Essen to Basel train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,EC,RE)

Thu, Jun 18
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
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2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Basel

Showing times and prices for Jun 18

Cheapest price

$51

Average price

$110

Fastest journey

4 h 45 m

Average duration

5 h 35 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

435 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen to Basel is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Essen to Basel will cost around $110 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $51.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Essen for Basel on Thu, Jun 18, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Jun 18 the direct trains cover the 435 km distance in an average of 5 h 35 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 45 m .

On Thu, Jun 18 the slowest trains will take 5 h 48 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.

  • Deutsche Bahn
    6:00 AM5h48
    Essen
    11:48 AMBasel
    $511One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    9:00 AM5h48
    Essen
    2:48 PMBasel
    $891One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:36 AM4h45
    Essen
    12:21 PMBasel
    $1171One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    5:00 AM5h48
    Essen
    10:48 AMBasel
    $1271One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:00 AM5h48
    Essen
    12:48 PMBasel
    $1661One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Essen to Basel

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Essen to Basel among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $37. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 21m. 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 $37, and a flight costs an average of $142.

Distance: 270 miles (435 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$118

Average price

$53

Average price

Cheapest

$242

Average price

$178

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

5h 51m

Average total duration

Fastest

5h 21m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 21m

Average total duration

7h 51m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

11h 14m

Average total duration

8h 14m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

5h 54m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.4 - 1.1kg

CO2 emissions

1.3 - 2.6kg

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 Essen to Basel is a bus with an average price of $53 (€43).

This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Basel:

A bus is $64 (€52) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Basel costing on average $118 (€95).

A bus is $189 (€153) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Essen to Basel costing on average $242 (€196).

The fastest way to travel from Essen to Basel is by train with an average journey time of 5h 21m.

Other travel options to Basel take longer:

Bus takes on average 7h 51m.

Flight takes on average 8h 14m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Essen and Basel including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Basel among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 33m faster (5h 21m by train vs 5h 54m by car) and roughly $60 (€49) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($118 (€95) vs $178 (€144)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.

Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).

Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Essen to Basel train times

The table below shows live departures for Essen to Basel trains for tomorrow, Thursday, June 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn5:00 AM Essen
5h48
10:48 AM Basel0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn6:00 AM Essen
5h48
11:48 AM Basel0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn7:00 AM Essen
5h48
12:48 PM Basel0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn7:36 AM Essen
4h45
12:21 PM Basel0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn9:00 AM Essen
5h48
2:48 PM Basel0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Essen to Basel 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
Jun 18
Fri
Jun 19
Sat
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24

Why should you book Essen to Basel trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Essen to Basel.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to Basel.

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) to find the best option for your trip from Essen to Basel.
  • 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 Essen to Basel.

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 Essen to Basel.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Essen to Basel

GermanyGermany
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Icon of train

Trains from Essen to Basel run on average 10 times per day, taking around 5h 21m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $46 (€38) but you can travel from only $37 (€30) by bus.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 01:05, the last at 23:46. The fastest train covers the 270 miles (435 km) distance in 4h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $37 (€30)
Distance
270 miles (435 km)
Average train duration
5h 21m
Cheapest ticket price
$46 (€38)
Trains per day
10
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
4h 45m
First train
1:05 AM
Last train
11:46 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Sun
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $37 (€30)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Essen to Basel trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Essen and Basel from $37 (€30). 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 45m
Cheapest Price
$49 (€40)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
8 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.
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.
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.
Quiet zone

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 36m
Cheapest Price
$99 (€80)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
6 a day

Complete guide to Basel

Things to do in Basel

Discover the best of Basel — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Basel trip today.

  • Must visit

Kunstmuseum Basel

Switzerland’s oldest public art museum, renowned for its outstanding collection from Holbein to modern masters. A top choice for art lovers visiting Basel.

  • Must visit

Fondation Beyeler

A celebrated museum in nearby Riehen with an exceptional collection of modern and contemporary art, set in a striking Renzo Piano building and landscaped park.

  • Recommended

Museum Tinguely

Dedicated to Jean Tinguely’s kinetic sculptures, this riverside museum is one of Basel’s most distinctive cultural attractions and especially appealing for modern art fans.

