Clash of Cultures

Essen is a city of contrasts, a melting pot of cultures. If you want to experience the perfect “Clash of Cultures,” you’ve come to the right place. After breakfast, head to the Museum of the Year. With four works by van Gogh, Monet, Picasso, and Cézanne, the Museum Folkwang boasts a world-class collection of international art—and best of all, admission to the permanent exhibition is free!

Just a few hundred meters away, you’ll find the perfect cultural counterpoint. Zum Xaver is one of Germany’s oldest snack bars. Since 1952, it has served some of the city’s best chicken and currywurst. Berlin can keep claiming it invented currywurst for as long as it likes… Here in the Ruhr area, we know better. Currywurst and fries with a Pilsner—that’s what the perfect lunch looks like! Afterwards, it’s best to let yourself drift along nearby “Rü,” Rüttenscheider Straße. Independent boutiques, shops, and bars will make you quickly lose track of time. But be careful: don’t let your date at Baradox slip your mind! Nowhere else can you experience such pure, refined bar culture. Whether you’re sampling gin, whiskey, rum, or cocktails, or simply enjoying your drink of choice in stylish surroundings… your “Clash of Cultures” ends fabulously!