Essen to Berlin train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE)

Fri, Oct 09
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Berlin

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 09

Cheapest price on Oct 09

$59

Average ticket price on Oct 09

$152

Fastest journey on Oct 09

5 h 5 m

Average journey duration on Oct 09

5 h 10 m

Trains on Oct 09

14

Distance

454 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Essen to Berlin will cost around $152 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $59.

Fast trains

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

  • FlixBusFlixBus+FlixTrainFlixTrain
    2:15 PM8h34
    Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)
    10:49 PMBerlin Südkreuz station
    $591One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus+FlixTrainFlixTrain
    2:15 PM8h25
    Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)
    10:40 PMBerlin Hbf
    $591One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche Bahn10235 · 14072 · RJ 171+metronom81902
    9:40 PM9h43
    Essen Hbf
    7:23 AMBerlin Hbf
    $1161One-way
    3 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn22055 · IC 2349 · ICE 703+metronom82856
    9:52 PM9h59
    Essen Hbf
    7:51 AMBerlin Hbf
    $1231One-way
    4 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn26729 · ICE 945
    6:13 PM5h12
    Essen Hbf
    11:25 PMBerlin Hbf
    $1281One-way
    1 transfer

Journey information

Overview: Train from Essen to Berlin

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Essen to Berlin run on average 13 times per day, taking around 4h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $12 (€10) if you book in advance.

There are 11 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 282 miles (454 km) distance in 3h 39m.

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
282 miles (454 km)
Average train duration
4h 18m
Cheapest ticket price
$12 (€10)
Trains per day
13
Direct trains
11
Fastest train
3h 39m
First train
12:02 AM
Last train
11:58 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
42 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

Live departures

Essen to Berlin train times

The table below shows live departures for Essen to Berlin trains for tomorrow, Friday, October 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn26709 · ICE 845
On time
8:13 AM Essen Hbf
5h06
1:19 PM Berlin Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 555+VIAS Rail GmbH31306
Delayed
7:32 AM 8:34 AMEssen Hbf
5h43
2:17 PM Berlin Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn10209 · ICE 616 · ICE 601
On time
8:40 AM Essen Hbf
5h42
2:22 PM Berlin Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn26711 · ICE 545 · 737719:13 AM Essen Hbf
5h12
2:25 PM Berlin-Charlottenburg2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn26711 · ICE 545
On time
9:13 AM Essen Hbf
5h13
2:26 PM Berlin Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn26713 · ICE 847
On time
10:13 AM Essen Hbf
5h05
3:18 PM Berlin Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 557+VIAS Rail GmbH31310
Delayed
9:32 AM 10:34 AMEssen Hbf
5h43
4:17 PM Berlin Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn10213 · ICE 614 · ICE 603
On time
10:40 AM Essen Hbf
5h42
4:22 PM Berlin Hbf
2 transfers
FlixBusFlixBus+FlixTrainFlixTrain2:15 PM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)
8h34
10:49 PM Berlin Südkreuz station1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus+FlixTrainFlixTrain2:15 PM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)
8h25
10:40 PM Berlin Hbf1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn26729 · ICE 945
On time
6:13 PM Essen Hbf
5h12
11:25 PM Berlin Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn10233 · ICE 514 · RJ 171
On time
8:40 PM Essen Hbf
10h43
7:23 AM Berlin Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn10235 · 14072+metronom81902+Deutsche BahnRJ 171
On time
9:40 PM Essen Hbf
9h43
7:23 AM Berlin Hbf
3 transfers
Deutsche Bahn22055 · IC 2349+metronom82856+Deutsche BahnICE 7039:52 PM Essen Hbf
9h59
7:51 AM Berlin Hbf4 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Essen to Berlin trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain offer trains services from Essen to Berlin.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to Berlin.

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 Berlin.
  • 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 Berlin.

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 Berlin.

