- Must visit
Pergamonmuseum
World-famous museum of ancient Greek and Roman art, celebrated for the Pergamon Altar and monumental archaeological treasures.
Cheapest price on Sep 18
$40
Average ticket price on Sep 18
$44
Fastest journey on Sep 18
7 h 5 m
Average journey duration on Sep 18
7 h 32 m
Buses on Sep 18
9
Distance
454 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Essen to Berlin is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Essen to Berlin will cost around $44 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $40.
On Fri, Sep 18, we found 9 buses from Essen to Berlin, including 9 direct services.
On Fri, Sep 18 the direct buses cover the 454 km distance in an average of 7 h 32 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 7 h 5 m .
On Fri, Sep 18 the slowest buses will take 8 h 20 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
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FlixBusOmio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Essen to Berlin among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $41 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 7m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $41, while a flight costs an average of $466.
Distance: 282 miles (454 km)
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$41 Average price Cheapest | $466 Average price | $80 Average price | $97 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 30m Average total duration 8h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 7m Average total duration Fastest 2h 7m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 4h 48m Average total duration 4h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 10m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.5 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions | 1.4 - 2.7kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline | ![]() Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Berlin:
A bus is $39 (€32) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Berlin costing on average $80 (€66).
A bus is $425 (€348) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Essen to Berlin costing on average $466 (€381).
Other travel options to Berlin take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 18m.
Bus takes on average 8h 0m.
Tickets start at around $41 (€33) compared to roughly $97 (€79) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $56 (€46). The journey takes 8h 0m versus 6h 10m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Direct services are operated by FlixBus, BlaBlaCar.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 01:30AM | Arrival Time 06:30AM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 05:00AM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 05:30AM | Arrival Time 10:40AM | Duration 5h10 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 06:20AM | Arrival Time 11:00AM | Duration 4h40 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 11:40AM | Duration 4h40 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 07:15AM | Arrival Time 12:35PM | Duration 5h20 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 07:20AM | Arrival Time 12:30PM | Duration 5h10 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 02:40PM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 10:50AM | Arrival Time 04:30PM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Sun | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 11:00AM | Arrival Time 04:30PM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $63 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 11:50AM | Arrival Time 06:10PM | Duration 6h20 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 12:20PM | Arrival Time 05:30PM | Duration 5h10 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $48 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 12:30PM | Arrival Time 06:30PM | Duration 6h00 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:05PM | Arrival Time 09:35PM | Duration 8h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 02:00PM | Arrival Time 08:00PM | Duration 6h00 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 03:00PM | Arrival Time 08:10PM | Duration 5h10 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:05PM | Arrival Time 11:50PM | Duration 8h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 03:50PM | Arrival Time 10:10PM | Duration 6h20 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $42 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:15PM | Arrival Time 01:50AM | Duration 9h35 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 09:50PM | Duration 5h20 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 04:50PM | Arrival Time 10:20PM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 12:30AM | Duration 6h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:05PM | Arrival Time 03:10AM | Duration 7h05 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 10:10PM | Arrival Time 03:20AM | Duration 5h10 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:35PM | Arrival Time 05:50AM | Duration 7h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 11:00PM | Arrival Time 04:00AM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $35 |
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Berlin buses for tomorrow, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FlixBus | 1:05 PM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 8h30 | 9:35 PM Berlin, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof (ZOB) | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 3:05 PM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 8h20 | 11:25 PM Berlin, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof (ZOB) | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 3:05 PM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 8h45 | 11:50 PM Berlin, Bahnhof Südkreuz | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 4:15 PM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 8h55 | 1:10 AM Berlin, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof (ZOB) | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 4:15 PM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 9h35 | 1:50 AM Berlin, Alexanderplatz | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 8:05 PM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 7h25 | 3:30 AM Berlin, Bahnhof Südkreuz | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 8:05 PM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 7h05 | 3:10 AM Berlin, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof (ZOB) | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 10:35 PM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 7h15 | 5:50 AM Berlin, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof (ZOB) | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 10:35 PM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 7h35 | 6:10 AM Berlin, Bahnhof Südkreuz | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Buses from Essen to Berlin run on average 9 times per day, taking around 8h 0m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $21 (€17) but you can travel from only $12 (€10) by train.
