Originally Posted by
KittyCat
location is good for Essen (refer to prior post) - even if it's indeed 5min minimum walk to anything of real interest, be it restaurants or things to see
It should be noted that the hotel is directly connected to the Philharmonie (the concert hall), and is just across the park from the Aalto Musiktheater (the opera house). The musical standards in Essen are very high (named Opera House of the Year 2008 by Opernwelt Magazine, and Orchestra of the Year 2008); if time permits, attending a performance would IMHO be quite rewarding.