- Recommended
University Museum Heidelberg
Compact university museum presenting Heidelberg’s academic heritage, notable scholars, and historic collections in an important institutional setting.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Essen to Heidelberg
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 03
- Cheapest price on Nov 03
- €22
- Average ticket price on Nov 03
- €25
- Fastest journey on Nov 03
- 6 h 25 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 03
- 6 h 38 m
- Buses on Nov 03
- 3
- Distance
- 257 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Essen to Heidelberg is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Essen to Heidelberg will cost around €25 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €22.
Fast buses
On Tue, Nov 03, we found 3 buses from Essen to Heidelberg, including 3 direct services.
On Tue, Nov 03 the direct buses cover the 257 km distance in an average of 6 h 38 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 6 h 25 m .
On Tue, Nov 03 the slowest buses will take 6 h 45 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.
5:15 AM 6h45 Essen 12:00 PM Heidelberg €22 1 One-way 0 transfers6:45 AM 6h25 Essen 1:10 PM Heidelberg €23 1 One-way 0 transfers4:15 AM 6h45 Essen 11:00 AM Heidelberg €29 1 One-way 0 transfers
6:45 AM 6h25 Essen 1:10 PM Heidelberg €23 1 One-way 0 transfers5:15 AM 6h45 Essen 12:00 PM Heidelberg €22 1 One-way 0 transfers4:15 AM 6h45 Essen 11:00 AM Heidelberg €29 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Essen to Heidelberg
GermanyGermany
Buses from Essen to Heidelberg run on average 5 times per day, taking around 6h 54m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €17 if you book in advance.
There are 3 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:00. The fastest bus covers the 159 miles (257 km) distance in 5h 15m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance159 miles (257 km)
- Average bus duration6h 54m
- Cheapest ticket price€17
- Buses per day5
- Direct buses3
- Fastest bus5h 15m
- First bus12:15 AM
- Last bus11:00 PM
- Cheapest MonthJun
- Cheapest DayThu
- High SeasonJan - Mar
- Low SeasonApr - Jun
- Busiest DayThu
- Least Busy DayThu
- Best time to book1 day
Understand & plan this route
Explore this journey
Book with confidence
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Frequently asked questions about your Essen to Heidelberg trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Essen to Heidelberg.
Cheap bus tickets from Essen to Heidelberg can start from as little as €17 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Essen to Heidelberg is €33 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest bus from Essen to Heidelberg leaves at 12:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Essen to Heidelberg leaves at 11:00 PM.
Yes, there are 3 direct buses a day from Essen to Heidelberg with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
Essen to Heidelberg Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:15AM | Arrival Time 08:40AM | Duration 6h25 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price €36 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:15AM | Arrival Time 11:00AM | Duration 6h45 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price €26 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 04:50AM | Arrival Time 07:50AM | Duration 3h00 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price €20 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 05:10AM | Arrival Time 08:20AM | Duration 3h10 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price €23 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:15AM | Arrival Time 12:00PM | Duration 6h45 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Sun | Cheapest price €22 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:15AM | Arrival Time 01:00PM | Duration 6h45 | Departure days Mon, Sat | Cheapest price €22 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:45AM | Arrival Time 01:10PM | Duration 6h25 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price €23 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 10:10AM | Duration 3h10 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price €24 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:45AM | Arrival Time 02:10PM | Duration 6h25 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price €29 |
Operator BlaBlaCar Bus | Departure Time 07:50AM | Arrival Time 02:50AM | Duration 19h00 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price €100 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 08:20AM | Arrival Time 12:20PM | Duration 4h00 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price €24 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:45AM | Arrival Time 03:10PM | Duration 6h25 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price €22 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:25AM | Arrival Time 05:15PM | Duration 5h50 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price €20 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 02:50PM | Duration 2h50 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price €23 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:25PM | Arrival Time 06:15PM | Duration 5h50 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price €21 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:53PM | Arrival Time 07:15PM | Duration 6h22 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price €24 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:25PM | Arrival Time 07:15PM | Duration 5h50 | Departure days Mon, Sat | Cheapest price €21 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:30PM | Arrival Time 02:20AM | Duration 7h50 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price €33 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:30PM | Arrival Time 04:20AM | Duration 7h50 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price €24 |
Live departures
Essen to Heidelberg bus times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Heidelberg buses for tomorrow, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:15 AM Essen | 6h45 | 11:00 AM Heidelberg | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:15 AM Essen | 6h45 | 12:00 PM Heidelberg | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:45 AM Essen | 6h25 | 1:10 PM Heidelberg | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Essen to Heidelberg buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as BlaBlaCar Bus offer buses services from Essen to Heidelberg.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to Heidelberg.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of BlaBlaCar Bus to find the best option for your trip from Essen to Heidelberg.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare FlixBus with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Essen to Heidelberg.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Trainline or Checkmybus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of BlaBlaCar Bus to find the best option for your trip from Essen to Heidelberg.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Essen to Heidelberg.
Bus companies
Bus companies from Essen to Heidelberg
Buses from Essen to Heidelberg with FlixBus and BlaBlaCar Bus. Overnight buses available on this route with FlixBus and BlaBlaCar Bus. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
5h 15m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
€17
FlixBus frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
BlaBlaCar Bus
About
BlaBlaCar Bus (formerly known as Ouibus or iDBUS) is a long-distance coach company operating in 10 European countries and connecting over 300 destinations. A subsidiary of the French carpooling company BlaBlaCar, it offers comfortable travel with standard amenities such as air conditioning, toilets, USB and power outlets for charging devices, extra legroom, and adjustable seats. Free Wi-Fi is available on select routes. BlaBlaCar Bus offers only a Standard ticket type, which allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and up to two checked bags per person.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average BlaBlaCar Bus Duration
16h 45m
Cheapest BlaBlaCar Bus Price
€70
BlaBlaCar Bus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg and one checked bag up to 20kg.
