Once a city of steel and coal mining, now one of the cultural capitals of Europe, Essen is one of Germany’s greenest cities and is home to many historical landmarks such as the Cathedral of Essen and Nikolauskirche, along with the charismatic half-timbered medieval quarters of Kettwig.

The botanical garden of Grugapark has a host of plants and flora, whilst Essen’s historical past is on show through landmarks such as Basilica St Ludgerus, Alte Kirche and the Old Synagogue Essen.

The main shopping area is based around Kettwiger Strasse, within the vicinity is Essen’s medieval Dom containing several priceless collections of artwork. Museum Folkwang features 19th and 20th-century art and several cafés, bars and restaurants line the city’s streets.

In summer you can swim, windsurf, take a boat ride or enjoy a picnic on the banks of Lake Baldeney and the Baldeneysee Seaside Beach. Essen has ice-skating rinks in some areas during winter. Movie Park Germany is also a popular attraction.

Essen Central Station offers direct links to Oberhausen, Dortmund, Cologne, Duisburg, and Dusseldorf. Booking.com has several accommodation options in North Rhine-Westphalia and Essen.