Spend time appreciating the theater scene, the opera house and the live music in Essen.
You might find the perfect souvenir at Limbecker Platz or International Christmas Market Essen. You might find that sights like Folkwang Museum and Grugahalle are worth a visit.
Hotels in Essen
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Where to stay in Essen?
Select Hotel Handelshof Essen
Select Hotel Handelshof Essen
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1002)
The price is $69
includes taxes & fees
$65 per night
Jan 23 - Jan 24
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Top neighborhoods in Essen
Stadtbezirke I
The Stadtbezirke I neighborhood has lots to see including Limbecker Platz and Folkwang Museum.
Top landmarks in Essen
Zollverein Coal Mine World Heritage Site
Zollverein Coal Mine World Heritage Site is just one of the attractions in Stadtbezirke VI, Essen so you might want to stop by during your trip. If you want to experience more of the culture Essen has to offer, head to Red Dot Design Museum, University of Duisburg-Essen, and Limbecker Platz.
Essen and related destinations
Essen is applauded for its theater and opera with such cultural attractions as Folkwang Museum and Grugahalle. Sights include Limbecker Platz and Messe Essen and visitors speak highly of the city's live music.
Notable for its sports, Dortmund features attractions such as Dortmund Christmas Market and St. Reinold's Church. Visitors to this family-friendly city speak highly of the restaurants whereas sights include Hansaplatz and Dortmund Concert Hall.
Bonn is applauded for its museums with enlightening attractions such as Beethoven House and Opera Bonn. This historical city has something for everyone including sights like Beethoven Monument and Bonn Christmas Market.
Nantes is well-known for its castle and cathedral while attractions include Nantes Cathedral and Bouffay Square. Visitors highlight this historical city's gardens while sights include Château of the Dukes of Brittany and Place Royale.
Notable for its castle, Bergamo features attractions such as Via XX Settembre and Centro Congressi Giovanni XXIII. This historical city has something for everyone including sights like Piazza Pontida and Matris Domini Monastery.
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about Essen
Find out more about Essen
Unveil the Cultural Tapestry of Essen: Where History Meets Modern Marvels
Discover the vibrant essence of Essen, a hidden gem in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. This dynamic city seamlessly blends rich industrial history with cultural treasures. Explore the renowned Museum Folkwang, home to stunning art collections, or marvel at the majestic Essen Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy world-class performances at the Philharmonie Essen and unwind in the lush greenery of Stadtgarten. With a mix of modern charm and historical landmarks, Essen invites travelers to experience its unique appeal—perfect for art lovers, history buffs, and anyone seeking an authentic German city experience. For the best hotel rates in Essen, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.
Where to stay in Essen
Some of the best places to stay in Essen are Stadtmitte, Düsseldorf Old Town and Friedrichstadt. Stadtmitte, Düsseldorf Old Town, and Friedrichstadt offer vibrant experiences for travelers. Stadtmitte is a bustling hub with shops and eateries, while Düsseldorf Old Town boasts charming streets and rich history, making it ideal for first-time visitors. Friedrichstadt features a mix of modern and traditional architecture. Accommodations in these areas range from budget-friendly hotels to upscale options, providing something for every traveler’s needs. For those visiting Essen, consider nearby hotels for convenient access to the region's attractions. Here are some of the best hotels in Essen that our travelers love:
- StadtmitteOpens in a new window: Stadtmitte is a vibrant area perfect for both business and family travelers, offering easy access to key attractions like Messe Düsseldorf and the bustling Konigsallee. The central location ensures a wealth of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Recommended hotels include Hotel Kö59 Düsseldorf - Member of Hommage Luxury Hotels CollectionOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5-star property ideal for business and family vacations, featuring conference spaces and amenities for children. Another option is Steigenberger Icon Parkhotel DüsseldorfOpens in a new window, which not only caters to business needs but also provides romantic packages, spa services, and a lovely garden view restaurant. Lastly, Breidenbacher HofOpens in a new window is a fantastic choice for those seeking a blend of romance and family-friendly services, complete with a full-service spa and multiple meeting rooms.
- Düsseldorf Old TownOpens in a new window: Düsseldorf Old Town is a historic district known for its lively atmosphere and cultural significance, making it a great base for exploring the city. Close to attractions like Mitsubishi Electric Hall, it offers a mix of business and leisure opportunities. For accommodation, Hyatt Regency DüsseldorfOpens in a new window is a standout 5-star hotel featuring a 24-hour business center and pet-friendly policies. Alternatively, Living Hotel De MediciOpens in a new window combines luxury and wellness with its full spa services, ensuring a relaxing stay. The Wellem, in The Unbound Collection by HyattOpens in a new window is another excellent choice for business travelers, offering multiple meeting rooms and amenities for pets, making it convenient for all guests.
- FriedrichstadtOpens in a new window: Friedrichstadt is a bustling area ideal for business travelers, surrounded by significant venues like Messe Düsseldorf. The area’s business-centric amenities make it easy to stay productive while enjoying the local culture. Cologne Marriott HotelOpens in a new window is a premium 5-star hotel providing extensive business services, perfect for corporate stays. Similarly, Excelsior Hotel Ernst am DomOpens in a new window offers luxurious accommodations with family-friendly options, ensuring a comfortable experience for all. Hyatt Regency CologneOpens in a new window is also a top pick, featuring a central location and amenities catered to both families and business travelers, making it a versatile choice for your stay.
