Essen, Germany: 3 Days of Quirky Fun!

Discover family fun in Essen, Germany – where culture meets adventure!

19 July 2023

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.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Essen's Quirky Side

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Café Livres, where pancakes are piled high and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air.
  • Immerse yourself in art at Museum Folkwang, where masterpieces by Van Gogh and Picasso await your admiration.
  • Take a stroll through the Grugapark, a lush green oasis where you can frolic amidst blooming flowers, hidden ponds, and whimsical sculptures.
  • Feed your inner bookworm at the Book Market in the southern part of the city, where you can browse through stacks of literature treasures.
  • End your day with a delicious dinner at Balinese Dream, a wacky restaurant with colorful decor, serving up delightful Indonesian cuisine.
Day 2

Industrial Marvels and Culinary Delights

  • Marvel at the industrial architecture of Zeche Zollverein, a former coal mine turned UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Visit Gasometer, a massive gas holder transformed into an awe-inspiring exhibition space, showcasing breathtaking installations.
  • Treat yourself to a scrumptious lunch at "Brauhaus Henninger", a traditional German brewery serving mouthwatering sausages and pretzels.
  • Explore the Folkwang Museum, where photography, sculpture, and design intertwine to create a visual feast for your artistic appetite.
  • Unwind in style at the Limbecker Platz, Essen's largest shopping center, where you can shop till you drop and find everything your heart desires.
Day 3

Nature and Family Fun

  • Start your day with a trip to Baldeneysee, a stunning lake perfect for a leisurely bicycle ride or a tranquil picnic by the water.
  • Delve into the mysteries of the universe at the Zeiss Planetarium, where dazzling star shows will leave you gazing in awe.
  • Enjoy a mouthwatering lunch at "Curry & Chili", a quirky little eatery known for serving delicious homemade currywurst.
  • Take the kids to Movie Park Germany, a thrilling amusement park with heart-stopping roller coasters and beloved movie-themed attractions.
  • End your trip on a sweet note with a visit to Rüttenscheid, a charming neighborhood known for its delightful cafés and irresistible ice cream parlors.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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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

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Thrifty Essen: 3 Perfect Days on a Budget

Essen, Germany is an excellent destination for budget-conscious travelers with its numerous affordable attractions and reasonably priced accommodations. Visitors can explore the city's rich industrial heritage at the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, which has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or enjoy the green spaces of Grugapark, a sprawling urban park. Additionally, the city is home to several museums and galleries, many of which offer free admission on certain days.

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.

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.

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.