- Must visit
Zentrum Paul Klee
World-class museum and research center devoted to Paul Klee, with major exhibitions in a striking Renzo Piano building.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Bern
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 22
Cheapest price on Oct 22
€58
Average ticket price on Oct 22
€71
Fastest journey on Oct 22
6 h 17 m
Average journey duration on Oct 22
6 h 22 m
Trains on Oct 22
14
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 €71 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €58.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Essen to Bern without transferring at least 3 times.
S9 · ICE 611 · ICE 927 · ICE 10132:20 PM8h06Essen Hbf10:26 PMBern Hauptbahnhof€581One-way5 transfers- S9 · ICE 201 · IC 1948 · ICE 3773:20 PM7h36Essen Hbf10:56 PMBern Hauptbahnhof€581One-way3 transfers
- S6 · ICE 725 · ICE 201 · IC 9873:28 PM6h28Essen Hbf9:56 PMBern Hauptbahnhof€611One-way3 transfers
- S9 · ICE 201 · IC 9873:20 PM6h36Essen Hbf9:56 PMBern Hauptbahnhof€611One-way2 transfers
- S6 · ICE 915 · ICE 71 · IC 6238:08 AM6h18Essen Hbf2:26 PMBern Hauptbahnhof€711One-way3 transfers
- 28074 · ICE 621 · ICE 515 · ICE 2798:39 AM6h17Essen Hbf2:56 PMBern Hauptbahnhof€811One-way4 transfers
- S6 · ICE 915 · ICE 71 · IC 6238:08 AM6h18Essen Hbf2:26 PMBern Hauptbahnhof€711One-way3 transfers
- S6 · ICE 1011 · ICE 7 · IC 6352:08 PM6h18Essen Hbf8:26 PMBern Hauptbahnhof€711One-way3 transfers
- S6 · ICE 623 · ICE 105 · IC 109759:28 AM6h28Essen Hbf3:56 PMBern Hauptbahnhof€711One-way3 transfers
- S6 · ICE 1123 · ICE 611 · ICE 3752:28 PM6h28Essen Hbf8:56 PMBern Hauptbahnhof€711One-way4 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Bern
Germany
Switzerland
Trains from Essen to Bern run on average 5 times per day, taking around 6h 9m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €68 but you can travel from only €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 31m.
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 €38
Distance 311 miles (502 km) |
Average train duration 6h 9m |
Cheapest ticket price €68 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 5h 31m |
First train 12:02 AM |
Last train 11:36 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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 €38
Frequently asked questions about your Essen to Bern trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Essen to Bern.
Train ticket prices from Essen to Bern can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €68, while the average price is around €135.
The train from Essen to Bern takes 5h 31m and runs 5 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.
Live departures
Essen to Bern train times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Bern trains for tomorrow, Thursday, October 22. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S6 · ICE 915 · ICE 71 · IC 623 | 8:08 AM Essen Hbf | 6h18 | 2:26 PM Bern Hauptbahnhof | 3 transfers | |
| 30294 · 17323 · ICE 27 · ICE 225 | 8:12 AM Essen Hbf | 8h14 | 4:26 PM Bern Hauptbahnhof | 5 transfers | |
| S9 · ICE 515 · ICE 279 · IC 10279 | 8:20 AM Essen Hbf | 6h36 | 2:56 PM Bern Hauptbahnhof | 3 transfers | |
| 28074 · ICE 621 · ICE 515 · ICE 279 | 8:39 AM Essen Hbf | 6h17 | 2:56 PM Bern Hauptbahnhof | 4 transfers | |
| S9 · ICE 105 · ICE 2013 · ICE 371 | 9:20 AM Essen Hbf | 7h36 | 4:56 PM Bern Hauptbahnhof | 4 transfers | |
| S9 · ICE 105 · IC 10975 | 9:20 AM Essen Hbf | 6h36 | 3:56 PM Bern Hauptbahnhof | 2 transfers | |
| S6 · ICE 623 · ICE 105 · IC 10975 | 9:28 AM Essen Hbf | 6h28 | 3:56 PM Bern Hauptbahnhof | 3 transfers | |
| S6 · ICE 1011 · ICE 7 · IC 635 | 2:08 PM Essen Hbf | 6h18 | 8:26 PM Bern Hauptbahnhof | 3 transfers | |
| S9 · ICE 611 · ICE 927 · ICE 1013 | 2:20 PM Essen Hbf | 8h06 | 10:26 PM Bern Hauptbahnhof | 5 transfers | |
| S9 · ICE 611 · ICE 375 · IC 10375 | 2:20 PM Essen Hbf | 6h36 | 8:56 PM Bern Hauptbahnhof | 3 transfers | |
| S6 · ICE 1123 · ICE 611 · ICE 375 | 2:28 PM Essen Hbf | 6h28 | 8:56 PM Bern Hauptbahnhof | 4 transfers | |
| S9 · ICE 201 · IC 987 | 3:20 PM Essen Hbf | 6h36 | 9:56 PM Bern Hauptbahnhof | 2 transfers | |
| S9 · ICE 201 · IC 1948 · ICE 377 | On time 3:20 PM Essen Hbf | 7h36 | 10:56 PM Bern Hauptbahnhof | 3 transfers | |
| S6 · ICE 725 · ICE 201 · IC 987 | 3:28 PM Essen Hbf | 6h28 | 9:56 PM Bern Hauptbahnhof | 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 Bern trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all 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?
