- Must visit
Zentrum Paul Klee
Major art museum dedicated to Paul Klee, with a renowned collection and striking Renzo Piano architecture just outside the old town.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Bern
Showing times and prices for Jun 09
Cheapest price
$152
Average price
$219
Fastest journey
5 h 56 m
Average duration
6 h 55 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
502 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen to Bern is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Essen to Bern will cost around $219 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $152.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Essen for Bern on Tue, Jun 09, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Jun 09 the direct trains cover the 502 km distance in an average of 6 h 55 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 56 m .
On Tue, Jun 09 the slowest trains will take 7 h 52 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.
5:00 AM6h56Essen11:56 AMBern$1521One-way0 transfers- 6:00 AM5h56Essen11:56 AMBern$1961One-way0 transfers
- 6:36 AM7h52Essen2:28 PMBern$3081One-way0 transfers
- 6:00 AM5h56Essen11:56 AMBern$1961One-way0 transfers
- 5:00 AM6h56Essen11:56 AMBern$1521One-way0 transfers
- 6:36 AM7h52Essen2:28 PMBern$3081One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Essen to Bern
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Essen to Bern among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $47. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 6h 28m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $47, and a flight costs an average of $137.
Distance: 311 miles (502 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$168 Average price | $70 Average price Cheapest | $245 Average price | $198 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 58m Average total duration Fastest 6h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 18h 35m Average total duration 18h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 2m Average total duration 8h 2m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 6h 57m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.5 - 1.3kg CO2 emissions | - 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 Bern is a bus with an average price of $70 (€57).
This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Bern:
A bus is $98 (€80) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Bern costing on average $168 (€137).
A bus is $175 (€143) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Essen to Bern costing on average $245 (€200).
The fastest way to travel from Essen to Bern is by train with an average journey time of 6h 28m.
Other travel options to Bern take longer:
Flight takes on average 8h 2m.
Bus takes on average 18h 5m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Essen and Bern including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Bern among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 29m faster (6h 28m by train vs 6h 57m by car) and roughly $30 (€24) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($168 (€137) vs $198 (€161)). 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.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Essen to Bern train times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Bern trains for today, Monday, June 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:52 AM Essen | 7h04 | 3:56 PM Bern | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Tuesday, June 9 | |||||
| 5:00 AM Essen | 6h56 | 11:56 AM Bern | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:00 AM Essen | 5h56 | 11:56 AM Bern | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:36 AM Essen | 7h52 | 2:28 PM Bern | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Essen to Bern 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.
Tue
Jun 09
Jun 09
Wed
Jun 10
Jun 10
Thu
Jun 11
Jun 11
Fri
Jun 12
Jun 12
Sat
Jun 13
Jun 13
Sun
Jun 14
Jun 14
Mon
Jun 15
Jun 15
Why should you book Essen to Bern trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Essen to Bern.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to Bern.
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 Bern.
- 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 Essen to Bern.
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 Essen to Bern.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Bern
Germany
Switzerland
Trains from Essen to Bern run on average 7 times per day, taking around 6h 28m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $58 (€47) but you can travel from only $47 (€38) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:36. The fastest train covers the 311 miles (502 km) distance in 5h 50m.
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 $47 (€38)
Distance 311 miles (502 km) |
Average train duration 6h 28m |
Cheapest ticket price $58 (€47) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 5h 50m |
First train 12:02 AM |
Last train 11:36 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 35 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 $47 (€38)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Essen to Bern trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Essen and Bern from $47 (€38). 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
5h 50m
Cheapest Price
$58 (€47)
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.
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
5h 56m
Cheapest Price
$158 (€129)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
6 a day
Complete guide to Bern
Things to do in Bern
Discover the best of Bern — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bern trip today.
- Must visit
Bernisches Historisches Museum
Bern’s main history museum, covering Swiss and world cultures, and home to the Einstein Museum exhibition.
- Must visit
Kunstmuseum Bern
One of Switzerland’s oldest art museums, with strong holdings from medieval works to modern and contemporary art.
- Must visit
UNESCO Old City of Bern
Arcaded medieval center with sandstone facades, fountains, and long walking streets; the essential area for first-time visitors.
- Must visit
Rosengarten
Hilltop rose garden and park with the classic panoramic view over Bern’s old town and the Aare loop.
- Must visit
Kramgasse
Bern’s best-known old town street, lined with arcades, historic houses, fountains, and key sights including the Zytglogge.
- Gluten-free
Berner Platte
A classic Bernese platter of cured and smoked meats, sausages, sauerkraut, green beans and potatoes, traditionally served for festive gatherings.
