- Must visit
Städel Museum
Major German art museum with masterpieces from Old Masters to modernism; a cornerstone stop on Frankfurt’s Museum Embankment.
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Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Essen to Frankfurt am Main
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Essen to Frankfurt am Main among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €24. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 23m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €24, and a flight costs an average of €178.
Distance: 206 miles (333 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
€135 Average price | €256 Average price | €28 Average price Cheapest | €36 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 53m Average total duration 5h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 23m Average total duration Fastest 1h 23m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 8h 26m Average total duration 7h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 32m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Essen to Frankfurt am Main is a bus with an average price of €28.
This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Frankfurt am Main:
A bus is €106 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Frankfurt am Main costing on average €135.
A bus is €228 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Essen to Frankfurt am Main costing on average €256.
The fastest way to travel from Essen to Frankfurt am Main is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 23m.
Other travel options to Frankfurt am Main take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 23m.
Bus takes on average 7h 56m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Essen and Frankfurt am Main including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Frankfurt am Main among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around €135 compared to roughly €36 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-98.36. The journey takes 5h 23m versus 4h 32m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Essen to Frankfurt am Main train times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Frankfurt am Main trains for today, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 8:05 AM Essen | 6h18 | 2:23 PM Frankfurt am Main | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:05 AM Essen | 4h08 | 2:13 PM Frankfurt am Main | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Essen to Frankfurt am Main 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Frankfurt am Main
Belgium
Germany
Trains from Essen to Frankfurt am Main run on average 6 times per day, taking around 5h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €99 but you can travel from only €24 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 06:18, the last at 16:32. The fastest train covers the 206 miles (333 km) distance in 4h 8m.
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 €24
Distance 206 miles (333 km) |
Average train duration 5h 23m |
Cheapest ticket price €99 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 4h 8m |
First train 6:18 AM |
Last train 4:32 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 14 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 €24
Train companies: VIAS Rail GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) from Essen to Frankfurt am Main trainsVIAS Rail GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) trains will get you between Essen and Frankfurt am Main from €24. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
VIAS Rail GmbH
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 0m
Cheapest Price
€50
VIAS Rail GmbH frequency
3 a day
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 57m
Cheapest Price
€45
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
22 a day
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 25m
Cheapest Price
€54
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) frequency
3 a day
Complete guide to Frankfurt am Main
Things to do in Frankfurt am Main
Discover the best of Frankfurt am Main — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Frankfurt am Main trip today.
- Must visit
Goethe-Haus und Goethe-Museum
Museum in Goethe’s birthplace presenting the writer’s life, era, and manuscripts; essential for literary and cultural history fans.
- Must visit
Senckenberg Naturmuseum
Large natural history museum with dinosaur skeletons, biodiversity displays, and strong geology exhibits; excellent for all ages.
- Must visit
Neue Altstadt
Rebuilt old town quarter between Römer and cathedral, blending historic layouts with new architecture; ideal for strolling and photos.
- Must visit
Museumsufer
Frankfurt’s riverside museum district and promenade, perfect for walking, major museums, and skyline views across the Main.
- Must visit
Palmengarten
Large inner-city palm garden with themed greenhouses and landscaped grounds; a relaxing break from museums and shopping.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Frankfurter Grüne Soße
Green sauce made with seven fresh herbs, usually served with boiled eggs and potatoes. It is a Frankfurt classic with protected regional status.
Frankfurter Würstchen
Pork sausage lightly smoked and traditionally served hot with potato salad, sauerkraut, or bread. It is one of Frankfurt’s signature sausages.
Frankfurter Rindswurst
Pressed and cured pork sausage, often sliced and served cold with bread, mustard, and pickles. It is a staple in Frankfurt cider taverns.
Lafleur
Two Michelin-starred dining with creative modern cuisine, extensive wine pairings, and a formal fine dining experience.
Restaurant Opéra
Refined restaurant in the old opera house area, known for modern European cuisine, polished service, and an elegant dining room.
Apfelwein Wagner
Historic apple wine tavern in Sachsenhausen known for Apfelwein, green sauce, and classic Frankfurt dishes in a lively traditional setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey during trade fairs, but dining and public transport are reasonable for most tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or simple takeaway.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a casual restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €70+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Round up or tip about 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Taxis are usually rounded up. Small change is common for cafes.
FAQs: Trains from Essen to Frankfurt am Main
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Frankfurt am Main 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 Frankfurt am Main, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Essen to Frankfurt am Main can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €99, while the average price is around €135.
The train from Essen to Frankfurt am Main takes 4h 8m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Essen to Frankfurt am Main is 206 miles (333 km).
The first train from Essen to Frankfurt am Main leaves at 6:18 AM.
The last train from Essen to Frankfurt am Main leaves at 4:32 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Essen to Frankfurt am Main.
Yes, there is a direct train from Essen to Frankfurt am Main. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Frankfurt am Main.
The train station in Essen that goes to Frankfurt am Main is Essen station, which connects to Frankfurt (Main) Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Frankfurt am Main is by bus, with a cost of around €24.
The train journey from Essen to Frankfurt am Main is moderately scenic, offering views of the Rhine River, rolling hills, and occasional glimpses of quaint German towns, especially as you approach the Rhine-Main region.
