Hotels in Essen

Discover the Hidden Treasures of Essen: A Journey Through Art and Heritage

Essen, nestled in North Rhine-Westphalia, is a vibrant urban gem brimming with cultural allure and historical significance. Home to the stunning Essen Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the city seamlessly blends modernity with tradition. Stroll through the bustling centre, where the striking Rathaus (town hall) stands as a testament to its rich past. Immerse yourself in the fascinating art at the Museum Folkwang, renowned for its impressive collection. With lush parks and innovative architecture, Essen invites both city explorers and culture enthusiasts to uncover its unique charm and vibrant spirit.

Discover great hotels in Essen

Essen offers a diverse range of hotel accommodations, from comfortable mid-range options to luxurious star hotels. Whether you're seeking modern amenities, cosy atmospheres, or convenient locations, you'll find a variety of choices to suit your needs while exploring this vibrant city. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Essen:

1. PLAZA Hotel GelsenkirchenOpens in a new window: This vibrant 4.0-star hotel is perfect for adventure seekers looking to immerse themselves in the local culture. Nestled in the city centre, it offers a variety of exciting activities, including boat tours and hiking, ensuring a memorable stay. The property features modern lodging with easy access to recreation and adventure sports both onsite and nearby. Frequent travellers appreciate the engaging atmosphere and the opportunity to explore the great outdoors, making it a standout choice for those seeking a dynamic vacation experience.
2. Hotel Rhein-Ruhr BottropOpens in a new window: Hotel Rhein-Ruhr Bottrop is a welcoming 4.0-star hotel that stands out for its LGBTQIA-friendly environment and pet-friendly policies. With a focus on comfort and inclusivity, this property allows pets, ensuring that guests can enjoy their stay with their furry companions. The thoughtful amenities, coupled with a relaxed atmosphere, create a warm and inviting experience for leisure travellers. The distinctive charm of this hotel resonates with those looking to explore unique offerings while feeling at home during their visit.
3. Heiner's ParkhotelOpens in a new window: A refined choice, Heiner's Parkhotel is a luxurious 4.5-star hotel that caters to wellness enthusiasts seeking a spa-themed getaway. The property boasts a full spa and pool service, featuring a range of treatments, including massages and facial therapies. The serene environment, coupled with high-end amenities, creates a tranquil retreat for those looking to unwind and rejuvenate. Frequent visitors appreciate the elegance and sophisticated design of the hotel, making it a premier destination for relaxation and indulgence during their travels.

Top locations to stay in Essen

When visiting Essen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, consider staying in Oberhausen, Gelsenkirchen, or Mülheim an der Ruhr. Oberhausen is perfect for shopping enthusiasts, Gelsenkirchen offers vibrant football culture, and Mülheim an der Ruhr boasts beautiful parks and riverside walks. For first-time visitors, Oberhausen is best suited due to its extensive shopping and entertainment options.

1. OberhausenOpens in a new window: Oberhausen is a fantastic choice for those who love shopping, as it boasts one of the largest shopping centres in the region, the CentrO. This vibrant area also offers a variety of entertainment options, from cinemas to the spectacular Gasometer, which hosts cultural exhibitions and stunning views from the top. With its convenient transport links, you can easily explore nearby attractions, making Oberhausen a lively base for your adventures in North Rhine-Westphalia.
2. GelsenkirchenOpens in a new window: Gelsenkirchen is perfect for football fans, as it is home to the famous FC Schalke 04. Catching a match at the Veltins-Arena is a memorable experience. Beyond sports, the city features beautiful parks and cultural venues, such as the ZOOM Erlebniswelt, where you can explore diverse wildlife. Gelsenkirchen offers a friendly, local atmosphere, making it a great spot for those looking to immerse themselves in the true essence of German life.
3. Muelheim an der RuhrOpens in a new window: Muelheim an der Ruhr is a charming town that offers a peaceful retreat with its picturesque parks and riverside views. It's an ideal place for leisurely strolls along the Ruhr River or exploring the beautiful gardens. The town also has a budding arts scene with various cultural attractions, including theatres and galleries. Muelheim is perfect for visitors seeking a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere while still being close to the urban excitement of nearby cities.

Things to do in Essen

Essen offers a vibrant blend of cultural experiences amidst scenic surroundings. Stroll through lush parks, enjoy live music, and delve into theatrical performances, all while savouring the city’s rich heritage. With opportunities for leisurely shopping and a lively arts scene, it’s a delightful destination for every traveller.

• Seaside Beach BaldeneyOpens in a new window – Enjoy a day at this scenic beach, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simply relaxing by the water. The sandy shores invite you to unwind while the gentle waves create a soothing backdrop for your visit.
• Grugapark Botanical GardenOpens in a new window – Wander through beautifully landscaped gardens in this botanical paradise. With a diverse collection of plants, walking paths, and tranquil spaces, it’s an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful picnic amidst nature.
• BaldeneyseeOpens in a new window – This picturesque lake offers opportunities for boating, cycling, and walking along its scenic trails. The surrounding area is perfect for enjoying a family outing or some quiet time by the water, making it a charming escape from the city.
• Movie Park GermanyOpens in a new window – Dive into the thrilling world of movies at this exciting film studio theme park. With rides and attractions themed around popular films, it’s a perfect destination for families looking to enjoy a day filled with fun and adventure.
• Zollverein Coal Mine World Heritage SiteOpens in a new window – Step back in time at this historic mine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its fascinating industrial architecture and learn about the region’s coal mining history while appreciating the transformation of this site into a cultural hub.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Essen

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Essen is during July, August, and December, when hotel prices tend to be lower. For an enriching experience that allows you to explore the city’s key historical and cultural landmarks, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. During your visit, you can enjoy a variety of attractions such as museums, theatres, and the impressive cathedral, all of which offer great value for money. You might find that prices could drop during these months, making it an excellent option for those on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To uncover potential last-minute deals to Essen, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. To ensure you don't miss great savings, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications for flash sales and special promotions. The Smart Shopping tool available via the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you’re more likely to see the best hotel deal. You'll receive updates on price drops or room availability, making it easier to secure a cheap hotel for your getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate depending on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates could help you potentially save on your stay in an Essen hotel. For those seeking distinctive accommodations, boutique hotels can provide a more personalised experience and may offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we’ll recommend alternative dates that could be more affordable, helping you to secure the best deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre usually tend to be more expensive, but thanks to Essen's superb public transport links, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit further out that is still well connected. For those eager to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Essen

Essen experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 36.9°F (2.7°C), while July to August are the hottest months, with an average temperature of 66.7°F (19.3°C). December tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Essen are September to November, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, February, April, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by no to light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.