- Must visit
Museum Folkwang
World-class art museum in the Villa Hügel parkland, famous for 19th and 20th century masterpieces and changing exhibitions.
Cheapest price
$29
Average price
$55
Fastest journey
5 h 45 m
Average duration
6 h 6 m
Trains per day
11
Distance
470 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Dresden to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Dresden to Essen will cost around $55 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $29.
Of the 11 trains that leave Dresden for Essen on Thu, Aug 06, 1 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 470 km distance in an average of 6 h 6 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 45 m .
On Thu, Aug 06 the slowest trains will take 6 h 26 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.
IC 2048 · ICE 940
ICE 1746
S1 · IC 2270 · 21862 · ICE 940
FlixBus+
FlixTrain
FlixBus+
FlixTrain
RJ 178 · ICE 548
RJ 384 · ICE 640
ICE 1746
S1 · IC 2270 · 21862 · ICE 940
IC 2048 · ICE 940Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Dresden to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $25. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 10m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $25, and a flight costs an average of $89.
Distance: 292 miles (470 km)
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$67 Average price | $40 Average price Cheapest | $343 Average price | $99 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 3m Average total duration 6h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 39m Average total duration 7h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 10m Average total duration Fastest 1h 10m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 6h 15m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.5 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions | 1.4 - 2.8kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() 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 |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Dresden to Essen:
A bus is $27 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Dresden to Essen costing on average $67.
A bus is $303 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Dresden to Essen costing on average $343.
Other travel options to Essen take longer:
Train takes on average 6h 33m.
Bus takes on average 7h 9m.
Tickets start at around $67 compared to roughly $99 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $32. The journey takes 6h 33m versus 6h 15m 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 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.
The table below shows live departures for Dresden to Essen 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FlixBus+ FlixTrain | 4:15 AM Dresden, Bayrische Straße (Hauptbahnhof) | 8h33 | 12:48 PM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 1746 | On time 8:44 AM Dresden Hbf | 6h14 | 2:58 PM Essen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
RJ 384 · ICE 640 | On time 8:53 AM Dresden Hbf | 5h45 | 2:38 PM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IC 2048 · ICE 940 | On time 9:22 AM Dresden Hbf | 6h13 | 3:35 PM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
S1 · IC 2270 · 21862 · ICE 940 | On time 9:30 AM Dresden Hbf | 6h05 | 3:35 PM Essen Hbf | 3 transfers | |
RJ 178 · ICE 548 | On time 10:53 AM Dresden Hbf | 5h45 | 4:38 PM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus+ FlixTrain | 11:55 AM Dresden, Bf Neustadt | 8h53 | 8:48 PM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus+ FlixTrain | 12:15 PM Dresden, Bayrische Straße (Hauptbahnhof) | 8h33 | 8:48 PM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| Thursday, August 6 | |||||
FlixBus+ FlixTrain | 3:30 AM Dresden, Bf Neustadt | 9h18 | 12:48 PM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from Dresden to Essen run on average 9 times per day, taking around 6h 33m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $21 if you book in advance.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 292 miles (470 km) distance in 5h 48m.
Distance 292 miles (470 km) |
Average train duration 6h 33m |
Cheapest ticket price $21 |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 5h 48m |
First train 12:04 AM |
Last train 11:56 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 14 days |
Discover the best of Essen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Essen trip today.
World-class art museum in the Villa Hügel parkland, famous for 19th and 20th century masterpieces and changing exhibitions.
Ruhr Museum presents the region’s natural, cultural, and industrial history inside Zollverein’s iconic coal washery.
Internationally important poster museum with graphic design, advertising, and visual culture collections in a central location.
Large urban lake with promenades, sailing, and scenic paths; a favorite leisure area for locals and visitors alike.
Lively central pedestrian street for shopping and city life, linking Essen’s station area with key downtown landmarks.
Leafy city park with botanical features, sculptures, and open lawns near major museums and cultural institutions.
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.
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.
A classic Rhineland-Ruhr beef roast marinated in vinegar and spices, then braised. It is a festive dish found on Sunday and holiday menus.
Refined two-star dining in Villa Hügel parkland, known for modern French-inspired cuisine, polished service, and one of Essen's most prestigious settings.
Traditional brewery restaurant in Werden serving hearty regional dishes and house beers in a historic, rustic atmosphere popular with locals and visitors.
Casual local favorite for grilled meats, schnitzel, and classic pub plates, with a lively traditional atmosphere and dependable portions.
Moderate for Germany. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than Munich or Frankfurt, while local transit and casual meals stay fairly affordable for visitors.
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.
Official public transport app
Essen Hbf -> Essen Hbf
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Dresden 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.

Most Dresden to Essen trains use the Dresden Hauptbahnhof to Essen Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Essen-Zollverein Nord. Use this guide to compare Dresden and Essen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Dresden Hauptbahnhof is 1 km from Dresden city centre. Public transport options include:
Dresden Hauptbahnhof 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 options include: Burger King, asiagourmet, dean&david, Hot Dog King, Starbucks, Subway, BABA Döner, Marché, backWERK, Ditsch, & more
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are available at Dresden Hauptbahnhof.
Ticket office support is available at Dresden Hauptbahnhof. Information desks are located by Platform 9 in the main concourse.
Luggage storage is there are luggage lockers close to by the waiting room and the stairs leading to Platforms 3/4. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Dresden Hauptbahnhof: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Dresden Hauptbahnhof: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Dresden Hauptbahnhof: Accessible facilities such as toilets and ramps and additional assistance as needed. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Nearby hotels include Hotel Kipping, Pullman Dresden Newa, IntercityHotel Dresden.
Dresden-Neustadt is 1 km from Dresden city centre. Public transport options include:
Dresden-Neustadt 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 options include: ElbUferei, Raskolnikoff, Byblos, Kantine No. 2
Wi-Fi is available at Dresden-Neustadt. ATMs are available at Dresden-Neustadt.
Ticket office support is available at Dresden-Neustadt. Information desks are available at Dresden-Neustadt.
Luggage storage is available at Dresden-Neustadt. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Dresden-Neustadt: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Dresden-Neustadt: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Dresden-Neustadt.
Nearby hotels include Bilderberg Bellevue Hotel Dresden, Rothenburger Hof, Mezcalero, Villa Romantika.
Dresden Mitte is 1 km from Dresden city centre. Public transport options include:
Dresden Mitte 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 options include: Italienisches Dörfchen, BrennNessel, Kahnaletto, Cafe Friedrichstadt
Wi-Fi is available at Dresden Mitte. ATMs are available at Dresden Mitte.
Ticket office support is available at Dresden Mitte. Information desks are available at Dresden Mitte.
Luggage storage is available at Dresden Mitte. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Dresden Mitte: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Dresden Mitte: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Dresden Mitte.
Nearby hotels include Elbflorenz, Penck Hotel, Hotel und Restaurant Cafe Friedrichstadt, Artis.
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 options include: Bollywood Express - Pizza & More, Kiepenkerl, Cafe Extrablatt, Tacos
Wi-Fi is available at Essen Hbf. ATMs are available at Essen Hbf.
Ticket office support is available at Essen Hbf. Information desks are available at Essen Hbf.
Luggage storage is available at Essen Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Essen Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Essen Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen Hbf.
Nearby hotels include Ambassador, Gästearpartment Dahl, WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus, Motel One.
Essen-Zollverein Nord is 4 km from Essen city centre. Public transport options include:
Essen-Zollverein Nord has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: Casino Zollverein, Warsteiner Stiefel, Schacht XII, Bistro, Cafe Kohlenwäsche
Wi-Fi is available at Essen-Zollverein Nord. ATMs are available at Essen-Zollverein Nord.
Ticket office support is available at Essen-Zollverein Nord. Information desks are available at Essen-Zollverein Nord.
Luggage storage is available at Essen-Zollverein Nord. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Essen-Zollverein Nord: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Essen-Zollverein Nord: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen-Zollverein Nord.
Essen-Werden is 7 km from Essen city centre. Public transport options include:
Essen-Werden 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 options include: Kettner's Kamota, Abraham Konditorei & Cafe Werntges seit 1962, La Piazzetta, Pia
Wi-Fi is available at Essen-Werden. ATMs are available at Essen-Werden.
Ticket office support is available at Essen-Werden. Information desks are available at Essen-Werden.
Luggage storage is available at Essen-Werden. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Essen-Werden: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Essen-Werden: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen-Werden.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Hohenstein, Domstuben.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need