- Must visit
Museum Folkwang
World-class art museum in the Villa Hügel parkland, famous for 19th and 20th century masterpieces and changing exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bielefeld to Essen
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 28
Cheapest price on Sep 28
$13
Average ticket price on Sep 28
$40
Fastest journey on Sep 28
1 h 25 m
Average journey duration on Sep 28
1 h 27 m
Trains on Sep 28
3
Distance
123 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bielefeld to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bielefeld to Essen will cost around $40 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $13.
Fast trains
On Mon, Sep 28, we found 3 trains from Bielefeld to Essen, including 3 direct services.
On Mon, Sep 28 the direct trains cover the 123 km distance in an average of 1 h 27 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 25 m .
On Mon, Sep 28 the slowest trains will take 1 h 30 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.
1:23 PM1h25Bielefeld2:48 PMEssen$131One-way0 transfers- 2:23 PM1h25Bielefeld3:48 PMEssen$451One-way0 transfers
8:00 AM1h30Bielefeld9:30 AMEssen$621One-way0 transfers
- 2:23 PM1h25Bielefeld3:48 PMEssen$451One-way0 transfers
- 1:23 PM1h25Bielefeld2:48 PMEssen$131One-way0 transfers
- 8:00 AM1h30Bielefeld9:30 AMEssen$621One-way0 transfers
Live departures
Bielefeld to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for Bielefeld to Essen trains for today, Sunday, September 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:23 PM Bielefeld | 1h25 | 7:48 PM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Monday, September 28 | |||||
| 8:00 AM Bielefeld | 1h30 | 9:30 AM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:23 PM Bielefeld | 1h25 | 2:48 PM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:23 PM Bielefeld | 1h25 | 3:48 PM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bielefeld to Essen by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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.
Mon
Sep 28
Sep 28
Tue
Sep 29
Sep 29
Wed
Sep 30
Sep 30
Thu
Oct 01
Oct 01
Fri
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Oct 03
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Sun
Oct 04
Oct 04
Why should you book Bielefeld to Essen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain offer trains services from Bielefeld to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bielefeld 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 to find the best option for your trip from Bielefeld 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bielefeld to Essen.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Bielefeld to Essen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bielefeld to Essen
GermanyGermany
Trains from Bielefeld to Essen run on average 6 times per day, taking around 1h 24m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $7 (€6) if you book in advance.
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 76 miles (123 km) distance in 1h 7m.
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 76 miles (123 km) |
Average train duration 1h 24m |
Cheapest ticket price $7 (€6) |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 5 |
Fastest train 1h 7m |
First train 12:04 AM |
Last train 11:56 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 7 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
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain from Bielefeld to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Bielefeld and Essen from $7 (€6). 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
1h 7m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$24 (€20)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
5 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
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
1h 25m
Cheapest FlixTrain Price
$7 (€6)
FlixTrain frequency
2 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
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
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.
- Must visit
Baldeneysee
Large urban lake with promenades, sailing, and scenic paths; a favorite leisure area for locals and visitors alike.
- Recommended
Kettwiger Straße
Lively central pedestrian street for shopping and city life, linking Essen’s station area with key downtown landmarks.
- Recommended
Stadtgarten Essen
Leafy city park with botanical features, sculptures, and open lawns near major museums and cultural institutions.
- Vegetarian
Reibekuchen
A hearty potato pancake from the Ruhr area, usually served with applesauce or beet syrup. It is a beloved regional comfort food eaten at fairs and homes.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Pumpernickel
Traditional rye bread from Westphalia, baked dark and dense with a slightly sweet flavor. It is a staple across the region and often served with ham or cheese.
Sauerbraten
A classic Rhineland-Ruhr beef roast marinated in vinegar and spices, then braised. It is a festive dish found on Sunday and holiday menus.
Restaurant Hannappel
Refined two-star dining in Villa Hügel parkland, known for modern French-inspired cuisine, polished service, and one of Essen's most prestigious settings.
