- 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 Erlangen to Essen
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
$98
Average price
$104
Fastest journey
4 h 24 m
Average duration
4 h 31 m
Trains per day
8
Distance
349 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Erlangen to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Erlangen to Essen will cost around $104 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $98.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Erlangen to Essen without transferring at least once.
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5:10 AM4h53Erlangen10:03 AMEssen$981One-way1 transfer- 6:29 AM4h37Erlangen11:06 AMEssen$981One-way1 transfer
- 7:29 AM4h34Erlangen12:03 PMEssen$981One-way1 transfer
- 8:29 AM4h37Erlangen1:06 PMEssen$981One-way1 transfer
- 10:29 AM4h33Erlangen3:02 PMEssen$981One-way1 transfer
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11:38 AM4h24Erlangen4:02 PMEssen$1131One-way1 transfer- 9:38 AM4h26Erlangen2:04 PMEssen$1131One-way1 transfer
- 10:29 AM4h33Erlangen3:02 PMEssen$981One-way1 transfer
- 7:29 AM4h34Erlangen12:03 PMEssen$981One-way1 transfer
- 6:29 AM4h37Erlangen11:06 AMEssen$981One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Erlangen to Essen
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Erlangen to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $27. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 21m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $27, and a flight costs an average of $506.
Distance: 216 miles (349 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$129 Average price | $40 Average price Cheapest | $520 Average price | $81 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 54m Average total duration 4h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 23m Average total duration 7h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 21m Average total duration Fastest 3h 21m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 1m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions | 1.0 - 2.1kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
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 Erlangen to Essen is a bus with an average price of $40.
This is compared to other travel options from Erlangen to Essen:
A bus is $90 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Erlangen to Essen costing on average $129.
A bus is $480 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Erlangen to Essen costing on average $520.
The fastest way to travel from Erlangen to Essen is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 21m.
Other travel options to Essen take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 24m.
Bus takes on average 7h 53m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Erlangen and Essen including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Erlangen 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 37m sooner (4h 24m by train vs 5h 1m by car). Tickets start at around $129 compared to roughly $81 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.
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
Erlangen to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for Erlangen to Essen trains for today, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:29 AM Erlangen | 4h34 | 12:03 PM Essen | 1 transfer | |
| 8:29 AM Erlangen | 4h37 | 1:06 PM Essen | 1 transfer | |
| 9:38 AM Erlangen | 4h26 | 2:04 PM Essen | 1 transfer | |
| 10:28 AM Erlangen | 7h10 | 5:38 PM Essen | 1 transfer | |
| 10:29 AM Erlangen | 4h33 | 3:02 PM Essen | 1 transfer | |
| 11:38 AM Erlangen | 4h24 | 4:02 PM Essen | 1 transfer | |
| 12:29 PM Erlangen | 4h38 | 5:07 PM Essen | 1 transfer | |
| 1:38 PM Erlangen | 4h25 | 6:03 PM Essen | 1 transfer | |
| 2:29 PM Erlangen | 4h34 | 7:03 PM Essen | 1 transfer | |
| 3:38 PM Erlangen | 4h24 | 8:02 PM Essen | 1 transfer | |
| 4:29 PM Erlangen | 4h33 | 9:02 PM Essen | 1 transfer | |
| 5:38 PM Erlangen | 4h24 | 10:02 PM Essen | 1 transfer | |
| 6:10 PM Erlangen | 4h52 | 11:02 PM Essen | 1 transfer | |
| 6:29 PM Erlangen | 4h33 | 11:02 PM Essen | 2 transfers | |
| 7:03 PM Erlangen | 6h01 | 1:04 AM Essen | 1 transfer | |
| 10:19 PM Erlangen | 13h19 | 11:38 AM Essen | 1 transfer | |
| Wednesday, August 5 | |||||
| 5:10 AM Erlangen | 4h53 | 10:03 AM Essen | 1 transfer | |
| 6:29 AM Erlangen | 4h37 | 11:06 AM Essen | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Erlangen to Essen by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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.
