Dusseldorf Airport (DUS) DUS: Departure times and transfers

Flying from/to Dusseldorf Airport

Get straight from Dusseldorf Airport to the city centre without dither—booking your ticket in advance means you can zoom through the airport and be on your way to the city. We, at Omio, have collected information on the facilities that you have after landing, and the main places worth stopping at in the city centre to make planning your trip easier.

Travel from Dusseldorf city center to Dusseldorf Airport

Dusseldorf sits on the banks of the Rhine in the west of Germany, near the border with The Netherlands and France. Germany's seventh most populous city, Dusseldorf is famed for its educational institutions, lively music scene, and historic landmarks. Like most German cities, Dusseldorf has an excellent public transportation system comprising U-Bahn trams, buses, and both regional and underground city trains. Dusseldorf Airport, known locally as Dusseldorf Flughafen, is Germany's third largest airport, and services many of the major European and global airlines. Getting to the airport is easy via Germany's advanced train system, which are usually just as fast as driving. The best to reach the airport is by train, specifically the S-Bahn trains that travel both under and above ground, on a route parallel to the Rhine northwards to the airport. 

What's the best way to get to Dusseldorf Airport from Dusseldorf city center?

The best way to get to Dusseldorf Airport is by train. Germany's extensive network of S-Bahn trains travel both under and above ground and depart Dusseldorf Central Station located just east of the city center. Trains reach the airport after five stops. The train ride itself is 12 to 15 minutes. Travelers coming from the city center itself can either walk to the station in 10 to 25 minutes depending on the point of origin, or take the U-Bahn tram, numbers 74 to 79 for five to 10 minutes depending on the station of origin. Driving to the airport is also possible, and takes 12 to 20 minutes from central Dusseldorf, without traffic. Trains and cars take parallel but different routes, and during rush hour it is recommended to find an alternate to driving. 

How far is it from Dusseldorf city center to Dusseldorf Airport?

Dusseldorf Airport is just under four and a half miles (seven kilometers) from central Dusseldorf. Whether travelers get to the airport by public or private transportation, it is recommended they leave longer than the minimum of 30 minutes to reach the airport for check-in. Although German transit is often punctual and reliable, it is best to leave 45 minutes at minimum to reach the airport, and around one hour if travelers are walking to the Dusseldorf Central Station from the city center or their hotel. Those traveling during winter should also be aware that weather can also affect roads and even train travel occasionally.

What facilities are there at Dusseldorf Airport?

The airport features a few services unique to such a big city, including a travel market with information from 40 travel agencies to help all passengers with last-minute vacation planning. Free WiFi is available throughout the airport, and there is an Airport Terrace for viewing planes take off and land, a beloved part of the airport for children and those traveling with family. Shopping is extensive in the airport, consisting of duty free shops and over 60 more stores. Families and solo travelers can enjoy German and international cuisine at one of the airport's many restaurants, cafes, bars and bakeries.

How accessible is the route for those with limited mobility?

Those driving to the airport are recommended to use parking garages P1, though P2 and P3 are also accessible. These all have disabled parking spaces and intercoms for communicating with airport staff upon arrival. The airport train station and S-Bahn trains are accessible, with elevators, ramps and disabled restrooms. It is best to let the train company Deutsche Bahn and the airport know 48 hours before travel. The airport also has elevators, disabled restrooms and wheelchair-accessible baby-change rooms. Restaurants and shops are also able to welcome all passengers. 

Local tips: how to travel to Dusseldorf Airport like a local

German locals take public transportation when they can. Locals walking from the city center to the central station sometimes enjoy a takeaway meal or bakery coffee at Hofgarten. Hofgarten is an attractive, sprawling urban park, with a large lake, striking buildings and relaxing green areas. After arriving at the airport with plenty of time to spare for the check-in process, locals take advantage of the shopping and dining amenities to walk around and stretch their legs before their flight.