Best Intro to Essen in 2 hours with a Local

Rhine River , Germany

Best Intro to Essen in 2 hours with a Local

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Start your visit to Essen with this 2-hour walk led by a Local. You’ll discover its highlights, hidden gems, taste a typical local product, and get practical tips. This is the best introduction to Essen.

Get to see places like Essen Minster and Glockenspiel, along with hidden corners of Essen only known to locals that reveal the city’s everyday charm.

Enjoy a tasting of a local product, like Apfelstrudel, for a flavour of Essen and its traditions. You'll also receive local insights on where to eat, drink, and how to get around, helping you explore with confidence and make the most of your time.

• Get the best intro to Essen through its highlights and hidden gems
• Taste a typical local product and connect with Essen's traditions
• Get local tips on where to eat, drink, and how to move around the city
• Make the most of your time with this 2-hour walking experience
• Enjoy the intimacy of a small group, up to 8 travellers

Available options

2 Hours - Private Tour

Duration: 2 hours<br/>Exclusively for you: Multiple language options available

2 Hours - English Tour

Duration: 2 hours<br/>Small group experience

2 Hours - German Tour

Duration: 2 hours<br/>Small group experience

What's included

Knowledgeable local host

Small group experience

Personalised recommendations

Local product tasting

Detailed itinerary

A historic church featuring the Golden Madonna, one of the oldest known depictions of the Virgin Mary.

A beautiful Protestant church in the heart of the city, known for its modern stained glass.

A charming carillon playing melodic chimes, adding to the atmosphere of Kettwiger Straße.

A central square surrounded by cultural spots, shopping areas, and cafés.

A historic Old Catholic church with striking architecture and a peaceful ambiance.

What's not included

Personal expenses

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

This tour is hosted by an independent Local.

You will be part of a small group of up to 8 travellers.

The itinerary adapts to travellers' interests and walking pace.

The local product tasting may vary depending on the season, availability, and travellers' preferences.

Stops may vary depending on weather conditions.

Entry tickets for public transportation, museums and monuments are not included.

Not recommended for guests with impaired mobility

Meeting point

We will meet entrance of the Select Hotel situated opposite of the Essen Main Railway Station to begin our discovery walk through the city.

Important notes

Your Local Host will contact you as from 24 hours before the experience to confirm the meeting location and share any final details.

The itinerary and stops may vary depending on traveller preferences, walking pace, and weather conditions.

This is a walking tour of city highlights and does not include entry tickets for public transport, monuments, or attractions.

Please bring your booking confirmation to show your Local Host at the beginning of the experience.

Arrive 15 minutes early. The experience begins on time and, for organisational reasons, cannot be delayed.

All experiences are hosted by independent Locals who offer in-depth knowledge and authentic insights into their city. LocalBini connects travellers with Locals for unique, personalised city tours.

About Rhine River

The Rhine River is one of Europe's most famous and scenic rivers, flowing through Germany and offering a blend of stunning landscapes, historic castles, and charming villages. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its cultural and natural significance.

Top Attractions

Lorelei

A famous rock formation on the Rhine River known for its legends and scenic beauty. The Lorelei is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Historical/Natural 1-2 hours Free to visit

Marksburg Castle

The only castle on the Rhine that was never destroyed, offering a glimpse into medieval life and stunning views of the river.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours €10-€15

Cologne Cathedral

A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most famous cathedrals in the world, known for its Gothic architecture and twin spires.

Historical/Religious 2-3 hours Free entry, €6 to climb the tower

Must-Try Local Dishes

Rheinischer Sauerbraten

A pot roast that can be made from a variety of meats, marinated in vinegar, wine, spices, and juniper berries.

Main Course Contains meat, can be made with beef, horse, or venison.

Riesling Wine

A white wine produced from Riesling grapes, known for its floral aroma and crisp taste.

Drink Alcoholic beverage, gluten-free.

Popular Activities

Hiking Cycling Boating Wine tasting River cruises Spa visits Castle tours Museum visits

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the peak tourist season with warm weather and long daylight hours. The riverbanks are lush and green, and all attractions are fully operational.

18°C to 25°C 64°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: German
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural regions

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

CET (GMT+1), CEST (GMT+2 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

The Rhine River region is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, petty theft can occur in tourist areas and on public transport.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure in crowded areas.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps.
• Be cautious of pickpockets on public transport.

Getting there

By air

Frankfurt Airport • 20 km from Frankfurt
Düsseldorf Airport • 20 km from Düsseldorf

By train

Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof, Cologne Hauptbahnhof

By bus

Frankfurt Central Station, Cologne Central Station

Getting around

Public transport

Efficient and punctual, with options for regional and high-speed trains. Great for traveling between major cities and towns.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Mytaxi, Freecnow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Rüdesheim Bacharach

Day trips

Heidelberg

100 km from Frankfurt • Full day

A picturesque university town known for its romantic old town, historic castle, and scenic river views.

Lorelei

100 km from Frankfurt • Half day

A famous rock formation on the Rhine River known for its legends and scenic beauty.

Festivals

Rhine in Flames • May to September (varies by town) Christmas Markets • Late November to December

Pro tips

Visit the Rhine Valley during the shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
Take a Rhine River cruise to see the best views of the castles and landscapes.
Explore the smaller towns and villages for a more authentic and peaceful experience.
Try local Riesling wines and visit wineries for tastings and tours.
Book accommodations well in advance, especially during peak season and for popular events like Christmas markets.