BERLIN to ESSEN train from 33S$ with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,RE,IC)

2,000+ travel companies

Scan to get our free app

Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.

App Store

4.9

42K ratings

Google Play

4.6

136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Berlin to Essen

Showing times and prices for 14 Aug

Cheapest price

75S$

Average price

169S$

Fastest journey

4 h 41 m

Average duration

4 h 41 m

Trains per day

Distance

454 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Berlin to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Berlin to Essen will cost around 169S$ if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only 75S$.

Fast trains

Of the 17 trains that leave Berlin for Essen every day 16 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 454 km distance in an average of 4 h 41 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 41 m .

The slowest trains will take 4 h 41 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.

ICE 646
4:28 AM5h22
Berlin Hbf
9:50 AMEssen Hbf
75 S$1One-way
0 changes
ICE 946
5:35 AM4h53
Berlin Hbf
10:28 AMEssen Hbf
107 S$1One-way
0 changes
ICE 644
6:47 AM5h05
Berlin Hbf
11:52 AMEssen Hbf
132 S$1One-way
0 changes
ICE 842
7:47 PM4h41
Berlin Hbf
12:28 AMEssen Hbf
132 S$1One-way
0 changes
ICE 542
6:47 PM4h53
Berlin Hbf
11:40 PMEssen Hbf
151 S$1One-way
0 changes

Travel Information

Compare train, coach and flight for Berlin to Essen

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Berlin to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from 35S$. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 6m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of 35S$, and a flight costs an average of 98S$.

Distance: 454 km

Compare train with

Most popular Train	Coach	Flight
76S$ Average Price	57S$ Average Price Cheapest	310S$ Average Price
5h 39m Average total duration 5h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	7h 2m Average total duration 6h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	4h 6m Average total duration Fastest 1h 6m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time*
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest	0.5 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions	1.4 - 2.7kg CO2 emissions
Most popular train company	Most popular bus company	Most popular airline
Direct Options	Direct Options	Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Berlin to Essen train times

The table below shows live departures for Berlin to Essen trains for today, Thursday, 13 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Changes
FlixTrain	4:28 PM Berlin Südkreuz station	4h36	9:04 PM Essen Hbf	0 changesdirect
FlixTrain	4:39 PM Berlin Hbf	4h25	9:04 PM Essen Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 544	On time 4:47 PM Berlin Hbf	5h20	10:07 PM Essen Hbf	0 changesdirect
FlixTrain	4:50 PM Berlin Spandau	4h14	9:04 PM Essen Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 844	On time 5:47 PM Berlin Hbf	4h41	10:28 PM Essen Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 542	On time 6:47 PM Berlin Hbf	4h47	11:34 PM Essen Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 842	On time 7:47 PM Berlin Hbf	4h41	12:28 AM Essen Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 90 · ICE 921 · S1	On time 8:09 PM Berlin Hbf	8h16	4:25 AM Essen Hbf	2 changes
ICE 2584 · ICE 103	Delayed 9:20 PM 10:37 PMBerlin Hbf	9h21	7:58 AM Essen Hbf	1 change
ICE 273 · S5 · 26706	On time 11:32 PM Berlin Hbf	9h13	8:45 AM Essen Hbf	2 changes
ICE 646	On time 4:28 AM Berlin Hbf	5h22	9:50 AM Essen Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 946	Delayed 5:35 AM Berlin Hbf	4h53	8:39 AM 8:39 AMEssen Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 644	On time 6:47 AM Berlin Hbf	5h05	11:52 AM Essen Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 944	On time 7:47 AM Berlin Hbf	4h41	12:28 PM Essen Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 642	On time 8:47 AM Berlin Hbf	5h05	1:52 PM Essen Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 942	On time 9:47 AM Berlin Hbf	4h41	2:28 PM Essen Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 640	On time 10:47 AM Berlin Hbf	5h05	3:52 PM Essen Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 940	On time 11:47 AM Berlin Hbf	4h41	4:28 PM Essen Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 548	On time 12:47 PM Berlin Hbf	5h05	5:52 PM Essen Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 848	On time 1:47 PM Berlin Hbf	4h41	6:28 PM Essen Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 546	On time 2:47 PM Berlin Hbf	5h05	7:52 PM Essen Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 846	On time 3:47 PM Berlin Hbf	4h41	8:28 PM Essen Hbf	0 changesdirect
This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Berlin to Essen by train, coach or flight

Compare train, coach 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.

