Best Things to do in Essen | Must-see attractions 2025

Museum Folkwang

Tu,We,Sa,Su 10:00-18:00, Th,Fr 10:00-20:00

Museum

Museumsplatz 1 (Bismarckstr.)

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Museum Folkwang in Essen, Germany, founded in 1922, showcases an extensive collection of 19th and 20th-century artworks, including masterpieces by notable artists.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Ruhr Museum

Mo-Su 10:00-18:00; Dec 24-25 off; Dec 31 off

Museum

Gelsenkirchener Str. 181 UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein

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Ruhr Museum in Essen, Germany showcases the local history, culture, and nature of the Ruhr Region across 4 floors of a renovated coal-washing plant.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Paid. General admission is €7, reduced rates available for students and seniors.

Erloserkirche

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

Sudviertel

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Erloserkirche is a historic church in Essen, Germany, known for its significant architectural features and cultural heritage.

Duration: Around 1 hour.

Free. Special events may have ticket fees.

Philharmonie Essen

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Event hall

Huyssenallee 53

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Philharmonie Essen, established in 1979, hosts diverse musical events and offers exceptional acoustics and a striking modern design in Essen, Germany.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Tickets range from €10 to €50, depending on the event, with discounts for students and seniors available.

Folkwang University of the Arts

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

University

Klemensborn 39

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Folkwang University of the Arts in Essen, Germany offers a diverse curriculum in music, theater, dance, and design, fostering artistic innovation and cultural education.

Duration: 1-2 hours for exploring the campus.

Free entry for campus visits. Some performances may require a ticket.

Schloss Borbeck

Tu-Su 14:00-18:00

Museum

Schloßstr. 101-103

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Schloss Borbeck is a well-preserved medieval castle in Essen, Germany, showcasing architectural beauty and rich history, making it a key cultural site in the region.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Mineralien-Museum

Tu-Su 10:00-18:00; PH Mo off

Museum

Kupferdreher Str. 141-143

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Mineralien-Museum in Essen, Germany, showcases exhibits on geology and paleontology, offering insights into Earth's natural history and mineral diversity.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

St. Bonifatius

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Moltkestr. 160 Huttrop

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St. Bonifatius is a historic church located in Essen, Germany, known for its unique architecture and rich cultural heritage, attracting both locals and visitors alike.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require tickets.

RWE Tower

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Tower

Opernplatz 1

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RWE Tower, a high-rise office building in Essen, Germany, serves as the headquarters for RWE AG and is a key part of the city’s skyline.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Accessible for visitors; however, tours may vary.

Essen Cathedral Treasury

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Kettwigerstr

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Essen Cathedral Treasury in Essen, Germany, houses a significant collection of medieval religious artifacts, reflecting the region's rich ecclesiastical heritage.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Admission: €5 for adults, €3 for children over 6 years. Children under 6 enter free.

Soul of Africa Museum

"nach Vereinbarung"

Museum

Ruettenscheider Str. 36

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Soul of Africa Museum in Essen, Germany, displays African art and culture, offering a unique insight into diverse traditions and history through various exhibits.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Paid. Prices vary by age and special events.

Kreuzeskirche

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

Kreuzeskirchstr. 1

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Kreuzeskirche is a historical church in Essen, Germany, known for its unique architecture and cultural significance, attracting visitors interested in history and spirituality.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free entry. Donations are appreciated for maintenance.

Pfarrburo St. Ludgerus

Mo-We,Fr 09:00-11:00; Th 15:00-18:00

Church

Bruckstrasse 77

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Pfarrburo St. Ludgerus is a Catholic church located in Essen, Germany, serving as a cultural, architectural, and community hub since its foundation.

Duration: Around 30 minutes.

Free. Some special religious events may have specific donations or fees.

Grillo Theatre

10:00 AM–8:00 PM

Theater

Theaterplatz 11

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Grillo Theatre in Essen, Germany, is home to the municipal drama company and features a blend of modern and historic architectural elements.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Varies. Generally affordable, with discounts available for children and seniors.

Aalto Theatre

6:00 PM–10:00 PM

Theater

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Aalto Theatre in Essen, Germany, is a distinguished opera house known for its modern architecture and exceptional performances, including opera, ballet, and concerts.

Duration: Approximately 3 hours for performances.

Tickets typically range from €15 to €70 depending on the performance. Discounts available for students and seniors.