- Vegetarian
Zibelechueche
Bern’s famous onion tart, especially associated with the annual Zibelemärit onion market. It is a savory tart made with onions, eggs and cream.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Berner Rösti
A Bernese version of rösti, the Swiss potato dish, often served as a golden pan-fried cake and paired with regional meat dishes or eggs.
Restaurant Rosengarten
An established scenic restaurant above the old town, offering refined Swiss and international cuisine with one of Bern’s best views.
Kornhauskeller
A grand historic restaurant in a vaulted cellar, known for Swiss classics and an atmospheric Bern dining experience.
Altes Tramdepot Brauerei
A popular brewpub by the Bear Park serving house beers and hearty Swiss dishes with panoramic views over Bern.
Swiss Franc
Bern is costly by European standards, with high prices for hotels, restaurants, and daily expenses.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 15-25 for takeaway or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- CHF 30-50 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- CHF 90+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- CHF 4.50-6 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is included. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for great service is appreciated. Round up taxi fares.
Bernmobil
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 2.60
- Day pass
- CHF 9.60
To the city center
Bern Hauptbahnhof, Bern -> Zytglogge, Bern
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Tickets are valid within fare zones, so check that your ticket covers the required Libero zones before boarding.
- Card payment is generally available at ticket machines, but not always directly on every bus or tram, so buy your ticket in advance or in the app.
FAQs: Trains from Essen to Bern
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Bern 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 Bern, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Essen to Bern can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $58 (€47), while the average price is around $168 (€137).
The train from Essen to Bern takes 5h 50m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Essen to Bern is 311 miles (502 km).
The first train from Essen to Bern leaves at 12:02 AM.
The last train from Essen to Bern leaves at 11:36 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Essen to Bern.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Bern.
The train station in Essen that goes to Bern is Essen Hbf, which connects to Bern Hauptbahnhof.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Bern is by bus, with a cost of around $47 (€38).
The train journey from Essen to Bern is quite scenic, offering views of the picturesque Rhine Valley, rolling hills, charming villages, and stretches of lush countryside, particularly as the route approaches Switzerland.
A day trip from Essen to Bern is not feasible, as the journey takes 5h 50m each way. The distance is 311 miles (502 km), with trains running 9 times per day.
In Bern, you can take a guided tour of the Federal Palace, explore the Bern Historical Museum and the Einstein Museum, and wander through the charming streets of the UNESCO-listed Old Town. Visit the Zentrum Paul Klee for art by Swiss painter Paul Klee, and enjoy a walk along the Aare River. Don't miss the Zytglogge, a medieval clock tower with an astronomical clock, and the Bundeshaus. You can also visit BearPark, admire the Gothic-style Bern Cathedral, and enjoy the views from Rosengarten.
For a fulfilling experience, spending 2 to 3 days in Bern is ideal to explore its historic Old Town, visit the Bear Park, and enjoy the Rosengarten and local museums.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Bern.
Since both Essen and Bern 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 Bern include Zurich, Geneva, Basel, Interlaken, Lucerne.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Bern 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 Bern, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the Old Town and public transportation. Common scams include distracting tactics used by groups to steal wallets or phones. It's advisable to keep belongings secure and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or deals. Additionally, avoid unlicensed taxi services to prevent overcharging. Overall, Bern is a safe city, but usual urban vigilance is recommended.
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 Bern
Essen
Bern
The major train station for departures in Essen is Essen Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Essen Hbf for your trip from Essen to Bern.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Saturday: 09:00 - 18:00
- Sunday: 09:00 - 18:00
Dining
- Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
- Kiepenkerl
- Cafe Extrablatt
- Tacos
Hotel
- Ambassador
- Gästearpartment Dahl
- WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus
- Motel One
The major train station for arrivals in Bern is Bern Hauptbahnhof. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bern Hauptbahnhof for your journey to Bern from Essen.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
17Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. Access via Parkterrasse or Schanzenstrasse.
Dining
- Restaurant Lötschberg
- Tibits Bern Gurtengasse
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps.
WC
- CHF 1
Hotel
- Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & Spa
- Hotel Savoy Bern
- Best Western Plus Hotel Bern
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 1,000 places, mostly covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-12 for long-distance and regional trains
- Hall 2: S-Bahn platforms
- Hall 3: Tram and bus connections
Public transit options for Bern Hauptbahnhof
- Tram: Line 3, Line 6, Line 7, Line 8, Line 9
- Bus: Several lines available
Most popular train connections from Essen
More options for your journey from Essen to Bern
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bern and Essen
Most popular train connections to Bern
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