What to do in Essen
Essen offers a delightful three-day getaway for travelers, featuring a mix of vibrant arts, shopping, and live music. Surrounded by lush parks and tranquil lakes, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and picnicking, making it a perfect blend of cultural exploration and natural beauty. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Essen:
- Day 1: Start your adventure at Movie Park Germany, where thrill-seekers can enjoy a variety of rides and attractions based on popular films. Afterward, take a short drive to Beck Castle, a stunning historical site where you can explore its beautiful architecture and serene gardens. Conclude your day at Wittringen Castle, which offers picturesque views and a lovely park perfect for a relaxing stroll as the sun sets.
- Day 2: Begin your exploration at Nordsternpark, a former coal mining site transformed into a beautiful green space, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature. Next, visit the Ludwiggalerie, an art museum housed in a charming historic building, showcasing contemporary exhibits. Round off the day at the Tetrahedon Bottrop, an impressive architectural structure offering a unique experience with its panoramic views and engaging exhibitions.
- Day 3: Kick off with a visit to Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord, a former industrial site turned park where you can explore fascinating ruins and lush greenery. Next, make your way to Broich Castle, a charming medieval structure surrounded by scenic landscapes, ideal for photography. Finally, wrap up your itinerary at Hardenberg Castle, where you can immerse yourself in history and enjoy the tranquil ambiance of its grounds.
5 tips to find a great Essen hotel deal
- Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Essen is during January, February, and August, when hotel rates are typically lower. If you're traveling from abroad, it's advisable to book your flight at least four months in advance to secure the best deals. A budget-friendly stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to thoroughly enjoy the city's main attractions, such as its fascinating museums and the impressive cathedral. This way, you can make the most of your trip while keeping your costs down, ensuring great value for your money.
- Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're seeking last-minute deals to Essen, you're in luck! You may find fantastic rates and good availability on Hotels.com. To uncover these hotel deals, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you could discover significant discounts as your travel date approaches. To maximize your savings, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, keeping you informed about flash sales and special promotions. This way, you're more likely to take advantage of great savings before your trip.
- Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Essen.
- Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Essen usually tends to be more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further away from the center, you can take advantage of transportation options like trams, subways, buses, and bicycles to explore the area while keeping costs down.
- Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in Essen and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.
What to eat in Essen
Here are some popular dishes in Essen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany:
- Currywurst: A beloved fast food staple in Germany, currywurst consists of steamed and fried sausage sliced and smothered in a tangy curry ketchup. It's often served with fries, making it a perfect quick meal while exploring the vibrant streets of Essen. Many local eateries take pride in their unique curry sauce recipes, adding a personal touch to this iconic dish.
- Döner Kebab: This Turkish-inspired dish has become a favorite in Germany, especially in urban areas like Essen. It features succulent slices of marinated meat, typically lamb or chicken, wrapped in warm pita bread with fresh vegetables and a drizzle of yogurt or spicy sauce. A quintessential street food, it’s perfect for a spontaneous bite on the go.
- Schnitzel: A classic German dish, schnitzel is breaded and fried meat, usually pork or veal, served with a slice of lemon and potato salad. It’s a hearty meal that reflects the region's culinary heritage, often enjoyed in traditional restaurants or beer gardens.
Best time to go to Essen
Essen experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 36.9°F (2.7°C), while July and August are the hottest months, with an average temperature of 66.7°F (19.3°C). December is usually the wettest month. June, October, and November are the peak travel months in Essen, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, with light rainfall. On the other hand, January, February, and December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.
Essen Travel Information
Best Time to Visit | May, July and October |
---|---|
Average Stay | 2 days |
International Airports | Duesseldorf Intl. Airport (DUS), Dortmund Airport (DTM) |
Popular Sights | Westfield Centro, Zollverein Coal Mine World Heritage Site and LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Oberhausen |
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- Stadtbezirke I Hotels
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- Hotels near Grugahalle
- Hotels near Folkwang Museum
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- Hotels near University of Duisburg-Essen
- Hotels near Red Dot Design Museum
- Hotels near Limbecker Platz
- Hotels near Grugapark Botanical Garden
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- B&B HOTEL Essen-Hbf
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- theAmbassador Hotel I Essen City
- Mintrops Stadt Hotel Margarethenhöhe
- Schlosshotel Hugenpoet
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- hotel friends Zeche Zollverein - Essen
- limehome Essen Kettwiger Str.
- LaOla Living - Hostel
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- Hotel Stay
- Art Hotel Körschen
- Petul Hotel An der Zeche
- JustStay Essen Hotel & Apartments
- Hotel Rathaus 1910
- Hotel Haus Schmidt
- Hotel Am Brinkerplatz
- Kempe New Work Hotel Essen
- Mintrops Land Hotel Burgaltendorf
- Hotel Maximilians
- Limehome Essen Kibbelstraße
- Hotel Rutherbach
- Hotel Haus Gimken
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- Suite-Apartement-Essen
- Meine Zeitwohnung
- Hotel Böll Essen
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