- Must visit
Museum Folkwang
World-class art museum in the Villa Hügel parkland, famous for 19th and 20th century masterpieces and changing exhibitions.
Cheapest price on Sep 17
$75
Average ticket price on Sep 17
$84
Fastest journey on Sep 17
11 h 40 m
Average journey duration on Sep 17
16 h 14 m
Buses on Sep 17
4
Distance
654 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Lyon to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Lyon to Essen will cost around $84 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $75.
On Thu, Sep 17, we found 4 buses from Lyon to Essen, including 1 direct services.
On Thu, Sep 17 the direct buses cover the 654 km distance in an average of 16 h 14 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 11 h 40 m .
On Thu, Sep 17 the slowest buses will take 18 h 50 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.
5808 · 51121
FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus
5132 · 51121
FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus
5808 · 51121
5132 · 51121Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Lyon to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $88 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 40m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.2 - 0.6kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $88, while a flight costs an average of $476.
Distance: 406 miles (654 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$88 Average price Cheapest | $137 Average price | $476 Average price | $199 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
15h 29m Average total duration 14h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 4m Average total duration 7h 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 40m Average total duration Fastest 2h 40m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 8h 24m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.7 - 1.6kg CO2 emissions | 0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 2.0 - 3.9kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular airline | 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 Lyon to Essen:
A bus is $49 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Lyon to Essen costing on average $137.
A bus is $388 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Lyon to Essen costing on average $476.
Other travel options to Essen take longer:
Train takes on average 7h 34m.
Bus takes on average 14h 59m.
Tickets start at around $88 compared to roughly $199 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $111. The journey takes 14h 59m versus 8h 24m 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.
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 Bus | Departure Time 12:55AM | Arrival Time 06:45PM | Duration 17h50 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $75 |
Operator BlaBlaCar Bus | Departure Time 01:20AM | Arrival Time 07:45PM | Duration 18h25 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:20AM | Arrival Time 09:50PM | Duration 16h30 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:35AM | Arrival Time 01:10AM | Duration 16h35 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $89 |
Operator BlaBlaCar Bus | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 08:40AM | Duration 20h40 | Departure days Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $63 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:15PM | Arrival Time 09:55AM | Duration 11h40 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $52 |
Operator BlaBlaCar Bus | Departure Time 11:55PM | Arrival Time 07:45PM | Duration 19h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $52 |
The table below shows live departures for Lyon to Essen buses for today, Wednesday, September 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
5132 · 51121 | 11:55 PM Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland) | 18h50 | 6:45 PM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1 transfer | |
| Thursday, September 17 | |||||
5808 · 51121 | 12:55 AM Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland) | 17h50 | 6:45 PM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 8:35 AM Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland) | 16h35 | 1:10 AM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus | 10:15 PM Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland) | 11h40 | 9:55 AM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 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 Lyon to Essen run on average 5 times per day, taking around 14h 59m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $37 if you book in advance.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:10, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 406 miles (654 km) distance in 11h 40m.
Distance 406 miles (654 km) |
Average bus duration 14h 59m |
Cheapest ticket price $37 |
Buses per day 5 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 11h 40m |
First bus 12:10 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 14 days |
Discover the best of Essen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Essen trip today.
World-class art museum in the Villa Hügel parkland, famous for 19th and 20th century masterpieces and changing exhibitions.
Ruhr Museum presents the region’s natural, cultural, and industrial history inside Zollverein’s iconic coal washery.
Internationally important poster museum with graphic design, advertising, and visual culture collections in a central location.
Large urban lake with promenades, sailing, and scenic paths; a favorite leisure area for locals and visitors alike.
Lively central pedestrian street for shopping and city life, linking Essen’s station area with key downtown landmarks.
Leafy city park with botanical features, sculptures, and open lawns near major museums and cultural institutions.
A hearty potato pancake from the Ruhr area, usually served with applesauce or beet syrup. It is a beloved regional comfort food eaten at fairs and homes.
Traditional rye bread from Westphalia, baked dark and dense with a slightly sweet flavor. It is a staple across the region and often served with ham or cheese.
A classic Rhineland-Ruhr beef roast marinated in vinegar and spices, then braised. It is a festive dish found on Sunday and holiday menus.
Refined two-star dining in Villa Hügel parkland, known for modern French-inspired cuisine, polished service, and one of Essen's most prestigious settings.
Traditional brewery restaurant in Werden serving hearty regional dishes and house beers in a historic, rustic atmosphere popular with locals and visitors.
Casual local favorite for grilled meats, schnitzel, and classic pub plates, with a lively traditional atmosphere and dependable portions.
Moderate for Germany. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than Munich or Frankfurt, while local transit and casual meals stay fairly affordable for visitors.
Tipping is modest. Round up or add about 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Taxi fares are often rounded up. In cafes, small change or rounding up is typical.
Official public transport app
Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) -> Kennedyplatz, Essen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lyon to Essen 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 Essen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Lyon to Essen buses use the Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland) to Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) station pair. Use this guide to compare Lyon and Essen bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland) is 2 km from Lyon city centre. Public transport options include:
Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland). ATMs are available at Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland).
Ticket office support is available at Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland).
Available at Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland): Station is accessible for passengers with reduced mobility.
Lyon, Gare Routière de Perrache is 1 km from Lyon city centre. Public transport options include:
Lyon, Gare Routière de Perrache has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Café de la Gare (in the station), Le Bistrot de Lyon (0.5 km), Brasserie Georges (0.6 km).
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Lyon, Gare Routière de Perrache.
Available at Lyon, Gare Routière de Perrache: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Lyon, Gare Routière de Perrache: Elevators, ramps.
Lyon is 1 km from Lyon city centre. Public transport options include:
Lyon has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Several small eateries available.
Free WiFi available in waiting areas. ATMs are aTM located near entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Lyon.
Available at Lyon: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Lyon: Wheelchair accessible with ramps and lifts.
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.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need