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Munich, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Dusseldorf and Paris, we can see that Paris is more expensive. And not only is Dusseldorf much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Dusseldorf would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Dusseldorf and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Paris would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Paris than you might in Dusseldorf.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Dusseldorf Expensive? and Is Paris Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Dusseldorf or Paris?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Dusseldorf. When comparing the sizes of Dusseldorf and Paris, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Dusseldorf or Paris?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Paris in the Summer?

Both Paris and Dusseldorf during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Dusseldorf this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Paris for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Dusseldorf is around the same temperature as Paris in the summer. The daily temperature in Dusseldorf averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Paris fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In Paris, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Dusseldorf often gets less sunshine than Paris. Dusseldorf gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 241 hours of full sun.

Dusseldorf usually gets more rain in July than Paris. Dusseldorf gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Paris receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Paris in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Dusseldorf and Paris. Many travelers come to Dusseldorf for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Paris in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Dusseldorf is cooler than Paris. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Dusseldorf in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Paris averages at about 13°C (56°F).

Dusseldorf usually receives less sunshine than Paris during autumn. Dusseldorf gets 112 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Dusseldorf usually receives around the same amount of rain as Paris. Dusseldorf gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Paris in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Dusseldorf as well as Paris. Many visitors come to Dusseldorf in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Paris for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Paris can be very cold during winter. Dusseldorf can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Dusseldorf is generally much colder than Paris. Daily temperatures in Dusseldorf average around 3°C (37°F), and Paris fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Dusseldorf often gets less sunshine than Paris. Dusseldorf gets 45 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 62 hours of full sun.

Dusseldorf usually gets more rain in January than Paris. Dusseldorf gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Paris in the Spring?

Both Paris and Dusseldorf are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Dusseldorf for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Paris because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Dusseldorf is cooler than Paris in the spring. The daily temperature in Dusseldorf averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Paris fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Dusseldorf usually receives less sunshine than Paris during spring. Dusseldorf gets 155 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Dusseldorf usually receives around the same amount of rain as Paris. Dusseldorf gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Paris receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Paris and Dusseldorf