A Travel Price Comparison for Germany Hannover vs. Dusseldorf for Food, Nightlife, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Hannover or Dusseldorf?

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 Hannover and Dusseldorf. 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.

Hannover

Hannover is a dynamic, diverse, and vibrant city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

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.

Hannover and Dusseldorf: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Hannover or Dusseldorf?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dusseldorf. Although Hannover and Dusseldorf are roughly the same size, Dusseldorf has more sights and attractions for tourists. Dusseldorf is more popular for its food and historical sights, while Hannover is known for its nightlife. Hannover is popular for its many parks and gardens as well as its accessibility to the German train system. Dusseldorf is popular for its music and art scene, as well as being the fashion capital of Germany. It is also home to Altstadt (the Old Town).

How is Hannover different from Dusseldorf?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Hannover
Dusseldorf

Spend time exploring the good sights and museums in either Hannover or Dusseldorf.

Hannover is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. You'll see many of the city's sights along the Red Thread Trail in the city center. Make sure you check out the New Town Hall, the Royal Gardens of Herrenhausen, and the Lower Saxony State Museum as well.

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

Hannover
Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Hannover is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Dusseldorf. 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).

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Hannover. You'll find classic tearooms, food halls, fine dining restaurants, and markets. Try all of the classic German sausages or sample international dishes in this dynamic city.

Is Hannover or Dusseldorf Better for Nightlife?

Hannover
Dusseldorf

Hannover is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Hannover know how to have a good time. There are many students who keep the nightlife scene active. From beer halls to jazz venues, you'll find a diversity of options around town.

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 Hannover or Dusseldorf Better for its Old Town?

Hannover
Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is a great city for its historic old town. Also, Hannover is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of 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.

Many people head to Hannover to see the old town. Check out the half-timbered buildings, the old churches, and the charming streets around old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Hannover or Dusseldorf?

Hannover
Dusseldorf

If you're looking to go shopping, Hannover and Dusseldorf both offer plenty of good spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Hannover. Head to the 14th-century Market Church (Marktkirche) and wander around the nearby streets for some of the city's best shopping. Also make sure you check out the city flea market. In addition to boutiques and independent shops, there are also major department stores and large shopping malls in the area.

Dusseldorf offers some nice shopping areas. 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 Hannover or Dusseldorf Better for Families?

Hannover
Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Hannover is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Dusseldorf is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Hannover is a family-friendly place to visit. Like many German cities, there are a number of activities geared specifically to kids. Check out the Sea Life Center or the Hannover Zoo. If you're willing to get out of town a bit, there's also Serengeti Park Hodenhagen or Rasti-Land theme park, which has rides and games.

Is Hannover or Dusseldorf Better for Couples?

Hannover
Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is a great city for romance. Also, Hannover is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

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.

Hannover makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Romantic settings around town include Herrenhäuser Gärten, Berggarten, and Maschpark.


Is Hannover or Dusseldorf Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hannover
Dusseldorf

For backpackers, both Hannover and Dusseldorf are good places to visit.

Plenty of backpackers visit Hannover. Some people use the city to split up longer train trips. There are a couple of hostels in town if you decide to stay a night or two.

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 Hannover or Dusseldorf Better for Students?

Hannover
Dusseldorf

Hannover is a great destination for students. However, Dusseldorf is not popular with students.

Many students visit Hannover. There are a few great universities in town including Leibniz University, which attract international students. There's also a nice nightlife and easy accessibility to the rest of Germany.

Dusseldorf is not popular with students.

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

Hannover
Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Hannover is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

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.

Hannover has some very good public transit options. The city has 12 city trains and 38 bus lines.


Is Hannover or Dusseldorf a more walkable city?

Hannover
Dusseldorf

Hannover and Dusseldorf are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Hannover is very walkable. There are some nice walkable parts to the city.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Dusseldorf or Hannover?

