Basel to Essen train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

Mon, Nov 02
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
Eurostar
FlixTrain
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Eurostar
FlixTrain
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 Basel to Essen

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 02
Cheapest price on Nov 02
$55
Average ticket price on Nov 02
$181
Fastest journey on Nov 02
4 h 36 m
Average journey duration on Nov 02
5 h 15 m
Trains on Nov 02
21
Distance
435 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 $181 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $55.

Fast trains

On Mon, Nov 02, we found 21 trains from Basel to Essen, including 1 direct services.

On Mon, Nov 02 the direct trains cover the 435 km distance in an average of 5 h 15 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 36 m .

On Mon, Nov 02 the slowest trains will take 6 h 32 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 BahnICE 74 · ICE 1010 · ICE 926 · ICE 641
    3 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 74 · ICE 1010
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 200
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 374 · IC 2047 · ICE 200
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 374 · ICE 612 · ICE 1020
    2 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Basel to Essen

SwitzerlandSwitzerland
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Basel to Essen run on average 7 times per day, taking around 5h 21m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $46 (€38) but you can travel from only $33 (€27) by bus.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 23:41. The fastest train covers the 270 miles (435 km) distance in 4h 20m.

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 $33 (€27)

Plan this route

Journey facts

  • Distance270 miles (435 km)
  • Average train duration5h 21m
  • Cheapest ticket price$46 (€38)
  • Trains per day7
  • Direct trains1
  • Fastest train4h 20m
  • First train12:03 AM
  • Last train11:41 PM
  • Cheapest MonthAug
  • Cheapest DayWed
  • High SeasonApr - Jun
  • Low SeasonOct - Dec
  • Busiest DayMon
  • Least Busy DayThu

Understand & plan this route

Explore this journey

Book with confidence

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 $33 (€27)

Frequently asked questions about your Basel to Essen trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Basel to Essen.

Train ticket prices from Basel to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $46 (€38), while the average price is around $145 (€121).
The train from Basel to Essen takes 4h 20m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Basel to Essen is 270 miles (435 km).
The first train from Basel to Essen leaves at 12:03 AM.
The last train from Basel to Essen leaves at 11:41 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Basel to Essen. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.

Live departures

Basel to Essen train times

The table below shows live departures for Basel to Essen trains for tomorrow, Monday, November 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
TER96206+SNCF | TGV INOUI9530+Eurostar94596:21 AM Basel SBB
13h54
8:15 PM Essen Hbf2 transfers
TER96210+TGV9568+Eurostar94597:21 AM Basel SBB
12h54
8:15 PM Essen Hbf2 transfers
TER96210+TGV9568+Eurostar94717:21 AM Basel SBB
14h54
10:15 PM Essen Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 374 · ICE 612 · ICE 1020
On time
8:16 AM Basel SBB
4h42
12:58 PM Essen Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 374 · IC 2047 · ICE 200
On time
8:16 AM Basel SBB
5h42
1:58 PM Essen Hbf
2 transfers
SNCF | TGV Lyria9206+Eurostar94718:25 AM Basel SBB
13h50
10:15 PM Essen Hbf1 transfer
SNCF | TGV Lyria9206+Eurostar94598:25 AM Basel SBB
11h50
8:15 PM Essen Hbf1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 74 · ICE 1010 · ICE 926 · ICE 641
On time
8:46 AM Basel SBB
6h32
3:18 PM Essen Hbf
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 74 · ICE 1010
On time
8:46 AM Basel SBB
4h36
1:22 PM Essen Hbf
1 transfer
TER96216+SNCF | TGV INOUI2406+Eurostar94718:51 AM Basel SBB
13h24
10:15 PM Essen Hbf2 transfers
TER96216+SNCF | TGV INOUI2406+Eurostar94598:51 AM Basel SBB
11h24
8:15 PM Essen Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 200
On time
9:16 AM Basel SBB
4h42
1:58 PM Essen Hbf
0 transfersDirect
TER96218+SNCF | TGV INOUI2356+Eurostar94599:21 AM Basel SBB
10h54
8:15 PM Essen Hbf2 transfers
TER96218+SNCF | TGV INOUI2356+Eurostar94719:21 AM Basel SBB
12h54
10:15 PM Essen Hbf2 transfers
SNCF | TGV Lyria9210+Eurostar945910:34 AM Basel SBB
9h41
8:15 PM Essen Hbf1 transfer
SNCF | TGV Lyria9210+Eurostar947110:34 AM Basel SBB
11h41
10:15 PM Essen Hbf1 transfer
TER96112 · 96264+SNCF | TGV INOUI12124+Eurostar945910:38 AM Basel SBB
9h37
8:15 PM Essen Hbf3 transfers
TER96222+TGV9590+Eurostar945911:21 AM Basel SBB
8h54
8:15 PM Essen Hbf2 transfers
TER96222+TGV9590+Eurostar947111:21 AM Basel SBB
10h54
10:15 PM Essen Hbf2 transfers
SNCF | TGV Lyria9218+Eurostar947112:34 PM Basel SBB
9h41
10:15 PM Essen Hbf1 transfer
TER96282+SNCF | TGV INOUI2358+Eurostar94711:24 PM Basel SBB
8h51
10:15 PM Essen Hbf2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Basel to Essen trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Eurostar or FlixTrain 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?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of Eurostar or FlixTrain 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 with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Basel 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 Eurostar or FlixTrain to find the best option for your trip from Basel to Essen.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Basel to Essen.

