How to Get to Rheinkirmes Düsseldorf – Best Ways to Arrive & Return
Rheinkirmes, one of Germany’s largest funfairs, takes place each July on the Oberkassel Rhine meadows, directly across the Rhine from Düsseldorf’s historic Altstadt. With over 165,000 square meters of rides and food stalls, the event draws thousands daily, making transport planning essential for a stress-free visit. For a full overview of the fair's dates, rides, and visitor tips, see our comprehensive Rheinkirmes Düsseldorf: A First-Time Visitor Guide.
Fastest and Cheapest: From Düsseldorf Hauptbahnhof by Subway
The most efficient way from the main train station is the U-Bahn. Start at Düsseldorf Hbf, take any U-Bahn line to Heinrich-Heine-Allee U, then transfer to lines U70, U74, U75, U76, or U77 heading toward Luegplatz (Oberkassel). The journey is around 29 minutes total, and single-ticket fares are in the €2–3 range according to Rome2rio – always check the VRR tariff for current pricing.
From Luegplatz, it’s just a short walk to the fairground entrance. For live departures and any service changes, use the Rheinbahn or VRR app – schedules can shift during the event, so it’s wise to check before you head out.
Walking from the Altstadt or Crossing the Rhine on Foot
If you’re staying in the Old Town, walking to Rheinkirmes is scenic and takes about 30–40 minutes. Cross the Oberkassel Bridge on foot; you’ll get panoramic views of the Rhine and the fairground as you approach. Along the way, you can pause at the Rhine promenade or grab a coffee before joining the crowds.
Alternatively, you can hop on the U-Bahn from Heinrich-Heine-Allee for a quicker trip, but the walk is a lovely way to build up an appetite for the fair’s culinary offerings. Consider it a warm-up for the rides and games ahead. For more ideas on pairing your visit with city sights, check our Düsseldorf Festival Plans.
From Düsseldorf Airport (DUS) by S-Bahn and U-Bahn
Arriving by plane? From Düsseldorf Airport, take the SkyTrain to D-Flughafen Bf station, then board the S11 S-Bahn toward Düsseldorf Hbf. At Hbf, follow the subway directions above – the whole trip takes about 40 minutes depending on connections.
Note that the S11 also stops at Heinrich-Heine-Allee, so you can get off there and either walk across the bridge or transfer directly to a U-Bahn for Luegplatz. Check the VRR app for real-time arrivals and any platform changes.
Coming from Other Cities in NRW or Beyond
If you’re coming from Cologne, Dortmund, Duisburg, or Essen, take a regional train (RE/RB) to Düsseldorf Hauptbahnhof – these arrive frequently. From Hbf, switch to the U-Bahn as described; the total time will depend on your starting point, but the connection is smooth.
Long-distance ICE and IC services also call at Düsseldorf Hbf, making the city well-connected. Once on the U-Bahn, you’ll be at the fairground in roughly 30 minutes from Hbf.
Local Bus Connections and Alternative Transit Options
Several bus lines serve stops near the Rheinkirmes, including 835, 836, M3, 726, and 805, according to Moovit. These can be handy if you’re coming from nearby neighborhoods – for instance, the 835 and 836 stop at Luegplatz, while M3 also crosses the bridge. Routes may be adjusted during the event, so verify current schedules with the Rheinbahn app.
For those with accessibility needs, note that buses generally have low floors, but the walk from Luegplatz includes a slight incline – consult the VRR accessibility guide for details.
Using the DüsseldorfCard for Free Public Transit
If you plan to explore more of Düsseldorf during your trip, consider the DüsseldorfCard. It gives you free travel on buses and trains in Düsseldorf and the surrounding region, plus discounts on over 80 attractions. This can be a money-saver for visitors staying a few days, especially if you’re also visiting museums or taking guided tours. More details are available on the official Visit Düsseldorf site.
Late-Night Return: After Fireworks and Closing Hours
After the fireworks – which typically take place on the final Friday – you’ll be among thousands heading back. Regular U-Bahn services run frequently during the event, but check the last train times for your line. Night buses (NE lines) may operate after midnight, but intervals can be longer.
Use the VRR or Rheinbahn app for live departures and plan your exit ahead. Consider walking to Luegplatz to catch a bus or subway from there, as crowds can be heavy at the main exits.
Driving and Parking Near the Rheinkirmes
Driving to Rheinkirmes is challenging due to limited parking near the fairground. There are no large dedicated lots at the site, so it’s best to use Park & Ride (P+R) facilities on the outskirts, such as those near U-Bahn stations, and take transit the rest of the way. Check the Visit Düsseldorf website for current recommendations.
If you must drive, expect to hunt for street parking in Oberkassel, but be prepared for a walk. Many locals recommend cycling instead – there are bike racks around the fairground, though they fill quickly.
Cycling and Bike Parking
Düsseldorf is bike-friendly, and cycling to Rheinkirmes is a practical option if you stay nearby. Use dedicated bike paths along the Rhine; you can park at racks near Luegplatz or the meadows, but arrive early to secure a spot. Rental bikes like Nextbike or Rheinbahn’s bikes are available throughout the city.
Overview of Transportation Options
To help you decide, here’s a quick breakdown: From Hbf, take the U-Bahn (fast and affordable). From the Altstadt, walk (~35 min) or take U-Bahn. From the airport, S11 to Hbf or Heinrich-Heine-Allee, then transfer. From other cities, train to Hbf, then U-Bahn. Driving? Use P+R and ride transit, or cycle for flexibility. For ticketing details, see our guide on rheinkirmes tickets.
Each option has trade-offs: walking is scenic but time-consuming, driving is stressful but convenient if you have mobility issues, and public transit is affordable but can be crowded during peak hours. Weigh these factors based on your priorities. If you're still deciding where to base yourself, our tips on where to stay for Rheinkirmes can help.
Final Tips for a Smooth Visit
The best way to get to Rheinkirmes is combining the U-Bahn with a short walk – it’s affordable, efficient, and puts you right at the gates. Check the official Visit Düsseldorf page for current dates and any transport alerts, and keep the VRR app handy for live schedules.
Whether you’re attending the fireworks or a drone show, plan your return route in advance and allow extra time for queues. With a little preparation, you’ll spend more time enjoying the fair and less time worrying about logistics.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to get to Rheinkirmes from Düsseldorf Hbf?
Take the U-Bahn from Düsseldorf Hbf to Heinrich-Heine-Allee U, then transfer to lines U70, U74, U75, U76, or U77 to Luegplatz (Oberkassel). The journey takes about 29 minutes. Check the VRR tariff for current ticket prices.
Which U-Bahn line goes to Rheinkirmes?
Multiple U-Bahn lines serve the area: U70, U74, U75, U76, and U77 all stop at Luegplatz, which is the closest station to the Rheinkirmes fairground.
Can you walk from Düsseldorf Altstadt to Rheinkirmes?
Yes, you can walk from the Altstadt across the Oberkassel Bridge to the fairground. The walk takes about 30–40 minutes and offers scenic views of the Rhine.
How much does the subway cost to Rheinkirmes?
Single-ticket fares on Düsseldorf's public transit are set by the VRR tariff, which can vary by zone and ticket type. For exact pricing, check the VRR website or the Rheinbahn app.
Is there parking near the Rheinkirmes?
Parking near the fairground is extremely limited. It's best to use Park & Ride facilities on the outskirts and take public transport the rest of the way.