A day trip from Essen to Frankfurt am Main is not feasible with a travel duration of 4h 8m and a distance of 206 miles (333 km). There are 6 train trips available per day.
In Frankfurt am Main, visitors can enjoy panoramic views from the Main Tower and explore the vibrant Kleinmarkthalle for a variety of foods. The Senckenberg Natural History Museum offers fascinating dinosaur fossils, while a walk along the River Main provides scenic vistas. Shop at the lively Zeil or visit the Römer, a historic city hall. Art enthusiasts can explore the Städel Museum, while nature lovers will appreciate the Palmengarten. Delve into literary history at the Goethe House and admire the Gothic architecture of Frankfurt Cathedral.
Typically, spending 2 to 3 days in Frankfurt am Main is sufficient to explore its main attractions, such as the Römer, Städel Museum, and Palmengarten, while also enjoying the city's vibrant dining and shopping scenes.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Frankfurt am Main.
Since both Essen and Frankfurt am Main 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 Frankfurt am Main include Heidelberg, Mannheim, Karlsruhe, Baden-Baden, Würzburg.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Frankfurt am Main 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.
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 Frankfurt am Main, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations, public transport, and popular tourist spots. Common scams include distraction techniques where one person diverts attention while another steals belongings. It's also important to be wary of unofficial taxi drivers overcharging and to use licensed services. Staying alert in nightlife districts and avoiding poorly lit areas at night can help ensure safety.
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 Frankfurt am Main
Most Essen to Frankfurt am Main trains use the Essen to Frankfurt (Main) Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf. Use this guide to compare Essen and Frankfurt am Main 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 Frankfurt am Main
Which Essen station do trains to Frankfurt am Main leave from?
Trains from Essen to Frankfurt am Main leave from Essen. The station is from Essen city centre at 2910 Essen, Belgium.
Essen2910 Essen, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Essen from Essen city centre
TrainIntercity · 3h 54m · €45 · every ~4 min
Ice · 4h 58m · €52
Bus023 · 4h 5m · €22
Essen train station facilities and services
Essen has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Essen.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Essen.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Essen: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen.
Which Frankfurt am Main station do trains from Essen arrive at?
Trains from Essen to Frankfurt am Main most often arrive at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf. Some services arrive at Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Frankfurt am Main arrival station.
Frankfurt (Main) HbfIm Hauptbahnhof, 60329 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Frankfurt (Main) Hbf from Frankfurt am Main city centre
Frankfurt (Main) Hbf is 1 km from Frankfurt am Main city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS9, S8, S6, S5, S4, S3, S2, S1 · 5m · €1 · every ~51 min
BusN5, N12, N4 · 5m · every ~1 min
Tram18, 14, 12, 11 · 6m · €3 · every ~38 min
SubwayU5, U4 · 4m · €3 · every ~39 min
Frankfurt (Main) Hbf train station facilities and services
Frankfurt (Main) 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: asiagourmet, Burger King, Ciao Bella, Coffee Fellows, Crepes de France Express, dean&david, Starbucks, Uddin's Sky Sportsbar, McDonald's, Dunkin Donuts, & many more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf. Information desks are located opposite Platforms 12 and 13.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located in the main hall. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf: Step-free access and step markings. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Cristall, Grand Hotel Empire, Hotel Carlton.
Frankfurt Flughafen FernbfFrankfurt am Main Flughafen Fernbahnhof, 60549 Frankfurt am Main, Germany+49 69 2651055
City-centre transport
Getting to Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf from Frankfurt am Main city centre
Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf is 10 km from Frankfurt am Main city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainIce · 11m · €2
Trn · 12m · €3
S8, S9 · 19m · €3 · every ~5 min
BusS8e · 28m · €6
X61, 61 · 41m · every ~13 min
61, X61 · 42m · every ~13 min
Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf train station facilities and services
Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Käfer's, McDonald's, Asia Snack Box
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Sheraton Frankfurt Airport Hotel, Hilton Frankfurt Airport, Hilton Garden Inn Frankfurt Airport.
Frankfurt (M) Flughafen RegionalbfFrankfurt Airport, 60549 Frankfurt am Main, Germany+49 180 6 372 4636
City-centre transport
Getting to Frankfurt (M) Flughafen Regionalbf from Frankfurt am Main city centre
Frankfurt (M) Flughafen Regionalbf is 10 km from Frankfurt am Main city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainIce · 16m · €2
Trn · 16m · €3
S9, S8 · 18m · €3 · every ~9 min
BusS8e · 33m · €6
X61, 61 · 37m · every ~13 min
61, X61 · 38m · every ~13 min
Frankfurt (M) Flughafen Regionalbf train station facilities and services
Frankfurt (M) Flughafen Regionalbf 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 Käfer's, McDonald's, Asia Snack Box
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Frankfurt (M) Flughafen Regionalbf. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Frankfurt (M) Flughafen Regionalbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Frankfurt (M) Flughafen Regionalbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Frankfurt (M) Flughafen Regionalbf: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Frankfurt (M) Flughafen Regionalbf: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Sheraton Frankfurt Airport Hotel, Hilton Frankfurt Airport, Steigenberger Airport Hotel.
Most popular train connections from Essen
More options for your journey from Essen to Frankfurt am Main
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Frankfurt am Main and Essen
Most popular train connections to Frankfurt am Main
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