Train companies

Train companies from Basel to Essen

Trains from Basel to Essen with Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar, and FlixTrain. Night trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn. High-speed trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn and Eurostar. Regional trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.

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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
4h 20m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$46 (€38)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
7 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

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 Eurostar Duration
7h 27m
Cheapest Eurostar Price
$142 (€119)
Eurostar frequency
6 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

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 FlixTrain Duration
11h 25m
Cheapest FlixTrain Price
$48 (€40)
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

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Basel and Essen

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Yes, there is a night train from Basel to Essen.
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.

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

World-class art museum in the Villa Hügel parkland, famous for 19th and 20th century masterpieces and changing exhibitions.

  • Must visit

Ruhr Museum

Ruhr Museum presents the region’s natural, cultural, and industrial history inside Zollverein’s iconic coal washery.

  • Recommended

Deutsches Plakat Museum

Internationally important poster museum with graphic design, advertising, and visual culture collections in a central location.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than Munich or Frankfurt, while local transit and casual meals stay fairly affordable for visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
€18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
€2.50-4 for cappuccino or similar coffee.

Tipping culture

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.

Plan your visit to Essen

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Essen.

The train journey from Basel to Essen offers scenic views, particularly through the Rhine Valley, where passengers can enjoy picturesque landscapes of vineyards, charming villages, and historic castles.
Popular day trips by train from Essen include Cologne, Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Münster, Aachen.
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.

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.

FAQs
Yes, you can take the train from Basel to Essen.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Basel to Essen

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

Departure train stations in Basel
Arrival train stations in Essen

Which Basel station do trains to Essen leave from?

Trains from Basel to Essen leave from Basel SBB. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Basel city centre at Centralbahnstrasse 10, 4051 Basel, Switzerland.
Basel SBBCentralbahnstrasse 10, 4051 Basel, Switzerland+41 51 221 22 22WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Basel SBB from Basel city centre

Basel SBB is 1 km from Basel city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainTer · 5m · $2 · every ~2 min
Bus50 · 4m · $3 · every ~15 min
Tram11 · 5m · $3
1, 3, 2 · 7m · $3 · every ~25 min

Basel SBB train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurant Da Roberto, Brasserie Bahnhof Basel

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Basel SBB. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Basel SBB. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Basel SBB: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Basel SBB: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Basel SBB: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Victoria, Hotel Schweizerhof Basel, GAIA Hotel.

Basel Bad BhfSchwarzwaldallee 200, 4058 Basel, Switzerland+41 61 690 13 13WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Basel Bad Bhf from Basel city centre

Basel Bad Bhf is 2 km from Basel city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus30 · 11m · $4 · every ~18 min
Tram6, 1, 2 · 19m · $4 · every ~20 min

Basel Bad Bhf train station facilities and services

Basel Bad Bhf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurant Les Gareçons, Restaurant Bahn Kantine

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Basel Bad Bhf. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Basel Bad Bhf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Basel Bad Bhf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Basel Bad Bhf: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Basel Bad Bhf: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Alexander, Hotel Wettstein, Hotel Balade.

Basel MarkthalleCentralbahnstrasse 10, 4051 Basel, SwitzerlandAccessibility
City-centre transport

Getting to Basel Markthalle from Basel city centre

Basel Markthalle is 1 km from Basel city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainTer · 8m · $2 · every ~2 min
Bus50 · 6m · $3 · every ~15 min
Tram11 · 3m · $3
1, 3, 2 · 6m · $3 · every ~25 min

Basel Markthalle train station facilities and services

Basel Markthalle has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Basel Markthalle.

Train stations for Basel to Essen

Check train stations information for Basel and Essen, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Basel that goes to Essen is Basel SBB, which connects to Essen Hbf.

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