Germany’s fifth-largest city until the 1980s, Essen has long been an industrial hub. Still the headquarters for many of the country’s biggest corporations, 21st-century Essen has pivoted to become more of a cultural hotspot, with world-class design centres and museums. Accommodation options are wide-ranging, reflecting the needs of business and leisure travellers. The best places to stay in Essen tend to be small and comfortable — perfect for a relaxed sightseeing trip or smart conference!

Closely associated with the Ruhr industrial zone, Essen’s coal mines and steelworks powered the North Rhine-Westphalia region for decades. The city’s most famous landmark remains the enormous mining complex at Zeche Zollverein. Now a prestigious UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Bauhaus buildings have been dubbed ‘the most beautiful coal mine in the world’. Transformed into a series of museums and designer spaces, they’re top of the list for any visitor to the city.

Other cultural highlights include the Essen Minster and Treasury, dating back to the time of Otto the Great and housing the oldest known sculpture of the Madonna, as well as 1873-built Villa Hügel, set in a 28-acre park. The Villa plays host to concerts and exhibitions — as does the striking Aalto Theatre. If you’re in Essen during the summer, the botanical gardens at Grugapark are wonderful, and Lake Baldeney is ideal for family picnics. Busy year-round, the best places to stay in Essen fill up fast, so book your trip well in advance.

The Best Places to Stay in Essen

For Boutique Chic

• Georges Hotel, a chic townhouse in the Rüttenscheid district, offers just 14 attractive guest rooms with big bathtubs and rich furnishings. Expect dark wood, green wallpaper and warm tones, as well as glittering chandeliers. A romantic boutique B&B, close to some top restaurants and designer shops.

For Contemporary Comfort

• Hotel Waldhaus Lagenbrahm, a four-star hotel in a leafy part of the city, promises light and airy guest rooms with garden views. Savour big breakfasts in the dining room or on the sun terrace before heading out to explore. Contemporary, understated and comfortable, this is a great choice for couples or families.
• Mintrops Stadt Margarethenhohe has an elegant, old-school façade. The interiors, however, are simple and contemporary, with pale wood, modern art and lots of light. Close to the market square of Margarethenhoehe, this is a brilliant base for discovering the city's historic heart. There's a good bar, sun terrace and restaurant, too.

For Great Value

• Hotel Maximilians offers simple, modern accommodation close to the centre of the city. Think light-filled guest rooms with white-on-white interiors, plus leather sofas, a small gym and breakfast room. A reasonably priced base for business or leisure travellers in the Rüttenscheid district.

For a Private House or Apartment

• If you’d prefer to stay in an apartment or private house, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Fly to Düsseldorf Airport, 30km to the southwest, and take a train or taxi into Essen. Most hotels will also be happy to arrange an airport pick up in advance. Alternatively, arrive by train from destinations around Germany.
• The North Rhine-Westphalia region is great for a road trip! Contact our partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Peak season falls in July and August, when visitors can expect the most sunshine and temperatures hovering around 18°C. However, this is also when the region is at its busiest. Travel in May, June or September for fewer crowds and great hotel deals.

Still not sure?

• Expand your search to see the best places to stay in Düsseldorf.
• Alternatively, explore our pick of the best places to stay in North Rhine-Westphalia.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.