Following a smooth and uneventful flight, including having the whole row to myself on the long flight from San Francisco to Frankfurt, last night I settled into my hotel room in the Altstadt (Old Town) district of Düsseldorf.  Of course, after relieving myself of my backpack and European-sized carry-on, all I usually travel with when exploring Europe, I had to wander the streets to stretch my legs and get my bearings.  Although it took awhile to unwind, I ended up sleeping better than I thought I would.

Today, I woke up slowly and then headed over to Tourist Information.  I’ve learned that, in most cities, those that work for Tourist Information provide useful and customized itineraries – and my TI guide here met my expectations.  After asking what I enjoy seeing and doing, she gave me a walking tour map and another larger map, highlighting sites for me to visit.  Here are a few photos from last night’s and today’s walking adventures.

Along the Rhine, people hang out on the shore under umbrellas sipping their drinks of choice.

The water level in the Rhine is VERY LOW (more on that later…).  These barges are only a few of those able to traverse the shallow waters.

First stop this morning after speaking to my TI guide, Wochenmarkt op’m Carlsplatz, the oldest marketplace still in operation in Düsseldorf.  Great place to grab a small quiche and macchiato for breakfast.

I quickly sauntered from Carlsplatz to Schneider Wibbel, so I could see the tolling of the clock which happens only five times each day.  (Click on the photo for an ten-second video.)

Some street art I saw while walking.

Cool windows and shutters.

There are many Ukrainian flags and colors flying in this city.

Upscale shops line Königsallee.  More interesting to me?  In the middle of the street flows a canal surrounded by trees and traversed via several bridges. 

This photo is of the Tritonenbrunnen, a fountain depicting the Greek god Triton.

Impressive modern architecture in the Corneliusplatz!