Leave far more cultured than you came, thanks to nearby artsy must-do’s like the Philharmonie concert hall, Aalto Theatre & Folkwang Museum.

Come for the great location, stay for the design

Crisp and clean, the décor rocks a modern palette of whites and greens.

Nice-n-close to the Mercatorhalle complex, casino, main station and shops (in case you get the sudden urge to buy a new pair of pants – or maybe pjs).

Choice of soft or firm pillows? Sounds like a dream come true (literally).

Free WiFi keeps us from getting the tech withdrawal shakes.

Just 500 metres from the Bermudadreieck, closer to the shopping area and even closer to the train station.

Spot-on location in the heart, near the River Ruhr between the Essen and Dusseldorf Fair buildings (if you happen to be here for an event).

Pleasant hotel has an accompanying park and a pretty little lake that are very strollworthy.

The only 4-star stay in town, it’s an easy suitcase-lug from the main station.

Get the night (or afternoon) started without leaving the onsite bar.

Stunner of an 18-hole golf course right next door. Ask about tee times and go spend a glorious few hours showing that ball who’s boss.

Well-connected to the motorways, so you don’t lose time getting to your destination.