- Must visit
Augustinermuseum
Leading art museum with works from the Middle Ages to the Baroque in a former monastery near the cathedral.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$53
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$69
Fastest journey on Sep 20
4 h 3 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
7 h 48 m
Trains on Sep 20
2
Distance
389 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau will cost around $69 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $53.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 2 trains from Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau, including 2 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 389 km distance in an average of 7 h 48 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 3 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 11 h 32 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.
8:04 AM11h32Essen7:36 PMFreiburg im Breisgau$531One-way0 transfers
7:00 AM4h03Essen11:03 AMFreiburg im Breisgau$861One-way0 transfers
- 7:00 AM4h03Essen11:03 AMFreiburg im Breisgau$861One-way0 transfers
- 8:04 AM11h32Essen7:36 PMFreiburg im Breisgau$531One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $61 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 22m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $61, while a flight costs an average of $599.
Distance: 241 miles (389 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$119 Average price | $599 Average price | $61 Average price Cheapest | $91 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 50m Average total duration 4h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 22m Average total duration Fastest 2h 22m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 8h 56m Average total duration 8h 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 18m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.2 - 2.3kg CO2 emissions | 0.4 - 1.0kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | 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 Freiburg im Breisgau is a bus with an average price of $61.
This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau:
A bus is $59 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau costing on average $119.
A bus is $538 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau costing on average $599.
The fastest way to travel from Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 22m.
Other travel options to Freiburg im Breisgau take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 20m.
Bus takes on average 8h 26m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Essen and Freiburg im Breisgau including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 58m sooner (4h 20m by train vs 5h 18m by car). Tickets start at around $119 compared to roughly $91 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau train times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1:59 PM Essen | 6h02 | 8:01 PM Freiburg im Breisgau | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Sunday, September 20 | |||||
| 7:00 AM Essen | 4h03 | 11:03 AM Freiburg im Breisgau | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:04 AM Essen | 11h32 | 7:36 PM Freiburg im Breisgau | 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 Freiburg im Breisgau 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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Sep 20
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Sep 26
Why should you book Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- 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 Freiburg im Breisgau.
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 Freiburg im Breisgau.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau
GermanyGermany
Trains from Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau run on average 9 times per day, taking around 4h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $44 but you can travel from only $36 by bus.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:50. The fastest train covers the 241 miles (389 km) distance in 3h 41m.
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 $36
Distance 241 miles (389 km) |
Average train duration 4h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price $44 |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 3h 41m |
First train 12:05 AM |
Last train 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 6 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 $36
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Essen and Freiburg im Breisgau from $36. 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
3h 41m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$44
Deutsche Bahn frequency
7 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
Complete guide to Freiburg im Breisgau
Things to do in Freiburg im Breisgau
Discover the best of Freiburg im Breisgau — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Freiburg im Breisgau trip today.
- Recommended
Museum für Stadtgeschichte
Museum of city history in two historic houses, covering Freiburg’s medieval roots, daily life, and urban development.
- Recommended
Archäologisches Museum Colombischlössle
Archaeology museum displaying regional finds from prehistory to the early Middle Ages in a Baroque residence.
- Must visit
Münsterplatz
Freiburg’s central square, famous for the cathedral market, historic façades, and lively everyday city atmosphere.
- Must visit
Schlossberg
Popular hillside park and walking area with trails, terraces, and some of the best panoramic city views.
- Must visit
Konviktstraße
Charming Old Town lane known for streams, small shops, and postcard-worthy Freiburg atmosphere away from main crowds.
- Gluten-free
Badisches Schäufele
Schäufele is cured and smoked pork shoulder, often served with potato salad or sauerkraut. It is a beloved Baden Sunday meal with deep regional roots.
Flammkuchen
Flammkuchen is a thin crust tart topped with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon. Common across Baden and nearby Alsace, it is a classic wine tavern dish.
- Vegetarian
Bibiliskäs
Bibiliskäs is a fresh herb quark spread served with potatoes or bread. It is a simple Baden favorite that highlights local dairy and garden herbs.
Zirbelstube
Elegant Michelin-starred dining in the Colombi Hotel, known for refined regional cuisine, polished service, and a formal atmosphere.
