Bicycle Race between Krupp, Culinary Delights and World Heritage

Essen and the Ruhr region are excellent destinations for cycling. One reason is the many former railway lines serving the mines, which have been converted into fast, direct cycle routes. This means you can get from A to B not only comfortably but quickly, too. For example, take a 13 km route through the west of the city. Stop off at Margarethenhöhe, considered one of the finest examples of the German garden city concept, and experience what is perhaps Essen’s most unique district. A knowledgeable guide will show you around this neighborhood, which Margarethe Krupp had designed according to her own ideas and which, thanks to its special ownership arrangements, still allows its residents to have a large say in who moves in. By the way, feel free to stay for lunch on “Maggihöhe.” You are sure to be thoroughly pampered at Gourmet Restaurant “M”.

Then, feeling refreshed, hop back on your bike. In just a few minutes, you’ll reach the next highlight. Covering 60 hectares, Grugapark is the green lung of Essen and one of Europe’s largest and most beautiful urban parks. One of its special attractions is the Hundertwasser House, which you can already see from the cycle path as you approach. From Gruga, head back to your hotel, where you can unwind and relax for the rest of the evening.

The next day, take it much easier—at least, you won’t be driving; the bus driver will. The best way to discover the full diversity of Essen is on a sightseeing tour aboard a double-decker bus. The two-hour tour takes you around the entire city, passing Baldeneysee, Villa Hügel, the former home of the Krupp family, Margarethenhöhe and, of course, UNESCO World Heritage Site Zollverein in the north of the city. It’s best to get off here and take your time! Along with a knowledgeable guide, explore the impressive former mine complex, with its extraordinary industrial culture and nature.

Where people once performed hard, physical labor, the international creative industries are now at work. PACT Zollverein, for example, is a center for dance, performance art and theater, while the Red Dot Design Museum houses Europe’s largest collection of contemporary design. UNESCO World Heritage Site Zollverein is therefore a fascinating place where you can spend the whole day. You’ll also find excellent dining here, for example at Casino Zollverein. Alternatively, take a taxi to one of Essen’s Michelin-starred restaurants and make the evening extra special at Restaurant Hannappel, “Kettner’s Kamota”, “Chefs Atelier” or “Teko by Lange Rodriguez”.