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Essen to Berlin

userReviewImage
userReviewLogo
The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Advantages
Icongood atmosphere
Iconclean air
Iconcomfort
That was my return trip and it was great. I went inside and it smelled very fresh. Then I sat down. I ordered something for myself and it arrived very quickly and was very fresh. Then I got out my tablet and used the internet and the internet was very strong. I looked out the window and the atmosphere was very good. My train also came on time, I pass on this trip.
Advantages
IconGood connection
IconNo change
Disadvantages
IconDelays
There was only a minimal delay on the journey from Berlin to Essen. The train was not completely full at this time of day, which made the journey very pleasant. The wifi had a fairly stable connection. There were no problems with seat reservations. The train attendants were also friendly. The price-performance ratio was right here.
Advantages
IconAir conditioning
IconPunctuality
IconComfort
Disadvantages
IconReservations
IconToo full
Here I would like to share my positive experiences on the journey from Berlin to Essen. I travelled by ICE 1st class. Thank God I had booked my seat in advance, the train was very full. The cool air conditioning in the train was pleasant. The toilets were really very clean and the service was done right after the start. At every seat there was the possibility to put the laptop on a folding table and directly at the seat there were sockets so that you could charge the device directly. My train was also on time and the connecting trains were reached, I will travel 1st class by ICE again. The price was also reasonable.
Advantages
Icongood wifi
Icontasty food
Iconfree space on the square
I travelled in second class and this was my return journey. I rate this journey with five stars as I have nothing to criticise. The train looked very nice from the inside and also from the outside. The food was very tasty, there were also vegan and vegetarian dishes. The internet was very good, although many people used it, so I was able to complete my work on the computer. My seat was very comfortable and I had a lot of space at my seat. My train was also on time. It was a wonderful journey.

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain from Essen to Berlin trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Essen and Berlin from $12 (€10). 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
3h 39m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$21 (€18)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
6 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
4h 5m
Cheapest FlixTrain Price
$12 (€10)
FlixTrain frequency
6 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 Berlin

Things to do in Berlin

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

  • Must visit

Pergamonmuseum

World-famous museum of ancient Greek and Roman art, celebrated for the Pergamon Altar and monumental archaeological treasures.

  • Must visit

Alte Nationalgalerie

Renowned collection of 19th-century European painting, including Caspar David Friedrich, in a grand museum on Kulturforum.

  • Must visit

Neue Nationalgalerie

One of Europe’s leading contemporary art museums, known for major 20th-century works and a Mies van der Rohe building.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Europe: hostels and budget eats are reasonable, but hotels in central areas can be pricey. Transit is good value for visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or street food.
Mid-range
€18-30 per person for a meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
€3-4.50 for cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Round up or tip about 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Round up in cafes and taxis; tip is appreciated but not mandatory.

FAQs: Trains from Essen to Berlin

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Essen to Berlin can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $12 (€10), while the average price is around $78 (€66).
The train from Essen to Berlin takes 3h 39m and runs 13 per day.
The first train from Essen to Berlin leaves at 12:02 AM.
The distance by train from Essen to Berlin is 282 miles (454 km).
The last train from Essen to Berlin leaves at 11:58 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Essen to Berlin. This service operates 11 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Berlin.
The train station in Essen that goes to Berlin is Essen Hbf, which connects to Berlin Hbf.
The train journey from Essen to Berlin offers a blend of urban and countryside views, with stretches of scenic landscapes, forests, and small towns, especially as the route passes through North Rhine-Westphalia and Brandenburg.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Berlin.
Popular day trips by train from Berlin include Leipzig, Erfurt, Wolfsburg, Magdeburg, Brunswick.
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 Berlin, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport, Alexanderplatz, and popular tourist sites. Fake charity collectors and street vendors selling counterfeit goods are common scams. It's also advisable to avoid unlicensed taxi services and be wary of distraction techniques used by scammers to steal belongings. Staying alert in nightlife districts can help prevent theft and other safety issues.
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 Berlin

Most Essen to Berlin trains use the Essen Hbf to Berlin Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Berlin Spandau. Use this guide to compare Essen and Berlin 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 Berlin

Which Essen station do trains to Berlin leave from?

Trains from Essen to Berlin 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 WestEssen West, Am Westbahnhof 1, 45144 EssenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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.

Essen-KupferdrehEssen-Kupferdreh, Hofstraße 1, 45257 EssenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Essen-Kupferdreh from Essen city centre

Essen-Kupferdreh is 8 km from Essen city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS9, Re49 · 13m · $4 · every ~6 min
Bus155 · 20m · every ~5 min
155, Ne6 · 25m · every ~6 min
155 · 31m · every ~5 min
S9 · 35m · $6

Essen-Kupferdreh train station facilities and services

Essen-Kupferdreh 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: Lukas, Im Fass, Pizzeria Spuntino Dario, Contilla EisCafe

Wi-Fi and ATMs

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

Tickets and information

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

Luggage and lost property

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

Parking, taxis and toilets

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

Bike and car services

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

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Essen-Kupferdreh.

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