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Why should you book Erlangen to Essen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) offer trains services from Erlangen to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Erlangen 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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) to find the best option for your trip from Erlangen 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, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Erlangen to Essen.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Erlangen to Essen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Erlangen to Essen
GermanyGermany
Trains from Erlangen to Essen run on average 5 times per day, taking around 4h 24m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $67 but you can travel from only $27 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 01:08, the last at 21:13. The fastest train covers the 216 miles (349 km) distance in 4h 37m.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $27
Distance 216 miles (349 km) |
Average train duration 4h 24m |
Cheapest ticket price $67 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 4h 37m |
First train 1:08 AM |
Last train 9:13 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $27
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) from Erlangen to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) trains will get you between Erlangen and Essen from $27. 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
4h 37m
Cheapest Price
$67
Deutsche Bahn frequency
7 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
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 24m
Cheapest Price
$113
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
4 a day
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 33m
Cheapest Price
$98
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.
- 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 Erlangen to Essen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Erlangen 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 Erlangen to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $67, while the average price is around $129.
The train from Erlangen to Essen takes 4h 37m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Erlangen to Essen leaves at 1:08 AM.
The distance by train from Erlangen to Essen is 216 miles (349 km).
The last train from Erlangen to Essen leaves at 9:13 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Erlangen to Essen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Erlangen to Essen.
The train station in Erlangen that goes to Essen is Erlangen station, which connects to Essen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Erlangen to Essen is by bus, with a cost of around $27.
The train journey from Erlangen to Essen offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, passing through picturesque landscapes of the Franconian region, the industrial charm of the Ruhr area, and views of the Main and Rhine rivers.
A day trip from Erlangen to Essen is not feasible as the travel duration is 4h 37m. Trains run 8 times per day over a distance of 216 miles (349 km).
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 Erlangen to Essen.
Since both Erlangen 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 Erlangen 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 Erlangen to Essen
Most Erlangen to Essen trains use the Erlangen to Essen Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Essen West. Use this guide to compare Erlangen and Essen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Erlangen
Arrival train stations in Essen
Which Erlangen station do trains to Essen leave from?
Trains from Erlangen to Essen leave from Erlangen. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Erlangen city centre at Erlangen, Bahnhofsplatz 1, 91054 Erlangen.
ErlangenErlangen, Bahnhofsplatz 1, 91054 Erlangen
City-centre transport
Getting to Erlangen from Erlangen city centre
Bus295, 290, 289 · 4m · $4 · every ~14 min
Erlangen train station facilities and services
Erlangen 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: Basilikum, Ilias, Ristorante Carpaccio, Goldene Sonne
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Erlangen. ATMs are available at Erlangen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Erlangen. Information desks are available at Erlangen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Erlangen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Erlangen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Erlangen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Erlangen.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include NH Hotel, A. B. Hotel, Zeitwohnhaus, Hotel Villa Soy.
Which Essen station do trains from Erlangen arrive at?
Trains from Erlangen to Essen most often arrive at Essen Hbf. Some services arrive at Essen West, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Essen arrival station.
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.
Essen WestEssen West, Am Westbahnhof 1, 45144 Essen
City-centre transport
Getting to Essen West from Essen city centre
Essen West is 2 km from Essen city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRe14 · 2m · $1 · every ~1 min
BusRb33, S1, S9, S3 · 12m · $4
Tram101 · 24m · every ~10 min
Essen West train station facilities and services
Essen West 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: Pizzeria Don Camillo, Lindos, Zur Platte, Arman Döner
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Essen West. ATMs are available at Essen West.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Essen West. Information desks are available at Essen West.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Essen West. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen West: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Essen West: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen West.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include McDreams.
Most popular train connections from Erlangen
More options for your journey from Erlangen to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Essen and Erlangen
Most popular train connections to Essen
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