Cycling day trip from Essen to Duisburg

Kick off your cycling adventure in Essen, the energy capital of Germany, known for its lush green parks and the famous Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site. From here, you'll embark on a pleasant ride to Duisburg, a city famed for its bustling inland harbor — the largest in the world!

The journey stretches just under 28 kilometers and offers a gentle mix of terrains and scenes. Mostly you'll be pedaling along smooth asphalt (about 69%), which makes for a comfortable and steady pace. You’ll find yourself winding through various paths (46%) and dedicated cycleways (36%), where traffic is minimal and the environment is serene.

Gradually, you’ll rise and descend a few meters along the way, giving you just the right amount of challenge to keep things interesting without breaking too much of a sweat. You'll experience quiet roads and even some quaint pedestrian areas, providing a glimpse into local life.

As you approach Duisburg, don't miss the chance to explore its transformation from an industrial hub to a vibrant cultural scene — perhaps best seen at Tiger and Turtle, a unique rollercoaster-like walking sculpture offering panoramic views. Enjoy the ride and the delightful contrast between these two fascinating North Rhine-Westphalia cities!