Schloss Benrath
The palace that feels like a sunset.
I’ll be honest: I didn’t expect a palace in the middle of Düsseldorf to be this pink. But Benrath isn't that bright, "Barbie" pink—it’s more like a soft, dusty rose that glows when the sun hits it.
A House for Pleasure
Built in the 1700s as a "maison de plaisance," you can actually feel that vibe when you walk around. There’s no heavy, dark stone or defensive walls here. Instead, it’s all about the light. The windows are massive, and when you’re inside, you feel like the gardens are simply an extension of the room. It’s elegant, sure, but it’s surprisingly cozy.
Water & Forest
The highlight for me wasn't just the architecture, but the water. The palace sits right on a huge pond, and the reflection is so perfect it’s a photographer’s dream. Then there are the gardens—they are massive. You have the formal, "fancy" parts near the house, but then you walk a few minutes and you’re basically in a quiet forest.
It’s the perfect spot to just disappear for an hour, listen to the swans, and forget you're in one of Germany's busiest cities. It’s not just a museum; it’s a real breath of fresh air.