- Must visit
Kunsthalle Bielefeld
Bielefeld’s leading art museum, designed by Philip Johnson, presents major modern and contemporary works in a celebrated building.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Bielefeld
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 28
Cheapest price on Sep 28
$22
Average ticket price on Sep 28
$26
Fastest journey on Sep 28
1 h 23 m
Average journey duration on Sep 28
1 h 50 m
Trains on Sep 28
4
Distance
123 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen to Bielefeld is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Essen to Bielefeld will cost around $26 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $22.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Essen to Bielefeld without transferring at least once.
S1 · ICE 5414:56 AM1h38Essen Hbf6:34 AMBielefeld Hbf$221One-way1 transfer- 89865 · IC 24455:40 AM1h38Essen Hbf7:18 AMBielefeld Hbf$221One-way1 transfer
- S2 · ICE 920 · 899632:53 AM2h40Essen Hbf5:33 AMBielefeld Hbf$241One-way2 transfers
- 26705 · ICE 8436:13 AM1h23Essen Hbf7:36 AMBielefeld Hbf$361One-way1 transfer
- 26705 · ICE 8436:13 AM1h23Essen Hbf7:36 AMBielefeld Hbf$361One-way1 transfer
- S1 · ICE 5414:56 AM1h38Essen Hbf6:34 AMBielefeld Hbf$221One-way1 transfer
- 89865 · IC 24455:40 AM1h38Essen Hbf7:18 AMBielefeld Hbf$221One-way1 transfer
- S2 · ICE 920 · 899632:53 AM2h40Essen Hbf5:33 AMBielefeld Hbf$241One-way2 transfers
Live departures
Essen to Bielefeld train times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Bielefeld trains for today, Sunday, September 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 89891 · 89993 | 6:40 PM Essen Hbf | 1h42 | 8:22 PM Bielefeld Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| Monday, September 28 | |||||
| S2 · ICE 920 · 89963 | 2:53 AM Essen Hbf | 2h40 | 5:33 AM Bielefeld Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| S1 · ICE 541 | On time 4:56 AM Essen Hbf | 1h38 | 6:34 AM Bielefeld Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 89865 · IC 2445 | On time 5:40 AM Essen Hbf | 1h38 | 7:18 AM Bielefeld Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 26705 · ICE 843 | On time 6:13 AM Essen Hbf | 1h23 | 7:36 AM Bielefeld Hbf | 1 transfer | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Essen to Bielefeld by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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.
Mon
Sep 28
Sep 28
Tue
Sep 29
Sep 29
Wed
Sep 30
Sep 30
Thu
Oct 01
Oct 01
Fri
Oct 02
Oct 02
Sat
Oct 03
Oct 03
Sun
Oct 04
Oct 04
Why should you book Essen to Bielefeld trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain offer trains services from Essen to Bielefeld.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to Bielefeld.
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 Bielefeld.
- 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 and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Essen to Bielefeld.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Essen to Bielefeld.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Bielefeld
GermanyGermany
Trains from Essen to Bielefeld run on average 8 times per day, taking around 1h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $8 (€6) if you book in advance.
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:42. The fastest train covers the 76 miles (123 km) distance in 1h 11m.
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 76 miles (123 km) |
Average train duration 1h 23m |
Cheapest ticket price $8 (€6) |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 5 |
Fastest train 1h 11m |
First train 12:04 AM |
Last train 11:42 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 7 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
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain from Essen to Bielefeld trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Essen and Bielefeld from $8 (€6). 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
1h 11m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$22 (€18)
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
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
1h 31m
Cheapest FlixTrain Price
$8 (€6)
FlixTrain frequency
2 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 Bielefeld
Things to do in Bielefeld
Discover the best of Bielefeld — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bielefeld trip today.
- Recommended
Historisches Museum Bielefeld
This museum explores local and regional history from medieval times to the modern city through objects, documents, and exhibitions.
- Recommended
Museum Huelsmann
Located at Sparrenburg, the museum explains the fortress’s military past and gives context to Bielefeld’s best-known landmark.
- Must visit
Altstadt
Bielefeld’s historic old town is ideal for walking, with restored facades, churches, shops, and easy access to major sights.
- Must visit
Teutoburger Wald
A large forested ridge south of the center, perfect for hiking, viewpoints, and combining nature with the Sparrenburg visit.
- Recommended
Bahnhofstraße
This broad pedestrian street is the city’s main shopping axis and a lively place to experience daily urban life.
