Germany is a country rich in history, culture, and technological advancements. Whether you are passionate about history, fascinated by modern architecture, or simply looking to enjoy some breathtaking landscapes, Germany has it all. Back in 2018, I had the opportunity to visit Germany after my vacation in Switzerland. My main purpose for this trip was to meet my best friend, Yassin, who is originally from Syria but is now a permanent citizen in Germany. He is an Automobile Engineer, and we had been planning this meetup for a long time. Since we had not seen each other for quite some time, this trip was not just about sightseeing but also about reconnecting with an old friend.
My journey from Zurich, Switzerland, to Essen City, Germany, was an adventure in itself. I traveled by train, which was both affordable and convenient. The journey took about six hours, and the scenic views from the train window were incredible. The train passed through lush green fields, small villages, and picturesque landscapes, making the ride quite enjoyable. The train seats were comfortable, and the overall experience was smooth. Upon arriving in Essen, my friend Yassin was already there waiting for me at the station, and I was filled with excitement to explore the city with him.
Essen is a city in the western part of Germany, known for its industrial heritage and modern urban lifestyle. It has a rich historical background, once being the heart of Germany’s coal and steel industry. However, over the years, it has transformed into a vibrant metropolitan city, known for its beautiful parks, historical landmarks, and cultural significance. The first thing I noticed about Essen was the contrast between its busy city center and its quiet suburban areas. While the city center was lively, filled with people, shopping malls, and restaurants, the suburban and village areas were peaceful, green, and absolutely beautiful. It felt like the perfect balance between modern city life and natural serenity.
My friend and I spent time exploring Essen, walking through the city streets, enjoying local German food, and experiencing the city’s unique charm. The people were friendly, and the atmosphere was welcoming. If you are someone who enjoys a mix of history, nature, and modern city life, then Essen is the perfect place to visit. One of the most memorable experiences of my trip was our journey to the Ruhr River, which is located about one hour away from Essen City. We decided to rent a car, which turned out to be a great decision. Car rentals in Germany are quite cheap, making it a convenient option for travelers who want to explore beyond the city. Driving through the German roads was an amazing experience, with smooth highways and picturesque countryside views. Germany is known for its well-maintained roads, and driving there felt effortless.
When we reached the Ruhr River, I was absolutely astonished by the scenery. The river flowed beautifully through the landscape, and the fresh air made it even more enjoyable. The surrounding area was covered in lush greenery, and there were several spots where we could sit and relax. From the river, we had a distant view of Adolf Hitler’s Führer Headquarters, a historic site that added a surreal feeling to our journey. The combination of history and nature made this trip unforgettable. We spent some time at the river, taking pictures, enjoying the peaceful environment, and talking about our past memories. It was a wonderful escape from the busy city life, and I would highly recommend it to anyone visiting Essen.
After spending a few days in Essen, my journey continued to Frankfurt, where I had to catch my flight back to South Korea. Frankfurt is one of the busiest cities in Germany and home to one of the largest airports in Europe. Though I didn’t have much time to explore, the city’s skyline and modern architecture were truly impressive. Frankfurt is known as the financial hub of Germany, with towering skyscrapers and a bustling atmosphere. It is a city that perfectly blends tradition with modernity, making it a fascinating place to visit.
Although the trip was wonderful, we did face a few challenges. One of the main issues was public transportation. Unlike Japan or South Korea, where trains and buses are always on time, public transport in Germany is not always reliable. Sometimes, trains or buses arrived late, which made it difficult to plan a perfect schedule. That’s why renting a car was the best solution for our trip. Another minor difficulty was the language barrier. While many people in Germany speak English, there were times when we had trouble communicating in restaurants or small local shops. Learning a few basic German phrases can be helpful for travelers visiting Germany.
If you are planning to visit Essen City, I highly recommend renting a car instead of depending on public transport. It is affordable, convenient, and allows you to explore the nearby attractions without worrying about train schedules. Also, don’t miss out on visiting the Ruhr River; it is a hidden gem that offers stunning views and a peaceful escape from the city’s busy life.
Traveling opens the door to new experiences, and my journey to Germany was truly one of the
best. The combination of history, nature, and modern development made this trip an unforgettable
one. When are you planning your German adventure?
Start your journey today!
-Md Abdullah Al Faruq
Founder & CEO Endow Travel
