Essen is a modern metropolis in the heart of the Ruhr region. The colliery Zeche Zollverein is an outstanding example of industrial architecture that has been lavishly restored and awarded UNESCO Cultural Heritage status. Right next to this monument to the Industrial Age stands the Design Centre Museum of North Rhine-Westphalia. The colliery is regularly used as a venue for theatre performances, classical concerts and book reading events. It is also part of a 400-kilometre Industrial Culture Route through the Ruhr region, a former heavy industry centre that underwent a painful process of de-industrialisation but has now re-emerged as a thriving and integral part of contemporary life.

Visitors may be surprised to discover so many green areas in the Ruhr area. Lake Baldeneysee in Essen is just one example of a natural beauty spot in the midst of the largest industrial area in Europe. The Ruhr region is full of contrasts.

Another attraction is Villa Hügel, the former residence of the Krupp family. It is now an art museum and venue for concerts and exhibitions and is set in beautiful parkland. There is also the internationally renowned Aalto opera house, the Münster, Essen’s cathedral and innumerable outstanding museums that are becoming increasingly popular.

Nearby Bottrop boasts the Warner Bros. Movie Park, a big hit with visitors of all ages.