- Must visit
KMSKA
Regional art museum in nearby Antwerp with strong old masters collections, worth the short trip from Essen.
.png){kind=small}
.png){kind=small}
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
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
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
Journey information
Overview: Train from Dortmund to Essen
Germany
Belgium
Take a train from Dortmund to Essen and enjoy the approximately 129 miles (209 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 05:18, the last at 16:47.
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 129 miles (209 km) |
First train 5:18 AM |
Last train 4:47 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Best time to book 28 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 Intercity (DB IC), Eurostar, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) from Dortmund to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Eurostar, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) trains will get you between Dortmund and Essen. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
24m
Cheapest Eurostar Price
$60
Eurostar frequency
3 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
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) Duration
22m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) Price
$29
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
19 a day
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) Duration
42m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) Price
$16
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) frequency
8 a day
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.
- Recommended
Treinmuseum Essen
Railway museum in Essen’s old station area with locomotives, rolling stock, and exhibits on cross-border rail history.
- Recommended
Bezoekerscentrum De Vroente
Nearby botanical and heritage museum site in Kalmthout, valued for nature collections and regional cultural context.
- Must visit
Grenspark Kalmthoutse Heide
Major heathland and forest reserve on the Belgian-Dutch border, ideal for walking, cycling, birdwatching, and quiet landscapes.
- Recommended
Heuvelplein
Central square and civic area of Essen, practical for orientation and local events, with easy access to shops and services.
- Recommended
Domein de Hemelrijk
Green domain with ponds and walking paths, popular for a relaxed stroll and nature close to the town center.
- Gluten-free
Kempense Asperges
Kempense asperges are local white asparagus, often served in season with butter sauce, egg, and ham. The sandy Kempen soils around Essen are known for quality asparagus.
- Gluten-free
Asperges Op Vlaamse Wijze
Asperges op Vlaamse wijze pairs white asparagus with chopped egg, melted butter, parsley, and often shrimp. It is a classic Flemish spring dish popular in the region.
- Gluten-free
Paling In 'T Groen
Paling in 't groen is eel in a sauce of fresh green herbs. It is a traditional Flemish dish, especially associated with river and polder areas of northern Belgium.
De Heusche Bollaert
Reputed dining venue near Essen with polished seasonal cuisine, suitable for a more upscale meal with attentive service.
De Kiekenhoeve
Established restaurant in Essen known for refined Belgian-French cooking and seasonal produce in an elegant, calm setting.
Brasserie Essen
Well-known local brasserie serving classic Belgian dishes and beers in a relaxed atmosphere suited to casual lunches and dinners.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Belgium: hotels and dining are mid-priced, while local transit is reasonable. Tourist costs are lower than Brussels or Bruges but higher than smaller towns.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €10-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €3-4.50 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% for great restaurant service is appreciated. Round up taxi fares; small change is fine in cafes.
De Lijn
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.50
- Day pass
- €7.50
To the city center
Essen -> Essen Station
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Contactless bank card payment is available on De Lijn buses and trams; onboard payment is usually higher than buying in the app.
- NMBS/SNCB trains serve Essen station for regional travel, while local buses are run by De Lijn.
FAQs: Trains from Dortmund to Essen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Dortmund 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.
The first train from Dortmund to Essen leaves at 5:18 AM.
The distance by train from Dortmund to Essen is 129 miles (209 km).
The last train from Dortmund to Essen leaves at 4:47 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Dortmund to Essen.
Yes, there is a direct train from Dortmund to Essen. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Eurostar, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Dortmund to Essen.
The train journey from Dortmund to Essen is primarily urban and industrial, offering views of built-up areas, infrastructure, and occasional green spaces, rather than traditional scenic landscapes.
Yes, you can take the train from Dortmund to Essen.
Popular day trips by train from Essen include Antwerp, Brussels, Roosendaal, Zaventem, Ghent.
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.
Belgium uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find card payments widely accepted in cities, restaurants, and shops, though carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Essen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport and popular shopping streets. Scams involving fake charity collectors and overcharging in taxis can also occur. Staying alert in busy places and using licensed transportation helps 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 Dortmund to Essen
Most Dortmund to Essen trains use the Dortmund Hbf to Essen station pair. Use this guide to compare Dortmund and Essen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Dortmund
Arrival train stations in Essen
Which Dortmund station do trains to Essen leave from?
Trains from Dortmund to Essen leave from Dortmund Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Dortmund city centre at Dortmund Hbf, Königswall 15, 44137 Dortmund.
Dortmund HbfDortmund Hbf, Königswall 15, 44137 Dortmund
City-centre transport
Getting to Dortmund Hbf from Dortmund city centre
BusNe13, Ne12, Ne3, 460, 453 · 3m · every ~10 min
Dortmund Hbf train station facilities and services
Dortmund 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: Subway, Caliente, Ong Bui Asia Fusion, Kleimann
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Dortmund Hbf. ATMs are available at Dortmund Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Dortmund Hbf. Information desks are available at Dortmund Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Dortmund Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Dortmund Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Dortmund Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Dortmund Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Cityhotel Dortmund, Esplanade, Drei Kronen, Hotel Unique Novum.
Dortmund StadthausDortmund-Stadthaus, Ruhrallee/Sonnenstr., 44149 Dortmund
City-centre transport
Getting to Dortmund Stadthaus from Dortmund city centre
Bus400, Sev · 9m · every ~11 min
SubwayU49, U47, U45, U41 · 3m · every ~51 min
Dortmund Stadthaus train station facilities and services
Dortmund Stadthaus 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: Westermanns Deli, Subway, Caliente, Ong Bui Asia Fusion
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Dortmund Stadthaus. ATMs are available at Dortmund Stadthaus.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Dortmund Stadthaus. Information desks are available at Dortmund Stadthaus.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Dortmund Stadthaus. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Dortmund Stadthaus: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Dortmund Stadthaus: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Dortmund Stadthaus.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Ringhotel Drees, La Villa am Kaiserbrunnen, Hotel Neuhaus, Cityhotel Dortmund.
Dortmund MöllerbrückeDortmund-Möllerbrücke, Hollestr., 44137 Dortmund
City-centre transport
Getting to Dortmund Möllerbrücke from Dortmund city centre
Dortmund Möllerbrücke is 1 km from Dortmund city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus400 · 23m · every ~10 min
SubwayU42 · 4m · every ~12 min
Dortmund Möllerbrücke train station facilities and services
Dortmund Möllerbrücke 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: Subway, Kleimann, Linus, Teheran
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Dortmund Möllerbrücke. ATMs are available at Dortmund Möllerbrücke.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Dortmund Möllerbrücke. Information desks are available at Dortmund Möllerbrücke.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Dortmund Möllerbrücke. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Dortmund Möllerbrücke: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Dortmund Möllerbrücke: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Dortmund Möllerbrücke.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Ringhotel Drees, Cityhotel Dortmund, Hotel Fürst garden, Hotel Unique Novum.
Which Essen station do trains from Dortmund arrive at?
Trains from Dortmund to Essen arrive at Essen. Essen is from Essen city centre.
Essen2910 Essen, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Essen from Essen city centre
TrainIntercity · 3h 54m · $54 · every ~4 min
Ice · 4h 58m · $63
Bus023 · 4h 5m · $27
Essen train station facilities and services
Essen has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Essen.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Essen.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Essen: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen.
More options for your journey from Dortmund to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Essen and Dortmund
Most popular train connections to Essen
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.
