Thrifty Essen: 3 Perfect Days on a Budget

Discover Essen's hidden gems without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

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Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Welcome to Essen!

  • Check-in to Ibis Budget Hotel for affordable and convenient accommodation.
  • Visit the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Explore the Museum Folkwang, showcasing modern and contemporary art.
  • Satisfy your appetite at the flea market-turned-foodie paradise, Street Food Thursday.
  • Cap off the night with a locally brewed beer at Brauhaus Henninger.
Day 2

Discovering Essen's Culture

  • Get to know the city's history at the Essen Historical Museum.
  • Spend time strolling through the charming botanical gardens at Grugapark.
  • Head to the Philharmonic Hall for a taste of classical music.
  • Experience traditional German cuisine at Gaststätte Kupferdreh.
  • Catch a movie at the iconic Lichtburg cinema.
Day 3

Final Day in Essen

  • Take a relaxing boat tour on Lake Baldeneysee.
  • Visit the Villa Hügel estate, formerly owned by one of Germany's wealthiest families.
  • Admire the intricate architecture of the Essen Cathedral.
  • Grab lunch and a refreshing drink at the street food market in Stadtwald.
  • End your trip at the Essen Christmas Market (only available during winter months) for some heartwarming holiday cheer.

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'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.

Essen-joy: A Budget-friendly 4 Day Adventure

Visiting Essen on a limited budget is still achievable. The city boasts a wealth of free or low-cost attractions and activities, such as the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex and the Museum Folkwang. Finding affordable accommodation and dining options is also possible with a bit of research and planning.

Essen in a Weekend: Romance, Castles, and Cuisine

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.

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.