Nikolauskirche

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Monument

Am Stoppenberg (Essener Str. 2)

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Nikolauskirche in Essen, Germany, is a historic church known for its remarkable architecture and long-standing cultural significance in the region.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for regular maintenance.

Georg-Melches-Stadion

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Stadium

Hafenstr. 97a

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Georg-Melches-Stadion was a former football stadium in Essen, Germany, known for its historical significance in German football. It served as home to Rot-Weiss Essen.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. As a former stadium, there are no admission charges, but guided tours may incur fees.

Stratmanns Theater Europahaus

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Theater

Kennedyplatz 7

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Stratmanns Theater Europahaus in Essen, Germany, is a theater located in a former town hall, showcasing diverse performances and cultural events.

Duration: 2 hours.

Varies by event. Check the theater's website for specific prices and discounts.

Grugahalle

10:00 AM–11:00 PM

Event hall

Messeplatz 1

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Grugahalle, located in Essen, Germany, is a versatile indoor arena with a capacity for 7,700, hosting concerts, sports, and significant events since 1958.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Variable. Some events may require a paid ticket.

St. Barbara Kirche

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

Krayer Str. 228

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St. Barbara Kirche in Essen features remarkable Gothic architecture and has been a spiritual center since its foundation in 1893, captivating visitors with its rich history.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are welcomed for maintenance and events.

Grend

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Event hall

Essen

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Grend in Essen, Germany, is a vibrant cultural center featuring diverse art exhibitions, workshops, and community events.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Special events may incur a charge.

Colosseum Theater

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Theater

Altendorfer Str. 1

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Colosseum Theater in Essen, Germany, is a prominent performance venue known for its diverse events and rich history since its founding.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Paid. Ticket prices vary based on the performance and seating choice.

Krayer Rathaus

8:00 AM–3:00 PM

Public Building

Essen

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Krayer Rathaus in Essen reflects the architectural heritage of the late 19th century, showcasing local government history and community focus in a stunning urban setting.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Some community events may require registration.

Galerie Cinema

12:00 PM–11:00 PM

Cinema

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Galerie Cinema in Essen offers a diverse selection of films in a modern setting. Located centrally, it caters to movie lovers with comfortable seating and top-notch facilities.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Adult: €10, Child: €6. Discounts available for students and seniors.

Stadtgarten Essen

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

Brunnenstraße 21

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Stadtgarten Essen is a public park in Essen, Germany, promoting tranquility and nature with trails, gardens, and facilities for recreation.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may have a fee.

Kids Country

10:00 AM–7:00 PM

Amusement Park

Am Zehnthof 194

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Kids Country in Essen, Germany, offers a vast indoor playground featuring various activities for children, from climbing structures to interactive games, ensuring fun in a safe environment.

Duration: Around 2-3 hours.

€10 for adults, €8 for children aged 3-12, free for children under 3.

Railway Museum Bochum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Dr-C-Otto-Strasse 191

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Railway Museum Bochum in Essen, Germany features around 120 historic steam locomotives, coaches, and exhibits in a 1918 depot, with rides available on select days.

Duration: About 2-3 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Burg Altendorf

24/7

Ruin

Dumberger Straße 3

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Burg Altendorf in Essen, Germany, consists of historic castle ruins showcasing medieval architecture and surrounding nature.

Duration: Around 1 hour.

Free. Donations welcome for maintenance.

Hexbachtal

Open all day

Nature reserve

45475 Mülheim

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Hexbachtal in Essen, Germany, offers a picturesque landscape ideal for hiking and nature walks amidst tranquil surroundings and lush greenery.

Duration: At least 2 hours.

Free. No ticket required for entry.

Siechenkapelle

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

Rüttenscheiderstr

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Siechenkapelle is a historic church in Essen, Germany, known for its unique architecture and cultural significance dating back to the 14th century.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for chapel maintenance.

Carbon Obelisk

Open all day

Art object

Altenesser Straße

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The Carbon Obelisk in Essen, Germany stands as a monumental tribute to the coal mining industry, symbolizing the city's industrial heritage and commitment to sustainability.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. No ticket required for entry.

Galerie Frank Schlag & Cie

11:00 AM–5:00 PM

Art Center

Meisenburgstraße 173

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Galerie Frank Schlag & Cie in Essen, Germany showcases contemporary art, specializing in modern works, and is notable for its unique exhibitions and cultural impact.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free entry to regular exhibitions. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Zeche Carl

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Event hall

Wilhelm-Nieswandt-Allee 100

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Zeche Carl, located in Essen, Germany, is a former coal mine transformed into a vibrant cultural center featuring live performances, art exhibits, and a café with a beer garden.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free entry. Some events and exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Allee-Center

Mo-Sa 09:00-20:00

Mall

Altenessener Str. 411

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Allee-Center in Essen, Germany, is a large shopping mall with over 100 stores, diverse dining options, and entertainment. It offers a vibrant atmosphere for all visitors.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free entry. Purchases are required for shopping and dining.

