Altstadt: The Heartbeat of Düsseldorf

• HelloHallo
  [ha-lo]
• GoodbyeAuf Wiedersehen
  [owf vee-der-zay-en]
• YesJa
  [yah]
• NoNein
  [nine]
• Please/You're welcomeBitte
  [bit-teh]
• Thank youDanke
  [dahn-keh]
• Excuse me/SorryEntschuldigung
  [ent-shool-di-gung]
• How are you?Wie geht es dir?
  [vee geht es deer]
• Fine. And you?Gut. Und dir?
  [goot oond deer]
• Do you speak English?Sprechen Sie Englisch?
  [shpre-chen zee eng-lish]
• I don't understandIch verstehe nicht
  [ikh fer-shteh-eh nikht]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIch möchte bitte die Speisekarte sehen
  [ikh merkhte bit-te dee spai-ze-kar-teh zay-en]
• I don't eat meatIch esse kein Fleisch
  [ikh es-se kine flysh]
• Cheers!Prost!
  [prohst]
• I would like to pay, pleaseIch möchte bitte zahlen
  [ikh merkhte bit-te tsah-len]

• Help!Hilfe!
  [hil-feh]
• Go away!Geh weg!
  [geh veg]
• Call the Police!Rufen Sie die Polizei!
  [roo-fen zee dee po-lee-tsey]
• Call a doctor!Rufen Sie einen Arzt!
  [roo-fen zee i-nen ahrts]
• I'm lostIch habe mich verirrt
  [ikh hah-beh mikh fer-eert]
• I'm illIch bin krank
  [ikh been krank]

• I'd like to buy...Ich möchte ... kaufen
  [ikh merkhte ... kow-fen]
• I'm just lookingIch schaue nur
  [ikh shou-e noor]
• How much is it?Wie viel kostet das?
  [vee feel koh-stet das]
• That's too expensiveDas ist zu teuer
  [das ist tso toy-er]
• Can you lower the price?Können Sie den Preis senken?
  [kern-en zee den prise zehn-ken]

• What time is it?Wie spät ist es?
  [vee shpet ist es]
• It's one o'clockEs ist ein Uhr
  [es ist iyn oor]
• Half past (10)Halb zehn
  [halb tsayn]
• MorningMorgen
  [mohr-gen]
• AfternoonNachmittag
  [nahk-mit-tahk]
• EveningAbend
  [ah-bent]
• YesterdayGestern
  [geh-stern]
• TodayHeute
  [hoi-teh]
• TomorrowMorgen
  [mohr-gen]
• 1Eins
  [ines]
• 2Zwei
  [tsvai]
• 3Drei
  [dry]
• 4Vier
  [feer]
• 5Fünf
  [fynf]
• 6Sechs
  [zeks]
• 7Sieben
  [zee-ben]
• 8Acht
  [ahkt]
• 9Neun
  [noyn]
• 10Zehn
  [tsayn]

• Where's a/the...?Wo ist ein/der...?
  [vo ist iyn/dehr]
• What's the address?Wie ist die Adresse?
  [vee ist dee ah-dreh-seh]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Können Sie mir zeigen (auf der Karte)?
  [kern-en zee meer tsai-gen (ouf dehr kar-teh)]
• When's the next (bus)?Wann kommt der nächste (Bus)?
  [vahn kohmt dehr nakhs-teh (boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Eine Fahrkarte (nach ....)
  [i-ne fahr-kar-teh (nahkh ....)]

The Altstadt, or 'Old Town,' of Düsseldorf has roots dating back to the late Middle Ages, specifically around the 13th century. Initially a small settlement, it was chartered in 1288, laying the groundwork for what would become a thriving urban center. The strategic location along the Rhine River facilitated trade and commerce, allowing the area to flourish.

By the 16th century, Düsseldorf became the capital of the Duchy of Jülich-Cleves-Berg, with Altstadt at its heart. The establishment of the Electorate of Düsseldorf in 1614 further solidified its importance. The Altstadt began to see the construction of impressive buildings, including the St. Lambertus Church, which still dominates the skyline and reflects the region's Gothic architectural heritage.

The 18th century was a period of cultural flourishing for Düsseldorf, particularly in Altstadt. The city became a center for artists and musicians, with figures like painter Joseph Beuys emerging from the region. The establishment of the Academy of Arts in 1773 further enhanced Düsseldorf's reputation as a cultural hub, influencing the artistic movements of the time.

The devastation of World War II brought significant destruction to Altstadt, with many historical buildings reduced to rubble. Post-war reconstruction efforts focused on preserving the historical character of the Old Town while modernizing the infrastructure. The rebuilding of the Altstadt, completed in the 1950s, restored its status as a vibrant cultural and social center.

Today, Altstadt is known as 'the longest bar in the world,' boasting over 300 bars and pubs that reflect the lively spirit of the area. It serves as a cultural landmark, hosting events such as the Düsseldorf Carnival and the Christmas Market, showcasing both local traditions and vibrant community life. The blend of historical architecture and contemporary culture makes Altstadt a focal point for both residents and visitors.

Altstadt is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Düsseldorf. The U-Bahn (subway) Line U78 and U79 connect Altstadt to the central train station (Hauptbahnhof) and other parts of the city. Additionally, trams and buses serve the area, with numerous stops along the way. If you’re coming from the Düsseldorf International Airport, take the S-Bahn (train) S11 to the central station and then transfer to the U-Bahn or a bus to reach Altstadt.

Altstadt is a compact neighborhood, making it ideal for exploring on foot. Many attractions, bars, and restaurants are within walking distance. For longer distances, the U-Bahn and trams are efficient options. Bicycles can be rented from various bike-sharing services, allowing for a leisurely ride along the Rhine promenade. Taxis and rideshare services are also available for convenient transport.

Altstadt is generally safe for tourists, but it’s advisable to remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas and at night. While most areas are secure, the vicinity around the main train station can occasionally experience petty crime such as pickpocketing. Avoid poorly lit side streets after dark and keep a close eye on your belongings.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for fire and medical assistance, or 110 for police. The nearest hospital is located within a short distance from Altstadt. It’s recommended to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. Pharmacies are also readily available throughout the neighborhood for minor health issues.

Fashion: Do dress appropriately for the weather, and consider smart-casual attire for dining out. Don’t wear overly casual beachwear in restaurants or shops. Religion: Do respect local customs, particularly when visiting churches. Don’t take photos where prohibited. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a firm handshake and maintain eye contact. Don’t engage in overly familiar behavior until you know someone well. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like Altbier and traditional dishes. Don’t be offended if you’re offered more food; it’s a sign of hospitality.

To experience Altstadt like a local, visit the vibrant markets in the early morning, where you can sample fresh goods and regional delicacies. Join locals in the evenings at one of the many microbreweries for a pint of Altbier. Explore the hidden courtyards and small alleys for unique shops and art galleries that offer a glimpse into Düsseldorf’s creative scene. Attend local events and festivals that often take place in the area, providing a deeper understanding of the local culture.