Fri
14 Aug

Sat
15 Aug

Sun
16 Aug

Mon
17 Aug

Tue
18 Aug

Wed
19 Aug

Thu
20 Aug

Fri
21 Aug

Sat
22 Aug

Sun
23 Aug

Mon
24 Aug

Tue
25 Aug

Wed
26 Aug

Thu
27 Aug

Why should you book Berlin to Essen trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain, WestfalenBahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) and more offer trains services from Berlin to Essen.

Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Berlin to Essen.

Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?

Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixTrain, WestfalenBahn or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Berlin to Essen.
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 Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Berlin to Essen.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Berlin to Essen.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Berlin to Essen?

The best time to book your train from Berlin to Essen is 84 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Berlin to Essen route.

Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Berlin to Essen per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Berlin to Essen.

Trains

from 42S$

Coaches

from 39S$

Flights

from 333S$

Journey information

Overview: Train from Berlin to Essen

Germany

Trains from Berlin to Essen run on average 11 times per day, taking around 5h 9m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at 33S$ if you book in advance.

There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 454 km distance in 3h 58m.

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

Distance

454 km

Average train duration

5h 9m

Cheapest ticket price

33S$

Trains per day

Direct trains

Fastest train

3h 58m

First train

12:03 AM

Last train

11:57 PM

Cheapest Month

Jan

Cheapest Day

Sat

High Season

Jul - Sept

Low Season

Jan - Mar

Busiest Day

Mon

Least Busy Day

Thu

Best time to book

14 days

Price information

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, WestfalenBahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Berlin to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, WestfalenBahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Berlin and Essen from 33S$. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Deutsche Bahn

About

Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main train operator, running around 40,000 domestic and international services each day. Its fleet includes a variety of train types: high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) trains, reaching up to 300 km/h; IC (Intercity) and EC (EuroCity) trains for long-distance travel; and IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express), and RB (Regionalbahn) services for regional and local connections. While bathrooms are standard on all trains, amenities such as onboard restaurants and free Wi-Fi are available only on certain train types and routes. DB offers a wide range of fares, including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible tickets, along with discount cards like the BahnCard 25, 50, and 100. Additional options include single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Popular routes include Berlin–Munich, Hamburg–Frankfurt, Cologne–Stuttgart, Berlin–Dresden, and Hamburg–Cologne, as well as numerous regional services across Germany.

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Duration

4h 0m

Cheapest Price

48S$

Deutsche Bahn frequency

8 a day

Luggage included

Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves

Luggage storage

Luggage can be stored in overhead racks, under the seat, or in designated luggage areas near the doors or in the middle of the carriage.

Cancellation Policy

Tickets can be canceled based on their fare conditions as mentioned in what type of train tickets are refundable?

Refund

If DB cancels a train, passengers are entitled to a full refund of the ticket price.

Amenities on board the train

Wifi

Food sold onboard

Most ICE and many IC/EC trains have:
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.

Seat reservation

Second Class:
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.

Toilets

USB plugs

Accessibility

DB trains are equipped with facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, and assistance services.

Pets

Small pets (e.g. cats, small dogs, etc.):
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.