Swiss Franc

Basel is costly by European standards. Hotels, dining, and transport are pricey, though supermarkets and lunch specials can help reduce daily costs.

Average meal costs

Budget
CHF 12-20 for takeaway or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
CHF 25-45 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
CHF 90+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
CHF 4.50-6 for a cappuccino or latte.

Tipping culture

Service is included. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving about 5-10% for very good service is appreciated. Round up for taxis; small tips are optional in cafés and bars.

FAQs: Trains from Essen to Basel

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Basel 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 Basel, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Essen to Basel can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $46 (€38), while the average price is around $118 (€95).
The train from Essen to Basel takes 4h 45m and runs 10 per day.
The first train from Essen to Basel leaves at 1:05 AM.
The distance by train from Essen to Basel is 270 miles (435 km).
The last train from Essen to Basel leaves at 11:46 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Essen to Basel. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Basel.
The train station in Essen that goes to Basel is Essen Hbf, which connects to Basel SBB.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Basel is by bus, with a cost of around $37 (€30).
The train journey from Essen to Basel offers scenic views, passing through picturesque landscapes, including the lush Rhine Valley and charming German towns, making it an enjoyable and visually appealing trip.
A day trip from Essen to Basel is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 45m. However, there are 14 trains available per day for this 270 miles (435 km) route.
In Basel, you can visit the Tinguely Museum to see kinetic sculptures by Jean Tinguely, enjoy a scenic Rhine River Cruise, and explore the charming Old Town with its medieval buildings and vibrant markets. Art enthusiasts can visit the Fondation Beyeler for modern and tribal art or attend Art Basel for contemporary artworks. Notable sights include the Gothic Basel Minster, the Kunstmuseum Basel, the playful Tinguely Fountain, Basel Zoo, and the historically significant Rathaus Basel with its red sandstone facade.
Two to three days are sufficient to explore Basel's key attractions, including its museums, old town, and the Rhine River.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Basel.
Since both Essen and Basel 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 Basel include Colmar, Strasbourg, Zurich, Lucerne, Bern.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Basel 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.
Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF) as its currency. Travelers can use both cash and cards; however, credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially in cities and larger establishments, making card payments convenient. Cash is still useful for small purchases, local markets, or remote areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Basel, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transportation and popular tourist spots. Scams involving fake charity collectors and overpriced taxi rides have also been reported. Staying alert and using official transportation services can help ensure a safe visit.
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 Essen to Basel

Most Essen to Basel trains use the Essen Hbf to Basel SBB station pair, with some services arriving at Basel Bad Bhf. Use this guide to compare Essen and Basel train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Essen
Arrival train stations in Basel

Which Essen station do trains to Basel leave from?

Trains from Essen to Basel leave from Essen Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Essen city centre at Essen Hbf, Am Hauptbahnhof 5, 45127 Essen.
Essen HbfEssen Hbf, Am Hauptbahnhof 5, 45127 EssenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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-AltenessenEssen-Altenessen, Hövelstraße 8, 45326 EssenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Essen-Altenessen from Essen city centre

Essen-Altenessen is 3 km from Essen city centre. Public transport options include:

BusNe1 · 8m
Tram108 · 10m · every ~10 min
SubwayU11, U17 · 4m · every ~18 min
U17, U11 · 6m · every ~18 min

Essen-Altenessen train station facilities and services

Essen-Altenessen 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 and drink

Food options include: Burger King, Werner, Bückmannsmühle, Muckel-Eis

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Essen-Altenessen. ATMs are available at Essen-Altenessen.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Essen-Altenessen. Information desks are available at Essen-Altenessen.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Essen-Altenessen. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Essen-Altenessen: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Essen-Altenessen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Essen-Altenessen.

Essen SüdEssen Süd, Rellinghauser Str.175, 45136 EssenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Essen Süd from Essen city centre

Essen Süd is 1 km from Essen city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS6 · 2m · $1 · every ~6 min
BusS6 · 10m · $4
Tram105 · 9m · every ~10 min

Essen Süd train station facilities and services

Essen Süd 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, Haus Wilmes, Mana Mana, Karawane

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Essen Süd. ATMs are available at Essen Süd.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Essen Süd. Information desks are available at Essen Süd.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Essen Süd. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Essen Süd: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Essen Süd: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Essen Süd.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Webers.

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