Essen in a Weekend: Romance, Castles, and Cuisine

Fall in love all over again in Essen, Germany.

22 April 2023

Essen offers a charming and less crowded getaway for couples that want to escape the hustle and bustle of other popular German cities. Visitors can explore the city's rich history through its museums and architectural landmarks or indulge in its culinary scene. The city's beautiful parks, gardens, and lakes offer several romantic spots to enjoy a peaceful moment with your partner.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Art, Parks and Romance

  • Check into your hotel, the Mintrops Stadt Hotel Margarethenhöhe, located in a historic district with charming cobblestone streets.
  • Visit the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, that is now a cultural center hosting art exhibitions and events.
  • Take a romantic stroll through the Grugapark, a 70-hectare park with gardens, lakes, and a forest. Stop at the rose garden for great photo opportunities.
  • Indulge in some authentic German cuisine at Rüttenscheider Hausbrauerei. Try their crispy pork knuckle and wash it down with their homemade beer.
  • End the day with a splendid view of the city from the observation deck of the ThyssenKrupp towerthe highest building in Essen.
Day 2

Castles, Shopping and Food

  • Head to Schloss Borbeck, a stunning castle with a moat that was once home to nobility. Take a guided tour and learn about its history and legends.
  • Discover the charming borough of Kettwig, known for its small boutiques and shops. Stroll along the Ruhr river while searching for unique souvenirs.
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth at Café Muckefuck, a cozy café with delicious cakes and pastries. The apple pie and cheesecake are a must-try.
  • For dinner, treat yourself to a delightful meal at Hugenpöttchen. This restaurant occupies a 400-year-old half-timbered house and serves up exquisite French-inspired cuisine with a regional twist.
  • Finally, end your trip on a high note with drinks at the rooftop bar of the Limbecker Platz shopping mall. Sip on a cocktail while enjoying the cityscape.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Essen

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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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Essen Escapades: A 5-day Adventure for the Whole Family

Experience a memorable family trip to Essen, Germany, where you can explore an array of family-friendly attractions. Discover the fascinating Zeche Zollverein, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering engaging exhibits and interactive displays. Enjoy a day at the Grugapark, a stunning botanical garden boasting playgrounds, a zoo, and a miniature train ride, ensuring endless fun for the entire family.

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.

4 Days of Fun and Culture in Essen

Essen has an industrial landscape that serves as a symbol of the city's past. However, tourists visiting the city can also explore the impressive museums, parks, churches, and shops in the area. A trip to Essen will give tourists a taste of German culture and history.

Escape for a Romantic Long Weekend in Essen

Essen, Germany is a perfect destination for a romantic trip. This vibrant city offers amazing sights, cozy restaurants, and plenty of romantic spots to explore. From admiring the stunning architecture to witnessing beautiful sunsets over the city, your trip to Essen will be filled with unforgettable experiences.