- 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 18
€56
Average ticket price on Sep 18
€66
Fastest journey on Sep 18
15 h 35 m
Average journey duration on Sep 18
15 h 59 m
Buses on Sep 18
13
Distance
761 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Vienna to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Vienna to Essen will cost around €66 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €56.
On Fri, Sep 18, we found 13 buses from Vienna to Essen, including 2 direct services.
On Fri, Sep 18 the direct buses cover the 761 km distance in an average of 15 h 59 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 15 h 35 m .
On Fri, Sep 18 the slowest buses will take 16 h 30 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.
FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBusOmio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Vienna to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €69 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 45m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.2 - 0.7kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €69, while a flight costs an average of €437.
Distance: 472 miles (761 km)
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
€69 Average price Cheapest | €437 Average price | €201 Average price | €67 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
15h 56m Average total duration 15h 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 45m Average total duration Fastest 2h 45m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 10h 25m Average total duration 9h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 14m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.8 - 1.9kg CO2 emissions | 2.3 - 4.6kg CO2 emissions | 0.2 - 0.7kg 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 Vienna to Essen:
A bus is €132 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Vienna to Essen costing on average €201.
A bus is €368 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Vienna to Essen costing on average €437.
Other travel options to Essen take longer:
Train takes on average 9h 55m.
Bus takes on average 15h 26m.
Tickets start at around €69 compared to roughly €67 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-1.99. The journey takes 15h 26m versus 9h 14m 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.
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 FlixBus | Departure Time 02:40AM | Arrival Time 07:50PM | Duration 17h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price €58 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:00AM | Arrival Time 07:50PM | Duration 16h50 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price €58 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 04:30AM | Arrival Time 01:50PM | Duration 9h20 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €62 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:05AM | Arrival Time 02:55AM | Duration 19h50 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €58 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 10:40AM | Arrival Time 08:50PM | Duration 10h10 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price €58 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:30PM | Arrival Time 05:00AM | Duration 16h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price €34 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:00PM | Arrival Time 05:00AM | Duration 16h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price €34 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:30PM | Arrival Time 06:05AM | Duration 15h35 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price €34 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:35PM | Arrival Time 06:25AM | Duration 15h50 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price €35 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:55PM | Arrival Time 11:50AM | Duration 18h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price €34 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:55PM | Arrival Time 09:55AM | Duration 16h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price €35 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 08:00PM | Arrival Time 05:50AM | Duration 9h50 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €50 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:15PM | Arrival Time 02:45PM | Duration 17h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price €35 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:05PM | Arrival Time 04:50PM | Duration 18h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €34 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 11:00PM | Arrival Time 09:10AM | Duration 10h10 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price €61 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:30PM | Arrival Time 04:50PM | Duration 17h20 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price €34 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:45PM | Arrival Time 05:45PM | Duration 18h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price €34 |
The table below shows live departures for Vienna to Essen buses for today, Thursday, September 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FlixBus · FlixBus | 11:30 PM Vienna, International Busterminal (VIB) | 17h20 | 4:50 PM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 11:45 PM Vienna, Central Station Südtiroler Platz | 18h00 | 5:45 PM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1 transfer | |
| Friday, September 18 | |||||
FlixBus | 2:40 AM Vienna, International Busterminal (VIB) | 17h10 | 7:50 PM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 3:00 AM Vienna, Central Station Südtiroler Platz | 16h50 | 7:50 PM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 7:05 AM Vienna, International Busterminal (VIB) | 19h50 | 2:55 AM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 12:30 PM Vienna, International Busterminal (VIB) | 16h30 | 5:00 AM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 1:00 PM Vienna, Central Station Südtiroler Platz | 16h00 | 5:00 AM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 2:30 PM Vienna, International Busterminal (VIB) | 15h35 | 6:05 AM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 2:35 PM Vienna, International Busterminal (VIB) | 15h50 | 6:25 AM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 4:55 PM Vienna, Central Station Südtiroler Platz | 18h55 | 11:50 AM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 5:55 PM Vienna, International Busterminal (VIB) | 16h00 | 9:55 AM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 9:15 PM Vienna, International Busterminal (VIB) | 17h30 | 2:45 PM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 10:05 PM Vienna, Central Station Südtiroler Platz | 18h45 | 4:50 PM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1 transfer | |
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 Vienna to Essen run on average 11 times per day, taking around 15h 26m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €33 if you book in advance.
There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:45. The fastest bus covers the 472 miles (761 km) distance in 13h 55m.
Distance 472 miles (761 km) |
Average bus duration 15h 26m |
Cheapest ticket price €33 |
Buses per day 11 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 13h 55m |
First bus 12:15 AM |
Last bus 11:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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 Vienna 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 Vienna to Essen buses use the Vienna, International Busterminal (VIB) to Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) station pair. Use this guide to compare Vienna and Essen bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Vienna, International Busterminal (VIB) is 3 km from Vienna city centre. Public transport options include:
Vienna, International Busterminal (VIB) 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 Vienna, International Busterminal (VIB).
Available at Vienna, International Busterminal (VIB): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Vienna, International Busterminal (VIB): Elevators, ramps.
Wien, Hauptbahnhof Südtiroler Platz is 2 km from Vienna city centre. Public transport options include:
Wien, Hauptbahnhof Südtiroler Platz has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Restaurant 1 (in the station), Restaurant 2 (in the station), Restaurant 3 (in the station).
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance and in the shopping area.
Ticket office support is available at Wien, Hauptbahnhof Südtiroler Platz.
Available at Wien, Hauptbahnhof Südtiroler Platz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Wien, Hauptbahnhof Südtiroler Platz: Elevators, ramps.
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