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

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Berlin to Essen

Showing times and prices for Jun 15

Cheapest price

$54

Average price

$105

Fastest journey

3 h 40 m

Average duration

3 h 46 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 traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Berlin to Essen will cost around $105 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $54.

Fast trains

Of the 11 trains that leave Berlin for Essen on Sun, Jun 15, 11 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Jun 15 the direct trains cover the 454 km distance in an average of 3 h 46 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 40 m .

On Sun, Jun 15 the slowest trains will take 3 h 49 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.

FlixTrain

08:28AM4h20

Berlin Hbf

12:48PMEssen Hbf

$541One-way

0 transfers

FlixTrain

08:40AM4h08

Berlin Spandau

12:48PMEssen Hbf

$541One-way

0 transfers

FlixTrain

11:27AM4h52

Berlin Hbf

04:19PMEssen Hbf

$691One-way

0 transfers

FlixTrain

11:44AM4h35

Berlin Spandau

04:19PMEssen Hbf

$691One-way

0 transfers

FlixTrain

04:51PM4h59

Berlin Spandau

09:50PMEssen Hbf

$751One-way

0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, 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 bus with prices starting from €23. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 48m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg.

Compare train with

Most popular Train	Bus	Flight
€50 Average price	€36 Average price Cheapest	€204 Average price
4h 43m Average duration 4h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	8h 1m Average duration 7h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	4h 48m Average duration Fastest 1h 48m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time*
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest	0.5 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions	1.4 - 2.7kg CO2 emissions
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

Showing trains for today, Saturday, June 14

Last updated at 4:39 AM

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
FlixTrain	6:28 AM Berlin Hbf	4h20	10:48 AM Essen Hbf	0 transfersDirect
FlixTrain	6:40 AM Berlin Spandau	4h08	10:48 AM Essen Hbf	0 transfersDirect
ICE 642	On time 6:48 AM Berlin Hbf	3h47	10:35 AM Essen Hbf	0 transfersDirect
ICE 952 · RE 26820	On time 7:48 AM Berlin Hbf	4h19	12:07 PM Essen Hbf	1 transfer
ICE 952 · IC 2046 · ICE 109	On time 7:48 AM Berlin Hbf	4h10	11:58 AM Essen Hbf	2 transfers
ICE 640	On time 8:45 AM Berlin Hbf	3h50	12:35 PM Essen Hbf	0 transfersDirect
ICE 940	On time 9:48 AM Berlin Hbf	3h42	1:30 PM Essen Hbf	0 transfersDirect
FlixTrain	2:41 PM Berlin Hbf	5h09	7:50 PM Essen Hbf	0 transfersDirect
FlixTrain	2:51 PM Berlin Spandau	4h59	7:50 PM Essen Hbf	0 transfersDirect
This is the last train of the day.

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

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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 $33

Buses

from $30

Flights

from $260

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Berlin to Essen

The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.

Pros

good atmosphere

clean air

comfort

That was my return trip and it was great. I went inside and it smelled very fresh. Then I sat down. I ordered something for myself and it arrived very quickly and was very fresh. Then I got out my tablet and used the internet and the internet was very strong. I looked out the window and the atmosphere was very good. My train also came on time, I pass on this trip.

Pros

Good connection

No change

Cons

Delays

There was only a minimal delay on the journey from Berlin to Essen. The train was not completely full at this time of day, which made the journey very pleasant. The wifi had a fairly stable connection. There were no problems with seat reservations. The train attendants were also friendly. The price-performance ratio was right here.

Pros

Air conditioning

Punctuality

Comfort

Cons

Reservations

Too full

Here I would like to share my positive experiences on the journey from Berlin to Essen. I travelled by ICE 1st class. Thank God I had booked my seat in advance, the train was very full. The cool air conditioning in the train was pleasant. The toilets were really very clean and the service was done right after the start. At every seat there was the possibility to put the laptop on a folding table and directly at the seat there were sockets so that you could charge the device directly. My train was also on time and the connecting trains were reached, I will travel 1st class by ICE again. The price was also reasonable.

Pros

good wifi

tasty food

free space on the square

I travelled in second class and this was my return journey. I rate this journey with five stars as I have nothing to criticise. The train looked very nice from the inside and also from the outside. The food was very tasty, there were also vegan and vegetarian dishes. The internet was very good, although many people used it, so I was able to complete my work on the computer. My seat was very comfortable and I had a lot of space at my seat. My train was also on time. It was a wonderful journey.

Pros

Comfortable working while travelling

Cons

Unpunctuality

No food on board

My train journey from Berlin to Essen offered only a few advantages that are worth emphasising. One feature was the ability to work on my laptop in peace during the journey, as the wifi was sufficiently stable. This is particularly important for business travellers and increased my productivity considerably. The cleanliness and comfort of the seats in first class also deserve praise. The seats offered sufficient legroom and comfort, which made the journey a little more pleasant. Unfortunately, as is so often the case with rail travel, the train did not arrive on time, which can cause some inconvenience, especially if you have deadlines to meet. One annoying incident during my journey was that no food could be prepared as the electricity in the kitchen had failed. This meant that there were no hot or cold drinks, which made the journey less enjoyable. Despite these obstacles, the service and friendliness of the railway staff was fine. They were available to answer questions and were helpful. The price-performance ratio of the train journey from Berlin to Essen was acceptable overall. Overall, the train journey offers a reasonably comfortable way to travel between the cities, especially for business travellers who want to work. However, you should be prepared for possible delays and unforeseen events.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Berlin to Essen

Germany

Trains from Berlin to Essen run on average 22 times per day, taking around 4h 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $20 (€16) if you book in advance.

