- Must visit
Green Vault
One of the world’s richest treasure museums, displaying dazzling jewels, goldwork, and ceremonial masterpieces of Saxon rulers.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Dresden
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 11
Cheapest price on Oct 11
€120
Average ticket price on Oct 11
€134
Fastest journey on Oct 11
6 h 29 m
Average journey duration on Oct 11
6 h 54 m
Trains on Oct 11
8
Distance
470 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen to Dresden is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Essen to Dresden will cost around €134 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €120.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Essen to Dresden without transferring at least once.
ICE 845 · IC 24438:21 AM6h29Essen Hbf2:50 PMDresden Hbf€1201One-way1 transfer- ICE 847 · IC 2441 · S110:21 AM6h36Essen Hbf4:57 PMDresden Hbf€1231One-way2 transfers
- ICE 847 · IC 2441+
76522+STR 1010:21 AM6h47Essen Hbf5:08 PMDresden€1231One-way3 transfers - ICE 845 · IC 2443 · STR 108:21 AM6h38Essen Hbf2:59 PMDresden€1231One-way2 transfers
- 89711 · ICE 555 · 16119 · 165238:29 AM8h05Essen Hbf4:34 PMDresden Hbf€1331One-way3 transfers
- ICE 845 · IC 24438:21 AM6h29Essen Hbf2:50 PMDresden Hbf€1201One-way1 transfer
- ICE 847 · IC 2441 · S110:21 AM6h36Essen Hbf4:57 PMDresden Hbf€1231One-way2 transfers
- ICE 845 · IC 2443 · STR 108:21 AM6h38Essen Hbf2:59 PMDresden€1231One-way2 transfers
- ICE 847 · IC 2441+76522+STR 1010:21 AM6h47Essen Hbf5:08 PMDresden€1231One-way3 transfers
31310+ICE 557 · 16123 · 1652710:34 AM8h00Essen Hbf6:34 PMDresden Hbf€1581One-way3 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Dresden
GermanyGermany
Trains from Essen to Dresden run on average 9 times per day, taking around 6h 22m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €24 but you can travel from only €23 by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:15, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 292 miles (470 km) distance in 5h 23m.
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 €23
Distance 292 miles (470 km) |
Average train duration 6h 22m |
Cheapest ticket price €24 |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 5h 23m |
First train 12:15 AM |
Last train 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 €23
Live departures
Essen to Dresden train times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Dresden trains for tomorrow, Sunday, October 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 845 · IC 2443 | On time 8:21 AM Essen Hbf | 6h29 | 2:50 PM Dresden Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 845 · IC 2443 · STR 10 | On time 8:21 AM Essen Hbf | 6h38 | 2:59 PM Dresden | 2 transfers | |
| 89711 · ICE 555 · 16119 · 16523 | 8:29 AM Essen Hbf | 8h05 | 4:34 PM Dresden Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| 89711 · ICE 555 · 16119 · 16523 | 8:29 AM Essen Hbf | 8h09 | 4:38 PM Dresden | 4 transfers | |
| ICE 847 · IC 2441 · S1 | On time 10:21 AM Essen Hbf | 6h36 | 4:57 PM Dresden Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 847 · IC 2441+76522+STR 10 | On time 10:21 AM Essen Hbf | 6h47 | 5:08 PM Dresden | 3 transfers | |
| 31310+ICE 557 · 16123 · 16527 | 10:34 AM Essen Hbf | 8h00 | 6:34 PM Dresden Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| 31310+ICE 557 · 16123 · 16527 | 10:34 AM Essen Hbf | 8h04 | 6:38 PM Dresden | 4 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Essen to Dresden trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain offer trains services from Essen to Dresden.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to Dresden.
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 Dresden.
- 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 Dresden.
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 Dresden.
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain from Essen to Dresden trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Essen and Dresden from €23. 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 23m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€24
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
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
5h 56m
Cheapest FlixTrain Price
€27
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 Dresden
Things to do in Dresden
Discover the best of Dresden — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Dresden trip today.
- Must visit
Old Masters Picture Gallery
Major Old Masters gallery with Raphael’s Sistine Madonna and superb European painting in the restored Zwinger complex.
- Recommended
Porcelain Collection
Important porcelain collection presenting Asian and Meissen works. A concise stop for design, craftsmanship, and court luxury.
- Must visit
Theaterplatz
Baroque palace courtyard framed by Semperoper, Zwinger, and cathedral. It is Dresden’s ceremonial heart and a classic first stop.
- Must visit
Neumarkt
Historic square around Frauenkirche with museums, terraces, and cafés nearby. A key base for exploring Dresden’s rebuilt center.
- Must visit
Elbe Meadows
Open riverside meadows along the Elbe with superb skyline views. Ideal for picnics, cycling, and classic postcard panoramas.
- Vegetarian
Baumkuchen
A rich layered sheet cake baked on a spit with butter, eggs and marzipan. It is a classic Saxon festive specialty strongly associated with Dresden.
- Vegetarian
Dresdner Christstollen
Dresden’s famous fruit bread made with raisins, candied peel, butter and icing sugar. Protected as Original Dresdner Christstollen and central to Christmas tradition.
- Vegetarian
Quarkkeulchen
Small fried dough pastries, often filled with fruit jam and dusted with sugar. A traditional Saxon sweet commonly enjoyed at fairs and festive times.
