Essen is a vibrant city in the heart of the Ruhr region in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. With a population of nearly 600,000, it is the ninth-largest city in Germany and one of the country’s major industrial and commercial centers. Along with its industrial and commercial importance, Essen is also a popular tourist destination.
Essen boasts a rich history, with archaeological evidence of human habitation in the area dating back to the Stone Age. The city was originally known as Astnide, and it became a major center of trade in the Middle Ages before becoming a free city in the 13th century. During the 19th century, the city’s industrialization was well underway and it was an important hub of the Ruhr region’s coal and steel industry.
Today, Essen is home to a number of tourist attractions, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site Zeche Zollverein, a former coal mine complex that has been converted into a museum and cultural center. Other noteworthy sites include the Essen Cathedral, the Villa Hügel, and the historic Grugapark. The city also has a lively nightlife scene with plenty of bars and clubs to explore.
Essen is well connected to the rest of Germany and beyond by rail and air. The city is home to several universities, making it a great place to live, work, and study. With its wealth of cultural and historic attractions, bustling nightlife, and easy access to nearby cities, Essen is a great place to visit.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Steele: This is a bustling district in the north of Essen, known for its nightlife, shopping, and cultural attractions. It is home to the iconic Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex and has a variety of restaurants and bars.
2. Ruhrgebiet: This is a large industrial area encompassing several cities in the Ruhr Valley, including Essen. It is known for its industrial heritage, cultural attractions, and well-developed public transportation system.
3. Altendorf: This is a residential area in the south of Essen, close to the city center and the University of Duisburg-Essen. It is known for its shops, restaurants, and recreational activities.
4. Essen-Werden: This is a district in the south of Essen, known for its tranquil parks and forests, as well as its churches and museums. It is popular with families and students.
5. Kettwig: This is a historical district in the south of Essen, close to the Ruhr River. It has a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and pubs, and is home to the impressive Kettwig Castle.
1. Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a fascinating relic of Germany’s industrial history, featuring an incredible array of red-brick buildings, machinery and other artifacts.
2. Old Synagogue: Built in 1913, this synagogue is one of Germany’s best-preserved religious buildings and a reminder of the city’s Jewish history.
3. Ruhr Museum: This museum is dedicated to the history and culture of the Ruhr region, featuring exhibits on its industrial past, nature, and art.
4. Essen Cathedral: This imposing Gothic cathedral was built in the 13th century and houses a variety of artwork and religious artifacts.
5. Grugapark: This sprawling park is a great place to relax and enjoy nature, with a variety of gardens, a lake, and even a zoo and petting zoo.
1. Ruhrpott Ripper: This dish consists of pork-filled potato pancakes that are pan-fried and served with a side of apple sauce.
2. Pumpernickel Bread: This dense, dark rye bread is a staple in the Essen diet and is often served with butter, cheese, or jam.
3. Currywurst: A popular snack, currywurst is a sausage that is cut into pieces and covered in a ketchup-based sauce that contains curry powder.
4. Döner Kebab: This Turkish dish is made of skewered meat that is grilled and served in a flatbread wrap with vegetables and sauces.
5. Westphalian Ham: This type of ham is cured and smoked and is often served as part of a cheese platter or in sandwiches.