Essen Vacations from $708

Book a Hotel + Flight or Car together to unlock savings

  • Plan, book, travel with confidence

  • Better together

    Save up to $2,000 when you book a flight and hotel together*
  • Find the right fit

    With over 300,000 hotels worldwide, it's easy to create a perfect package
  • Rest easy

    Plan, book, and manage your trip all in one place

Your Essen Vacation

With plenty of highlights as well as hidden gems, this city is best experienced with a Essen vacation package. Find somewhere to stay in Duisburg Mitte, which is good for bars and pubs, history and nightlife. Like to get out and explore? Westfield Centro, Zollverein Coal Mine World Heritage Site and Seaside Beach Baldeney are among the best places to visit during a trip to Essen. A few quick clicks is all it takes to create your ideal Essen vacation on Expedia.

The Latest Essen vacation packages

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Hotel Lessing

Hotel Lessing

Stadtbezirk 3
$708
per person
Dec 27 - Jan 2
found 6 hours ago
Roundtrip flight included
Tel Aviv (TLV) to Düsseldorf (DUS)
8.8/10 Excellent! (256 reviews)
The hotel is good and conveniently located near the train station. The room, common areas, and beds were very clean. However, the room had poor ventilation and there was no air conditioning. The room felt like an oven all the time, and I can't imagine how uncomfortable it would be during extremely hot days. The television did not work, and there was also no hot water in the shower

Reviewed on Jul 3, 2026

Breidenbacher Hof

Breidenbacher Hof

Stadtmitte
Save 100% on your flight
$1,698
per person
Dec 27 - Jan 2
found 1 hour ago
Roundtrip flight included
Tel Aviv (TLV) to Düsseldorf (DUS)
9.6/10 Exceptional! (554 reviews)
Excellent location close to the Koenigsallee, very friendly and attentive staff. I stayed in an upgraded renovated room - appreciated the choice of bed time pillows. Great restaurant with contemporary European - German cuisine, also focus on locally sourced ingredients.

Reviewed on Aug 29, 2026

Steigenberger Icon Parkhotel Düsseldorf

Steigenberger Icon Parkhotel Düsseldorf

Stadtmitte
$1,116
per person
Dec 27 - Jan 2
found 6 hours ago
Roundtrip flight included
Tel Aviv (TLV) to Düsseldorf (DUS)
9/10 Wonderful! (806 reviews)
Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf

Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf

Stadtbezirk 3
$891
per person
Dec 27 - Jan 2
found 1 hour ago
Roundtrip flight included
Tel Aviv (TLV) to Düsseldorf (DUS)
9.2/10 Wonderful! (151 reviews)
Best Western Comfort Business Hotel

Best Western Comfort Business Hotel

$735
per person
Dec 27 - Jan 2
found 6 hours ago
Roundtrip flight included
Tel Aviv (TLV) to Düsseldorf (DUS)
8.6/10 Excellent! (34 reviews)
Very good quality for the price

Reviewed on Sep 23, 2026

Don't see what you're looking for?
See all available trips from Columbus to Essen
View all trips

Where to stay in Essen

Find the best Essen areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Essen
A covered outdoor event space with a geometric patterned roof, surrounded by greenery and seated attendees.

Ruettenscheid

3 out of top 10 points of interest in this area

The bars and museums are just a few things visitors like about Ruettenscheid. Grugahalle and Grugapark Botanical Garden are worthwhile spots to check out, and you can hop on the metro at Messe Ost-Gruga-Halle U-Bahn or Martinstrasse U-Bahn to get around the larger area.

A modern building with a glass tower and a flat-roofed structure in a green park.

Stadtbezirke I

2 out of top 10 points of interest in this area

If you're spending time in Stadtbezirke I, check out sights like Philharmonie Essen or International Christmas Market Essen and hop on the metro to see more the city at Hirschlandplatz U-Bahn or Berliner Platz U-Bahn.

A Grillo-Theater with illuminated spherical decorations and a tree in front.