Hausbrauerei Im Fcxschen Essen
Traditional brewery restaurant in Werden serving hearty regional dishes and house beers in a historic, rustic atmosphere popular with locals and visitors.
Meisenburg
Casual local favorite for grilled meats, schnitzel, and classic pub plates, with a lively traditional atmosphere and dependable portions.
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.
VRR App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.60
- Day pass
- €8.90
To the city center
Essen Hbf -> Essen Hbf
- Distance
- 0 km
- Travel time
- 0 min
- Buy tickets in the VRR App, at ticket machines, or onboard where offered. Tap validators if your ticket requires validation before boarding.
- Contactless card payment is available at many ticket machines, but not reliably onboard all buses or trams. Keep a valid ticket ready for inspection.
FAQs: Trains from Bielefeld to Essen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bielefeld 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 Bielefeld to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $7 (€6), while the average price is around $45 (€37).
The train from Bielefeld to Essen takes 1h 7m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Bielefeld to Essen leaves at 12:04 AM.
The distance by train from Bielefeld to Essen is 76 miles (123 km).
The last train from Bielefeld to Essen leaves at 11:56 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Bielefeld to Essen. This service operates 5 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bielefeld to Essen.
The train station in Bielefeld that goes to Essen is Bielefeld Hbf, which connects to Essen Hbf.
The train journey from Bielefeld to Essen is not known for being particularly scenic, as it primarily passes through urban and industrial areas in North Rhine-Westphalia.
Yes, you can take the train from Bielefeld to Essen.
Popular day trips by train from Essen include Cologne, Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Münster, Aachen.
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 Bielefeld to Essen
Most Bielefeld to Essen trains use the Bielefeld Hbf to Essen Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Bielefeld and Essen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Bielefeld
Arrival train stations in Essen
Which Bielefeld station do trains to Essen leave from?
Trains from Bielefeld to Essen leave from Bielefeld Hbf. The station is from Bielefeld city centre at Bielefeld Hbf, Am Bahnhof 1b, 33602 Bielefeld.
Bielefeld HbfBielefeld Hbf, Am Bahnhof 1b, 33602 Bielefeld
City-centre transport
Getting to Bielefeld Hbf from Bielefeld city centre
Bus351, 350 · 3m · every ~4 min
Tram4, 3, 2, 1 · 3m · $2 · every ~32 min
2, 1, 3, 4 · 4m · $2 · every ~21 min
Bielefeld Hbf train station facilities and services
Bielefeld 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, Mexims, Entrada, Lokma
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Bielefeld Hbf. ATMs are available at Bielefeld Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bielefeld Hbf. Information desks are available at Bielefeld Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Bielefeld Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bielefeld Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bielefeld Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bielefeld Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Wali, Altstadt Hotel Bielefeld, Hotel Stadt Bremen, Bielefelder Hof.
BrackwedeBrackwede, Eisenbahnstr. 42, 33647 Bielefeld
City-centre transport
Getting to Brackwede from Bielefeld city centre
Brackwede is 4 km from Bielefeld city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb75, Rb74 · 4m · $7 · every ~6 min
Bus88, 48 · 6m · every ~3 min
Tram1 · 11m · $2 · every ~12 min
Brackwede train station facilities and services
Brackwede has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Brackwede.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Brackwede. Information desks are available at Brackwede.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Brackwede. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Brackwede: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Brackwede: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Brackwede.
Which Essen station do trains from Bielefeld arrive at?
Trains from Bielefeld to Essen arrive at Essen Hbf. Essen Hbf is 0 miles (1 km) from Essen city centre.
Essen HbfEssen Hbf, Am Hauptbahnhof 5, 45127 Essen
City-centre transport
Getting to Essen Hbf from Essen city centre
BusNe12, Ne11, Ne2, Ne1, 196, 166, 155, 154, 146, 145 · 5m · every ~50 min
Tram109, 108, 107, 105, 103, 101 · 2m · every ~46 min
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 Bielefeld
More options for your journey from Bielefeld to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Essen and Bielefeld
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