3 Days in Essen: Industrial Heritage & Parks

Experience the best of industrial charm and cultural diversity in Essen, Germany.

22 April 2023

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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Welcome to Essen!

  • Check in at the Sheraton Essen Hotel, conveniently located in the city center
  • Visit the Krupp Castle, a stunning 19th-century mansion with beautiful gardens
  • Enjoy a traditional German dinner at Ratskeller Essen, famous for its hearty Schnitzel and local beer
  • Take a stroll around the Stadtgarten, a charming park with a lake and plenty of greenery
  • Catch a show at the Aalto Theater, a modern venue with a varied program of concerts, plays, and operas
Day 2

Industrial Heritage Tour

  • Start the day with breakfast at Café Livres, a cozy spot with delicious croissants and coffee
  • Explore the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the region's industrial past
  • Take a guided tour of the Museum Folkwang, a museum of modern and contemporary art with works by Picasso, Warhol, and more
  • Have lunch at Brauhaus Joh. Albrecht, a traditional brewery with excellent beer and hearty food
  • Visit the Red Dot Design Museum, an innovative museum that showcases the best in contemporary design
Day 3

Parks and Gardens

  • Start the day with breakfast at Café Konsumreform, a charming café with organic and vegan options
  • Visit the Grugapark, a sprawling park with a botanical garden, a wildlife park, and an outdoor pool
  • Take a bike ride along the nearby Ruhr river, which offers beautiful views and plenty of cycling paths
  • Have lunch at Maredo Steakhouse, a popular restaurant with juicy steaks and a friendly atmosphere
  • End the day with a trip to the Museum Zeche Carl, an interactive museum that tells the history of coal mining in the region.

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

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.

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.

A Romantic Long Weekend in Essen, Germany

Essen, Germany, is a cozy city that offers plenty of romantic activities for couples. Visitors can explore the beautiful botanical gardens, take a stroll and enjoy a coffee in one of the many charming cafés, or indulge in the local cuisine at a candlelit dinner. Among the top attractions are the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, the Museum Folkwang, and the Grugapark park and garden.