- Must visit
Städel Museum
One of Germany’s leading art museums, with major European works from the Middle Ages to contemporary art on the Museumsufer.
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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 $29. 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 $29, and a flight costs an average of $217.
Distance: 206 miles (333 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$164 Average price | $313 Average price | $35 Average price Cheapest | $44 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 $35 (€28).
This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Frankfurt am Main:
A bus is $130 (€106) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Frankfurt am Main costing on average $164 (€135).
A bus is $278 (€228) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Essen to Frankfurt am Main costing on average $313 (€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 $164 (€135) compared to roughly $44 (€36) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-120.18 (€-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.
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 $121 (€99) but you can travel from only $29 (€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 $29 (€24)
Distance 206 miles (333 km) |
Average train duration 5h 23m |
Cheapest ticket price $121 (€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 $29 (€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 $29 (€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
$61 (€50)
VIAS Rail GmbH frequency
3 a day
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 57m
Cheapest Price
$55 (€45)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
22 a day
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 25m
Cheapest Price
$66 (€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
Schirn Kunsthalle Frankfurt
Major exhibition hall for temporary art shows, especially popular for high-profile international exhibitions in the old town area.
- Must visit
Senckenberg Naturmuseum
A favorite for families and science lovers, famous for dinosaur skeletons and extensive natural history collections.
- Must visit
Römerberg
Frankfurt’s historic central square, rebuilt with traditional character and surrounded by major sights, making it the city’s classic starting point.
- Must visit
Neue Altstadt
The rebuilt old town quarter blends reconstructed timber houses, museums, shops, and lanes that have become highly popular with visitors.
- Must visit
Main Tower Observation Deck
A top skyline viewpoint that has become especially popular for sunset photos and sweeping views over the financial district.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Frankfurter Grüne Soße
A cold herb sauce made with seven fresh herbs, traditionally served with boiled eggs and potatoes. It is one of Frankfurt’s best-known regional specialties.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Apfelwein
Frankfurt’s traditional tart apple wine, usually served in a ribbed glass. It is the city’s signature drink and central to local tavern culture.
Frankfurter Würstchen
A thin smoked pork sausage with protected regional status, typically served with mustard, bread, and potato salad. It is a classic Frankfurt snack.
Lafleur
One of Frankfurt’s best-known fine dining restaurants, offering refined modern cuisine in an elegant setting near the Palmengarten.
Apfelwein Dax
A long-established local tavern serving Hessian comfort food and apple wine. It is popular for an authentic neighborhood atmosphere and reliable regional dishes.
Kleinmarkthalle
Frankfurt’s iconic indoor market hall with many established stalls for local sausages, cheeses, pastries, and casual regional bites in a lively setting.
Euro
Prices are high by German standards, especially hotels and dining in the centre, but transit and bakeries help keep daily costs manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or takeaway.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-5 for a cappuccino or flat white.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up small bills, or tip about 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Round up taxis. Little or no tip is fine for counter service.
RMVgo
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 3.65
- Day pass
- EUR 7.20
To the city center
Frankfurt am Main Flughafen -> Frankfurt (Main) Hauptbahnhof
- Distance
- 12 km
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Tap-in is not used; buy and validate the correct ticket before travel where required. Card payment is generally available in RMV apps and at many ticket machines.
- The airport to central Frankfurt is covered by RMV local transport, and S8/S9 trains are usually the fastest public option to Hauptbahnhof.
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 $121 (€99), while the average price is around $164 (€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 $29 (€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
Essen
Frankfurt am Main
The major train station for departures in Essen is Essen. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Essen for your trip from Essen to Frankfurt am Main.
Essen
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMAccessibilityBike Parkinginformation
The major train station for arrivals in Frankfurt am Main is Frankfurt (Main) Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf for your journey to Frankfurt am Main from Essen.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
ShoppingParkingDiningATM
TaxisAccessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeBike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 07:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 09:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station
Lockers
- Luggage lockers are located in the main hall
Dining
- asiagourmet
- Burger King
- Ciao Bella
- Coffee Fellows
- Crepes de France Express
- dean&david
- Starbucks
- Uddin's Sky Sportsbar
- McDonald's
- Dunkin Donuts
- & many more
Accessibility
- Step-free access and step markings. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected]
Hotel
- Hotel Cristall
- Grand Hotel Empire
- Hotel Carlton
Information Desk
- Located opposite Platforms 12 and 13
Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelShowerLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
10 km
Number of platforms
4Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24/7, accessible via Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 parking areas
Dining
- Restaurant Käfer's
- McDonald's
- Asia Snack Box
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- €1
Hotel
- Sheraton Frankfurt Airport Hotel
- Hilton Frankfurt Airport
- Hilton Garden Inn Frankfurt Airport
Shower
- Cost €6
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-4 for long-distance and regional trains
- Hall 2: connection to Terminal 1 of the airport
- Hall 3: connection to Terminal 2 of the airport
Public transit options for Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf
- S-Bahn: Lines S8, S9
- Bus: Several lines available
- Long-distance buses: Available at the airport
Frankfurt Konstablerwache
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Dining
- Chipotle
- McDonald's
- Estragon
Hotel
- The Westin Grand Frankfurt
- Steigenberger Frankfurter Hof
- Hilton Frankfurt City Centre
- Hotel Villa Orange
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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