Garner Hotel Essen - Handelshof by IHG

Top hotel! The only slight drawbacks are the parking situation (parking garage 5 minutes' walk away) and the rather expensive breakfast (€21 per person, although I only need a portion of scrambled eggs, a coffee and a glass of orange juice).

The location is really mid-city, situated directly next to the central station, making it incredibly convenient for getting around. The rooms are clean and surprisingly very cool during hot days, keeping comfortable even up on the fifth floor, and they put a fan in the room. All of the staff members were friendly and quick. I also got the breakfast buffet, which was perfectly fine, although it is definitely better utilized when you have a bit more time to sit down and properly enjoy it. The absolute highlight was the building itself. It's a magnificent early 20th-century German design featuring monumental stone masonry and grand arched windows, that even received landmarkship. While I understand that corporate brands must maintain a standardized identity, forcing a generic, minimalist aesthetic into a building with this much historic soul creates a frustrating design clash. It feels like a missed opportunity to leverage its rich pre-war and 1950s heritage into a beautiful mid-century theme. Thankfully, Jimmy’s Bar is saving some grace of the property, preserving some atmospheric aesthetic that honors how this monumental building was truly meant to be experienced.

Location is in the center and next to the station Close to busses to netherlands And many restaurants and markets The beds are comfortable and the breakfast Is fine Little aminities in the single room But the reception will help with it when needed

A fantastic hotel steeped in history. The staff is outstanding. The rooms are excellent value for money. Best regards

I stayed there for one night and I have to say it was fantastic. At check-in, I was asked if I wanted a room with a bathtub or shower, and which floor I preferred. The lady at reception was very friendly. Also, when the air conditioning wasn't working, I called and asked if they could provide a fan, and they did. The room itself was very nice, I must say. It had a refrigerator, so we put our drinks in it to keep them cool.

I can absolutely recommend this hotel! When there isn't a big event going on, it's quite affordable, including the suites. The rooms are great, very clean, and everyone is genuinely friendly and helpful. They address any issues that might arise. The location is perfect – right next to Essen's main train station and at the edge of the city center. We will definitely be back!