Marktplatz is a compact cobblestone square at the heart of Düsseldorf’s Altstadt, framed by the historic Old Town Hall and watched over by an equestrian statue of Elector Jan Wellem. It’s an easy place to pass through on the way to the Rhine, but worth a pause for its architecture and its role in the city’s history.
The Renaissance-style Old Town Hall dates to the 1570s and remains part of Düsseldorf’s working civic centre. In front, the statue honours Johann Wilhelm II, known locally as Jan Wellem, whose reign helped establish the city as an important cultural centre. Together, the building and monument offer a glimpse of Düsseldorf’s life as a ducal residence, amid an old town better known today for its bars and breweries.
Visit on a weekday morning for a quieter look at the square and its ornate facades. The surrounding lanes are a good place to try Altbier, Düsseldorf’s distinctive dark, top-fermented beer, in a traditional brewery. In the Christmas season, market stalls bring a different atmosphere to Marktplatz; check the year’s dates before planning a trip.
Heinrich-Heine-Allee is the nearest major U-Bahn stop, a short walk away. The square is open to wander, though access to the town hall’s interior may be limited by its civic use. Friday and Saturday evenings are lively in the Altstadt, so come earlier if you prefer a calmer visit.