Equity (Details 3) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Transfers to Noncontrolling Interest
Net income attributable to W. P. Carey	$ 23,022	$ 18,506	$ 43,167	$ 14,181	$ 15,477	$ 2,588	$ 31,777	$ 12,290	$ 98,876	$ 62,132	$ 139,079
Transfers to noncontrolling interest
Net transfers to noncontrolling interest									0	(154)	(5,879)
Change from net income attributable to W. P. Carey and transfers to noncontrolling interest									98,876	61,978	133,200
50 Rock
Transfers to noncontrolling interest
Decrease in W.P. Careys' additional paid-in capital for purchases									0	(154)	0
CheckFree Holdings, Inc.
Transfers to noncontrolling interest
Decrease in W.P. Careys' additional paid-in capital for purchases									$ 0	$ 0	$ (5,879)