Stadtkern

Noted for its shopping and bars, there's plenty to explore in Stadtkern. Top attractions like Philharmonie Essen and International Christmas Market Essen are major draws, and you can hop on the metro at Hirschlandplatz U-Bahn or Berliner Platz U-Bahn to see more of the city.

A modern building with a curved facade, large windows, and a covered entrance area.

Suedviertel

The bars and museums are just a few things visitors like about Suedviertel. Aalto-Musiktheater and Folkwang Museum are worthwhile spots to check out, and you can hop on the metro at Philharmonie U-Bahn or Bismarckplatz U-Bahn to get around the larger area.

A lake surrounded by houses, a road, and a hill with dense trees.

Kettwig

Historic sites and restaurants are just a few features Kettwig is known for, and you can get around the area by hopping on the metro at Kettwig S-Bahn or Kettwig Stausee S-Bahn.

Stay near popular Essen attractions

A large industrial building with a prominent red tower structure.

Zollverein Coal Mine World Heritage Site

9.0/10 (217 reviews)
This UNESCO-listed complex showcases stunning Bauhaus industrial architecture from Germany's coal mining heyday. Explore the transformed cultural hub through guided tours and visit the Ruhr Museum for regional insights.
See properties
A tree-lined path beside a calm lake with people walking.
Photo by Marc De Vos

Baldeneysee

9.2/10 (48 reviews)
Germany's largest Ruhr reservoir offers 14 kilometers of scenic paths for walking and cycling. Take a boat tour with Weisse Flotte Baldeney to admire Villa Hügel and spot kingfishers along the shore.
See properties
An art gallery with large windows, wooden floors, and several paintings on display.

Folkwang Museum

9.2/10 (45 reviews)
Museum Folkwang displays masterpieces from Impressionism to Surrealism in David Chipperfield's light-filled modern galleries. Explore the German Poster Museum and enjoy tranquil inner courtyards between exhibits.
See properties
A vintage car suspended in a workshop with industrial machinery and a red chair.

Red Dot Design Museum

8.6/10 (45 reviews)
Housed in a former boiler house, this museum displays over 2,000 award-winning contemporary designs across five floors. Visitors can interact with exhibits within the atmospheric UNESCO Zollverein complex.
See properties

Messe Essen

8.6/10 (324 reviews)
This premier German exhibition center hosts leading international trade fairs with clear architecture and modern amenities. Visitors enjoy diverse gatherings in the vibrant Ruhr region.
See properties

Grugahalle

8.6/10 (87 reviews)
This heritage-listed arena with its distinctive butterfly roof hosts concerts to sports events. Experience excellent acoustics and sightlines while attending performances in this architectural gem.
See properties

Seaside Beach Baldeney

8.4/10 (57 reviews)
This urban oasis transforms Lake Baldeney's shore into a sandy beach retreat with imported palm trees. Enjoy beach volleyball, climbing, or paddleboarding before relaxing at waterfront bars with scenic lake views.
See properties

Philharmonie Essen

9.0/10 (2 reviews)
This historic concert hall, home to the Essen Philharmonic Orchestra, dazzles with world-class acoustics. Experience musical mastery in the elegant Alfried Krupp Hall, where every note resonates with exceptional clarity.
See properties

What to do in Essen

Mettmann: Neanderthal Museum Admission Ticket

Mettmann: Neanderthal Museum Admission Ticket

$16
per adult
Mettmann: Neanderthal Museum Admission Ticket
Hut tour Duisburg-Nord Landscape Park

Hut tour Duisburg-Nord Landscape Park

$23
per adult
Hut tour Duisburg-Nord Landscape Park
See all activities in Essen

Essen Hotel Deals

Premier Inn Essen City Centre

Premier Inn Essen City Centre

Am Hauptbahnhof 3 Essen
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
$66 nightly
$74 total
Oct 29 - Oct 30
Total with taxes and fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (252 reviews)
"Right overlooking essen hbf so super convenient. Friendly staff with easy check in. Nice and quiet which surprised me considering how close to train station. Well maintained room and property. One of the best premier inns stayed in."