- Gluten-free
Westfälischer Matjes
Pickled herring fillets in a creamy sauce with apples, onions and gherkins. A classic Westphalian fish dish often served with potatoes.
- Gluten-free
Westfälischer Schinken
Hearty Westphalian ham, traditionally cured and lightly smoked over beechwood. It is a regional staple prized for its deep savory flavor.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Pumpernickel
Coarse rye bread baked with whole grains. Dense, slightly sweet and long-lasting, it is one of Westphalia’s most iconic everyday foods.
GLUECKUNDSELIGKEIT
Elegant fine dining restaurant known for creative modern cuisine and polished service in a refined atmosphere.
Kohlsmann
Established restaurant with classic regional and German cooking, offering a cozy atmosphere suited to trying Westphalian specialties.
Bernstein
Traditional brewery-style venue serving hearty German dishes and beer in a lively, rustic setting popular with locals.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than Munich or Frankfurt, while local transit and everyday costs stay manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a standard restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for cappuccino or similar coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. Round up or add about 5-10% in restaurants, round up taxi fares, and leave small change at cafes if service was good.
moBiel YOU
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.40
- Day pass
- €8.80
To the city center
Bielefeld Hbf -> Jahnplatz, Bielefeld
- Distance
- 900 m
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Contactless card payment is available on moBiel buses and StadtBahn ticket machines, but carry a valid ticket before boarding where required.
- From Bielefeld Hbf, Jahnplatz is walkable in about 12 min, so you may not need a local ticket for the city center.
FAQs: Trains from Essen to Bielefeld
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Bielefeld 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 Bielefeld, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Essen to Bielefeld can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $8 (€6), while the average price is around $42 (€35).
The train from Essen to Bielefeld takes 1h 11m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Essen to Bielefeld leaves at 12:04 AM.
The distance by train from Essen to Bielefeld is 76 miles (123 km).
The last train from Essen to Bielefeld leaves at 11:42 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Essen to Bielefeld. This service operates 5 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Bielefeld.
The train station in Essen that goes to Bielefeld is Essen Hbf, which connects to Bielefeld Hbf.
The train journey from Essen to Bielefeld offers views of the industrial Ruhr region, transitioning into more rural landscapes with fields and small towns, providing a modestly scenic experience.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Bielefeld.
Popular day trips by train from Bielefeld include Düsseldorf, Hanover, Dortmund, Duisburg, Bremen.
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 Bielefeld, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as public transport and market places. While violent crime is low, it is recommended to stay vigilant at night in less populated districts. Common scams include overcharging in taxi services and fake charity collectors near popular sites. Using official transport options and keeping valuables secure helps 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 Bielefeld
Most Essen to Bielefeld trains use the Essen Hbf to Bielefeld Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Brackwede. Use this guide to compare Essen and Bielefeld 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 Bielefeld
Which Essen station do trains to Bielefeld leave from?
Trains from Essen to Bielefeld 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 Bielefeld station do trains from Essen arrive at?
Trains from Essen to Bielefeld most often arrive at Bielefeld Hbf. Some services arrive at Brackwede, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Bielefeld arrival station.
Bielefeld HbfBielefeld Hbf, Am Bahnhof 1b, 33602 Bielefeld
City-centre transport
Getting to Bielefeld Hbf from Bielefeld city centre
Bus351, 350 · 3m · every ~4 min
Tram4, 3, 2, 1 · 3m · $2 · every ~32 min
2, 1, 3, 4 · 4m · $2 · every ~21 min
Bielefeld Hbf train station facilities and services
Bielefeld 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: McDonald's, Mexims, Entrada, Lokma
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Bielefeld Hbf. ATMs are available at Bielefeld Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bielefeld Hbf. Information desks are available at Bielefeld Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Bielefeld Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bielefeld Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bielefeld Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bielefeld Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Wali, Altstadt Hotel Bielefeld, Hotel Stadt Bremen, Bielefelder Hof.
BrackwedeBrackwede, Eisenbahnstr. 42, 33647 Bielefeld
City-centre transport
Getting to Brackwede from Bielefeld city centre
Brackwede is 4 km from Bielefeld city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb75, Rb74 · 4m · $7 · every ~6 min
Bus88, 48 · 6m · every ~3 min
Tram1 · 11m · $2 · every ~12 min
Brackwede train station facilities and services
Brackwede has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Brackwede.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Brackwede. Information desks are available at Brackwede.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Brackwede. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Brackwede: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Brackwede: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Brackwede.
More options for your journey from Essen to Bielefeld
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bielefeld and Essen
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
