Essen - Discovering Germany

Travelling to Essen

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Essen, a pretty good destination in Germany (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Essen and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Essen, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Germany, here's everything to know about Essen for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Essen

Essen is a city located in the west of Germany, in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia. It has a population of around 590,000 people, making it the ninth-largest city in the country. Essen is known for its industrial past, particularly its role in the coal and steel industry, but in recent years it has become a hub for cultural and creative industries. The city is home to several museums, including the Museum Folkwang, as well as numerous parks and green spaces. Essen is also well-connected to other cities in Germany and beyond, with a major airport, train station, and several highways and expressways.

What to visit in Essen

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Essen, Germany: 1. Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex - This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Essen. It was once a thriving coal mine but has now been turned into a cultural and industrial complex. Here, you can find museums, exhibitions, restaurants, and beautiful architecture.
2. Museum Folkwang - This art museum is home to a vast collection of artwork from the 19th and 20th centuries. It has paintings, sculptures, and photographs from renowned artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet, and Auguste Rodin.
3. Grugapark - This large park is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Essen. It has beautiful gardens, fountains, and lakes. You can also find a greenhouse, a butterfly house, and various playgrounds and picnic areas.
4. Villa Hugel - This grand mansion was once the residence of the Krupp family, one of the wealthiest families in Germany. It is now a museum that contains art collections, impressive architecture, and beautiful gardens.
5. Zeche Carl - This cultural center was once a coal mine and now hosts events such as concerts, theater shows, and art exhibitions. It is a great place to experience the history of industrial-era Essen while also enjoying some modern entertainment.
6. Essen Cathedral - This beautiful church was built in the 9th century and is one of the oldest buildings in Essen. It has stunning stained-glass windows, gothic architecture, and is located in the city center.
7. Lake Baldeney - This scenic lake is located just outside of Essen and is a popular spot for sailing, cycling, and relaxing. It has beautiful scenery, and you can walk or cycle around the lake and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
These are just a few of the many tourist attractions in Essen, Germany. Hope this information helps you plan your trip!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Germany, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Essen.

When to go on holiday to Essen

The best time to visit Essen in Germany is during the spring and summer months (May-September) when the weather is milder and there are plenty of outdoor activities and events happening. The city is also very popular during the Christmas season when it hosts many Christmas markets and holiday events. However, if you're looking to avoid crowds and save money on your trip, it may be best to visit during the off-season between October and April. Keep in mind that the weather in Essen during the winter months can be quite cold and snowy, so be sure to pack accordingly.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Essen

There are several ways to get to Essen, Germany depending on your starting point. Here are some possible options: 1. By Air: The nearest airport to Essen is Düsseldorf International Airport (DUS), which is located approximately 25 km away from the city. From the airport, you can take a train or a taxi to reach Essen.
2. By Train: Essen is well connected by train to different cities in Germany and Europe. The city has several train stations, including Essen Hauptbahnhof (the main station), Essen-Altenessen, Essen-Borbeck and Essen-West.
3. By Car: You can also reach Essen by car via the A40 and A52 highways. The city is approximately 30 minutes away from Düsseldorf and around 1 hour from Cologne.
4. By Bus: There are several long-distance bus companies that operate in Germany and provide services to Essen. The city has a bus station located at the main train station (Essen Hauptbahnhof).
Overall, depending on your starting point, you can choose the most convenient mode of transportation to get to Essen.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Essen, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Essen

