Essen to Frankfurt am Main train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,RE)

Wed, Dec 17
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
Hessische Landesbahn
National Express
Regionale
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Deutsche Bahn
Hessische Landesbahn
National Express
Regionale
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1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Frankfurt am Main

Showing times and prices for Dec 17

Cheapest price

$48

Average price

$102

Fastest journey

1 h 58 m

Average duration

2 h 9 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

190 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen to Frankfurt am Main is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Essen to Frankfurt am Main will cost around $102 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $48.

Fast trains

Of the 6 trains that leave Essen for Frankfurt am Main on Wed, Dec 17, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Dec 17 the direct trains cover the 190 km distance in an average of 2 h 9 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 58 m .

On Wed, Dec 17 the slowest trains will take 2 h 18 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 27
08:59AM3h14
Essen Hbf
12:13PMFrankfurt (Main) Hbf
$481One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 621
08:53AM1h58
Essen Hbf
10:51AMFrankfurt (Main) Hbf
$1101One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 219 · ICE 1559
09:03AM2h10
Essen Hbf
11:13AMFrankfurt (Main) Hbf
$1101One-way
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 119 · ICE 25
08:03AM2h10
Essen Hbf
10:13AMFrankfurt (Main) Hbf
$1101One-way
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 915 · ICE 121
08:36AM2h09
Essen Hbf
10:45AMFrankfurt (Main) Hbf
$1101One-way
1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Essen to Frankfurt am Main

Omio recommends booking the train 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 €12. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 52m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €12, and a flight costs an average of €86.

Distance: 118 miles (190 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight

€63

Average price

€20

Average price

Cheapest

€110

Average price

3h 43m

Average total duration

3h 13m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 35m

Average total duration

4h 5m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 52m

Average total duration

Fastest

52m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

0.6 - 1.1kg

CO2 emissions

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Essen to Frankfurt am Main train times

The table below shows live departures for Essen to Frankfurt am Main trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, December 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 6:48 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
deutsche_bahnICE 119 · ICE 25
On time
7:03 AM Essen Hbf
2h10
9:13 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 915 · ICE 121
On time
7:36 AM Essen Hbf
2h09
9:45 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 6217:53 AM Essen Hbf
1h58
9:51 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnICE 27
On time
7:59 AM Essen Hbf
3h14
11:13 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnICE 219 · ICE 1559
On time
8:03 AM Essen Hbf
2h10
10:13 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahn26810 · ICE 13
On time
8:09 AM Essen Hbf
2h18
10:27 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
1 transfer

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.

Wed
Dec 17
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Dec 20
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Mon
Dec 22
Tue
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Fri
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Dec 27
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Why should you book Essen to Frankfurt am Main trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn (ICE,RE) as well as Hessische Landesbahn and National Express offer trains services from Essen to Frankfurt am Main. Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to Frankfurt am Main.

Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn (ICE,RE)?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn (ICE,RE), but also compare tickets for the likes of Hessische Landesbahn and National Express to find the best option for your trip from Essen to Frankfurt am Main.
  • 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 (ICE,RE) with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Essen to Frankfurt am Main.

Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?

Multiple modes of transport
  • Multiple travel company options: While Deutsche Bahn (ICE,RE) tickets can be bought on Deutsche Bahn (ICE,RE)'s website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of Hessische Landesbahn and National Express to help you choose the right option for your journey from Essen to Frankfurt am Main.
  • 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 Frankfurt am Main.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Essen to Frankfurt am Main?

The best time to book your train from Essen to Frankfurt am Main is 42 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Essen to Frankfurt am Main route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Essen to Frankfurt am Main per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Essen to Frankfurt am Main.