Kronenberg Center

Mo-Sa 07:00-22:00; PH Su off

Mall

Haedenkampstr. 21

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Kronenberg Center in Essen, Germany, offers a unique combination of indoor activities, green spaces, and cultural events, catering to families and visitors seeking leisure and entertainment.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free entry. Charges may apply for special events or activities.

Studio-Buhne Essen

10:00 AM–8:00 PM

Theater

Korumhöhe 11

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Studio-Buhne Essen in Essen, Germany, offers a unique cultural venue, focusing on experimental performances and innovative theatrical productions.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Tickets typically range from €10 to €20, with discounts available for students and seniors.

Gansereiterbrunnen

Open all day

Fountain

Germany

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Gansereiterbrunnen, located in Essen-Frohnhausen, Germany, serves as a notable decorative fountain and a charming landmark for the local community.

Duration: 30 minutes.

Free. No charges for entry or viewing the fountain.

Bahnhof Essen-Borbeck

5:00 AM–12:00 AM

Train Station

Marktstr. 11

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Bahnhof Essen-Borbeck is a train station in Essen, Germany, first opened in 1872, known for its historical architecture and functional role in local transport.

Duration: 30 minutes.

Free to enter. Standard ticket prices apply for train travel.

Alte Cuesterey

10:00 AM–8:00 PM

Event hall

Weidkamp 10

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Alte Cuesterey in Essen, Germany, is a historic building from the late 19th century, showcasing regional architecture and culture with a rich historical background.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Special events may require a paid ticket.

St.-Fronleichnam-Kirche

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

Wüstenhöferstr. 58

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St.-Fronleichnam-Kirche in Essen, Germany, is a church renowned for its unique architecture and rich history since its foundation in the early 20th century.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Special events may require a paid ticket.

Friedenskirche Steele

10:00 AM–1:00 PM

Church

Kaiser-Wilhelm-Straße 39

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Friedenskirche Steele is a historic Protestant church in Essen, Germany, known for its distinctive architecture and vibrant community activities.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are welcome for special events.

Romanisches Haus

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Castle

Germany

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Romanisches Haus, a historic building in Essen, Germany, is known for its unique architecture and cultural significance, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's medieval past.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may require tickets.

Rathaus Stoppenberg

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Public Building

Germany

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Rathaus Stoppenberg in Essen, Germany, is an early 20th-century town hall reflecting historic architecture and offering cultural insights, situated in a thriving community.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Alte Kirche Altenessen

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Altenessener Straße 423

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Alte Kirche Altenessen, founded in 1887, is a historic church in Essen, Germany, known for its architectural significance and cultural heritage.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free.

Amtsgericht Steele

8:00 AM–2:00 PM

Public Building

Grendpl.

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Amtsgericht Steele serves as the local court in Essen, North Rhine-Westphalia, handling civil and criminal cases with a historical significance.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Some special court events may require registration.

St. Kamillus

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

45239 Essen

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St. Kamillus in Essen, Germany, is a historic church built in the early 20th century, known for its unique architecture and cultural significance.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for maintenance.

Kirche Haarzopf

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

Raadter Straße 79

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Kirche Haarzopf, located in Essen, Germany, is a historic church founded in 1871. It features striking architecture and is a cultural hub for the local community.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Donations are welcome for special events.

Kirche am Kartenberger Markt

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

Katernberger Markt 12

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Kirche am Kartenberger Markt is a historic church in Essen, Germany, known for its unique architecture and cultural significance.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Special events may have a fee.

St. Johannes Bosco

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

Theodor-Harz-Str. 8-10

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St. Johannes Bosco in Essen, Germany, is a notable church known for its unique architecture and community involvement. A spiritual hub, it reflects the teachings of its founder, St. John Bosco.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations are welcome for maintenance and community programs.

Yavuz-Sultan-Selil-cami-i

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Mosque

Heinrich-Sense Weg 77 Kray/Essen

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Yavuz Sultan Selil Mosque in Essen, Germany, is a prominent example of modern Ottoman architecture, offering religious services and cultural activities.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated to support community activities.