Elements DELI Restaurant Lounge
Acclaimed fine-dining restaurant with modern tasting menus and polished service, suited for a special culinary evening in Dresden.
Pulverturm
Historic vaulted restaurant serving Saxon classics and local beer in a grand old-town setting near the Frauenkirche.
Watzke Am Goldenen Reiter
Traditional brewery pub pouring unfiltered house beer with hearty Saxon dishes. Lively, casual atmosphere in the historic centre.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels, meals, and transit are usually a bit cheaper than Munich or Frankfurt, but central tourist areas cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.80-4.50 for cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is not usually included. Round up or tip 5-10% in restaurants, round up taxi fares, and leave small change in cafés.
DVB mobil
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.40
- Day pass
- €8.60
To the city center
Dresden Hbf -> Altmarkt, Dresden
- Distance
- 1.5 km
- Travel time
- 8 min
- Touch payment is available on many DVB trams and buses at onboard ticket machines, but carry a backup payment method.
- Validate paper tickets before travel if they are not pre-stamped, and keep them until the end of your journey.
FAQs: Trains from Essen to Dresden
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Dresden 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 Dresden, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Essen to Dresden can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €24, while the average price is around €109.
The train from Essen to Dresden takes 5h 23m and runs 9 per day.
The first train from Essen to Dresden leaves at 12:15 AM.
The distance by train from Essen to Dresden is 292 miles (470 km).
The last train from Essen to Dresden leaves at 11:55 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Essen to Dresden. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by FlixTrain.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Dresden.
The train station in Essen that goes to Dresden is Essen Hbf, which connects to Dresden Hbf.
The train journey from Essen to Dresden offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the industrial Ruhr area transitioning into the picturesque landscapes of Saxony, including forests, rolling hills, and the Elbe River as you approach Dresden.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Dresden.
Popular day trips by train from Dresden include Leipzig, Görlitz, Chemnitz, Ústí nad Labem, Děčín.
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 Dresden, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the Old Town and public transport. Scams involving fake charity collectors and overpriced taxi rides have been reported. It's advisable to use official taxis, keep valuables secure, and be wary of unsolicited offers or street distractions.
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 Dresden
Most Essen to Dresden trains use the Essen Hbf to Dresden Hauptbahnhof station pair, with some services arriving at Dresden-Neustadt. Use this guide to compare Essen and Dresden 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 Dresden
Which Essen station do trains to Dresden leave from?
Trains from Essen to Dresden 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.
Essen, Kruppstraße / Am ThyssenhausAm Thyssenhaus & Kruppstraße, 45128 Essen-Stadtbezirk I, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus from Essen city centre
TRUE
Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus train station facilities and services
Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus. ATMs are available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus: The station has basic accessibility features.
Which Dresden station do trains from Essen arrive at?
Trains from Essen to Dresden most often arrive at Dresden Hauptbahnhof. Some services arrive at Dresden-Neustadt, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Dresden arrival station.
Dresden HauptbahnhofWiener Platz 4, 01069 Dresden, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Dresden Hauptbahnhof from Dresden city centre
Dresden Hauptbahnhof is 1 km from Dresden city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus261, 366, 365, 360, 333, H/S · 5m · every ~5 min
Tram3 · 4m · €3 · every ~12 min
Dresden Hauptbahnhof train station facilities and services
Dresden Hauptbahnhof 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: Burger King, asiagourmet, dean&david, Hot Dog King, Starbucks, Subway, BABA Döner, Marché, backWERK, Ditsch, & more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are available at Dresden Hauptbahnhof.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Dresden Hauptbahnhof. Information desks are located by Platform 9 in the main concourse.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is there are luggage lockers close to by the waiting room and the stairs leading to Platforms 3/4. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Dresden Hauptbahnhof: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Dresden Hauptbahnhof: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Dresden Hauptbahnhof: Accessible facilities such as toilets and ramps and additional assistance as needed. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Kipping, Pullman Dresden Newa, IntercityHotel Dresden.
Dresden-NeustadtDresden-Neustadt, Schlesischer Platz 1, 01097 Dresden
City-centre transport
Getting to Dresden-Neustadt from Dresden city centre
Dresden-Neustadt is 1 km from Dresden city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb60, Rb61, Re1, Re2 · 6m · €2 · every ~6 min
Rb61, Rb60, Re2, Re1 · 6m · €2 · every ~6 min
Re, Rb · 7m · €1 · every ~6 min
Bus477 · 8m
Re1, Rb61, Rb60, Re2 · 10m · €3 · every ~1 min
Tram3 · 7m · €3 · every ~12 min
Dresden-Neustadt train station facilities and services
Dresden-Neustadt 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: ElbUferei, Raskolnikoff, Byblos, Kantine No. 2
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Dresden-Neustadt. ATMs are available at Dresden-Neustadt.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Dresden-Neustadt. Information desks are available at Dresden-Neustadt.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Dresden-Neustadt. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Dresden-Neustadt: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Dresden-Neustadt: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Dresden-Neustadt.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Bilderberg Bellevue Hotel Dresden, Rothenburger Hof, Mezcalero, Villa Romantika.
More options for your journey from Essen to Dresden
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Dresden and Essen
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