Essen Travel Plans

Welcome to the land of sausages, sauerkraut, and beer, where Essen, the city that sounds like you're eating, awaits you with open arms (and full stomachs!). Just don't be fooled by the name, it's not all about the food here - though it is pretty delicious.

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Romantic stays

Stays on a budget

Family-friendly stays

Essen's Eclectic Charm: A Fun-Filled Family Day Trip!

Essen, Germany is a fantastic destination for a family-friendly trip filled with cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Explore the UNESCO-listed Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, where children can learn about the region's industrial heritage through interactive exhibits. Visit the Grugapark, a sprawling botanical garden offering playgrounds, a petting zoo, and lovely picnic spots, providing a perfect setting for a fun-filled day with the family.

A Family-Friendly Adventure in Essen: 2 Days of Fun!

Essen, Germany is a fantastic destination for a family-friendly trip, offering a plethora of opportunities for fun and exploration. From its world-class museums such as Zeche Zollverein and the Ruhr Museum, to its beautiful green spaces like Grugapark with its botanical garden and playgrounds, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Additionally, the city boasts various family-friendly attractions including the Essen Zoo and the exhilarating Movie Park Germany, guaranteeing an unforgettable holiday experience for the entire family.

Essen, Germany: 3 Days of Quirky Fun!

Essen, Germany offers a family-friendly trip with a perfect blend of culture, history, and fun activities for all ages. Explore the Zeche Zollverein, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases Germany's industrial history, or visit the beautiful Grugapark filled with lush gardens, playgrounds, and a mini zoo. Unleash your inner child at Movie Park Germany, an exhilarating amusement park with thrilling rides and beloved movie-themed attractions.

How to get to Essen

Plane

The best way to get to Essen by plane is to fly into Düsseldorf International Airport and take the regional express train (RE1) to Essen Hauptbahnhof, which takes about 30 minutes.

Car

Driving to Essen is relatively easy, with the city being well-connected to Germany's motorway network. The A40 and A52 both pass through Essen, making it easily accessible from cities such as Dortmund and Düsseldorf.

Train

Essen is well-connected by rail, with Essen Hauptbahnhof being the main train station. It is possible to take a train from almost anywhere in Germany to Essen. The fastest route is via high-speed ICE train from Frankfurt, which takes around 2.5 hours.

Boat

As Essen is situated inland, there are no direct boat routes to the city. However, it is possible to take a boat trip along the nearby Rhine River, which passes through Düsseldorf and Duisburg, both of which are easily accessible from Essen via train or car.

Bus

There are many bus companies that operate routes to and from Essen. Flixbus and Eurolines are two popular options, with both offering services to nearby cities such as Amsterdam and Brussels.

Explore elsewhere

Discover Stuttgart: A Family-Friendly Adventure on a Budget

Stuttgart, Germany is an ideal destination for a family-friendly trip, offering a perfect blend of culture, history, and outdoor activities. Visit the famous Mercedes-Benz Museum, where both young and old car enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the stunning world of automotive innovation. Explore the lush parks and gardens, such as the Rosenstein Park and Schlossgarten, which provide ample space for picnicking and playing while enjoying the stunning natural beauty.

Siegen, Germany: 3 Days of Family-Friendly Fun

Siegen, Germany offers a delightful family-friendly trip with a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Explore the enchanting streets of the old town, visit the captivating Upper Castle, and enjoy interactive exhibits at the Museum for Contemporary Art. Take a leisurely hike through the picturesque Siegen Forest or cruise along the sparkling Biggesee Lake, providing endless opportunities for family fun and memorable experiences.

Romantic Weekend Indulgence in Bergisch Gladbach

A romantic trip to Bergisch Gladbach, Germany offers a picturesque and charming experience. The quaint town is known for its scenic countryside, hiking trails, and medieval architecture, making it an idyllic location for a romantic getaway. Indulge in delicious regional cuisine and explore local wineries for a truly romantic experience in Bergisch Gladbach.

4 Days of Fun in Jena, Germany

Jena is a captivating city in central Germany that offers a mix of history, culture, and nature. Visitors can explore the impressive Zeiss Planetarium and the scenic Saale river while also discovering the city's rich scientific heritage through visits to the Carl Zeiss Foundation and the Ernst Haeckel House. The charming Old Town area, with its cobblestone streets and lively cafes, rounds out the experience and makes Jena a worthwhile destination for any tourist.