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Once known as Germany’s soot-smudged powerhouse of coal and steel production during the 19th and 20th centuries, Essen is now a sleek cultural upstart – a modern metropolis that is celebrated for its cultural institutions, green spaces, and rich industrial heritage. Recently named a Booking.com trend destination for 2025, Essen is primed for a three-day city break that’s equal parts grit and glamour.
Begin with Zeche Zollverein, a Unesco World Heritage Site epitomising Essen’s industrial past and remarkable reinvention. This former coal mine is now a cultural hub, home to museums, design exhibitions, and striking architecture that tells the story of Germany’s industrial heritage. Nearby, Museum Folkwang boasts an outstanding collection of classical and contemporary art, cementing Essen’s status as a cultural heavyweight.
Villa Hügel
Rüttenscheid and Südviertel, meanwhile, are the places where Essen lets its hair down. These districts hum with stylish boutiques, restaurants, cosy wood-panelled bars, and a thriving nightlife scene. Essen’s culinary landscape is diverse, showcasing everything from Michelin-starred venues to relaxed regional dining.
Essen isn’t all asphalt and sharp edges, either. It’s one of Germany’s greenest cities, with hiking trails snaking through its green corridors, linking historic quarters like Werden and Kettwig. These picturesque areas, with their half-timbered houses and riverside charm, provide a striking contrast to the city’s industrial roots. Meanwhile, Villa Hügel, the former residence of the influential Krupp family, offers both architectural grandeur and swoonsome views over Lake Baldeney.
A woman paddleboards across Lake Baldeney
Haven’t seen enough of Essen from the ground? Tourists can now take flight in a Zeppelin aircraft and catch aerial views of Essen’s industrial and natural landscapes. Whether exploring its world-class museums, strolling through historic neighbourhoods, or immersing in its culinary scene, Essen is a must-visit European city destination in 2025. We’re already packing our bags.
For more information visit visitessen.de or @visit.essen