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

281 miles (453 km)

Average train duration

4h 13m

Cheapest ticket price

$20 (€16)

Trains per day

Direct trains

Fastest train

3h 49m

First train

07:22

Last train

20:27

Price information

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain and WestfalenBahn from Berlin to Essen trains

You can travel by train between Berlin and Essen with Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain and WestfalenBahn for as low as $12 (€10). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best trip.

Deutsche Bahn (DB) is the main provider of train services in Germany, making on average 40,000 journeys per day. A special feature of Deutsche Bahn is its wide range of ticket types, savings offers including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible fares and discount cards like the Bahncard 25, 50 and 100, which you can also use for your train from Berlin to Essen. DB uses different types of trains such as the ICE (Intercity Express), IC (Intercity), EC (Eurocity), IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express) and RB (Regionalbahn) on its routes, which differ in terms of comfort and the time required to travel. For example, while bathrooms are standard amenities, services like an onboard restaurant or free WiFi are only available on certain trains.

Berlin to Essen train information with Deutsche Bahn:

Average Duration: 3 h 49 min
Cheapest Price: $49
Deutsche Bahn frequency: 16 a day

FlixTrain is a German train company which is part of FlixMobility, the company who own FlixBus. Since 2018, FlixMobility has also offered the option of train travel to some of the largest German cities like Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart and Berlin including trains from Berlin to Essen. FlixTrain has high speed comfortable trains with a guaranteed seat, foot space, reading lamp and a luggage rack to store your belongings as well as sockets on most trains and free Wi-Fi for all passengers. The most popualr routes in Germany for FlixTrain are from Berlin to Hamburg, Frankfurt to Stuttgart and Cologne to Hamburg. They also offer trains on the Sotckholm to Gothenburg route in Sweden.

Train information from Berlin to Essen with FlixTrain:

Average Duration: 3 h 57 min
Cheapest Price: $12
FlixTrain frequency: 1 a day

Traveling by train from Berlin to Essen

Traveling between Berlin and Essen is a convenient experience, thanks to several train providers that operate on this route. You can choose from Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, and WestfalenBahn for your journey. With frequent services available throughout the day, you’ll find it easy to explore these two cities while enjoying comfortable travel options along the way.

Train Connection: Berlin to Essen

Traveling from Berlin to Essen takes approximately 3 hours and 49 minutes. There are 2 direct connections available each day, departing from stations including Berlin Gesundbrunnen, Berlin Hbf, Berlin Spandau, and Berlin Ostbahnhof, with all trains arriving at Essen Hbf.

Berlin to Essen Train Connection

The first daily train from Berlin to Essen departs at 06:20, providing an early start for travelers looking to explore the vibrant culture and attractions of these two cities. The last journey of the day leaves at 20:41, allowing visitors ample time to enjoy their activities before heading back in the evening.

Train Tickets Price for Berlin and Essen

The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Berlin and Essen is €20. The average ticket price typically hovers around €57, making it a convenient option for travelers looking to explore these vibrant cities in Germany.

Exploring Essen: A Journey Through History and Art

Welcome to the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site that played a pivotal role in Germany's industrial revolution. This remarkable complex not only symbolizes the coal and steel industry but also showcases stunning Bauhaus architecture, making it an iconic example of modern industrial design. As you explore its vast grounds, you'll discover unique features like the strikingly preserved headframes and innovative cultural spaces that now host art exhibitions and events.

Next on our journey is the Essen Cathedral, or Essener Münster, which dates back to the 9th century and serves as one of North Rhine-Westphalia’s most significant religious sites. Its impressive Romanesque architecture houses priceless treasures such as the Golden Madonna—a masterpiece from medieval times—and intricate stained glass windows that tell stories of faith through centuries. The cathedral's serene atmosphere invites reflection while offering insight into both local history and spiritual heritage.

Finally, we arrive at Museum Folkwang, renowned for its exceptional collection of 19th-21st-century art including masterpieces by Van Gogh and Picasso. Founded in 1922 by prominent collector Heinrich Aeschlimann, this museum has become a beacon for contemporary culture with its commitment to showcasing diverse artistic expressions across various mediums. With its sleek design blending seamlessly into lush surroundings, Museum Folkwang offers visitors not just visual delights but also engaging programs that foster creativity within our community.

FAQs: Trains from Berlin to Essen

FAQs: Travel by train from Berlin to Essen easily. Whether you want fast, cheap or something entirely different, our travel experts have collected everything you need to know so you can find the best option from Berlin to Essen.

Cheap train tickets from Berlin to Essen can start from as little as $14 (€11) when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Berlin to Essen is $51 (€41); 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 3 h 50 min to travel the 281 mile (453 km) long journey, with around there are 18 trains per day. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays.

The first train from Berlin to Essen leaves at 12: 04 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.

The last train from Berlin to Essen leaves at 11: 58 PM.

Yes, it is possible to travel from Berlin to Essen without having to change trains with Deutsche Bahn or FlixTrain. There are 9 direct trains from Berlin to Essen each day. There may be fewer direct services available on weekends or holidays.

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

No, there are no night trains, the latest train for this route is 11: 58 PM.

Passengers board the train most frequently from Berlin Hbf, which is located around 3.5 miles (5.6 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the train at Essen Hbf, located 1 mile (1.6 km) away from the city centre.

A trip to Essen from Berlin is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3 h 50 min each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.

The cheapest month to travel from Berlin to Essen by train is November.

You have options as you can travel between Berlin and Essen 3 different ways: train, bus or flight.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Berlin to Essen

Berlin

Essen

The major train station for departures in Berlin is Berlin Zoologischer Garten. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Berlin Zoologischer Garten for your trip from Berlin to Essen.

Berlin Zoologischer Garten Wifi