Location and Traffic

Essen lies at the intersection of international transport networks. The densest motorway network, the largest networked passenger transport system, the best maintained canal and harbour system in Europe and several airports ensure optimal accessibility and rapid links.

The most important East-West and North-South axes of Germany criss-cross the Metropole Ruhr in the shape of the A1, A2 and A3 motorways. As well as the A42, the A40, the central East-West link of the Metropole Ruhr, runs through Essen's urban area, while the A52 affords rapid travel (20 minutes) to Düsseldorf International Airport.

From Düsseldorf airport there are flight connections to destinations throughout the world. The airport is about 20 minutes by train or car from Essen. Essen itself boasts its own airport, Essen/Mülheim, which is primarily for business travel. Dortmund airport, only about 45 minutes away from Essen, is also gaining in importance for regional and business flights. In the greater catchment area is Cologne/Bonn airport, the second largest air freight hub in Germany, while the international airports in Frankfurt am Main and Amsterdam's Schiphol are also within easy reach.