Aachen to Essen train with Deutsche Bahn (RB,ICE,RE)

Fri, Jun 19
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
Eurostar
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
Eurostar
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
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
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Aachen to Essen

Showing times and prices for Jun 19

Cheapest price

$29

Average price

$42

Fastest journey

1 h 40 m

Average duration

1 h 49 m

Trains per day

4

Distance

100 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Aachen to Essen will cost around $42 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $29.

Fast trains

Of the 4 trains that leave Aachen for Essen on Fri, Jun 19, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, Jun 19 the direct trains cover the 100 km distance in an average of 1 h 49 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 40 m .

On Fri, Jun 19 the slowest trains will take 2 h 2 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.

  • Deutsche Bahn
    4:12 AM1h52
    Aachen
    6:04 AMEssen
    $291One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:18 AM2h02
    Aachen
    9:20 AMEssen
    $351One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    8:06 AM1h40
    Aachen
    9:46 AMEssen
    $391One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:06 AM1h40
    Aachen
    8:46 AMEssen
    $651One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Aachen to Essen

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Aachen to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $9. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 46m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $9, and a train costs an average of $23.

Distance: 62 miles (100 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$42

Average price

$13

Average price

Cheapest

$21

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 16m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 46m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 53m

Average total duration

2h 23m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 27m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

The cheapest way to travel from Aachen to Essen is a bus with an average price of $13 (€10).

This is compared to other travel options from Aachen to Essen:

A bus is $29 (€24) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Aachen to Essen costing on average $42 (€35).

The fastest way to travel from Aachen to Essen is by train with an average journey time of 1h 46m.

Other travel options to Essen take longer:

Bus takes on average 2h 23m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Aachen and Essen including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Aachen to Essen among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around $42 (€35) compared to roughly $21 (€17) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-21.27 (€-17.42). The journey takes 1h 46m versus 1h 27m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

Aachen to Essen train times

The table below shows live departures for Aachen to Essen trains for tomorrow, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn4:12 AM Aachen
1h52
6:04 AM Essen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn7:06 AM Aachen
1h40
8:46 AM Essen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn7:18 AM Aachen
2h02
9:20 AM Essen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn8:06 AM Aachen
1h40
9:46 AM Essen0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Aachen to Essen by train or bus

Compare train and bus 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
Jun 19
Sat
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25

Why should you book Aachen to Essen trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain or Eurostar offer trains services from Aachen to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Aachen 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 or Eurostar to find the best option for your trip from Aachen 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Aachen to Essen.

Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Rome2rio?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixTrain or Eurostar to find the best option for your trip from Aachen to Essen.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Aachen to Essen.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Aachen to Essen

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Aachen to Essen run on average 8 times per day, taking around 1h 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $23 (€19) but you can travel from only $9 (€7) by bus.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:52. The fastest train covers the 62 miles (100 km) distance in 1h 39m.

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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $9 (€7)
Distance
62 miles (100 km)
Average train duration
1h 46m
Cheapest ticket price
$23 (€19)
Trains per day
8
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
1h 39m
First train
12:01 AM
Last train
11:52 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
63 days
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $9 (€7)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Eurostar from Aachen to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Eurostar trains will get you between Aachen and Essen from $9 (€7). 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
1h 39m
Cheapest Price
$23 (€19)
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
1h 37m
Cheapest Price
$14 (€11)
FlixTrain frequency
1 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

Eurostar

About
Eurostar is a high-speed international rail service connecting the UK with France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany, primarily via the Channel Tunnel. Since merging with Thalys in October 2023, Eurostar now operates an expanded network across Western Europe. Known for its city-center to city-center travel, Eurostar offers a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to flying. Passengers can enjoy amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi and power sockets at every seat. Key destinations include London, Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, and Cologne, with seasonal services to other locations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 39m
Cheapest Price
$92 (€75)
Eurostar frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included in standard ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at the end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café-bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First-class passengers receive complimentary meals on some routes
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for all classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed for a fee. Large dogs not permitted except guide dogs
Quiet zone

Complete guide to Essen

Things to do in Essen

Discover the best of Essen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Essen trip today.

  • Must visit

Museum Folkwang

One of Germany’s leading art museums, known for major collections of 19th- to 21st-century painting, photography, and design.

  • Recommended

Ruhr Museum

A key museum for the Ruhr region’s history, archaeology, and natural heritage, housed in the iconic Zollverein Coal Washery.

  • Recommended

Red Dot Design Museum

A major design museum displaying award-winning contemporary product and industrial design inside the Zollverein complex.

Euro

Moderate by German standards. Budget eats are reasonable, while hotels and sit-down dining cost more.

Average meal costs

Budget
EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or fast food.
Mid-range
EUR 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
EUR 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
EUR 3-5 for a cappuccino or latte.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included. Round up small bills; tip about 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Round up in taxis. Little or no tip is fine for counter service.