- 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.
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Essen to Bern trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Essen and Bern from €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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
5h 31m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€68
Deutsche Bahn frequency
5 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
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Essen and Bern
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
There is no direct train service currently available from Essen to Bern.
Yes, there is a night train from Essen to Bern.
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 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
Kunstmuseum Bern
Leading fine arts museum with works from the Middle Ages to modern art, including notable Swiss and international holdings.
- Must visit
Bernisches Historisches Museum
Swiss national museum branch presenting Alpine history, communication, migration, and rich cultural heritage collections.
- Must visit
Altstadt
UNESCO-listed medieval old town with arcades, fountains, shops, and major sights, ideal for Bern's classic walking route.
- Must visit
Rosengarten
Tree-lined riverside park on a peninsula bend, famous for postcard views of the Old City and a relaxing local atmosphere.
- Must visit
Kramgasse
Elegant main street of the Old City, lined with arcades, historic façades, fountains, and key landmarks including Zytglogge.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Rösti
Rösti is a crisp fried potato cake from the Bern region, once a farmer's breakfast and now a Swiss classic often served as a side or main dish.
- Gluten-free
Berner Platte
Berner Platte is a festive Bernese platter of cured and smoked meats, sausages, potatoes, sauerkraut, and beans, traditionally shared in colder months.
- Gluten-free
Berner Zungenwurst
Berner Zungenwurst is a Bernese tongue sausage, gently smoked and seasoned, usually served hot with potatoes or vegetables in traditional inns.
Steinhalle
Michelin-starred restaurant focused on modern seasonal cuisine, offering a sophisticated fine-dining experience by the Aare.
Restaurant Meridiano
Refined Swiss fine dining in an elegant old-town venue, known for seasonal tasting menus and polished service.
Restaurant Kornhauskeller
Historic cellar restaurant serving classic Bernese and Swiss dishes in a vaulted old-town setting with a warm traditional atmosphere.
Swiss franc (CHF, Fr.)
Bern is costlier than many European capitals. Hotels, dining, and daily transit are pricey, though the compact center and included local transport at some hotels can help.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 12-20 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- CHF 30-50 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- CHF 80+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- CHF 4.50-6 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great service. Round up taxi fares and small cafe bills.
ÖV Plus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 2.60
- Day pass
- CHF 9.20
To the city center
Bern Hauptbahnhof -> Bärenplatz, Bern
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 8 min
- Buy tickets before boarding; Bernmobil vehicles do not sell tickets on board.
- Contactless card payment works at Bernmobil ticket machines; use the official app for mobile ticket purchase.
Plan your visit to Bern
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 Bern.
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.
Popular day trips by train from Bern include Zurich, Geneva, Basel, Interlaken, Lucerne.
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.
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 €68, while the average price is around €135.
The train from Essen to Bern takes 5h 31m and runs 5 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.
Yes, there is a night train from Essen to Bern.
The train station in Essen that goes to Bern is Essen Hbf, which connects to Bern Hauptbahnhof.
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.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Bern.
Popular day trips by train from Bern include Zurich, Geneva, Basel, Interlaken, Lucerne.
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
Most Essen to Bern trains use the Essen Hbf to Bern Hauptbahnhof station pair. Use this guide to compare Essen and Bern 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 Bern
Which Essen station do trains to Bern leave from?
Trains from Essen to Bern 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
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.
Which Bern station do trains from Essen arrive at?
Trains from Essen to Bern arrive at Bern Hauptbahnhof. Bern Hauptbahnhof is 0 miles (1 km) from Bern city centre.
Bern HauptbahnhofBahnhofplatz, 3011 Bern, Switzerland+41 51 220 11 11
City-centre transport
Getting to Bern Hauptbahnhof from Bern city centre
Tram3, 6, 7, 8, 9 · 3m · €2 · every ~59 min
Bern Hauptbahnhof train station facilities and services
Bern Hauptbahnhof 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, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Lötschberg, Tibits Bern Gurtengasse
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bern Hauptbahnhof. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Bern Hauptbahnhof. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bern Hauptbahnhof: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bern Hauptbahnhof: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bern Hauptbahnhof: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & Spa, Hotel Savoy Bern, Best Western Plus Hotel Bern.
Train stations for Essen to Bern
Check train stations information for Essen and Bern, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Essen that goes to Bern is Essen Hbf, which connects to Bern Hauptbahnhof.
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
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