Essen Holidays from £275

Book a Hotel + Flight or Car together to unlock savings

  • Plan, book, travel with confidence

  • Better together

    Save up to £750 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

    Packages with flights are ATOL protected

Your Essen Holiday

With plenty of highlights as well as hidden gems, this city is best experienced with a Essen holiday 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 holiday on Expedia.

Top Essen Flight + Hotel Deals

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

Hotel Lessing

Stadtbezirk 3
£275
per person
26 Nov - 29 Nov
found 1 day ago
Return direct flight included
Birmingham (BHX) 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 3 Jul 2026

Sunday Hotel Dortmund City

Sunday Hotel Dortmund City

Dortmund City Centre
£301
per person
4 Dec - 6 Dec
found 17 hours ago
Return flight included
London (LON) to Dortmund (DTM)
8.8/10 Excellent! (3 reviews)
Alles war in Ordnug.

Reviewed on 20 Sept 2026

Van Oys Maastricht Retreat, a Leading Hotel of the World

Van Oys Maastricht Retreat, a Leading Hotel of the World

Save 100% on your flight
£443
per person
1 Dec - 4 Dec
found 1 day ago
Return flight included
London (LON) to Düsseldorf (DUS)
9.6/10 Exceptional! (35 reviews)
Steigenberger Icon Parkhotel Düsseldorf

Steigenberger Icon Parkhotel Düsseldorf

Stadtmitte
£405
per person
10 Dec - 13 Dec
found 1 day ago
Return flight included
London (LHR) to Düsseldorf (DUS)
9/10 Wonderful! (806 reviews)
Favor Hotel Königsallee

Favor Hotel Königsallee

Stadtmitte
£476
per person
17 Dec - 20 Dec
found 12 hours ago
Return flight included
Birmingham (BHX) to Düsseldorf (DUS)
9/10 Wonderful! (348 reviews)
Beautiful little hotel, perfectly situated to explore the city. Rooms are spotless. Breakfast is a treat and the staff and warm and friendly.

Reviewed on 7 Aug 2026

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

Ruettenscheid is well liked for its bars and museums. If you're hoping to get in some sightseeing, Grugahalle and Grugapark Botanical Garden are top spots, and you can jump on the metro at Messe Ost-Gruga-Halle U-Bahn or Martinstrasse U-Bahn to get around.

Find hotels in Ruettenscheid
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

While you're in Stadtbezirke I, take in top sights like Philharmonie Essen or International Christmas Market Essen, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Hirschlandplatz U-Bahn or Berliner Platz U-Bahn.

Find hotels in Stadtbezirke I
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.

Find hotels in Stadtkern
A modern building with a curved facade, large windows, and a covered entrance area.

Suedviertel

Get to know Suedviertel and its many features like its bars and museums. You might want to explore sights like Aalto-Musiktheater and Folkwang Museum, and you can jump on the metro at Philharmonie U-Bahn or Bismarckplatz U-Bahn to get around the city.

Find hotels in Suedviertel
A lake surrounded by houses, a road, and a hill with dense trees.

Kettwig

Historical 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.

Find hotels in Kettwig

Things to do in and around Essen

Essen offers a delightful mix of activities for business and family vacations, from vibrant theatres to bustling shopping centres. Visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions, including day trips and leisure activities, while exploring the amenities of the Holiday Inn. Whether you're looking to shop or take in some entertainment, Essen has something for everyone.

Shopping

In Essen, you can enjoy shopping at Rhein-Ruhr-Zentrum, just 4.8km away, featuring entertainment and family-friendly vibes. For more options, Westfield Centro is 9.7km away, offering a lively atmosphere, while Bermuda3Eck is 14.5km away, perfect for a family outing if you're up for a drive.

Recreation

Enjoy a round of golf at Golfclub Mulheim an der Ruhr, just 14.5km from Essen, surrounded by lush greenery. Experience thrilling sports events at Veltins-Arena, 11.3km away, or immerse yourself in the cultural performances at Philharmonie Essen, right in the heart of the city.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Oberhausen, only 9.7km from Essen, where families can enjoy interactive attractions and activities. Alternatively, dive into fun at AQUApark Oberhausen, also 9.7km away, with its exhilarating water slides and wave pools, perfect for adventurous families.

