Hotels in Essen

Unveiling Essen: A Tapestry of Art, History, and Urban Charm

Essen, nestled in the heart of North Rhine-Westphalia, is a vibrant cultural hub that seamlessly blends history and modernity. Explore the stunning UNESCO-listed Zollverein Coal Mine, a testament to the city’s industrial heritage, or marvel at the striking architecture of the Essen Cathedral, with its impressive treasures. Stroll through the bustling city centre, where the Rathaus showcases neo-Gothic elegance. With its rich array of museums, such as the Museum Folkwang, and lush green spaces, Essen offers an enriching experience for culture enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, making it a unique and unmissable destination.

Discover great hotels in Essen

Essen offers a variety of hotel accommodations, from comfortable budget options to elegant star hotels. You'll find modern amenities and well-appointed rooms, making it easy to relax after exploring the city's rich industrial heritage and vibrant cultural scene. Enjoy your stay in this charming German city. Here are some of the best hotels in Essen that our travelers love:

1. PLAZA Hotel GelsenkirchenOpens in a new window: This adventurous 4.0-star hotel is perfectly located in the city centre, catering to thrill-seekers and city explorers alike. With an array of adventure sports and recreational activities both onsite and nearby, it offers an exciting escape for those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture. Standout features include opportunities for boat tours and extensive hiking and biking trails in the vicinity. Frequent travellers particularly appreciate the hotel’s vibrant atmosphere and its close proximity to urban attractions, making each stay a distinctive experience filled with adventure.
2. Hotel Rhein-Ruhr BottropOpens in a new window: Hotel Rhein-Ruhr Bottrop is a stylish 4.0-star hotel that warmly welcomes LGBTQIA travellers and their pets, creating a comfortable and inclusive environment. The pet-friendly policy, including waived fees for service animals, enhances the overall experience. This property boasts an array of thoughtful amenities, ensuring a pleasant stay for all guests. Frequent visitors are drawn to the hotel’s inviting atmosphere, friendly service, and its close-knit community vibe, perfect for those seeking a unique and welcoming vacation experience.
3. Heiner's ParkhotelOpens in a new window: This luxurious 4.5-star hotel offers an exceptional spa-themed retreat for discerning travellers. With a full-service spa featuring sauna facilities, body treatments, facial treatments, body scrubs, and manicures and pedicures, relaxation takes centre stage. The elegant design and upscale atmosphere enhance the overall experience, making it a prime choice for those seeking indulgence and rejuvenation. Guests often praise the serene environment and the commitment to providing high-quality wellness services, resulting in a truly memorable and restorative stay.

Top locations to stay in Essen

When visiting Essen, great areas to stay include Gelsenkirchen, Mülheim an der Ruhr, and the Ruhr region. Gelsenkirchen is renowned for its football culture, while Mülheim offers charming parks and a relaxed atmosphere. The Ruhr region is a hub for business and shopping. For first-time visitors, Mülheim an der Ruhr is particularly inviting for its welcoming vibe.

1. GelsenkirchenOpens in a new window: Gelsenkirchen is an exciting destination for football enthusiasts and culture lovers alike. Home to the famous FC Schalke 04, you can catch a match or visit the Veltins-Arena for an unforgettable experience. The city boasts a variety of parks and green spaces, perfect for a leisurely stroll. You can also explore the vibrant cultural scene, with theatres and concert halls offering a range of performances. Plus, Gelsenkirchen is well-connected, making it easy to venture into nearby cities for more attractions.
2. Muelheim an der RuhrOpens in a new windowOpens in a new window: Muelheim an der Ruhr is a charming city that offers a delightful mix of shopping and cultural attractions. With its pedestrian-friendly areas, you can explore a range of shops and boutiques, making it a great spot for leisurely shopping days. The city is also known for its beautiful riverside parks, perfect for picnics and relaxing walks. For art lovers, Muelheim features several galleries and cultural venues that showcase local talent and exhibitions.
3. Ruhr: The Ruhr region is renowned for its industrial heritage and vibrant arts scene. This area is ideal for those who appreciate a mix of history and modern culture. The former industrial sites have been transformed into creative spaces, galleries, and performance venues, making it a hotspot for arts and entertainment. Shopping enthusiasts will find a variety of malls and local markets, while outdoor lovers can enjoy the scenic parks and nature trails that wind through the region, offering a perfect escape from the urban bustle.

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 may drop. Staying for at least 2 to 3 days is recommended to fully appreciate the city’s significant landmarks and cultural offerings. During your visit, you can explore a range of attractions, including theatres, museums, and the stunning cathedral, as well as indulge in art, live music, and shopping experiences. This timeframe provides great value for money, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant cultural scene of Essen.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover great savings on hotels in Essen, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted rates as your travel date approaches. It's wise to enable email alerts or push notifications to stay updated on flash sales and special last-minute promotions, ensuring you don't miss potential savings on cheap hotels. Additionally, the Smart Shopping feature within the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, helping you find the best hotel deal. This way, you'll be among the first to know if prices drop or new rooms become available for your last-minute getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate due to various factors, including the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, being flexible with your travel dates could help you save on your stay in an Essen hotel. For those seeking unique accommodations, boutique hotels often provide a more personalised experience and may offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we will inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is relatively high, we might suggest alternative dates that could be more affordable, helping you find a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre usually tend to be more expensive. However, with Essen's superb public transport links, you might discover a more likely affordable independent hotel a bit further out that remains well-connected. For those interested in exploring 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 is usually the wettest month. September to 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, accompanied by light rainfall. On the other hand, February, April, and December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by no to light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.