The ancient grounds of Dusseldorf’s Hofgarten play home to an historic Hunting Lodge with a display of original manuscripts by the renowned German poet Goethe.
The Hofgarten is one of the very first parks in Germany built to be enjoyed by the general public. The brainchild of Maximilian Weyhe, a classical landscaper from the 1500s, it stretches over 28 hectares between Jacobistrasse and the banks of the Rhine.
Throughout the summer months, the Hofgarten plays host to a full programme of outdoor concerts. Check out the local tourist website to find dates for jazz, brass, classical and big band ensembles playing on Sunday evenings from May through to September.
The park’s rolling lawns are criss-crossed with tree-lined avenues, designed for strolling in the afternoon sun. Wander around the grounds in the dappled shade of the trees and indulge in a spot of people watching. The park is home to flocks of ducks and swans, which pass their days paddling about on the ponds, while children run and play on the swings and climbing frames of the custom-built playgrounds. Admire the romantic Maerchenbrunnen fountain and the abstract installations by the modern British sculptor Henry Moore.
Head to the easternmost corner of the grounds to see historic manuscripts and other interesting artefacts from the life of one of Germany’s most beloved writers. Housed within the grand walls of the Schloss Jaegerhof, the Goethe Museum celebrates the poetry of this national icon through photographs, writings and historical insights.
When you decide to stop for lunch, why not pick up some supplies from the shops nearby and indulge in a spot of al-fresco dining. Barbecue grills are available on the northern side of the park, ideal for cooking up a feast before sitting down to eat on the smooth lawns.
Open daily throughout the year, the Hofgarten is located right in the heart of Dusseldorf. There isn’t any parking in the grounds, so head over on foot from the Altstadt or Rhine Promenade. Alternatively, try the tram network or hop on a bus that stops nearby. Both are cheap and well run, and have a regular service.