Sure, here are some typical foods from Essen, Germany along with a short description: 1. Rinderrouladen - These are beef roulades wrapped around a mixture of bacon, onions, and mustard, then braised in red wine or beef broth until tender.
2. Frikadellen - These are meatballs made from ground beef or pork, mixed with breadcrumbs, egg, onions, and spices, and then fried or baked.
3. Currywurst - A popular street food snack made with a grilled or pan-fried sausage, served with a spicy curry ketchup sauce and usually accompanied by french fries.
4. Reibekuchen - Also known as Kartoffelpuffer or potato pancakes, these are grated potatoes mixed with flour and eggs, then fried until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
5. Grünkohleintopf - A hearty stew made with kale, pork, and potatoes, often served during the winter months.
6. Sauerbraten - A classic German dish made with marinated beef, often served with red cabbage or spätzle, a type of egg noodle.
7. Leberknödel - Literally translated to liver dumplings, these are made from ground liver mixed with flour, egg, and spices, then boiled and served in a soup or as a side dish.
8. Pumpernickel bread - A type of dark rye bread baked at a low temperature for several hours, resulting in a dense and slightly sweet flavor.
These are just some examples of the typical foods from Essen, Germany. Enjoy exploring the local cuisine on your trip!
You can find general info about typical foods in Germany here.

Is Essen an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other cities in Germany, Essen is considered a relatively affordable destination for tourists. However, prices for accommodation, food, and attractions will still vary based on individual preferences and budgets. It's recommended to research and compare prices beforehand and create a budget plan for the trip. In addition, visiting during off-peak seasons may also help in saving money.

Where to find accomodation in Essen

The best areas to find accommodation in Essen include: 1. City Center: This area is the heart of the city and is surrounded by attractions such as the Essen Cathedral, the Zeche Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, and the Philharmonie Essen.
2. Rüttenscheid: It is a vibrant neighborhood full of cafes, shops, and restaurants. It is also home to the Museum Folkwang and Grugapark, a large park with gardens and a botanical collection.
3. Kettwig: A beautiful historic district with a small town charm situated near the River Ruhr. It is a perfect location for those who enjoy outdoor activities such as cycling or hiking. 4. Steele: A traditional neighborhood of Essen with many historic buildings, churches and parks. It is also an excellent area for shopping and dining.
Overall, the best area to stay in Essen depends on your travel objectives and preferences.
You can check hotel prices at Essen here:
Booking.com

Is Essen a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Essen is generally considered a safe place for tourists. As with any destination, it is always important to take basic safety precautions such as being aware of your surroundings, not leaving your belongings unattended, and avoiding isolated areas at night. However, the crime rate in Essen is relatively low compared to other cities in Germany. The city has a strong police presence and well-lit streets, making it generally safe for visitors.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Germany here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Essen.

What type of travelers will enjoy Essen the most?

Essen, Germany is a popular destination for many types of travelers. Couples and young people looking for fun will enjoy the vibrant nightlife and numerous cultural attractions, while families will appreciate the many family-friendly attractions and activities. Essen is home to several museums, such as the Museum Folkwang and the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, which offer a fascinating glimpse into the city's history and culture. It also boasts beautiful parks and gardens, like Grugapark Essen, which is perfect for family outings. If you're looking for fun and entertainment, you can explore the city's numerous bars, restaurants, and clubs. There are also many festivals and events that take place throughout the year, such as the Gruga Festival and the Christmas Market.
Overall, Essen is a great place for anyone looking to experience Germany's rich culture, history, and entertainment.

How to get around Essen

In Essen, you can move around using public transportation such as buses, trams, and trains. The main provider of public transportation in the Essen area is the Rhein-Ruhr S-Bahn. Additionally, there are several taxi services available, as well as bike rental and car rental options. The city center is small enough to be explored on foot, and cycling is also a popular means of transportation.

What to see around Essen

Sure, here are some nice places you can visit on a day trip from Essen: 1. Cologne (Köln): It's a vibrant city famous for its stunning cathedral, old city charm, and various museums and art galleries. It's only a 1-hour train ride from Essen.
2. Düsseldorf: A popular destination due to its upscale shopping, art galleries, and vibrant nightlife, Düsseldorf is also located just a 30-minute train ride from Essen.
3. Münster: A charming university town with stunning architecture and beautiful gardens, Münster is a 1.5-hour train ride from Essen.
4. Dortmund: Dortmund is renowned for its beautiful parks, vibrant nightlife, and excellent museums. It's just a 20-minute train ride from Essen.
5. Duisburg: Duisburg is known for its lovely parks and gardens as well as its extensive history. It's just a 20-minute train ride away from Essen. Hope this helps!
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