A Romantic Long Weekend in Essen, Germany

Discover romance in the heart of Essen, Germany.

22 April 2023

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.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Welcome to Essen!

  • Check-in at the Sheraton Essen Hotel, located in the heart of the city and boasting exceptional service and amenities.
  • Visit the Zeche Zollverein, a UNESCO World Heritage site and stunning example of industrial architecture.
  • Wander around the Museum Folkwang, showcasing an impressive collection of modern art.
  • Treat yourself to dinner at Rüttenscheider Strasse, known for its diverse cuisine and lively atmosphere.
  • End the night with a drink at the rooftop bar at Onyx Bar & Lounge, offering breathtaking views of Essen.
Day 2

Nature and Relaxation

  • Start the day with a visit to Grugapark, spanning over 700,000 sqm and offering a tranquil escape from the city.
  • Take a relaxing bath at the Wellneuss spa, renowned for its extensive range of wellness facilities.
  • Enjoy a delicious lunch at Ristorante da Enzo, serving authentic Italian cuisine.
  • Visit Villa Hügel, a historic mansion and park, showcasing the lifestyle of a wealthy industrial family.
  • Cap off the day with a romantic boat ride on Baldeneysee lake, perfect for sunset views and quiet moments with your partner.
Day 3

Culture and History

  • Explore the Zentrum für Internationale Lichtkunst, showcasing contemporary light art installations.
  • Visit the Red Dot Design Museum, exhibiting award-winning product design and innovation.
  • Have lunch at thier Brauhaus, offering traditional German cuisine and locally brewed beers.
  • Immerse yourself in the history of the region at the Ruhr Museum.
  • Enjoy a performance at the Aalto Theatre, showcasing world-class opera, ballet, and theater productions.
Day 4

Shopping and Farewell

  • Indulge in some retail therapy at Limbecker Platz, one of the largest shopping centers in Germany.
  • Have lunch at Kartoffel Keller, offering hearty German food and cozy ambiance.
  • Take a stroll around the Grillo Theatre, located in the historic city center.
  • Say goodbye to Essen with a romantic picnic at the Hesperider Garden, known for its beautiful flower arrangements and enchanting fountains.

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.

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.

2-Day Fun Plan to Discover Essen, Germany

As a tourist, a trip to Essen, Germany would offer an experience of rich industrial heritage blended with modern advancements. The city boasts of multiple art galleries and museums showcasing contemporary art and history. The Zeche Zollverein coal mine, a UNESCO World Heritage site, presents a remarkable exhibit of the city's industrial past.

5-Day Essen Adventure: Culture, Cuisine, and Charm

Explore the industrial beauty of Essen, Germany on a limited budget trip. Visit the famous Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex and the Museum Folkwang. Dine at the local food markets and stay at affordable hostels or Airbnbs for an economical stay.