Equity and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Net (Equity Distribution Agreements) (Narrative) (Details) $ / shares in Units, shares in Millions	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016 USD ($) $ / shares shares	Dec. 31, 2015 USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2011 USD ($)
Equity [Abstract]
Aggregate offering price of the distribution agreement maximum			$ 400,000,000
Net proceeds from sale of common stock	$ 342,700,000
Issuance of common shares (shares) | shares	5.7
Equity distribution agreements at an average price ($ per share) | $ / shares	$ 60.35
Payment of commissions to sales agents	$ 3,500,000
Aggregate offering price remaining available for offer and sale	$ 53,800,000
Common stock conversion ratio		1
Digital Realty Trust, L.P.
Equity [Abstract]
Common stock conversion ratio	1
Temporary Equity [Line Items]
Redemption value of OP units	$ 258,500,000	$ 192,700,000