Ratinger Tor: A Classical Gateway to Düsseldorf's History
Discover Düsseldorf's historical gateway, the Ratinger Tor, a neoclassical masterpiece connecting the city's vibrant heart with its serene Hofgarten.
The Ratinger Tor, Düsseldorf's last remaining city gate, stands as a testament to the city's evolving identity. Originally part of the medieval fortifications, the current structure, built between 1811 and 1815 in the Neoclassical style, served as a customs gate. Designed by Adolph von Vagedes, a student of Schinkel, the gate's architecture echoes ancient temple designs, featuring Doric columns and symbolic metopes. Today, it marks the eastern edge of the city center, connecting the bustling Heinrich-Heine-Allee with the serene Hofgarten. A stroll through the gate offers a glimpse into Düsseldorf's past, blending historical significance with the vibrant atmosphere of the modern city. The Ratinger Tor is more than just a monument; it's a symbol of Düsseldorf's resilience and its ability to adapt and thrive through changing times, making it a must-see for any visitor seeking to understand the city's rich cultural heritage.
A brief summary to Ratinger Tor
- Maximilian-Weyhe-Allee 1, Düsseldorf, Stadtbezirk 1, 40213, DE
- +4921117202867
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to capture stunning photos of the Ratinger Tor with fewer crowds and soft, natural light.
- Combine your visit with a walk through the nearby Altstadt to experience Düsseldorf's traditional breweries and lively atmosphere.
- Explore the Hofgarten, easily accessible through the Ratinger Tor, for a relaxing escape into nature.
Getting There
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Walking
From Düsseldorf Hauptbahnhof (central station), exit the station and walk north towards the Altstadt. Follow Worringer Straße, which turns into Bolkerstraße, a pedestrian zone. Continue straight, then turn left onto Maximilian-Weyhe-Allee. The Ratinger Tor will be directly ahead. The walk is approximately 15 minutes. No costs are associated with this route.
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Public Transport
From Düsseldorf Hauptbahnhof, take any of the U-Bahn lines (U70, U74, U75, U76, U77) to the Heinrich-Heine-Allee U station. From there, it's a short 5-minute walk east along Heinrich-Heine-Allee to Maximilian-Weyhe-Allee, where you'll find the Ratinger Tor. A single ticket (Einzelticket Stufe A) costs €3.40 and is valid for 90 minutes within the city.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from Düsseldorf Hauptbahnhof to Ratinger Tor will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is between €8 and €12. The drop-off point is typically on Heinrich-Heine-Allee near the intersection with Maximilian-Weyhe-Allee.
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Driving
If driving, navigate to Ratinger Straße 50, 40213 Düsseldorf, which is the address for the Parkhaus Ratinger Tor, a parking garage located directly adjacent to the gate. Parking fees at the garage are approximately €2.00 for the first hour, and €1.00 for each additional 30 minutes. The daily maximum is €30.00. Alternatively, several other parking garages are located within a short walking distance, including Campus am Kunstpalast and Kunstsammlung.
Discover more about Ratinger Tor
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Heinrich-Heine-Allee
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Burgplatz
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Rheintreppe
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Wilhelm Marx Building
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Schneider-Wibbel Statue
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Rhine embankment promenade
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Marktplatz
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Jan-Wellem-Reiterstandbild
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Unmissable attractions to see
Hofgarten
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Märchenbrunnen
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Kunstakademie Düsseldorf
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German Oper am Rhein
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Vier Karyatiden
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Kom(m)ödchen
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St. Andreas, Düsseldorf
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Löwenhaus
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Nagel
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Altstadt
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Kö-Bogen
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Essential places to dine
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Sorti
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