Zollverein UNESCO World Heritage Site

Historical place · Essen

Zollverein UNESCO World Heritage Site

Historical place · Essen

Gelsenkirchener Str. 181, 45309 Essen, Germany

Highlights

Explore Zollverein, a UNESCO World Heritage site blending monumental industrial architecture with vibrant cultural spaces, museums, and festivals.

Gelsenkirchener Str. 181, 45309 Essen, Germany Get directions

zollverein.de

@zeche_zollverein

@afar

"Once the largest coal mine in the world, with the largest coking plant in Europe, the Zollverein is now a 247-acre complex dedicated to the creative industries, with everything from a design museum and performing arts center to a science hub and regular concerts. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2001, it still features the old mine infrastructure designed by Bauhaus architects Fritz Schupp and Martin Kremmer—from pits and coking plants to railway lines and former miners’ housing—and functions as part of the official Industrial Trail, drawing 1.5 million visitors a year. Former miners offer guided tours through the pithead facilities and coking plant, and guests can explore highlights like the Red Dot Design Museum, attend underground dance parties, or catch movies in the open-air cinema. There’s also an ice-skating rink in winter, a swimming pool in summer, and annual festivals like the Zechenfest (Coal Mine Festival) and Contemporary Art Ruhr fair."

The Essential Guide to North Rhine

View Postcard for UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein

Winston C

Google

Great place with lots of history to walk around. Interesting architecture and very well preserved. Free ti park and visit for a walk around. If you want an optional tour (necessary to enter some of the buildings) book in advance as they often may not have availability, and tours don't run everyday.

Roehills

Google

amazing history and beautiful old industrial buildings. Ruhr museum is word the visit. i would have liked to see more info about certain buildings, the machines inside and everything else. it’s and interesting place wich will raise questions that will stay unanswered

Sey Ha Sok

Google

Zollverein is an impressive, massive site that feels like stepping into a dystopian film set. Almost as if you're walking through the backdrop of a Robocop movie. The industrial, gritty vibe, with towering structures and sprawling grounds, gives the place an almost surreal, futuristic atmosphere. Be ready to stroll a few kilometers, as the area is enormous. Despite its size, the layout makes it easy to navigate, and there are plenty of spots to take in the scenery or grab a break. Parking is hassle-free, with enough spots to accommodate visitors, even during busy times. One of the best parts? Entrance is free, making this an ideal place for anyone interested in industrial history or simply looking for a unique walk.

Louise H

Google

Very interesting site that is free entry to the public, you do have to pay to visit the museum aspect and the roof but this is super cheap! If you want a guided tour you should pre book but if you’re happy to self guide then you’ll have a great day! Museum details all the local history and how Zollverein came to be the site it is today. Huge area to walk around that has cafes, restaurants and a swimming pool!

Muhammed Kurnasan

Google

Definitely do a research on what to visit inside the compound before you come. It's a huge place.

Debby Lakerveld

Google

An absolutely stunning area. A class A example of industrial design. It definitely worth it to take a walk around the premises. There are still a lot of buildings that have been neglected and been overgrown by plants. It gives you a good idea on the enormous impact the mining had in this area. The Red Dot Design Museum is worth the visit.

Elena Tomasella

Google

It‘s 8€ for the guided tour for students. I really recommend that. For the Ruhr museum it’s free for students. I suggest to have the tour and then visit the building by yourself later. This way you can appreciate it more. If you go in the morning, then it’s nice to have a walk around before the guided tour inside. Ask at the info points.

Nico Schirrmacher

Google

Zollverein is an absolute must-visit in Essen and easily deserves 5 stars! Despite the weather not being great, the experience was fantastic. We explored the museum inside, which was filled with fascinating exhibitions showcasing the history and importance of the mining industry. Every display was thoughtfully curated and super engaging—definitely a highlight for anyone interested in history or industrial heritage. The staff truly stood out—they were incredibly helpful, friendly, and genuinely excited to share their knowledge about the site. Their enthusiasm made the visit even more enjoyable and memorable. Zollverein is not just a historical site but also a cultural landmark that offers something for everyone. Even with bad weather, the mix of indoor exhibitions and the stunning architecture makes it a top destination. It’s no wonder it’s one of the top sites in Essen—worth every moment of the visit. Highly recommend!