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 30 minutes before departure for a refund in the form of a voucher.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Accessible seating options.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; additional fees may apply.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Essen and Heidelberg
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a bus from Essen to Heidelberg, you can count on FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus for the best way to get you to Heidelberg. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Essen and Heidelberg and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Essen to Heidelberg:
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Accessible seating options.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Essen to Heidelberg for bus company FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Essen to Heidelberg depends on the bus companies:
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 30 minutes before departure for a refund in the form of a voucher.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company {providersWithBike}.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Essen to Heidelberg.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Essen to Heidelberg:
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg and one checked bag up to 20kg.
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Essen to Heidelberg:
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Essen to Heidelberg. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Essen to Heidelberg with the following bus company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Essen to Heidelberg with the following bus company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Essen to Heidelberg with the following bus company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
Complete guide to Heidelberg
Things to do in Heidelberg
Discover the best of Heidelberg — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Heidelberg trip today.
- Recommended
German Pharmacy Museum
Museum inside the castle displaying decorative arts, furnishings, and princely culture. It adds context to the ruins and enriches a castle visit.
- Recommended
Kurpfälzisches Museum
Art museum known for modern and contemporary exhibitions, with a respected collection and strong temporary shows near the old town.
- Must visit
Hauptstraße
Heidelberg’s main pedestrian street through the old town, lined with historic buildings, shops, and landmarks. Ideal for a first exploration on foot.
- Must visit
Altstadt
Historic old town of lanes, squares, churches, and baroque facades. It is the essential area for sightseeing, walking, and classic Heidelberg views.
- Must visit
Philosophers' Way
Celebrated hillside path across the river, famous for postcard views of the old town and castle. A classic Heidelberg walk in all seasons.
- Gluten-free
Saumagen
Sausage stuffed into a pig's stomach with potatoes and seasonings, then sliced and fried. A beloved Palatinate specialty widely eaten around Heidelberg.
- Gluten-free
Leberwurst
Coarse liver sausage traditionally served on bread or with potatoes. It is a classic regional comfort food in Baden and the nearby Palatinate.
- Gluten-free
Pfälzer Kartoffelsuppe mit Wurst
A hearty stew of pork, potatoes, and vegetables, often leek and carrots. It reflects everyday home cooking in southwestern Germany.
Schwarzer Hahn
Elegant fine dining restaurant with refined modern cuisine and polished service near Heidelberg's historic center.
Zum Roten Ochsen
Historic student tavern known for classic regional dishes and old Heidelberg atmosphere in the Altstadt.
Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus
Traditional brewery restaurant serving house beers and hearty German fare in a lively, long-established setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey in peak season, but dining and local transit are manageable for most tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.80-4.50 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest: round up or add 5-10% in restaurants. Round up for taxis and leave small change in cafes.
myVRN
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.40
- Day pass
- €7.80
To the city center
Heidelberg, Alte Eppelheimer Straße (Hbf) -> Bismarckplatz, Heidelberg
- Distance
- 2.3 km
- Travel time
- 11 min
- Buy tickets in the myVRN app or from ticket machines before boarding; buses and trams do not always support onboard card payment.
- Validate paper tickets if required and keep them until the end of your trip; inspectors perform random checks.
Plan your visit to Heidelberg
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Heidelberg.
Germany uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards, especially contactless payments, in cities and larger establishments. However, cash is still widely accepted and sometimes preferred in smaller shops, markets, and rural areas. Carrying some cash is recommended for flexibility.
In Heidelberg, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the Old Town and near the train station. Common scams include distraction techniques in busy spots and overpriced taxi rides. Staying vigilant in popular tourist zones and using official transport services can help ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
FAQs: Bus from Essen to Heidelberg
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Essen and Heidelberg including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Essen to Heidelberg
Most Essen to Heidelberg buses use the Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) to Heidelberg, Hauptbahnhof station pair, with some services arriving at Heidelberg, Alte Eppelheimer Straße (Hbf). Use this guide to compare Essen and Heidelberg bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Essen
Arrival bus stations in Heidelberg
Which Essen station do buses to Heidelberg leave from?
Buses from Essen to Heidelberg leave from Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof). The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Essen city centre at Essen Hbf, 45127 Essen, Germany.
Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)Essen Hbf, 45127 Essen, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) from Essen city centre
BusNe12, Ne11, Ne2, Ne1, 196, 166, 155, 154, 146, 145 · 7m · every ~50 min
Tram109, 108, 107, 105, 103, 101 · 2m · every ~46 min
Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) 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 and drink
Food options include: Cafes and snack bars nearby.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free WiFi is available in the waiting area. ATMs are aTM machines available inside the station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof): Wheelchair accessible routes and facilities available.
Heidelberg, Hauptbahnhof
City-centre transport
Getting to Heidelberg, Hauptbahnhof from Heidelberg city centre
BusRnv 35, Rnv 33, Rnv 20, RNV Moonliner 3 · 4m · €3 · every ~13 min
TramRnv 5, Rnv 23, Rnv 22, Rnv 21 · 4m · €2 · every ~20 min
Heidelberg, Alte Eppelheimer Straße (Hbf)Heidelberg Alte Eppelheimer, Alte Eppelheimer, 69115
Most popular buses to and from Heidelberg and Essen
Most popular bus connections to Heidelberg
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