Essen to Dresden train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,EC)

Thu, May 28
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Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
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Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Dresden

Showing times and prices for May 28

Cheapest price

$25

Average price

$73

Fastest journey

5 h 48 m

Average duration

5 h 56 m

Trains per day

12

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 $73 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $25.

Fast trains

Of the 12 trains that leave Essen for Dresden on Thu, May 28, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, May 28 the direct trains cover the 470 km distance in an average of 5 h 56 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 48 m .

On Thu, May 28 the slowest trains will take 6 h 7 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.

  • Deutsche BahnICE 845 · IC 2177
    8:21 AM6h07
    Essen Hbf
    2:28 PMDresden Hbf
    $251One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixTrainFlixTrain
    5:04 PM5h56
    Essen Hbf
    11:00 PMDresden-Neustadt station
    $351One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixTrainFlixTrain
    5:04 PM6h02
    Essen Hbf
    11:06 PMDresden Hbf
    $351One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixTrainFlixTrain+FlixBusFlixBus
    1:05 PM8h30
    Essen Hbf
    9:35 PMDresden, Bayrische Straße (Hauptbahnhof)
    $481One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixTrainFlixTrain+FlixBusFlixBus
    5:04 PM8h31
    Essen Hbf
    1:35 AMDresden, Bayrische Straße (Hauptbahnhof)
    $481One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Essen to Dresden

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Essen to Dresden among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $26. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 10m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $26, and a flight costs an average of $140.

Distance: 292 miles (470 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$61

Average price

$42

Average price

Cheapest

$343

Average price

$99

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

6h 52m

Average total duration

6h 22m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 12m

Average total duration

7h 42m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 10m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 10m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

6h 37m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.5 - 1.2kg

CO2 emissions

1.4 - 2.8kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Eurowings

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

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 Dresden is a bus with an average price of $42 (€33).

This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Dresden:

A bus is $20 (€16) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Dresden costing on average $61 (€49).

A bus is $301 (€243) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Essen to Dresden costing on average $343 (€276).

The fastest way to travel from Essen to Dresden is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 10m.

Other travel options to Dresden take longer:

Train takes on average 6h 22m.

Bus takes on average 7h 42m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Essen and Dresden including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Dresden among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 15m faster (6h 22m by train vs 6h 37m by car) and roughly $38 (€30) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($61 (€49) vs $99 (€80)). 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.

Direct services run with FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).

Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Essen to Dresden train times

The table below shows live departures for Essen to Dresden trains for today, Wednesday, May 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 641 · RJ 179
Delayed
1:21 PM 3:19 PMEssen Hbf
5h48
9:07 PM Dresden Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 943 · IC 2275
On time
4:21 PM Essen Hbf
6h07
10:28 PM Dresden Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 727 · ICE 1657
On time
4:53 PM Essen Hbf
7h33
12:26 AM Dresden Hbf
1 transfer
FlixTrainFlixTrain+FlixBusFlixBus5:04 PM Essen Hbf
9h31
2:35 AM Dresden, Neustadt Exit1 transfer
FlixTrainFlixTrain+FlixBusFlixBus5:04 PM Essen Hbf
8h31
1:35 AM Dresden, Bayrische Straße (Hauptbahnhof)1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 643 · IC 2435 · ICE 1657
On time
5:19 PM Essen Hbf
7h07
12:26 AM Dresden Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 729 · ICE 592 · 74196 · 74041
On time
5:54 PM Essen Hbf
12h05
5:59 AM Dresden
4 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 945 · 3317 · 3188 · 18422
On time
6:21 PM Essen Hbf
11h36
5:57 AM Dresden Hbf
5 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 823 · ICE 590 · 16503
On time
7:40 PM Essen Hbf
10h54
6:34 AM Dresden Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn26832 · ICE 221 · ICE 677 · EC 459
On time
8:09 PM Essen Hbf
10h57
7:06 AM Dresden Hbf
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 947 · 3140 · 18401 · S2
On time
8:21 PM Essen Hbf
9h47
6:08 AM Dresden Hbf
3 transfers
Thursday, May 28
Deutsche BahnICE 845 · IC 2177
On time
8:21 AM Essen Hbf
6h07
2:28 PM Dresden Hbf
1 transfer
FlixTrainFlixTrain+FlixBusFlixBus9:04 AM Essen Hbf
8h36
5:40 PM Dresden, Bayrische Straße (Hauptbahnhof)1 transfer
FlixTrainFlixTrain+FlixBusFlixBus9:04 AM Essen Hbf
8h21
5:25 PM Dresden, Neustadt Exit1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 545 · RJ 383
On time
9:19 AM Essen Hbf
5h48
3:07 PM Dresden Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 847 · IC 2179
On time
10:21 AM Essen Hbf
6h07
4:28 PM Dresden Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 547 · RJ 177
On time
11:19 AM Essen Hbf
5h48
5:07 PM Dresden Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 202 · IC 2049
On time
12:00 PM Essen Hbf
6h51
6:51 PM Dresden Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 849 · IC 2271 · 16527
On time
12:21 PM Essen Hbf
6h13
6:34 PM Dresden Hbf
2 transfers
FlixTrainFlixTrain+FlixBusFlixBus1:05 PM Essen Hbf
8h30
9:35 PM Dresden, Bayrische Straße (Hauptbahnhof)1 transfer