How long in Hannover or Dusseldorf?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Hannover and Dusseldorf. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Dusseldorf than in Hannover. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Hannover, and 2-3 days is enough time in Dusseldorf.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dusseldorf than Hannover 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 Dusseldorf.


  • How many days in Hannover or Dusseldorf? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hannover 1-2 
    Dusseldorf 2-3

One day in Hannover or Dusseldorf?

With museums and nightlife around the diverse city of Hannover, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hannover, one day is sufficent for most.

The city of Dusseldorf offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Hannover or Dusseldorf?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Hannover, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Dusseldorf is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Dusseldorf, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Hannover or Dusseldorf?

Hannover, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Dusseldorf is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Hannover or Dusseldorf?

Hannover is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Dusseldorf is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Germany, The Best Oktoberfest Tours in Germany, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, and The Best Adventure Tours to Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Dusseldorf or Hannover?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Hannover is €155, while the average daily cost in Dusseldorf is €185. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Hannover and Dusseldorf in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hannover 85
    Dusseldorf 95
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hannover 170
    Dusseldorf 190
Compare Hotels in Hannover and Dusseldorf

Looking for a hotel in Hannover or Dusseldorf? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Hannover


Hotels in Dusseldorf


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Hannover Hotel Prices and Dusseldorf Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hannover 23
    Dusseldorf 1.63

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hannover

Also for Hannover, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Direct Transfer From Wolfsburg to Hamburg; English Speaking Driver: $288
  • Private Transfer From Hannover to Hamburg With Sightseeing Stops: $269
  • Private Transfer From Hannover to Hamburg, English Speaking Driver: $211
  • Private Transfer From Hanover City to Bremen City: $94

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dusseldorf

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dusseldorf:

  • Private Transfer from Dusseldorf Airport (DUS) to IJmuiden Port : $142
  • Private Transfer from Dusseldorf City Hotels to IJmuiden Port: $142
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Dusseldorf DUS Airport to City by Sedan: $92
  • Sedan Transfer from Dusseldorf to Train Station or Cruise Port: $92
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Dusseldorf to Airport DUS in Luxury Car: $86
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Luxury Car: $85
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Dusseldorf to Airport DUS in Luxury Van: $77
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Luxury Van: $76
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Business Car: $73
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Dusseldorf to Airport DUS in Business Car: $73
  • Dusseldorf Arrival Private Transfers from Airport DUS to Dusseldorf: $73
  • Dusseldorf Airport (DUS) to Dusseldorf - Arrival Private Transfer: $49

Is it cheaper to fly into Hannover or Dusseldorf?

Prices for flights to both Dusseldorf and Hannover change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Hannover 49
    Dusseldorf 76

Typical Food Prices in Dusseldorf

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Dusseldorf:


  • Salami
    1.99
  • Nutella
    1.00
  • Yogurt
    1.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Dusseldorf

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Dusseldorf.

  • Culinary Flingern – The Food Tour: $48

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hannover 35
    Dusseldorf 25

Tours and Activities in Hannover

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Hannover.

  • Guided tour of the New Town Hall in Hanover: $11
  • Guided tour of the Royal Herrenhausen Gardens: $13
  • On the trail of crime - Hannover's Crime Tour: $18
  • Hanover: SEA LIFE Entry Ticket: $20
  • SEA LIFE Hannover Ticket: $21
  • Hop-on hop-off tour in Hanover in a double-decker bus: $22
  • Fritz Haarmann murder tour through Hanover's old town: $33
  • Hanno(ver)nascht Culinary city tour: $40
  • Culinary bike tour: $41
  • Hanover: Private Walking tour with A Guide (Private Tour): $120
  • Virtual reality experience in Langenhagen: $130
  • Personal Travel and Vacation Photography Tour in Hannover: $196

