Essen to Basel train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE)

Sun, Nov 01
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Basel

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 01
Cheapest price on Nov 01
€100
Average ticket price on Nov 01
€238
Fastest journey on Nov 01
4 h 46 m
Average journey duration on Nov 01
5 h 6 m
Trains on Nov 01
19
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 €238 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €100.

Fast trains

On Sun, Nov 01, we found 19 trains from Essen to Basel, including 2 direct services.

On Sun, Nov 01 the direct trains cover the 435 km distance in an average of 5 h 6 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 46 m .

On Sun, Nov 01 the slowest trains will take 5 h 28 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 BahnICE 109 · IC 2046 · ICE 375
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 109
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 107
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 919 · ICE 373
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche Bahn89718 · ICE 229 · 4524 · ICE 375
    3 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Essen to Basel

GermanyGermany
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Icon of train

Trains from Essen to Basel run on average 8 times per day, taking around 5h 15m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €35 but you can travel from only €25 by bus.

There are 1 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 25m.

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 €25

Plan this route

Journey facts

  • Distance270 miles (435 km)
  • Average train duration5h 15m
  • Cheapest ticket price€35
  • Trains per day8
  • Direct trains1
  • Fastest train4h 25m
  • First train1:05 AM
  • Last train11:46 PM
  • Cheapest MonthFeb
  • Cheapest DayWed
  • High SeasonJul - Sep
  • Low SeasonJan - Mar
  • Busiest DayMon
  • Least Busy DaySun

Understand & plan this route

Explore this journey

Book with confidence

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 €25

Frequently asked questions about your Essen to Basel trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Essen to Basel.

Train ticket prices from Essen to Basel can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €35, while the average price is around €116.
The train from Essen to Basel takes 4h 25m and runs 8 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 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.

Live departures

Essen to Basel train times

The table below shows live departures for Essen to Basel trains for tomorrow, Sunday, November 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Eurostar9438+SNCF | TGV INOUI9531+SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187962479:26 AM Essen Hbf
11h12
8:38 PM Basel SBB2 transfers
Eurostar9438+SNCF | TGV Lyria92199:26 AM Essen Hbf
10h00
7:26 PM Basel SBB1 transfer
Eurostar9438+SNCF | TGV Lyria92239:26 AM Essen Hbf
12h06
9:32 PM Basel SBB1 transfer
Eurostar9438+SNCF | TGV Lyria92239:33 AM Essen Hbf
11h59
9:32 PM Basel SBB1 transfer
Eurostar9438+SNCF | TGV Lyria92199:33 AM Essen Hbf
9h53
7:26 PM Basel SBB1 transfer
Eurostar9438+SNCF | TGV INOUI12127+TER962339:33 AM Essen Hbf
9h35
7:08 PM Basel SBB2 transfers
Eurostar9450+SNCF | TGV Lyria922311:24 AM Essen Hbf
10h08
9:32 PM Basel SBB1 transfer
Eurostar9450+SNCF | TGV INOUI9531+TER9624711:24 AM Essen Hbf
9h14
8:38 PM Basel SBB2 transfers
Eurostar9450+SNCF | TGV INOUI9531+SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 11879624711:24 AM Essen Hbf
9h14
8:38 PM Basel SBB2 transfers
Eurostar9450+TGV9579+SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 11879623911:24 AM Essen Hbf
9h44
9:08 PM Basel SBB2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 107
Delayed
12:00 PM Essen Hbf
4h46
3:48 PM 3:48 PMBasel SBB
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn10214 · ICE 919 · S3 · ICE 373
On time
12:20 PM Essen Hbf
5h28
5:48 PM Basel SBB
3 transfers
Deutsche Bahn89718 · ICE 229 · 4524 · ICE 375
On time
12:32 PM Essen Hbf
7h16
7:48 PM Basel SBB
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 919 · ICE 373
On time
12:35 PM Essen Hbf
5h13
5:48 PM Basel SBB
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnS9 · IC 2046 · ICE 201
On time
1:20 PM Essen Hbf
7h28
8:48 PM Basel SBB
2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn89720 · ICE 109
On time
1:32 PM Essen Hbf
5h16
6:48 PM Basel SBB
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 109 · IC 2046 · ICE 375
On time
2:00 PM Essen Hbf
5h48
7:48 PM Basel SBB
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 109
Delayed
2:00 PM Essen Hbf
4h46
5:48 PM 5:48 PMBasel SBB
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn10218 · ICE 1011 · S3 · ICE 375
On time
2:20 PM Essen Hbf
5h28
7:48 PM Basel SBB
3 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Essen to Basel trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain 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 FlixTrain 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.

Train companies

Train companies from Essen to Basel

Trains from Essen to Basel with Deutsche Bahn and FlixTrain. Night trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn. High-speed trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn. Regional trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.

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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
4h 25m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€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

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 FlixTrain Duration
11h 34m
Cheapest FlixTrain Price
€35
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

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Essen and Basel

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Yes, there is a night train from Essen to Basel.
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.

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

One of Europe’s leading art museums, with outstanding Old Masters and modern works. An essential stop for Basel’s world-class cultural scene.

  • Must visit

Museum Tinguely

A major contemporary art museum in a former paper mill, known for ambitious temporary exhibitions and a beautiful riverside location.

  • Must visit

Fondation Beyeler

A renowned private museum presenting modern and contemporary art in a landmark building by Renzo Piano, set within a landscaped park.

Swiss franc (CHF, Fr.)

Very high hotel, dining, and everyday costs; transit is efficient but not cheap. Basel is pricier than most European city breaks.

Average meal costs

Budget
CHF 12-20 for fast food or simple lunch.
Mid-range
CHF 30-50 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
CHF 90+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
CHF 4.50-6 for cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included. Round up small amounts in cafes, add about CHF 5-10 in restaurants for good service, and round up taxi fares.

Plan your visit to Basel

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Basel.

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.
Popular day trips by train from Basel include Colmar, Strasbourg, Zurich, Lucerne, Bern.
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.

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
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Basel.

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, Kruppstraße / Am ThyssenhausAm Thyssenhaus & Kruppstraße, 45128 Essen-Stadtbezirk I, GermanyWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus from Essen city centre

TRUE

Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus train station facilities and services

Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus. ATMs are available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus: The station has basic accessibility features.

Train stations for Essen to Basel

Check train stations information for Essen and Basel, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Essen that goes to Basel is Essen Hbf, which connects to Basel SBB.

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