- Must visit
Dortmunder U
A Major Art And Culture Center In A Former Brewery Tower With Exhibitions, Media Art, And Panoramic City Views.
Cheapest price
€4
Average price
€12
Fastest journey
20 m
Average duration
21 m
Trains per day
12
Distance
32 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen to Dortmund is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Essen to Dortmund will cost around €12 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €4.
Of the 12 trains that leave Essen for Dortmund on Sun, Aug 09, 12 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Aug 09 the direct trains cover the 32 km distance in an average of 21 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 20 m .
On Sun, Aug 09 the slowest trains will take 21 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.
FlixTrain
FlixTrain
FlixTrain
ICE 2012
ICE 216
FlixTrain
ICE 2532
FlixTrain
ICE 2506
ICE 206Trains from Essen to Dortmund run on average 6 times per day, taking around 24m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €3 if you book in advance.
There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:50. The fastest train covers the 19 miles (32 km) distance in 21m.
Distance 19 miles (32 km) |
Average train duration 24m |
Cheapest ticket price €3 |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 6 |
Fastest train 21m |
First train 12:04 AM |
Last train 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 14 days |
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Dortmund trains for tomorrow, Sunday, August 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 208 | On time 6:00 AM Essen Hbf | 0h21 | 6:21 AM Dortmund Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 543 | On time 6:03 AM Essen Hbf | 0h28 | 6:31 AM Dortmund Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 618 | On time 6:46 AM Essen Hbf | 0h21 | 7:07 AM Dortmund Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 206 | On time 8:00 AM Essen Hbf | 0h21 | 8:21 AM Dortmund Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixTrain | 9:03 AM Essen Hbf | 0h22 | 9:25 AM Dortmund Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 2532 | On time 12:00 PM Essen Hbf | 0h21 | 12:21 PM Dortmund Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixTrain | 1:00 PM Essen Hbf | 0h21 | 1:21 PM Dortmund Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixTrain | 5:03 PM Essen Hbf | 0h20 | 5:23 PM Dortmund Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 2506 | On time 6:00 PM Essen Hbf | 0h21 | 6:21 PM Dortmund Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 2012 | On time 6:15 PM Essen Hbf | 0h25 | 6:40 PM Dortmund Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 216 | On time 6:56 PM Essen Hbf | 0h23 | 7:19 PM Dortmund Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 947 | On time 7:16 PM Essen Hbf | 0h23 | 7:39 PM Dortmund Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey

Discover the best of Dortmund — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Dortmund trip today.
A Major Art And Culture Center In A Former Brewery Tower With Exhibitions, Media Art, And Panoramic City Views.
One Of Europe'S Leading Football Museums, Presenting German Football History Through Trophies, Media, And Interactive Displays.
Dortmund'S Main Art Museum Shows Modern And Contemporary Works, Including Important Graphics And Painting Collections.
Dortmund'S Central Square Hosts The Old Town'S Main Events And Christmas Market Around Historic Civic Buildings.
A Large Urban Lake Area With Promenades, Cafes Nearby, And Great Walks Popular With Locals And Visitors.
One Of Germany'S Largest Botanical Parks, Featuring Themed Gardens, Woodland Paths, And A Relaxed Green Escape.
A top-fermented pale lager long brewed in Dortmund. It is a defining local beer style tied to the city’s industrial and brewing heritage.
A hearty potato soup common in Westphalia, often enriched with vegetables and sausage. It is classic comfort food in the Ruhr area.
A traditional rye bread from Westphalia, dense, dark and slightly sweet. It is a regional staple often served with ham, cheese or smoked fish.
Refined modern tasting menus in an elegant setting. One of Dortmund’s best-known fine dining addresses with polished service.
Traditional brewery restaurant serving Dortmund beer and hearty regional dishes in a lively, historic atmosphere near the city center.
Well-established steakhouse known for quality beef, classic sides and dependable service in a smart but relaxed setting.
Moderate for Germany; hotels vary, dining is reasonable, and local transit is fairly priced for city travel.
Service is usually included, but rounding up or adding 5-10% is standard. Round taxi fares up; leave small change at cafes.
Official public transport app
Dortmund Hbf -> Dortmund City Center
The train connection between Essen and Dortmund is well-served by reliable providers such as Deutsche Bahn and FlixTrain. With frequent services throughout the day, travelers can enjoy a comfortable journey that typically takes around 30 minutes to cover the distance of approximately 35 km (22 miles) between these two cities in North Rhine-Westphalia. Whether you're heading for business or leisure, both operators offer convenient options to suit your schedule.
The train connection between Essen and Dortmund is direct, with a travel duration of just 20 minutes. There are approximately 25 connections available each day, making it convenient for travelers. Passengers will depart from Essen Hbf and arrive at Dortmund Hbf.