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Essen to Dresden by train, bus, or flight

Compare train, bus, 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.

Thu
May 28
Fri
May 29
Sat
May 30
Sun
May 31
Mon
Jun 01
Tue
Jun 02
Wed
Jun 03

Why should you book Essen to Dresden trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) 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 or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) 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.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Essen to Dresden

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Essen to Dresden run on average 10 times per day, taking around 6h 22m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $21 (€17) if you book in advance.

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 56m.

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
292 miles (470 km)
Average train duration
6h 22m
Cheapest ticket price
$21 (€17)
Trains per day
10
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
5h 56m
First train
12:15 AM
Last train
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Sun
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, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Essen to Dresden trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Essen and Dresden from $21 (€17). 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
6h 17m
Cheapest Price
$112 (€90)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
8 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.
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.
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.
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 Duration
5h 56m
Cheapest Price
$21 (€17)
FlixTrain frequency
3 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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 57m
Cheapest Price
$105 (€85)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
1 a day

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 art museum in the Zwinger, famed for Raphael’s Sistine Madonna and an outstanding collection of European master paintings.

  • Must visit

Green Vault

World-famous treasury in Dresden Castle displaying exquisite jewels, goldsmith works, and court treasures of the Saxon rulers.

  • Recommended

Albertinum

Leading museum for modern art and sculpture, with works from Romanticism to the present in a refined riverside setting.

Euro

Prices are moderate by German standards. Museums and transit are reasonable, while hotels and central dining cost more.

Average meal costs

Budget
EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or takeaway.
Mid-range
EUR 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
EUR 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
EUR 3-5 for a cappuccino or latte.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included, but small tips are expected. Round up in cafes and taxis. In restaurants, add about 5-10% for good service and hand it directly to staff.

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Essen to Dresden can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $21 (€17), while the average price is around $61 (€49).
The train from Essen to Dresden takes 5h 56m and runs 10 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, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
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 cheapest way to get from Essen to Dresden is by train, with a cost of around $21 (€17).
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.
A day trip from Essen to Dresden is not feasible, as the journey takes 5h 56m each way. The distance is 292 miles (470 km), and the train frequency is 15 times per day.
In Dresden, you can explore the Zwinger Palace, an iconic Baroque complex with museums and art collections, and visit the Frauenkirche, a reconstructed Lutheran church offering panoramic city views from its dome. Experience performances at the Semper Opera House, renowned for its stunning architecture. Discover history at Dresden Castle, which houses museums and the famous Green Vault. Enjoy a walk along Brühl's Terrace, a scenic promenade along the Elbe River known as the Balcony of Europe.
A 2 to 3-day trip is ideal for exploring Dresden, allowing time to visit key attractions such as the Zwinger Palace, Frauenkirche, and the Semper Opera House, as well as enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Elbe River.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Dresden.
Since both Essen and Dresden 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 Dresden include Leipzig, Görlitz, Chemnitz, Ústí nad Labem, Děčín.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Dresden 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.
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

Essen
Dresden
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 Dresden.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
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
Dining
  • Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
  • Kiepenkerl
  • Cafe Extrablatt
  • Tacos
Hotel
Hotel
  • Ambassador
  • Gästearpartment Dahl
  • WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus
  • Motel One
Essen SüdWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
  • Haus Wilmes
  • Mana Mana
  • Karawane
Hotel
Hotel
  • Webers
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
Dining
Dining
  • Pizzeria Don Camillo
  • Lindos
  • Zur Platte
  • Arman Döner
Hotel
Hotel
  • McDreams

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