FAQs: Trains from Aachen to Essen

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Aachen 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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Aachen to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $23 (€19), while the average price is around $42 (€35).
The train from Aachen to Essen takes 1h 39m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Aachen to Essen leaves at 12:01 AM.
The distance by train from Aachen to Essen is 62 miles (100 km).
The last train from Aachen to Essen leaves at 11:52 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Aachen to Essen. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Eurostar.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Aachen to Essen.
The train station in Aachen that goes to Essen is Aachen Hbf, which connects to Essen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Aachen to Essen is by bus, with a cost of around $9 (€7).
The train journey from Aachen to Essen is not particularly known for being scenic, as it primarily passes through urban and industrial areas in the Ruhr region.
Yes, a day trip from Aachen to Essen is feasible. The journey takes 1h 39m and the distance is 62 miles (100 km). There are 13 trains per day, making it convenient to travel back and forth within a day.
To explore Essen's key attractions, such as the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, Museum Folkwang, and Grugapark, a stay of 2 to 3 days is generally sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Aachen to Essen.
Since both Aachen and Essen are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
Popular day trips by train from Essen include Cologne, Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Münster, Eindhoven.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Aachen to Essen among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the Eurail Pass and Interrail Pass are valid on most trains in Germany, including Deutsche Bahn regional and long-distance services. Some high-speed trains may require a reservation fee even with a rail pass.
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 Essen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport and popular tourist spots. Scams involving fake charity collectors and overpriced taxi rides have also been reported. It's advisable to use official transport services and stay alert in busy locations to ensure safety.
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.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Aachen to Essen

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

Departure train stations in Aachen
Arrival train stations in Essen

Which Aachen station do trains to Essen leave from?

Trains from Aachen to Essen leave from Aachen Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Aachen city centre at Aachen Hbf, Bahnhofstr, 2a, 52064 Aachen.
Aachen HbfAachen Hbf, Bahnhofstr, 2a, 52064 AachenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Aachen Hbf from Aachen city centre

Aachen Hbf is 1 km from Aachen city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRe, Rb · 4m · $1 · every ~2 min
Bus14, 51, 11, 21, Sb63, 31, V, 14E, 11V, E, 31E, N5, 11E · 6m · $2 · every ~24 min
Rb33, Rb20 · 11m · $4 · every ~5 min
31E, V, Sb63, N5, E, 54Alt, 54, 51, 34V, 34, 31, 21, 14E, 14, 11V, 11 · 14m · $2 · every ~28 min

Aachen Hbf train station facilities and services

Aachen Hbf 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.

Food and drink

Food options include: McDonald's, Louisiana, Dakashi sushi, Zitalia

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Aachen Hbf. ATMs are available at Aachen Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Aachen Hbf. Information desks are available at Aachen Hbf.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Aachen Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Aachen Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

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

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Aachen Hbf.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Bestprice Hotel.

Aachen-Rothe ErdeAachen-Rothe Erde, Beverstr. 48, 52066 AachenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Aachen-Rothe Erde from Aachen city centre

Aachen-Rothe Erde is 2 km from Aachen city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRb20 · 9m · $1 · every ~6 min
Re · 11m
Bus66E, 45E, 15E, X35, Sb66, 66, 45V, N60, N1, E, 65, 55, 5, 45, 35, 25, 15 · 6m · $4 · every ~21 min
73, 45, 25, 5, 35, 55, 65, X25, X73, 15, 45E, 15E, X35, E, 45V, N1, N60 · 8m · $4 · every ~21 min
45, 25, 5, 35, 55, 65, 15, X35, E, 45V, N1, N60 · 13m · $4 · every ~17 min
Rb20 · 17m · $5

Aachen-Rothe Erde train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink

Food options include: Eiscafé am Elsassplatz, Kennedy Grill, Közde Kebap, Imbiss & Kneipe, Zeppelin Eck

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Aachen-Rothe Erde. ATMs are available at Aachen-Rothe Erde.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Aachen-Rothe Erde. Information desks are available at Aachen-Rothe Erde.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Aachen-Rothe Erde. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Aachen-Rothe Erde: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Aachen-Rothe Erde: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Aachen-Rothe Erde.

Aachen WestAachen West, Republikplatz 1, 52072 AachenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Aachen West from Aachen city centre

Bus73E, 73, 33 · 4m · $4 · every ~12 min

Aachen West train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink

Food options include: Chico Mendes, Pizzeria Pont Pascha, Vielharmonie, Polonia

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Aachen West. ATMs are available at Aachen West.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Aachen West. Information desks are available at Aachen West.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Aachen West. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Aachen West: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Aachen West: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Aachen West.

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone