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The cheapest and fastest trains from Dresden to Essen
Showing times and prices for May 07
Cheapest price
$60
Average price
$116
Fastest journey
5 h 45 m
Average duration
6 h 28 m
Trains per day
10
Distance
470 km
Cheap tickets
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 $116 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $60.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Dresden to Essen without transferring at least once.
FlixBus+
FlixTrain4:15 AM8h33Dresden, Bayrische Straße (Hauptbahnhof)12:48 PMEssen Hbf$601One-way1 transfer- FlixBus+FlixTrain3:30 AM9h18Dresden, Bf Neustadt12:48 PMEssen Hbf$601One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus+FlixTrain12:15 PM8h33Dresden, Bayrische Straße (Hauptbahnhof)8:48 PMEssen Hbf$611One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus+FlixTrain11:55 AM8h53Dresden, Bf Neustadt8:48 PMEssen Hbf$631One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus+FlixTrain8:15 AM8h33Dresden, Bayrische Straße (Hauptbahnhof)4:48 PMEssen Hbf$651One-way1 transfer
RJ 384 · ICE 6408:53 AM5h45Dresden Hbf2:38 PMEssen Hbf$1971One-way1 transfer- RJ 178 · ICE 54810:53 AM5h45Dresden Hbf4:38 PMEssen Hbf$2171One-way1 transfer
- S1 · IC 2270 · ICE 9409:30 AM6h05Dresden Hbf3:35 PMEssen Hbf$2021One-way2 transfers
- IC 2048 · ICE 9409:22 AM6h13Dresden Hbf3:35 PMEssen Hbf$1681One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus+FlixTrain4:15 AM8h33Dresden, Bayrische Straße (Hauptbahnhof)12:48 PMEssen Hbf$601One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Dresden to Essen
Omio 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 $28. 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 $28, and a flight costs an average of $88.
Distance: 292 miles (470 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$75 Average price | $41 Average price Cheapest | $312 Average price | $102 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 5m Average total duration 6h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 47m Average total duration 7h 17m 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.
The cheapest way to travel from Dresden to Essen is a bus with an average price of $41 (€33).
This is compared to other travel options from Dresden to Essen:
A bus is $33 (€27) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Dresden to Essen costing on average $75 (€60).
A bus is $271 (€216) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Dresden to Essen costing on average $312 (€249).
The fastest way to travel from Dresden to Essen is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 10m.
Other travel options to Essen take longer:
Train takes on average 6h 35m.
Bus takes on average 7h 17m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Dresden and Essen including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Dresden to Essen among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} 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.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Dresden to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for Dresden to Essen trains for today, Wednesday, May 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:08 PM Dresden | 10h29 | 8:37 AM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Thursday, May 7 | |||||
| FlixBus+FlixTrain | 3:30 AM Dresden, Bf Neustadt | 9h18 | 12:48 PM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus+FlixTrain | 4:15 AM Dresden, Bayrische Straße (Hauptbahnhof) | 8h33 | 12:48 PM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus+FlixTrain | 6:00 AM Dresden, Bf Neustadt | 10h48 | 4:48 PM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus+FlixTrain | 8:15 AM Dresden, Bayrische Straße (Hauptbahnhof) | 8h33 | 4:48 PM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 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 · ICE 940 | On time 9:30 AM Dresden Hbf | 6h05 | 3:35 PM Essen Hbf | 2 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 | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Dresden to Essen by train, bus, or flight
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.
Thu
May 07
May 07
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Sat
May 09
May 09
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May 10
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May 13
May 13
Why should you book Dresden to Essen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain offer trains services from Dresden to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Dresden 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 Dresden 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 train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Dresden to Essen.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Dresden to Essen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Dresden to Essen
GermanyGermany
Trains from Dresden to Essen run on average 9 times per day, taking around 6h 35m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $25 (€20) 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 45m.
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 292 miles (470 km) |
Average train duration 6h 35m |
Cheapest ticket price $25 (€20) |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 5h 45m |
First train 12:04 AM |
Last train 11:56 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 14 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 Dresden to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Dresden and Essen from $25 (€20). 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 Duration
5h 45m
Cheapest Price
$45 (€36)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
2 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 Duration
5h 48m
Cheapest Price
$25 (€20)
FlixTrain frequency
1 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
FAQs: Trains from Dresden to Essen
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.
Train ticket prices from Dresden to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $25 (€20), while the average price is around $75 (€60).
The train from Dresden to Essen takes 5h 45m and runs 9 per day.
The first train from Dresden to Essen leaves at 12:04 AM.
The distance by train from Dresden to Essen is 292 miles (470 km).
The last train from Dresden to Essen leaves at 11:56 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Dresden to Essen. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by FlixTrain.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Dresden to Essen.
The train station in Dresden that goes to Essen is Dresden Hbf, which connects to Essen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Dresden to Essen is by train, with a cost of around $25 (€20).
The train journey from Dresden to Essen offers scenic views, especially as you travel through the picturesque landscapes of Saxony and North Rhine-Westphalia, passing charming villages, lush forests, and the rolling hills of the Erzgebirge region.
A day trip from Dresden to Essen is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 45m each way and the distance is 292 miles (470 km). There are 13 train trips available per day.
To explore Essen's key attractions, such as the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, Museum Folkwang, and Grugapark, a stay of 2 to 3 days is generally sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Dresden to Essen.
Since both Dresden 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 Cologne, Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Münster, Aachen.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Dresden 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.
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 Dresden to Essen
Dresden
Essen
The major train station for departures in Dresden is Dresden Hauptbahnhof. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Dresden Hauptbahnhof for your trip from Dresden to Essen.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Lockers
- There are luggage lockers close to by the waiting room and the stairs leading to Platforms 3/4.
Dining
- Burger King
- asiagourmet
- dean&david
- Hot Dog King
- Starbucks
- Subway
- BABA Döner
- Marché
- backWERK
- Ditsch
- & more
Accessibility
- Accessible facilities such as toilets and ramps and additional assistance as needed. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
- Hotel Kipping
- Pullman Dresden Newa
- IntercityHotel Dresden
Information Desk
- Located by Platform 9 in the main concourse.
Dresden-Neustadt
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 06:45 - 20:00
- Tuesday: 06:45 - 20:00
- Wednesday: 06:45 - 20:00
- Thursday: 06:45 - 20:00
- Friday: 06:45 - 20:00
- Saturday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Sunday: 07:00 - 20:00
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- ElbUferei
- Raskolnikoff
- Byblos
- Kantine No. 2
Hotel
- Bilderberg Bellevue Hotel Dresden
- Rothenburger Hof
- Mezcalero
- Villa Romantika
Dresden Freiberger Straße
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- BrennNessel
- VG Bistro
- Antalya
- Dix-Diner
Hotel
- Achat Hotel Dresden
- Elbflorenz
- Artis
- Motel One Dresden am Zwinger
The major train station for arrivals in Essen is Essen Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Essen Hbf for your journey to Essen from Dresden.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Saturday: 09:00 - 18:00
- Sunday: 09:00 - 18:00
Dining
- Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
- Kiepenkerl
- Cafe Extrablatt
- Tacos
Hotel
- Ambassador
- Gästearpartment Dahl
- WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus
- Motel One
Essen-Zollverein Nord
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
4 kmDining
- Casino Zollverein
- Warsteiner Stiefel
- Schacht XII, Bistro
- Cafe Kohlenwäsche
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
7 kmDining
- Kettner's Kamota
- Abraham Konditorei & Cafe Werntges seit 1962
- La Piazzetta
- Pia
Hotel
- Hotel Hohenstein
- Domstuben
More options for your journey from Dresden to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Essen and Dresden
Most popular train connections to Essen
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