Things To Do
in Ratingen

Ratingen is a charming town located in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, known for its rich history and beautiful architecture. The town features a mix of medieval buildings, modern amenities, and lush green spaces. With its proximity to Düsseldorf, it serves as a tranquil retreat for visitors and locals alike.

Ratingen is also home to several parks and cultural sites, making it a delightful destination for those seeking exploration and relaxation.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Historical Ratingen
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Ratingen Town Hall, a beautiful historic building dating back to the 16th century. Wander around the picturesque Old Town, admiring half-timbered houses and quaint streets.

afternoon
:

Visit the Ratingen Museum to learn about the town's history and culture. Post-museum, have lunch at a local café and then stroll through the beautiful parks, such as the Stadtpark.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional German restaurant and take a leisurely evening walk along the banks of the river. End your day with a drink at a cozy local bar.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with a hearty breakfast at a local bakery, sampling fresh pastries and coffee. Then, take a bike ride or walk through the scenic paths of the Angerbach river.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby forested areas for a hike, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the region. Pack a picnic to enjoy in a serene spot.

evening
:

Return to Ratingen for a delightful dinner at a modern bistro, followed by a performance at the Ratingen Theater if there's an event scheduled.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍺Local beer$4
🚇Public transport ticket$2.50
🏨Budget hotel per night$75

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming and historical atmosphere.
  • Proximity to Düsseldorf for broader exploration.
  • Rich cultural and outdoor activities.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport options can be less frequent.
  • Some areas may not be as well-known to tourists.
  • "Guten Tag" - Good day
  • "Danke schön" - Thank you very much
  • "Wo ist ...?" - Where is ...?
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Ich hätte gerne..." - I would like...

Places to Visit in Ratingen

Visit one of these nice places.

Old Town Square

A picturesque area featuring historic buildings and the iconic town hall, perfect for capturing the essence of Ratingen.

St. Peter and Paul Church

A stunning church with impressive architecture, providing a beautiful backdrop for photographs.

Angerbach River

A serene spot along the riverbanks, ideal for nature photography and tranquil landscapes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ratingen

Ratingen offers a delightful culinary scene that combines traditional German fare with modern twists, making it a foodie’s paradise.

Ratingen Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sauerbraten

A pot roast, usually of beef, marinated before slow-cooking, served with red cabbage and dumplings.

Must-Try!

Reibekuchen

Crispy potato pancakes often served with applesauce or sour cream.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ratingen Weekly Market

Held every Wednesday and Saturday, where locals buy fresh produce, meats, and baked goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ratingen experiences a temperate oceanic climate, characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 1°C (34°F) in winter to 25°C (77°F) in summer. Rain is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, with slightly wetter months during summer and autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A firm handshake is the common form of greeting in Germany.

Punctuality

Being on time is highly valued; lateness may be considered rude.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat, and keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows).

Safety Guide

Safety

Ratingen is generally a safe town, with low crime rates. Standard precautions such as not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of your surroundings are advisable, especially in crowded areas.

Tipping in Ratingen

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It’s customary to round up the bill or leave about 5-10% in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s good to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers; perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Warm temperatures make it ideal for exploring parks and enjoying outdoor dining.

Autumn

Enjoy the beautiful fall colors; the weather is cool and great for hiking.

Winter

Cold and sometimes snowy, but charming with festive decorations; perfect for cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Ratingen at Night

Ratingen’s nightlife is relatively low-key compared to bigger cities. However, there are cozy pubs and bars where locals gather for drinks and conversation. You can also find occasional live music and events at local venues, creating a friendly atmosphere for socializing.

Hiking in Ratingen

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hiking Trail at the Angerbach

A scenic trail that runs along the river, offering beautiful views and a peaceful hiking experience.

Hiking in the Ratingen Forest

Explore various trails through the Ratingen Forest, with diverse flora and fauna, suitable for all hiking levels.

Airports

How to reach Ratingen by plane.

Düsseldorf Airport (DUS)

Located about 15 km from Ratingen, Düsseldorf Airport is one of the major international airports in Germany, offering flights to numerous destinations worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ratingen is highly walkable, with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas, especially in the central parts of town. Most attractions are within walking distance, making it easy to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Ratingen has a significant population of families, attracted by the town's good schools and parks.

Young Professionals

The proximity to Düsseldorf draws young professionals seeking a quieter living environment while commuting to work.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is immensely popular in Ratingen, with local clubs and a strong community support for the sport.

Handball

Handball enjoys popularity, with local teams participating in regional leagues and community events.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Ratingen is generally manageable, with well-connected roads leading to nearby cities. Public transportation includes buses and trains, providing convenient access to Düsseldorf and surrounding areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ratingen.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check in advance.

Gluten-Free Options

Some cafés and restaurants provide gluten-free choices; inquire about their menus.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Ratingen has access to quality healthcare facilities, including local hospitals and numerous general practitioners. Emergency services are available, and residents can access pharmacies for over-the-counter medications.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide