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

Discover family fun in Essen, Germany - the perfect destination for all ages!

19 July 2023

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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Essen's Cultural Gems

  • Start your day at the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, an architectural marvel that’ll make your jaw drop!
  • Take a stroll through the beautiful Grugapark, with its blooming flora and charming lake, perfect for a picnic.
  • Discover the Museum Folkwang, a treasure trove of art, showcasing masterpieces from Monet to Warhol.
  • Don't miss the Villa Hügel, a palatial mansion where you can pretend to be a 19th-century aristocrat for a moment or two.
  • Treat your taste buds at Rüttenscheider Sternchen, a cozy restaurant with mouthwatering local cuisine to satisfy your hunger.
Day 2

Family Fun Galore!

  • Dive into the enchanting world of Deutsches Bergbau-Museum, filled with interactive exhibits that explain the wonders of mining.
  • Embark on a quest to capture the essence of ancient times at the Ruhr Museum, located in the stunning Zeche Zollverein.
  • Head over to Grillo-Theater, where mesmerizing performances will transport you to another dimension.
  • Enjoy a leisurely afternoon at Grugabad, a sprawling water park where you can splash, slide, and soak up the sun.
  • Indulge in a memorable dinner at Rüttenscheider Hausbrauerei, where you can savor traditional German fare and handcrafted beer.
  • Hotel Recommendation:
  • For a family-friendly stay, book a room at Hotel Frohnhausen. With its charming atmosphere and excellent amenities, it's the perfect home away from home for your adventure in Essen. The hotel offers spacious family rooms, a delicious breakfast, and friendly staff ready to make your stay unforgettable.

How to get there

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.

More travel plans

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.

5-Day Adventure in Essen, Germany

Essen, Germany is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by tourists seeking stunning architecture and delicious food. Its wide range of restaurants serving authentic German cuisine and modern international fare promises to delight even the most discriminating palates. Don't miss visiting the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, an iconic landmark that showcases the city's rich industrial heritage.

Essen's Enchanting Delights: A 4-Day Family Adventure

Essen, Germany offers a fantastic family-friendly trip with a perfect blend of cultural attractions and recreational activities. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Zeche Zollverein, a former coal mine turned museum, where kids can delve into the fascinating history of the region. The sprawling Grugapark provides endless opportunities for outdoor fun, featuring beautiful gardens, playgrounds, and even a small zoo, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable vacation for the entire family.

3 Days in Essen: Industrial Heritage & Parks

As a tourist, a trip to Essen, Germany allows you to truly immerse yourself in the heart of the Ruhr Valley. You can explore the city's industrial heritage, such as the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, which has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Additionally, you can enjoy the many parks and restaurants that the city has to offer.