ESSEN to BASEL train from $37 (€30) with Deutsche Bahn (ICE)

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Basel

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 17

Cheapest price on Sep 17

$136

Average ticket price on Sep 17

$164

Fastest journey on Sep 17

5 h 9 m

Average journey duration on Sep 17

5 h 18 m

Trains on Sep 17

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 $164 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $136.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Essen to Basel without transferring at least once.

S6 · ICE 915 · ICE 71
8:08 AM5h13
Essen Hbf
1:21 PMBasel SBB
$1361One-way
2 transfers
S9 · ICE 515 · ICE 279
8:20 AM5h28
Essen Hbf
1:48 PMBasel SBB
$1361One-way
2 transfers
28074 · ICE 621 · ICE 515 · ICE 279
8:39 AM5h09
Essen Hbf
1:48 PMBasel SBB
$1361One-way
3 transfers
S9 · IC 2040 · ICE 279
7:20 AM6h28
Essen Hbf
1:48 PMBasel SBB
$1661One-way
2 transfers
S6 · ICE 25 · ICE 513 · ICE 277
6:28 AM5h20
Essen Hbf
11:48 AMBasel SBB
$1811One-way
3 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 an average ticket price of $74 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 42m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $74, while a flight costs an average of $691.

Distance: 270 miles (435 km)

Compare train with

Most popular Train	Bus	Flight	Driving
$120 Average price	$74 Average price Cheapest	$691 Average price	$178 Average price (fuel + tolls)
5h 40m Average total duration 5h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	11h 33m Average total duration 11h 3m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	4h 42m Average total duration Fastest 2h 42m Onboard + 2h 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
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 Essen to Basel is a bus with an average price of $74 (€60).

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

A bus is $46 (€38) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Basel costing on average $120 (€98).

A bus is $617 (€502) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Essen to Basel costing on average $691 (€562).

The fastest way to travel from Essen to Basel is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 42m.

Other travel options to Basel take longer:

Train takes on average 5h 10m.

Bus takes on average 11h 3m.

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 44m faster (5h 10m by train vs 5h 54m by car) and roughly $58 (€47) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($120 (€98) vs $178 (€145)). 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 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, September 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
S9 · ICE 513 · ICE 277	On time 6:20 AM Essen Hbf	5h28	11:48 AM Basel SBB	2 transfers
Bus RE1 · ICE 25 · ICE 513 · ICE 277	On time 6:22 AM Essen	5h26	11:48 AM Basel SBB	3 transfers
S6 · ICE 25 · ICE 513 · ICE 277	On time 6:28 AM Essen Hbf	5h20	11:48 AM Basel SBB	3 transfers
S9 · IC 2040 · ICE 279	On time 7:20 AM Essen Hbf	6h28	1:48 PM Basel SBB	2 transfers
Bus RE1 · ICE 103	On time 7:22 AM Essen	5h26	12:48 PM Basel SBB	1 transfer
S6 · ICE 103	On time 7:28 AM Essen Hbf	5h20	12:48 PM Basel SBB	1 transfer
S6 · ICE 915 · ICE 71	On time 8:08 AM Essen Hbf	5h13	1:21 PM Basel SBB	2 transfers
S9 · ICE 515 · ICE 279	On time 8:20 AM Essen Hbf	5h28	1:48 PM Basel SBB	2 transfers
28074 · ICE 621 · ICE 515 · ICE 279	On time 8:39 AM Essen Hbf	5h09	1:48 PM Basel SBB	3 transfers
This is the last train of the day.

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
Sep 17

Fri
Sep 18

Sat
Sep 19

Sun
Sep 20

Mon
Sep 21

Tue
Sep 22

Wed
Sep 23

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

Germany

Switzerland

Trains from Essen to Basel run on average 7 times per day, taking around 5h 10m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $42 (€34) but you can travel from only $36 (€29) 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 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 $36 (€29)

Distance

270 miles (435 km)

Average train duration

5h 10m

Cheapest ticket price

$42 (€34)

Trains per day

Direct trains

Fastest train

4h 25m

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

Price information

Cheapest alternative travel mode

Bus from $36 (€29)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain from Essen to Basel trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Essen and Basel from $36 (€29). 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration

4h 25m

Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price

$49 (€40)

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.

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

Learn more about Deutsche Bahn

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

$42 (€34)

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

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.

View on map Visit website

Must visit

Museum Tinguely

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

View on map Visit website

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.

View on map Visit website

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.

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.

Train ticket prices from Essen to Basel can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $42 (€34), while the average price is around $120 (€98).

The train from Essen to Basel takes 4h 25m and runs 7 per day.

The distance by train from Essen to Basel is 270 miles (435 km).

The first train from Essen to Basel leaves at 1:05 AM.

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 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 $36 (€29).

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 25m. 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 Essen Wifi

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.

More about Essen Hbf

Essen, Kruppstraße / Am ThyssenhausAm Thyssenhaus & Kruppstraße, 45128 Essen-Stadtbezirk I, Germany Wifi

City-centre transport

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

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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.

Which Basel station do trains from Essen arrive at?

Trains from Essen to Basel most often arrive at Basel SBB. Some services arrive at Basel Bad Bhf, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Basel arrival station.

Basel SBBCentralbahnstrasse 10, 4051 Basel, Switzerland+41 51 221 22 22 Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Basel SBB from Basel city centre

Basel SBB is 1 km from Basel city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainTer · 5m · $1 · every ~2 min

Bus50 · 4m · $2 · every ~15 min

Tram11 · 5m · $2

1, 3, 2 · 7m · $2 · every ~25 min

Basel SBB train station facilities and services

Basel SBB has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.