Tours and Activities in Dusseldorf

Here are a few actual costs in Dusseldorf for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Beer tour with tasting in Dusseldorf: $34
  • Best Intro Tour of Dusseldorf with a Local: $141
  • City game scavenger hunt Düsseldorf - independent city tour I discovery tour: $43
  • City game scavenger hunt Duisburg - independent city tour I discovery tour: $43
  • Düsseldorf 2-Hour Evening Cruise: $27
  • Düsseldorf Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.05
  • Düsseldorf Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Düsseldorf Segway Rhein Tour: Rhine River Experience: $86
  • Düsseldorf Segway Tour: Classical City Experience: $86
  • Düsseldorf Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Düsseldorf Sightseeing round-trip Cruise: $19
  • Duisburg Private Guided Walking Tour: $256

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hannover 34
    Dusseldorf 23

Typical Alcohol Prices in Dusseldorf

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Dusseldorf are as follows:


  • Night Out Drinking
    25

Sample the Local Flavors in Dusseldorf

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Dusseldorf:

  • Brewery Tour Düsseldorf in English (inc. 3 beer): $29


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hannover and Dusseldorf, we can see that Dusseldorf is more expensive. And not only is Hannover much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hannover would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hannover 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 Dusseldorf would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dusseldorf than you might in Hannover.

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


Which is Bigger, Hannover or Dusseldorf?

Dusseldorf has a larger population, and is about 16% larger than the population of Hannover. When comparing the sizes of Hannover and Dusseldorf, 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 Hannover or Dusseldorf?

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 Hannover or Dusseldorf in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Hannover as well as Dusseldorf. The summer months attract visitors to Hannover because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Dusseldorf this time of year.

Hannover is around the same temperature as Dusseldorf in the summer. The daily temperature in Hannover averages around 18°C (64°F) in July, and Dusseldorf fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In the summer, Hannover often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dusseldorf. Hannover gets 198 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dusseldorf receives 195 hours of full sun.

Hannover usually gets less rain in July than Dusseldorf. Hannover gets 62 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hannover 18°C (64°F) 
    Dusseldorf 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Hannover or Dusseldorf in the Autumn?

Both Dusseldorf and Hannover are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Hannover this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dusseldorf for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Hannover is cooler than Dusseldorf. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hannover in October average around 10°C (51°F), and Dusseldorf averages at about 12°C (53°F).

Hannover usually receives less sunshine than Dusseldorf during autumn. Hannover gets 104 hours of sunny skies, while Dusseldorf receives 112 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Hannover usually receives less rain than Dusseldorf. Hannover gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hannover 10°C (51°F) 
    Dusseldorf 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Hannover or Dusseldorf in the Winter?

Both Dusseldorf and Hannover during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Hannover for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Dusseldorf in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Dusseldorf can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Hannover. In January, Hannover is generally much colder than Dusseldorf. Daily temperatures in Hannover average around 1°C (33°F), and Dusseldorf fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Hannover often gets less sunshine than Dusseldorf. Hannover gets 42 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dusseldorf receives 45 hours of full sun.

Hannover usually gets less rain in January than Dusseldorf. Hannover gets 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hannover 1°C (33°F) 
    Dusseldorf 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Hannover or Dusseldorf in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Hannover and Dusseldorf. Many visitors come to Hannover in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Dusseldorf for the activities around the city during these months.

Hannover is cooler than Dusseldorf in the spring. The daily temperature in Hannover averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and Dusseldorf fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Hannover usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Dusseldorf during spring. Hannover gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Dusseldorf receives 155 hours of full sun in the spring.

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


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hannover 8°C (47°F) 
    Dusseldorf 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Dusseldorf and Hannover

Hannover Dusseldorf
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (33°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 3°C (37°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 1°C (35°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 3°C (38°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 5°C (40°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (44°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 50 mm (2 in) 9°C (48°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 62 mm (2.5 in) 14°C (57°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 17°C (62°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 62 mm (2.5 in) 19°C (66°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Aug 17°C (63°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 19°C (66°F) 62 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 14°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 10°C (51°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 12°C (53°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 7°C (44°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 4°C (40°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)


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