The cheapest and fastest trains from Berlin Hbf to Essen Hbf
Cheapest price
$25
Average price
$82
Fastest journey
3 h 48 m
Average duration
3 h 48 m
Trains per day
17
Distance
451 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Berlin Hbf to Essen Hbf is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Berlin Hbf to Essen Hbf will cost around $82 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $25.
Of the 17 trains that leave Berlin Hbf for Essen Hbf on Thu, Aug 06, 16 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Aug 06 the direct trains cover the 451 km distance in an average of 3 h 48 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 48 m .
On Thu, Aug 06 the slowest trains will take 3 h 50 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.
FlixTrain8:39 AM4h09Berlin Hbf12:48 PMEssen Hbf$251One-way0 transfers
FlixTrain12:40 PM4h08Berlin Hbf4:48 PMEssen Hbf$251One-way0 transfers
FlixTrain4:39 PM4h09Berlin Hbf8:48 PMEssen Hbf$251One-way0 transfers
ICE 154011:51 PM5h39Berlin Hbf5:30 AMEssen Hbf$451One-way0 transfers
ICE 6428:47 AM3h52Berlin Hbf12:39 PMEssen Hbf$771One-way0 transfers
ICE 8463:47 PM3h48Berlin Hbf7:35 PMEssen Hbf$1111One-way0 transfers
ICE 8481:47 PM3h48Berlin Hbf5:35 PMEssen Hbf$981One-way0 transfers
ICE 9429:47 AM3h48Berlin Hbf1:35 PMEssen Hbf$861One-way0 transfers
ICE 8427:47 PM3h48Berlin Hbf11:35 PMEssen Hbf$861One-way0 transfers
ICE 5444:47 PM3h50Berlin Hbf8:37 PMEssen Hbf$1111One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Berlin Hbf to Essen Hbf
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Berlin Hbf to Essen Hbf among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $24. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 45m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $24, and a flight costs an average of $74.
Distance: 280 miles (451 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$63 Average price | $41 Average price Cheapest | $221 Average price | $97 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 44m Average total duration 5h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 48m Average total duration 6h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 45m Average total duration Fastest 1h 45m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 57m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Berlin Hbf to Essen Hbf:
A bus is $22 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Berlin Hbf to Essen Hbf costing on average $63.
A bus is $180 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Berlin Hbf to Essen Hbf costing on average $221.
Other travel options to Essen Hbf take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 14m.
Bus takes on average 6h 18m.
Tickets start at around $63 compared to roughly $97 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $34. The journey takes 5h 14m versus 4h 57m 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.
Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Berlin Hbf to Essen Hbf train times
The table below shows live departures for Berlin Hbf to Essen Hbf trains for today, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 646 | On time 4:28 AM Berlin Hbf | 4h10 | 8:38 AM Essen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 277 · ICE 646 | On time 4:34 AM Berlin Hbf | 4h04 | 8:38 AM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 946 | On time 5:35 AM Berlin Hbf | 4h00 | 9:35 AM Essen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 644 | On time 6:47 AM Berlin Hbf | 3h51 | 10:38 AM Essen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 654+ 31315 | On time 7:04 AM Berlin Hbf | 4h23 | 11:27 AM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 944 | On time 7:47 AM Berlin Hbf | 3h48 | 11:35 AM Essen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixTrain | 8:39 AM Berlin Hbf | 4h09 | 12:48 PM Essen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 642 | On time 8:47 AM Berlin Hbf | 3h51 | 12:38 PM Essen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 652+ 31319 | On time 9:04 AM Berlin Hbf | 4h23 | 1:27 PM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 942 | On time 9:47 AM Berlin Hbf | 3h48 | 1:35 PM Essen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 640 | On time 10:47 AM Berlin Hbf | 3h51 | 2:38 PM Essen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 650+ 31323 | On time 11:04 AM Berlin Hbf | 4h23 | 3:27 PM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 940 | On time 11:47 AM Berlin Hbf | 3h48 | 3:35 PM Essen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 548 | On time 12:47 PM Berlin Hbf | 3h51 | 4:38 PM Essen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 558+ 31327 | On time 1:04 PM Berlin Hbf | 4h23 | 5:27 PM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 848 | On time 1:47 PM Berlin Hbf | 3h48 | 5:35 PM Essen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 546 | On time 2:47 PM Berlin Hbf | 3h51 | 6:38 PM Essen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 556+ 31331 | On time 3:04 PM Berlin Hbf | 4h23 | 7:27 PM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 846 | On time 3:47 PM Berlin Hbf | 3h48 | 7:35 PM Essen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixTrain | 4:39 PM Berlin Hbf | 4h09 | 8:48 PM Essen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 544 | On time 4:47 PM Berlin Hbf | 3h50 | 8:37 PM Essen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 554 · 89736 | On time 5:04 PM Berlin Hbf | 4h26 | 9:30 PM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 844 | On time 5:47 PM Berlin Hbf | 3h48 | 9:35 PM Essen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 542 | On time 6:47 PM Berlin Hbf | 3h51 | 10:38 PM Essen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 842 | On time 7:47 PM Berlin Hbf | 3h48 | 11:35 PM Essen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 90 · ICE 921 | On time 8:09 PM Berlin Hbf | 6h10 | 2:19 AM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 1540 | On time 11:51 PM Berlin Hbf | 5h39 | 5:30 AM Essen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Berlin Hbf to Essen Hbf by train, bus, or flight
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.
Aug 05
Aug 06
Aug 07
Aug 08
Aug 09
Aug 10
Aug 11
Why should you book Berlin Hbf to Essen Hbf trains with Omio?
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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Berlin Hbf to Essen Hbf.
- 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 Hbf to Essen Hbf.
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 Hbf to Essen Hbf.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Berlin Hbf to Essen Hbf
Trains from Berlin Hbf to Essen Hbf run on average 5 times per day, taking around 5h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $17 if you book in advance.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 02:23, the last at 22:52. The fastest train covers the 280 miles (451 km) distance in 3h 49m.
Distance 280 miles (451 km) |
Average train duration 5h 14m |
Cheapest ticket price $17 |
Trains per day 5 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 3h 49m |
First train 2:23 AM |
Last train 10:52 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Berlin Hbf to Essen Hbf trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Berlin Hbf and Essen Hbf from $17. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
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.
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.
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.
FlixTrain
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
FAQs: Trains from Berlin Hbf to Essen Hbf
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Berlin Hbf to Essen Hbf 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 Hbf, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from Berlin Hbf to Essen Hbf
Most Berlin Hbf to Essen Hbf trains use the Berlin Hbf to Essen Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Berlin Hbf and Essen Hbf train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Getting to Berlin Hbf from Berlin city centre
Berlin Hbf is 2 km from Berlin city centre. Public transport options include:
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.
Getting to Essen Hbf from Essen city centre
Essen Hbf train station facilities and services
Essen 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: Bollywood Express - Pizza & More, Kiepenkerl, Cafe Extrablatt, Tacos
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Essen Hbf. ATMs are available at Essen Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Essen Hbf. Information desks are available at Essen Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Essen Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Essen Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Ambassador, Gästearpartment Dahl, WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus, Motel One.
Most popular train connections from Berlin Hbf
More options for your journey from Berlin Hbf to Essen Hbf
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