Nightlife

Essen's nightlife is vibrant, with venues like the Kalthof and Club Pavillon offering live music and dancing. Discover the eclectic bars around the city centre, where you can enjoy a pint or cocktail, and experience the lively atmosphere that keeps the city buzzing into the early hours.

*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 diverse range of activities for tourists, whether you're visiting for business, family fun, or entertainment. Explore cultural attractions such as the Essen Cathedral and the Philharmonie Essen, unwind in urban parks, or attend events at Messe Essen. For a unique experience, consider visiting the Autokino in Essen. With a mix of museums and outdoor experiences, there's something for everyone in this vibrant city.

  • Zollverein Coal Mine World Heritage Site: Discover the rich industrial heritage of Essen at this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once a thriving coal mine, it now showcases stunning architecture and offers insights into the region's cultural history, making it a fascinating blend of culture and history.
  • Seaside Beach Baldeney: Experience a slice of beach paradise in Essen at Seaside Beach Baldeney. This artificial beach along the Baldeneysee offers sandy shores, sun loungers, and water sports, creating a vibrant atmosphere for relaxation and fun.
  • Folkwang Museum: Immerse yourself in the world of art at the Folkwang Museum. Renowned for its impressive collection of 19th and 20th-century artworks, it serves as a cultural hub, hosting exhibitions that inspire and provoke thought.

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 TagServus
Local Goodbye
Tschüss
Closest Airport
Duesseldorf Intl. Airport (DUS)
Population
593,100
Max Temp Winter
4ºC
Max Temp Summer
24ºC
Top Sights
Duisburg Zoo, Seaside Beach Baldeney and LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Oberhausen

Top hotels in Essen

Premier Inn Essen City Centre

Premier Inn Essen City Centre

Am Hauptbahnhof 3 Essen
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
£57
15 Oct - 16 Oct
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (251 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 23 Aug 2026

Premier Inn Essen City Centre
Premier Inn Essen City Limbecker Platz

Premier Inn Essen City Limbecker Platz

Thea Leymann Strasse 11 Essen
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
£54
29 Oct - 30 Oct
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (78 reviews)
"Overall not happy with service"

Reviewed on 18 Sept 2026

Premier Inn Essen City Limbecker Platz
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
£59
4 Oct - 5 Oct
includes taxes & fees
9/10 Wonderful! (493 reviews)
"Was an ok stay. Will recommend"

Reviewed on 26 Jul 2026

Essener Hof Sure Hotel Collection by Best Western
See all 933 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.
All Inclusive Holidays
All Inclusive Holidays
Beach Holidays
Beach Holidays
Family Friendly Holidays
Family Friendly Holidays
Golf Holidays
Golf Holidays
Luxury Holidays
Luxury Holidays
gay friendly holidays
LGBTQ+ Holidays
LGBTQ+ Holidays
Romantic Holidays
Romantic Holidays
Ski Holidays
Ski Holidays
Pet Friendly Holidays
Pet Friendly Holidays
Holiday in Month
Where to go when
Where to go when

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 kilometres 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 museum corridor with industrial exhibits and a central display case.

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 centre 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

£12
per adult
Mettmann: Neanderthal Museum Admission Ticket
Düsseldorf: Guided Night Watchman Tour through Kaiserswerth

Düsseldorf: Guided Night Watchman Tour through Kaiserswerth

£19
per adult
Düsseldorf: Guided Night Watchman Tour through Kaiserswerth
See all activities in Essen

