About Duisburg
Duisburg: A Hub of Industry, Innovation, and Strategic Connectivity
Nestled at the confluence of the Rhine and Ruhr rivers, Duisburg stands at the crossroads of European commerce, offering unparalleled access to key economic regions. Its strategic location near Benelux, the Ruhr area, and major cities like Cologne, Bonn, and Düsseldorf, positions Duisburg as a vital business and logistics hub in Europe.
Home to the world’s largest inland port, Duisburg serves as a gateway for global trade and is the European endpoint of the New Silk Road, reinforcing its role as a central logistics and industrial powerhouse. The city’s economy is driven by port logistics, heavy industry, and cutting-edge advancements in the hydrogen sector, making it a key player in the transition to sustainable energy.
With a strong research ecosystem, Duisburg is at the forefront of hydrogen innovation. It hosts the Center for Fuel Cell Technology (ZBT)—one of Europe’s leading research institutions—and is home to ten research institutes affiliated with the University of Duisburg-Essen. This dynamic academic and industrial landscape positions Duisburg as a leader in clean energy advancements and a prime destination for businesses shaping the future of sustainable industry.
Credit: Ilja Höpping, City of Duisburg.
Duisburg offers a rich tapestry of attractions that seamlessly blend its industrial heritage with modern cultural experiences. Here are some must-visit sites:
Duisburg's Inner Harbour
Once the “breadbasket” of the Ruhr region due to its bustling grain trade, Duisburg’s Inner Harbour has undergone a remarkable transformation. Today, it stands as a vibrant waterfront destination, seamlessly integrating historic warehouses with contemporary architecture. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the promenades, dine at various bistros and restaurants, and explore cultural venues housed in repurposed industrial buildings. The harbour is also home to a yacht marina, adding a nautical charm to the urban landscape. Throughout the year, the Inner Harbour hosts numerous events, including festivals and markets, making it a dynamic hub of activity.
Tiger & Turtle – Magic Mountain
Perched atop a former slag heap in southern Duisburg, “Tiger & Turtle – Magic Mountain” is a unique, walkable sculpture that has captured global attention since its inauguration in November 2011. Designed by artists Heike Mutter and Ulrich Genth, this landmark resembles a roller coaster with its looping structure, but it’s constructed as a staircase, allowing visitors to walk along its winding paths. Climbing to the summit rewards with panoramic views stretching from Duisburg’s city center along the Rhine River to Düsseldorf; on clear days, even the airport’s control tower is visible. At night, the sculpture is illuminated by 880 LEDs, tracing its curves and creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Open year-round with free admission, it offers a distinctive blend of art, architecture, and adventure.
Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord
A testament to innovative urban redevelopment, Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord is a former ironworks facility reimagined into a multifaceted public park. Spanning over 200 hectares, the park invites visitors to explore its industrial structures repurposed for recreational activities. Highlights include Europe’s largest artificial diving center housed in a converted gasometer, alpine climbing gardens set within old ore storage bunkers, and a high ropes course in a former casting house. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the park offers expansive green spaces, walking trails, and panoramic views from a repurposed blast furnace viewing platform. Each evening, a captivating light installation bathes the site in vibrant colors, enhancing its unique atmosphere. Open 24/7 with free entry, Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord exemplifies the harmonious fusion of industrial history and contemporary leisure.
These attractions underscore Duisburg’s commitment to preserving its industrial legacy while fostering cultural and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
To learn more visit www.duisburg.de/microsites/visit_duisburg