Reviewed on Aug 23, 2026

Premier Inn Essen City Centre
B&B HOTEL Essen-Hbf

B&B HOTEL Essen-Hbf

Hollestr. 50 Essen NW
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
$56 nightly
$63 total
Oct 18 - Oct 19
Total with taxes and fees
7.8/10 Good! (286 reviews)
"Excellent budget hotel close to Essen central station"

Reviewed on Jul 26, 2026

B&B HOTEL Essen-Hbf
Essener Hof Sure Hotel Collection by Best Western

Essener Hof Sure Hotel Collection by Best Western

AM HANDELSHOF,5 Essen North Rhine-Westphalia
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
$65 nightly
$73 total
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Total with taxes and fees
9/10 Wonderful! (493 reviews)
"Was an ok stay. Will recommend"

Reviewed on Jul 26, 2026

Essener Hof Sure Hotel Collection by Best Western
See all 930 properties in Essen
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Find the Best Essen Vacation Packages

Things to do in and around Essen

Essen, located in North Rhine-Westphalia, is perfect for business, family, and entertainment-themed vacations. Visitors can enjoy activities like laser tag at Laserzone, explore local museums, and indulge in shopping at popular centers and malls. Additionally, there are enticing Switzerland tour packages for those looking to expand their travel experience. With a blend of culture and fun, Essen offers something for everyone.

Shopping

The nearest shopping destination is Limbecker Platz, right in Essen, offering a variety of entertainment, family-friendly options, and business vibes. If you're up for a drive, check out Rhein-Ruhr-Zentrum, just 3 miles away, or Bermuda3Eck, located 9 miles from Essen, both with vibrant shopping experiences.

Recreation

Veltins-Arena, located 7 miles from Essen, offers an energetic atmosphere for sports enthusiasts. Experience the cultural richness at Philharmonie Essen, a local theater perfect for a romantic evening. For outdoor fun, Golf Club Schloss Horst, 6 miles away, provides a scenic setting for golf lovers.

Adventure

Experience thrilling water slides at AQUApark Oberhausen, located 6 miles from Essen, perfect for family fun. Enjoy indoor skiing at Alpincenter Bottrop, 5 miles away, offering sports excitement. For climbing enthusiasts, Kletterhalle Bergwerk, 18 miles from Essen, presents a challenging outdoor climbing adventure.

Nightlife

Essen's nightlife offers a vibrant mix of bars and clubs. Start your evening at the trendy Café Blum for cocktails, then dance the night away at Club Nachtresidenz. For a laid-back vibe, check out the local pubs around the city center, where live music often fills the air.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions in Essen

Essen, North Rhine-Westphalia, offers a blend of business, family, and entertainment experiences. Key attractions include museums, urban parks, and event venues, perfect for those seeking culture and outdoor activities. Don't miss the Philharmonie Essen for a musical experience and the stunning Essen Cathedral for a taste of history. Whether you're traveling with family or on business, Essen has something for everyone to enjoy.

  • Messe Essen: This modern event and conference venue is a hub for business and trade fairs, offering cutting-edge facilities and a vibrant atmosphere. It's perfect for those interested in networking and exploring the latest industry trends.
  • Zollverein Coal Mine World Heritage Site: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic coal mine is a testament to industrial culture. Visitors can explore its fascinating architecture and learn about the region's rich mining history, making it a cultural gem.
  • Seaside Beach Baldeney: This lovely beach area offers relaxation and recreational activities alongside the picturesque Baldeney Lake. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, or simply unwinding with a beautiful view, perfect for a leisurely day outdoors.