Quiet zone

FlixTrain

About

FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Duration

3h 58m

Cheapest Price

33S$

FlixTrain frequency

5 a day

Luggage included

1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)

Luggage storage

Overhead racks and designated luggage areas

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions

Refund

Full refund if train is cancelled by operator

Amenities on board the train

Wifi

Food sold onboard

Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service

Seat reservation

Seat reservation included in ticket price

Toilets

USB plugs

Accessibility

Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available

Pets

Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle

Quiet zone

WestfalenBahn

About

WestfalenBahn is a train company offering regional trains in Lower Saxony and North Rhine-Westphalia in Northern Germany. Founded in 2005, it has been owned by Abellio Deutschland since 2017. WestfahlenBahn covers the RE15, RE60 and RE70 regional train routes serving cities like Emden, Braunschweig, Hanover, Münster and Bielefeld.

Luggage & cancellation policy

WestfalenBahn frequency

1 a day

Luggage included

One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included

Luggage storage

Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation possible according to fare conditions

Refund

Full refund provided for canceled trains

Amenities on board the train

Wifi

Seat reservation

Seat reservations not included, can be purchased separately

Toilets

USB plugs

Accessibility

Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available

Pets

Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket and muzzle

Quiet zone

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Duration

3h 49m

Cheapest Price

126S$

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency

16 a day

FAQs: Berlin to Essen train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Berlin to Essen by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Essen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Cheap train tickets from Berlin to Essen can start from as little as 33S$ when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Berlin to Essen is 76S$; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.

The average journey time by train from Berlin to Essen is 3h 58m to travel the 454 km long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.

The earliest train from Berlin to Essen leaves at 12:03 am. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.

The latest train from Berlin to Essen leaves at 11:57 pm.

Yes, there are 10 direct trains a day from Berlin to Essen with Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC). Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct trains.

When taking a train from Berlin to Essen, you can count on Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, WestfalenBahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) for the best way to get you to Essen. You can also check all possible train companies who offer a service between Berlin and Essen and compare the amenities they offer before buying a train ticket.

A trip to Essen from Berlin is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3h 58m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.

The cheapest month for a train from Berlin to Essen is January.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Berlin and Essen including taking a train, coach and flight.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Berlin and Essen

Most Berlin to Essen trains use the Berlin Hbf to Essen Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus. Use this guide to compare Berlin and Essen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Berlin

Arrival train stations in Essen

Which Berlin station do trains to Essen leave from?

Trains from Berlin to Essen leave from Berlin Hbf. The station is 3 km from Berlin city centre at Europaplatz 1, 10557 Berlin, Germany.

Berlin HbfEuropaplatz 1, 10557 Berlin, Germany Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Berlin Hbf from Berlin city centre

Berlin Hbf is 2 km from Berlin city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRb23, Re2, Rb14, Re7, Fex · 5m · 5S$ · every ~6 min

U5 · 8m · 5S$ · every ~25 min

BusN40, 142 · 12m · 3S$ · every ~8 min

170, 270, 170A, 157A, 157 · 18m · 2S$

TramM8 · 13m · 5S$ · every ~12 min

Berlin Hbf train station facilities and services

Berlin Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: backWERK, Burger King, Costa Coffee, Dunkin' Donuts, Einstein Kaffee, Le Crobag, McDonald's, Hans im Glück, Pret A Manger, Starbucks, & many more

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free WiFi (30 minutes limit). ATMs are available at Berlin Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Berlin Hbf. Information desks are located on the ground level near the Europaplatz exit.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located on Level 1 near Platforms 13/14.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Berlin Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Berlin Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Berlin Hbf: Elevators, escalators, step-free access. Contact the Mobility Service Center at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include MEININGER Hotel Berlin Hauptbahnhof, IntercityHotel Berlin Hauptbahnhof, Motel One Berlin Hauptbahnof.

Berlin SpandauBerlin-Spandau, Seegefelder Str. 1, 13597 Berlin Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Berlin Spandau from Berlin city centre

Berlin Spandau is 14 km from Berlin city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS3, S9, S5 · 10m · 5S$ · every ~14 min

S9, S5, S3 · 25m · 5S$ · every ~14 min

Berlin Spandau train station facilities and services

Berlin Spandau has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.