Frequently asked questions

Why should I book my Essen holiday with Expedia?
With top-value airfares, accommodation and car hire choices all in one place, Expedia makes planning your Essen break a cinch. Plus, we can help you bundle your bookings into a package holiday so you can enjoy even more savings. Pick from awesome properties, add your flights and/or a hire car (and maybe also some fun tours and activities!) and land incredible prices. Need to change your plans? Expedia offers a flexible cancellation policy for many bookings. To learn more, head over to our Customer Service Portal link.
When is the best time of year to holiday in Essen?
If you love the excitement that comes with peak season, head to Essen in May, July and October. Travelling during the quieter months of December, January and February will help you skip the crowds. With average daytime temperatures of 2ºC, January is the coolest month in Essen. The warmest month is July, when you can expect average temperatures of 19ºC during the day. Whatever the weather, you'll find plenty of things to keep you occupied here.
What are the top hotels for my holiday in Essen?
Atlantic Congress Hotel Essen and Select Hotel Handelshof Essen are among the best picks in the Stadtbezirke I neighbourhood. If you want to stay in the Stadtbezirke II area, book a room at Mercure Hotel Plaza Essen or Holiday Inn Essen - City Centre, an IHG Hotel.
How do I get a cheap holiday to Essen?
One of the simplest ways to save money (and time) is to combine your bookings with Expedia. Flights, hire cars, hotels and activities — we've got them all. Choose a combination that best fits you and see your savings grow. We know holidays are never one-size-fits-all. That's why we offer more than 400 air carriers and 321,000 properties worldwide, so you can customise your Essen holiday your way. Learn more about how you can save money on your next holiday when you combine your flight and hotel bookings with Expedia.
What should I do on my Essen holiday?
Make sure your next holiday in Essen is an unforgettable one by exploring its leading attractions. Westfield Centro, Messe Essen, Zollverein Coal Mine World Heritage Site and Rudolf Weber-Arena are just some of the things we recommend seeing while you're in the area.
What is the best area to stay in when on holiday in Essen?
A getaway in Essen wouldn't be complete without paying a visit to Movie Park Germany. Why not book a stay close to this much-loved tourist attraction?
Do I need a visa for my Essen holiday?
Official government websites have all the information you need on visa requirements, application procedures and any supporting documentation. Your nationality and reason for your visit, whether it be for work or holidays, will determine if you'll need a visa for Essen. Also ensure your passport is up to date and has a minimum of six months validity remaining after your return date. Do all your travel planning ahead of time to avoid any last-minute surprises.
What should I wear on my Essen holiday?
Do some research into the types of things people in Essen wear, and maybe even check out social media fashion pages for inspiration. You'll want to create a versatile wardrobe with pieces that work for your destination and showcase your unique sense of style. Be sure to look at the weather forecast so you can pack appropriately. The warmest time of year in Essen is July, with average daytime temperatures of 19ºC. If you're travelling in the coolest month of January, the mercury averages 2ºC during the day.
What does an Expedia Essen holiday include?
Hotels, flights and hire cars — we have them covered. With Expedia, you can shape your Essen package however you want. All you have to do is work out what you need. Once you've made your booking, why not add extras like experiences and activities? The more you bundle, the greater your savings! Discover an excellent range of property types and choose one that matches the size of your group. The most sought-after rentals here are apartments and hotels. With Expedia, you can easily design your Essen escape any way you want.
Does Expedia offer Book Now, Pay Later Essen holidays?
Your bank balance shouldn't stop you from going on holiday, so Expedia has devised a solution to help. Now that we've joined forces with online lender Klarna, it's easier than ever to book your dream getaway without making a dent in your savings. Klarna offers flexible payment options during the checkout process that take the stress out of budgeting for your escape. Consider one of these flexible payment options:
  • Pay monthly holidays: If paying small amounts each month works for you, Klarna offers just that! Paying in several transactions will make your getaway dreams come true.
  • No-deposit holidays: Hitting the "book now" button is much easier with this payment plan. With no upfront fee for your getaway, you can Book Now, Pay Later and start packing your bags.
Can I choose my airline with an Essen Expedia holiday?
The choice is all yours! Expedia has access to more than 400 airlines throughout the world, so you can customise your Essen trip according to your style and budget.

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. Flight-inclusive packages are ATOL protected.