Düsseldorf

The city on the Rhine is one of Germany's few high-rise centres, but the 240-metre Rheinturm towers over them all. Its traditional architecture, including a collection of churches, contrasts with the modern high-rise areas around MedienHafen.

Düsseldorf's art museums and galleries are among its main attractions, but an  important characteristic is the green spaces that surround it. The small palaces Schloß Benrath and Schloß Jägerhof stand in classic garden surroundings and the tree-lined canal of the Konigsallee runs through the centre. Walking, riding or imbibing along the Rhine pathway is also popular.

Not far away to the north is the medieval castle ruin on the river at Kaiserswerth.