Solo Female Travel in Essen

Essen is a charming, picturesque town located in the northern part of Belgium, just a stone's throw away from the Dutch border. Famous for its rich history, this enchanting destination is awash with stunning natural beauty and boasts of a well preserved rural and industrial heritage. Essen is known to offer a unique blend of cultural richness and outdoor activities - its acclaimed railroad museum, "Spoorwegmuseum," narrates intriguing stories of the yesteryears, while the verdant nature park, "Kalmthout Heath," offers visitors a chance to relish unspoiled landscapes. Each year, the town also proudly hosts the esteemed Christmas Beer Festival, a unique event that attracts brewing enthusiasts from across the globe, making Essen a captivating retreat for both history aficionados and nature lovers.

Travel rating

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Travel index

Safety:Very safe

Essen, generally, has a low crime rate and is considered one of the safer places in the country. Local people are friendly and welcoming to tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is advisable for solo female travelers to stay aware of their surroundings, particularly at night, and avoid poorly lit or deserted areas.

Transport:Moderate

Navigating through Essen, can be deemed as moderately accessible. The town is relatively small, making it easier to get around on foot or by bike, however, there might be some language barrier issues as the main language spoken is Dutch. Furthermore, public transportation is available, although infrequent. Therefore, some level of planning in advance is required.

Things to do:Moderate

Essen is a fairly interesting town. It offers a variety of outdoor activities, including beautiful walking trails and nature parks. For history buffs, Essen's windmill and railroad museum serve as prominent historical landmarks. Its small-town charm and local eateries are also attractive. However, compared to larger cities, it has relatively fewer sights and activities.

Food:Above average

Essen offers a wide variety of culinary delights, ranging from authentic Belgian dishes to international fare. The local food is known for its rich and hearty flavors which can be enjoyed in the various cafes and bistros scattered across the city. Seafood, especially mussels, is a must-try. There's also a fair bit of diversity with Italian, Chinese, and Middle Eastern restaurants around, which makes for a great selection. However, vegetarian and vegan options can be a bit limited, thus a slight reduction in points.

Budget:Moderate

Essen has a modest budget-friendliness. Although it is not the most inexpensive, the costs are reasonable overall. With local markets offering affordable products and public transportation being relatively low-priced, one can manage with a medium budget. However, dining in restaurants and entertainment may add up.

Is Essen worth visiting?

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