Cultural Quarter
Carlstadt
Without the need for a time machine, you can stroll through 18th-century Düsseldorf – with cobblestone streets, classical façades and nostalgic gas lanterns evoking the charm of a bygone era. This elegant, historic quarter blends tradition with the unique spirit of Düsseldorf. Where once Heine and the Schumanns strolled past romantic townhouses, you'll now find a wealth of small shops and inviting restaurants – all in the immediate vicinity of the city’s highest concentration of museums, including K21, KIT and many other renowned institutions.
Museums
It doesn't get more poetic than this
At the heart of Düsseldorf’s Carlstadt lies Bilker Straße – known as the “Street of Romance and Revolution”, paying tribute to the poet Heinrich Heine and the composer couple Robert and Clara Schumann. They once lived here, and today, three institutions are dedicated to their lives and works. The other streets of Düsseldorf’s smallest district are equally rich in cultural treasures – home to numerous museums and cultural venues, some housed in splendid historic buildings, nestled among leafy parks or with direct access to the Rhine embankment promenade.
Bars and cafés
Please take a seat
Fancy a relaxed coffee or a drink in the sun? Then Carlstadt is just the place to be. Pardo's at the K21 museum offers a stunning setting with a terrace overlooking the park. Tucked away in the narrow lanes of the quarter are cosy little bistros such as “Zicke”, perfect for a leisurely break. And around – or right on – Carlsplatz, you’ll find everything a foodie's heart could desire: from exotic flavours to traditional Rhenish fare. But above all, this is where you’ll experience Düsseldorf’s unique local charm – and, if you’re open to it, a friendly chat is never far away.
Shopping
Discover the unique
Shopping doesn’t get more charming than this: set against the elegant façades of grand townhouses and aristocratic homes, and brought to life by the energy of the people, Carlstadt offers a colourful mix of small, often owner-run boutiques and studios. Those in search of an art nouveau silver tray, for example, will enjoy visiting the many antique shops. And with a bit of luck, you might even come across a Chanel suit from the 1985 winter collection – or beautifully crafted handmade pieces and uniquely designed objects.
Good to know
About the Cultural Quarter Carlstadt
Today, Schwanenspiegel and Spee’scher Graben are tranquil urban waterways – true havens of calm amid the city’s hustle and bustle. It’s hard to imagine that more than 200 years ago, they formed part of Düsseldorf’s fortifications – and live ammunition was once fired here.
As a young boy on his way to school – or to visit his first love, the red-haired daughter of the local executioner - Heinrich Heine would pass by the very house that today houses the Heinrich Heine Institute, dedicated to his life and work.
To this day, there’s debate over the correct spelling of the market’s name. When Carlstadt was established, it was laid out as Carlsplatz. From 1910 onwards, it became known as Karlplatz – with a K and without the “s” – and firmly established itself as a weekly market. Today, the s is back, as is the original C in Carlsplatz – thanks to the efforts of a dedicated local citizens’ group.
As Düsseldorf grew, the city needed more housing from the mid-18th century onwards. Where once defensive walls had confined the city, a grid of new streets was laid out, designed for nobility, senior officials, military officers and affluent merchants. Living in Carlstadt was considered posh – and still is today.
