- Must visit
KMSKA
Regional art museum in nearby Antwerp with strong old masters collections, worth the short trip from Essen.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Dortmund to Essen
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 01
Cheapest price on Sep 01
kr998
Average ticket price on Sep 01
kr1090
Fastest journey on Sep 01
4 h 51 m
Average journey duration on Sep 01
4 h 51 m
Trains on Sep 01
2
Distance
209 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Dortmund to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Dortmund to Essen will cost around kr1090 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only kr998.
Fast trains
On Tue, Sep 01, we found 2 trains from Dortmund to Essen, including 2 direct services.
On Tue, Sep 01 the direct trains cover the 209 km distance in an average of 4 h 51 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 51 m .
On Tue, Sep 01 the slowest trains will take 4 h 51 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.
7:39 AM4h51Dortmund12:30 PMEssenkr9981One-way0 transfers- 6:39 AM4h51Dortmund11:30 AMEssenkr11821One-way0 transfers
- 7:39 AM4h51Dortmund12:30 PMEssenkr9981One-way0 transfers
- 6:39 AM4h51Dortmund11:30 AMEssenkr11821One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Dortmund to Essen
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Dortmund to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of kr213 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 56m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of kr213, while a bus costs an average of kr254.
Distance: 129 miles (209 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
kr213 Average price Cheapest | kr254 Average price | kr74 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
56m Average total duration Fastest 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 20m Average total duration 5h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 5m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Dortmund to Essen is a train with an average price of kr213.
This is compared to other travel options from Dortmund to Essen:
A train is kr41 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Dortmund to Essen costing on average kr254.
The fastest way to travel from Dortmund to Essen is by train with an average journey time of 26m.
Other travel options to Essen take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 50m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Dortmund and Essen including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Dortmund to Essen among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 2h 39m sooner (26m by train vs 3h 5m by car). Tickets start at around kr213 compared to roughly kr74 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Eurostar, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional).
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Dortmund to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for Dortmund to Essen trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, September 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:39 AM Dortmund | 4h51 | 11:30 AM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:39 AM Dortmund | 4h51 | 12:30 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 Dortmund to Essen by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
Tue
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Why should you book Dortmund to Essen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) as well as Eurostar or Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) offer trains services from Dortmund to Essen.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), but also compare tickets for the likes of Eurostar or Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) to find the best option for your trip from Dortmund 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 Intercity (DB IC) with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Dortmund to Essen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Dortmund to Essen
Germany
Belgium
Trains from Dortmund to Essen run on average 4 times per day, taking around 26m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at kr127 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 05:18, the last at 16:47. The fastest train covers the 129 miles (209 km) distance in 22m.
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) |
Average train duration 26m |
Cheapest ticket price kr127 |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 22m |
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 from kr127. 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
kr577
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
kr277
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
kr150
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.
Train ticket prices from Dortmund to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at kr127, while the average price is around kr213.
The train from Dortmund to Essen takes 22m and runs 4 per day.
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 station in Dortmund that goes to Essen is Dortmund Hbf, which connects to Essen station.
The cheapest way to get from Dortmund to Essen is by train, with a cost of around kr127.
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.
A day trip from Dortmund to Essen is not feasible as the travel duration is 22m. Trains run 2 times per day.
Typically, spending 2 to 3 days in Essen is sufficient to explore its main attractions, including the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, Museum Folkwang, and the Grugapark botanical garden.
Yes, you can take the train from Dortmund to Essen.
Since both Dortmund and Essen are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
Popular day trips by train from Essen include Antwerp, Brussels, Roosendaal, Zaventem, Ghent.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Dortmund to Essen among Omio's users.
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 · kr519 · every ~4 min
Ice · 4h 58m · kr600
Bus023 · 4h 5m · kr254
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.
Most popular train connections from Dortmund
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
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