Best time to go to Essen

The best time to visit Essen can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Essen falls in July and August. August has average visitor numbers and mostly sunny weather. The coolest average temperature in Essen falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January36.9°F (2.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
February38.3°F (3.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
March43.5°F (6.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
April50.4°F (10.2°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
May56.7°F (13.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June63.7°F (17.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
July66.7°F (19.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
August66.7°F (19.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
September60.8°F (16.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October53.1°F (11.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
November45.1°F (7.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
December39.6°F (4.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Tips to save on your trip to Essen

  • Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
  • Consider traveling to Essen during the low season (July to August and December) for more affordable options.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

Essen Essential Information

Language
German
Currency
Euros
Local Welcome
Guten Tag
Local Goodbye
Tschüss
Closest Airport
Duesseldorf Intl. Airport (DUS)
Population
593,100
Max Temp Winter
40ºF
Max Temp Summer
75ºF
Top Sights
Seaside Beach Baldeney, Duisburg Zoo and LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Oberhausen

More vacations you might like

Frequently asked questions

How much does an Essen vacation package cost?
You'll find cheap prices from $708 on Expedia for your Essen getaway. However, a range of factors like the hotel choice, length of stay and season will influence how much your vacation to Essen costs.
What are the cheapest months to go to Essen?
You're likely to find lower prices and better availability in December, January and February. Take a look at our cheap Essen vacation packages and you could score some excellent off-season deals.
How many days is enough for Essen?
We recommend booking an Essen vacation for around 2 days. This will allow you time to visit top attractions such as Philharmonie Essen and Ruhr Museum, and also explore neighborhoods like Stadtbezirke I and Stadtkern. You might even be able to squeeze in a day trip (or two) beyond Essen.
Is it worth booking a vacation package to Essen?
Essen is a good vacation destination with attractions like Zollverein Coal Mine World Heritage Site among the many things to keep you entertained. Whether you're heading away with the family or planning a trip with friends, an Essen vacation promises fun for everyone.
How to find the best Essen package deals?
Begin your search for an Essen package deal by entering your preferred travel dates and destination under our "Packages" tab. Then apply a few filters, like "Guest rating" and "Property type," to fine-tune the results to your exact needs. You can also sort by "Package discount" and browse offers that come with irresistible savings. If you don't find the perfect Essen package deal straight away, simply change your dates and search again. Bear in mind that deals are only available for a limited time, so book early and get your Essen adventure off to a flying start.
Is it cheaper to book an Essen vacation as a package?
You can enjoy significant savings on your Essen getaway by booking a tailored vacation package. Check the "Package" heading, then select your travel dates and destination to view some great flight and hotel prices. Bundle everything into a neat package and you can save hundreds of dollars. Consider adding a rental car and you may land a better deal.
When to book a vacation package to Essen?
If you have your Essen vacation dates locked in, book as early as you can to score some incredible deals. With Expedia, you can generally reserve some flights up to a year in advance. Prefer spur-of-the-moment adventures? Our last-minute deals are perfect for impromptu escapes.
How to plan a trip to Essen?
  1. Pick the best time to travel: Your schedule, favorite season and the type of weather you enjoy can all influence your decision on when to visit Essen.
  2. Set your budget: Factor in expenses such as flights, food and transportation when calculating how much to save for your trip to Essen. Then, select a property that works with your budget, whether that's an affordable stay or a lavish retreat.
  3. Use our trip planning tool to discover Essen: Research every part of your trip to Essen with this handy planner. Invite friends or family to collaborate on a group trip, search for stays or things to do and make bookings.
  4. Set the duration of your trip: Start by making a list of all the sights and activities you'd like to get to in Essen. Then, estimate how long you'll need at each, along with any travel time.
  5. Bundle your bookings: With your travel dates in place, you can combine your flights, hotels, car rental and more into a personalized Essen vacation package.
  6. Add on experiences and excursions: Read our travel guide to find some awesome things to do in Essen. Book tickets or make reservations as soon as you can to save time and avoid the stress of trying to find activities when you arrive.
Does Expedia offer Book Now, Pay Later Essen vacation packages?
Set off on your perfect trip to Essen with Expedia's Book Now, Pay Later vacations. There's no need to save like crazy or wait for your next payday — we've teamed up with online lender Affirm to give you more financial flexibility. Our vacation packages with payment plans allow you to spread the total cost across 3, 6 or 12 months. With no hidden charges or late payment fees, it's a breeze to stay on budget and snap up bargains before they sell out.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.