The first daily train from Essen to Dortmund departs at 05:03, providing an early start for travelers looking to explore the vibrant city of Dortmund. The last journey of the day leaves at 20:17, allowing visitors ample time to enjoy their activities before returning in the evening.
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Essen and Dortmund is €3. The average ticket price typically hovers around €8, making it an affordable option for travelers looking to explore these two cities in Germany.
Welcome to Signal Iduna Park, also known as Westfalenstadion, the largest stadium in Germany and a true fortress of football. Opened in 1974, it has witnessed countless unforgettable matches and is renowned for its electrifying atmosphere during Borussia Dortmund games. One unique feature that sets this stadium apart is the famous "Yellow Wall," where passionate fans create an awe-inspiring display of support with their vibrant yellow banners.
Next on our journey is Reinoldikirche, a stunning Gothic church dating back to the 13th century that stands as one of Dortmund's oldest landmarks. This architectural gem not only serves as a place of worship but also symbolizes resilience; it survived both World War II bombings and extensive renovations over time. A highlight here is its impressive stained glass windows which tell stories from biblical times while allowing colorful light to dance across the interior.
Finally, we arrive at the iconic Dortmund U-Tower, once home to a brewery but now transformed into a cultural hub since its renovation in 2010. Standing tall at 60 meters high with its distinctive illuminated sign atop, this landmark represents innovation and creativity within modern urban life. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from its observation deck or explore various exhibitions showcasing contemporary art—making it truly unique among city attractions!
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Dortmund 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 Dortmund, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Essen to Dortmund trains use the Essen Hbf to Dortmund Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Dortmund Signal Iduna Park. Use this guide to compare Essen and Dortmund train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like 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 options include: Bollywood Express - Pizza & More, Kiepenkerl, Cafe Extrablatt, Tacos
Wi-Fi is available at Essen Hbf. ATMs are available at Essen Hbf.
Ticket office support is available at Essen Hbf. Information desks are available at Essen Hbf.
Luggage storage is available at Essen Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Essen Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Essen Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen Hbf.
Nearby hotels include Ambassador, Gästearpartment Dahl, WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus, Motel One.
Essen-Steele is 4 km from Essen city centre. Public transport options include:
Essen-Steele 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 options include: Bootshaus Ruhreck, Da Vinici, Asia-Nudeln, Bacchos
Wi-Fi is available at Essen-Steele. ATMs are available at Essen-Steele.
Ticket office support is available at Essen-Steele. Information desks are available at Essen-Steele.
Luggage storage is available at Essen-Steele. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Essen-Steele: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Essen-Steele: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen-Steele.
Nearby hotels include Zur Guten Quelle, Hotel Töff-Töff, Budike.
Essen West is 2 km from Essen city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: Pizzeria Don Camillo, Lindos, Zur Platte, Arman Döner
Wi-Fi is available at Essen West. ATMs are available at Essen West.
Ticket office support is available at Essen West. Information desks are available at Essen West.
Luggage storage is available at Essen West. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Essen West: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Essen West: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen West.
Nearby hotels include McDreams.
Dortmund 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 options include: Subway, Caliente, Ong Bui Asia Fusion, Kleimann
Wi-Fi is available at Dortmund Hbf. ATMs are available at Dortmund Hbf.
Ticket office support is available at Dortmund Hbf. Information desks are available at Dortmund Hbf.
Luggage storage is available at Dortmund Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Dortmund Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Dortmund Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Dortmund Hbf.
Nearby hotels include Cityhotel Dortmund, Esplanade, Drei Kronen, Hotel Unique Novum.
Dortmund Signal Iduna Park is 2 km from Dortmund city centre. Public transport options include:
Dortmund Signal Iduna Park 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 options include: Strobels, Rosenterassen
Wi-Fi is available at Dortmund Signal Iduna Park. ATMs are available at Dortmund Signal Iduna Park.
Ticket office support is available at Dortmund Signal Iduna Park. Information desks are available at Dortmund Signal Iduna Park.
Luggage storage is available at Dortmund Signal Iduna Park. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Dortmund Signal Iduna Park: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Dortmund Signal Iduna Park: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Dortmund Signal Iduna Park.
Dortmund-Mengede is 8 km from Dortmund city centre. Public transport options include:
Dortmund-Mengede 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 options include: The Greek, Peking Garden, Piccola Enzo, Restaurant Symbol
Wi-Fi is available at Dortmund-Mengede. ATMs are available at Dortmund-Mengede.
Ticket office support is available at Dortmund-Mengede. Information desks are available at Dortmund-Mengede.
Luggage storage is available at Dortmund-Mengede. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Dortmund-Mengede: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Dortmund-Mengede: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Dortmund-Mengede.
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