There are 9 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:10, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 282 miles (454 km) distance in 6h 5m.
Distance 282 miles (454 km) |
Average bus duration 8h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price $21 (€17) |
Buses per day 9 |
Direct buses 9 |
Fastest bus 6h 5m |
First bus 12:10 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 49 days |
Discover the best of Berlin — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Berlin trip today.
World-famous museum of ancient Greek and Roman art, celebrated for the Pergamon Altar and monumental archaeological treasures.
Renowned collection of 19th-century European painting, including Caspar David Friedrich, in a grand museum on Kulturforum.
One of Europe’s leading contemporary art museums, known for major 20th-century works and a Mies van der Rohe building.
UNESCO-listed museum district with monumental architecture, top collections, and scenic riverfront walks in central Berlin.
Berlin’s largest inner-city park, ideal for walks, cycling, lakeside breaks, and major landmarks like the Victory Column.
Historic boulevard lined with grand buildings, museums, and universities, perfect for architecture lovers and central walks.
Curried ketchup over sliced pork sausage, usually with fries. A postwar Berlin street food icon found at snack stands across the city.
A Berlin minced pork patty seasoned with marjoram and caraway, traditionally served in a bread roll with mustard from market stalls.
Berlin-style pickled herring, often served with onions and potatoes. It reflects the city's long tradition of simple northern fish dishes.
Three-Michelin-star fine dining by Marco Müller, focused on highly refined German cuisine with seasonal local ingredients and elegant service.
Historic traditional restaurant serving Berlin and Bavarian dishes in a lively beer hall setting near Alexanderplatz.
Classic Berlin tavern known for Eisbein, schnitzel, and regional beer. Wood-paneled rooms give it an old-school local atmosphere.
Moderate for Europe: hostels and budget eats are reasonable, but hotels in central areas can be pricey. Transit is good value for visitors.
Round up or tip about 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Round up in cafes and taxis; tip is appreciated but not mandatory.
Official public transport app
Berlin Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof (ZOB) -> Alexanderplatz
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Berlin by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Berlin, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Essen to Berlin buses use the Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) to Berlin, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof (ZOB) station pair, with some services arriving at Berlin, Bahnhof Südkreuz. Use this guide to compare Essen and Berlin bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Cafes and snack bars nearby.
Free WiFi is available in the waiting area. ATMs are aTM machines available inside the station.
Ticket office support is available at Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof).
Available at Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof): Wheelchair accessible routes and facilities available.
Berlin, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof (ZOB) is 9 km from Berlin city centre. Public transport options include:
Berlin, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof (ZOB) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Cafeteria Berlin (in the station), Schnitzel Express (0.5 km), Currywurst Haus (0.7 km).
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance and inside the waiting area.
Ticket office support is available at Berlin, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof (ZOB).
Available at Berlin, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof (ZOB): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Berlin, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof (ZOB): Elevators, ramps.
Berlin, Bahnhof Südkreuz is 6 km from Berlin city centre. Public transport options include:
Berlin, Bahnhof Südkreuz has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Berlin, Bahnhof Südkreuz.
Available at Berlin, Bahnhof Südkreuz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Berlin, Bahnhof Südkreuz: Elevators, ramps.
Berlin, Alexanderplatz has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Multiple restaurants around the area.
Available in nearby cafes. ATMs are several ATMs in close proximity.
Ticket office support is available at Berlin, Alexanderplatz.
Available at Berlin, Alexanderplatz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Berlin, Alexanderplatz: Accessible for passengers with reduced mobility.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need