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The cheapest and fastest trains from Basel to Essen
Showing times and prices for Dec 04
Cheapest price
$118
Average price
$118
Fastest journey
4 h 36 m
Average duration
4 h 51 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
489 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Basel to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Basel to Essen will cost around $118 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $118.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Basel to Essen without transferring at least once.
07:14AM4h44
Basel11:58AMEssen
$1181One-way
1 transfer
08:21AM5h19
Basel01:40PMEssen
$1181One-way
1 transfer
10:22AM5h17
Basel03:39PMEssen
$1181One-way
1 transfer
11:14AM4h44
Basel03:58PMEssen
$1181One-way
1 transfer
12:22PM4h36
Basel04:58PMEssen
$1181One-way
1 transfer
12:22PM4h36
Basel04:58PMEssen
$1181One-way
1 transfer
07:14AM4h44
Basel11:58AMEssen
$1181One-way
1 transfer
11:14AM4h44
Basel03:58PMEssen
$1181One-way
1 transfer
05:08AM4h54
Basel10:02AMEssen
$1221One-way
1 transfer
10:22AM5h17
Basel03:39PMEssen
$1181One-way
1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Basel to Essen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Basel to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €49. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 6h 46m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €49, and a train costs an average of €73.
Distance: 303 miles (489 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
€96 Average price | €53 Average price Cheapest |
7h 16m Average total duration Fastest 6h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 12h 50m Average total duration 12h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Basel to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for Basel to Essen trains for tomorrow, Thursday, December 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 2:35 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:08 AM Basel | 4h54 | 10:02 AM Essen | 1 transfer | |
| 7:14 AM Basel | 4h44 | 11:58 AM Essen | 1 transfer | |
| 8:21 AM Basel | 5h19 | 1:40 PM Essen | 1 transfer | |
| 10:22 AM Basel | 5h17 | 3:39 PM Essen | 1 transfer | |
| 11:14 AM Basel | 4h44 | 3:58 PM Essen | 1 transfer |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Basel 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.
Thu
Dec 04
Dec 04
Fri
Dec 05
Dec 05
Sat
Dec 06
Dec 06
Sun
Dec 07
Dec 07
Mon
Dec 08
Dec 08
Tue
Dec 09
Dec 09
Wed
Dec 10
Dec 10
Why should you book Basel to Essen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC) as well as ÖBB | Euro City (EC) offer trains services from Basel to Essen. Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Basel to Essen.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC), but also compare tickets for the likes of ÖBB | Euro City (EC) to find the best option for your trip from Basel 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 (ICE,IC) with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Basel to Essen.
Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?
- Multiple travel company options: While Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC) tickets can be bought on Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)'s website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of ÖBB | Euro City (EC) to help you choose the right option for your journey from Basel to Essen.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Basel to Essen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Basel to Essen
Switzerland
Belgium
Trains from Basel to Essen run on average 10 times per day, taking around 6h 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $91 (€73) but you can travel from only $61 (€49) by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:13, the last at 23:32. The fastest train covers the 303 miles (489 km) distance in 4h 25m.
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 $61 (€49)
Distance 303 miles (489 km) |
Average train duration 6h 46m |
Cheapest ticket price $91 (€73) |
Trains per day 10 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 4h 25m |
First train 05:13 |
Last train 23:32 |
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 $61 (€49)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | Euro City (EC) from Basel to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB | Euro City (EC) trains will get you between Basel and Essen from $61 (€49). 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 25m
Cheapest Price
$91 (€73)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
9 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.
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.
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.
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
ÖBB | Euro City (EC)
About
The ÖBB Euro City is a high-speed train service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB). It is one of the most popular train services in Austria, connecting major cities across the country. The Euro City trains are modern and comfortable, with air-conditioned coaches and plenty of legroom. There are two types of Euro City trains: the EC (Euro City) and the IC (InterCity). The EC trains are the fastest, with speeds of up to 200 km/h, while the IC trains are slightly slower, with speeds of up to 160 km/h. The ÖBB Euro City offers a variety of ticket types, including single tickets, return tickets, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a restaurant car. The most popular routes for the ÖBB Euro City include Vienna to Salzburg, Vienna to Innsbruck, and Vienna to Graz. These routes offer stunning views of the Austrian countryside and provide a convenient way to travel between major cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 36m
Cheapest Price
$123 (€99)
ÖBB | Euro City (EC) frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at carriage ends
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car or bistro available on most routes serving hot and cold meals, snacks, and beverages
Seat reservation
Seat reservations optional in 2nd class for additional fee, included in 1st class tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require ticket (50% of 2nd class fare). Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone
FAQs: Trains from Basel to Essen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basel 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.
Train ticket prices from Basel to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $91 (€73), while the average price is around $119 (€96).
Typically, spending 2 to 3 days in Essen is sufficient to explore its main attractions, including the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, Museum Folkwang, and the Grugapark botanical garden.
The cheapest way to get from Basel to Essen is by bus, with a cost of around $61 (€49).
The first train from Basel to Essen leaves at 5:13 AM.
The distance by train from Basel to Essen is 303 miles (489 km).
A day trip from Basel to Essen is not feasible as the travel duration is 4h 25m. However, trains run 10 times per day. The distance between the two cities is 303 miles (489 km).
Yes, you can take the train from Basel to Essen.
The train journey from Basel to Essen offers scenic views, especially as it travels through the picturesque landscapes of the Rhine Valley, with its charming villages, historic castles, and rolling vineyards.
The train station in Basel that goes to Essen is Basel SBB, which connects to Essen station.
Yes, there is a direct train from Basel to Essen. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
The train from Basel to Essen takes 4h 25m and runs 10 per day.
The last train from Basel to Essen leaves at 11:32 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Basel to Essen.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Basel to Essen
Basel
Essen
The major train station for departures in Basel is Basel SBB. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Basel SBB for your trip from Basel to Essen.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
10Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, accessible via Centralbahnstrasse.
Dining
- Restaurant Da Roberto
- Brasserie Bahnhof Basel
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- CHF 2
Hotel
- Hotel Victoria
- Hotel Schweizerhof Basel
- GAIA Hotel
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 800 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-5 for Swiss domestic trains
- Hall 2: platform 6-10 for international trains
- Hall 3: shopping and services area
Public transit options for Basel SBB
- Tram: Line 1, Line 2, Line 8, Line 10, Line 11
- Bus: Several lines available
The major train station for arrivals in Essen is Essen. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Essen for your journey to Essen from Basel.
Essen
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMAccessibilityBike Parkinginformation
Most popular train connections from Basel
More options for your journey from Basel to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Essen and Basel
Most popular train connections to Essen
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