Walking in Germany's Essen

Take a walk in the city or in the woods and meadows

The city of Essen

Essen is located in the heart of Germany's Ruhr region. It combines industrial history with green landscapes. The city has cultural treasures such as the Zollverein coal mine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Essen also offers extensive shopping centres, museums and a diverse range of leisure activities.

Various walks in and around Essen

The routes described below can be downloaded and are also available at the VVV Tourist Office in Essen, Kettwiger Strasse. 2-10, near the station.

2. Baldeneysteig

The BaldeneySteig is a scenic 27-km hiking trail around the Essen reservoir, which opened in 2017. The trail offers a rich combination of natural beauty and cultural attractions. You will entier forests, cross meadows and pass traditional farms. The views on your journey are breathtaking!

Several cultural breaks are available along the way. If the route is too long, you take a bus or boat for some stretches. This route is a combination of physical challenge and culture and is suitable for both experienced and inexperienced hikers.
Download the route and tips in German (PDF)

4. Kettwiger Panoramasteig

The Kettwiger Panoramasteig is a varied route of about 35 kilometres that offers beautiful panoramas along the Ruhr. The route includes steep forests, fields and urban areas. The walk combines nature with cultural sights. You can enjoy various attractions along its path. On route, there are several opportunities to rest at various food and drink establishments. The route is medium to strenuous and requires you to have enough stamina.
Download the route and tips in German (PDF)

Two-day route through meadows, forests and along the lake

Day 1 Kettwiger Panoramasteig

On the first day, explore the Kettwiger Panoramasteig, a route that runs through the northern and southern parts of Essen, with beautiful views and nature. You can stop at the Rutherhof to swim and play football golf and enjoy delicious, local delicacies.
In the evening, it is worth strolling through the historic towns of Kettwig and Werden, known for their half-timbered houses and welcoming restaurants and pubs.

To Essen by train

By train, you will get to Essen right quick. The travel time with ICE International is approximately 2.30 hours, depending on the chosen train and departure time. On the fastest connection, you will need to change trains once in Duisburg. During your journey, you can relax in a comfortable seat and rest from your walks around Essen. You can buy your ticket starting from € 20 one-way.