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Essen to Frankfurt am Main

userReviewImage
userReviewLogo
The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Advantages
IconPrice-performance ratio
IconCleanliness (hygiene, WCs)
IconComfort
Disadvantages
IconEquipment (wifi)
My train ticket from Essen to Frankfurt am Main was a real stroke of luck! The price-performance ratio was top, I didn't pay much and got a lot for it. I was pleasantly surprised by the cleanliness and hygiene of the WCS, which was really pleasant. The comfort on the train was also great, comfortable seats and enough space. But here comes the "but", the wifi facilities leave a lot to be desired, they were a bit weak. Still, if you value value value for money, cleanliness, comfort and hygiene and can do without the wifi, then this train ticket is definitely recommended. I would take it again.
Advantages
IconSpeed
IconConvenience
IconCapacity utilisation
Disadvantages
IconPrice
IconService
IconPunctuality
My journey from Essen to Frankfurt was mediocre. The train was quite fast and comfortable, at the same time it was not so crowded. I didn't like the punctuality of the train as much, because the train was more than 30 minutes late in Frankfurt. Against this background, I also did not like the service and the communication of the staff. All in all, I was therefore somewhat disappointed with the price-performance ratio of this ticket.
Advantages
IconA very good connection
IconDirect connection
Disadvantages
IconUnfortunately noisy in the quiet areas
The seats are very comfortable. The reservation options via the online system work well. The cleanliness in the ICE is always perfect Value for money with BahnCard. In the restaurants you can get everything your heart desires. The service here is really perfect, sometimes you come across not so nice staff when checking tickets, but that's not bad.
Advantages
IconReliability
IconSecurity
Disadvantages
IconHardly any free places
My train journey from Essen to Frankfurt was really pleasant and I would like to share my experience. The best thing about this trip was undoubtedly the reliability and the feeling of safety. The train was reliable and left Essen at the scheduled time. The journey was without incident, which gave me a reassuring feeling of security. The presence of the friendly train staff further enhanced this feeling. Unfortunately, there was one small drawback - hardly any free seats on the train. This led to a cramped feeling of space and limited freedom of movement.
Advantages
IconFast connection
IconNo change
Disadvantages
IconA little dirty
As always, the connection from Essen to Frankfurt is very fast and very comfortable without changing planes. The wifi connection also held up well. No sockets were needed. It was relatively full, but there were no problems with seat reservations. Unfortunately, the small bin in the carriage was already overflowing and not so pleasant. The train attendant was friendly and courteous. Basically, it was also a quiet and relatively punctual journey.
Advantages
IconFree power sockets
IconWifi available
IconClean toilets
IconTop price/performance
Disadvantages
IconWifi slow
The train journey from Essen to Frankfurt am Main was altogether more positive than initially expected. Booking the ticket was easy and without any problems. The seats on the train were comfortably upholstered and clean, and there were power sockets at every seat that you were free to use. There was also wifi on the train, but unfortunately it was a little slower than usual (~ 15 MBit/s). The toilets were clean and the washbasin was hygienic and soap was available. I would definitely take the train from Hanover to Berlin again.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Essen to Frankfurt am Main

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Essen to Frankfurt am Main run on average 15 times per day, taking around 3h 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $19 (€15) but you can travel from only $15 (€12) by bus.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 118 miles (190 km) distance in 1h 54m.

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 $15 (€12)
Distance
118 miles (190 km)
Average train duration
3h 13m
Cheapest ticket price
$19 (€15)
Trains per day
15
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
1h 54m
First train
00:01
Last train
23:58
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 $15 (€12)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Hessische Landesbahn, National Express from Essen to Frankfurt am Main trainsDeutsche Bahn, Hessische Landesbahn, National Express trains will get you between Essen and Frankfurt am Main from $15 (€12). 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
1h 54m
Cheapest Price
$19 (€15)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
19 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

Hessische Landesbahn

About
Hessische Landesbahn (HLB) is a regional transport company owned by the German state of Hesse, headquartered in Frankfurt am Main. It provides extensive bus and rail passenger transport services within Hesse and extends its operations into neighboring states like Bavaria, Lower Saxony, North Rhine-Westphalia, Rhineland-Palatinate, and Thuringia. HLB operates as a holding company with subsidiaries managing rail services (HLB Hessenbahn GmbH), bus services (HLB Hessenbus GmbH), and infrastructure/vehicle resources (HLB Basis AG). Their diverse fleet includes modern train types such as Stadler FLIRT, Alstom LINT, and Coradia Continental trains. Tickets from Deutsche Bahn are also valid on HLB trains.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Hessische Landesbahn frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack and beverage service available on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require a ticket and must be leashed
Quiet zone

National Express

About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 40m
Cheapest Price
$68 (€54)
National Express frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Essen to Frankfurt am Main can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $19 (€15), while the average price is around $79 (€63).
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.
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.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Frankfurt am Main is by bus, with a cost of around $15 (€12).
The train from Essen to Frankfurt am Main takes 1h 54m and runs 15 per day.
Yes, you can do a day trip from Essen to Frankfurt am Main. The journey takes 1h 54m and covers 118 miles (190 km). There are 15 trains per day for this route.
The first train from Essen to Frankfurt am Main leaves at 12:01 AM.
The train journey from Essen to Frankfurt am Main offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of industrial areas, small towns, and stretches of natural landscapes, providing a diverse visual experience for travelers.
The last train from Essen to Frankfurt am Main leaves at 11:58 PM.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Frankfurt am Main.
Yes, there is a direct train from Essen to Frankfurt am Main. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Frankfurt am Main.
The distance by train from Essen to Frankfurt am Main is 118 miles (190 km).
The train station in Essen that goes to Frankfurt am Main is Essen Hbf, which connects to Frankfurt (Main) Hbf.

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 Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Essen Hbf for your trip from Essen to Frankfurt am Main.
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
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
3 km
Dining
Dining
  • Burger King
  • Werner
  • Bückmannsmühle
  • Muckel-Eis

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