The city of Essen lies right in the heart of the Ruhr metropolis. Around 6 million people live and work in the entire metropolitan region. Therefore, the Ruhr metropolis is the third largest conurbation in Europe, after London and Paris. 40% of the entire population of the European Union (EU), some 140 million people, live within a radius of 500 km around Essen.

With about 572,000 inhabitants, Essen is the largest city in the Ruhr area and, at the same time, an important economic region. 9 of the 100 and 18 of the 500 companies in Germany with the highest turnovers have their head offices in Essen, the city of major companies and trade fairs. This is the centre of the European energy industry and also holds a top position in the health sector with some 17,000 jobs.

Essen lies at the intersection of international transport networks. The closest knit motorway network, the largest public transport system, the best developed canal and port system in Europe as well as several airports guarantee optimum accessibility and fast connections.

As a result, there are numerous excursion destinations in the city of Essen which you, as an event organiser, can profit from. Make use of the diverse offerings for your evening event, your supporting programme or to relax after a successful congress day.