Hausbrauerei Feierling
Historic traditional restaurant near the Münster, serving Baden classics and seasonal dishes in a rustic, wood-paneled setting.
Zum Roten Bären
Well-known local venue for hearty Baden food and regional wines, with a cozy tavern feel and a long-standing reputation in the old town.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels and dining are mid-priced, while local transit is reasonable. Tourist costs are lower than Munich or Frankfurt but above smaller towns.
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 coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is included, but rounding up or adding 5-10% is common in restaurants. Round up taxi fares. Small change is fine in cafes.
VAG mobil
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.50
- Day pass
- €7.00
To the city center
Freiburg Hauptbahnhof/ZOB -> Bertoldsbrunnen, Freiburg im Breisgau
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Validate paper tickets before boarding if they are not pre-printed with the start time.
- On many VAG trams and buses, ticket machines support card and contactless payment, but carry a backup payment method.
FAQs: Trains from Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau 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 Freiburg im Breisgau, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $44, while the average price is around $119.
The train from Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau takes 3h 41m and runs 9 per day.
The distance by train from Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau is 241 miles (389 km).
The first train from Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau leaves at 12:05 AM.
The last train from Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau leaves at 11:50 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau.
The train station in Essen that goes to Freiburg im Breisgau is Essen Hbf, which connects to Freiburg Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau is by bus, with a cost of around $36.
The train journey from Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau is quite scenic, offering views of the picturesque Rhine Valley, lush vineyards, charming towns, and the rolling hills of the Black Forest, especially as you approach Freiburg.
A day trip from Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau is not feasible as the journey duration is 3h 41m. However, there are 14 train trips available per day. The distance is 241 miles (389 km).
In Freiburg im Breisgau, you can enjoy a variety of activities and sights. Visit Seepark for leisure activities around a lake and Japanese garden, or explore the vibrant market at Münsterplatz for fresh produce and crafts. Take a guided walking tour of the historic old town, or relax at the Freiburg Botanical Garden. For breathtaking views, don't miss the Freiburg Minster with its Gothic architecture and 116-meter-high tower, or hike up Schlossberg. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Augustiner Museum's medieval and Baroque collections. Finally, explore Schwabentor, one of the city's remaining medieval gates, for a glimpse into Freiburg's history.
Two to three days are ideal for exploring Freiburg im Breisgau, allowing you to enjoy its historic old town, the Black Forest, and local attractions like the Freiburg Minster.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau.
Since both Essen and Freiburg im Breisgau 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 Freiburg im Breisgau include Basel, Zurich, Strasbourg, Lucerne, Baden-Baden.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau 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 Freiburg im Breisgau, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the Hauptbahnhof (main train station) and popular tourist spots. Scam attempts involving overcharging in taxis or at local markets can occur, so it's advisable to agree on prices beforehand. Additionally, travelers should remain vigilant when using ATMs to avoid card skimming. Overall, Freiburg is considered a safe city, but staying aware of personal belongings helps ensure a trouble-free visit.
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 Freiburg im Breisgau
Most Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau trains use the Essen Hbf to Freiburg(Breisgau) Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Essen and Freiburg im Breisgau 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 Freiburg im Breisgau
Which Essen station do trains to Freiburg im Breisgau leave from?
Trains from Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau 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
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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 Freiburg im Breisgau station do trains from Essen arrive at?
Trains from Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau arrive at Freiburg(Breisgau) Hbf. Freiburg(Breisgau) Hbf is 0 miles (1 km) from Freiburg im Breisgau city centre.
Freiburg(Breisgau) HbfFreiburg (Breisgau) Hbf, Bismarckallee 5-7, 79098 Freiburg
City-centre transport
Getting to Freiburg(Breisgau) Hbf from Freiburg im Breisgau city centre
Bus27 · 6m
TramSc, 4, 3, 2, 1 · 3m · every ~59 min
Freiburg(Breisgau) Hbf train station facilities and services
Freiburg(Breisgau) 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: Cafe Einstein, Pizzaria Picasso, Babeuf, Café Hermann
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Freiburg(Breisgau) Hbf. ATMs are available at Freiburg(Breisgau) Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Freiburg(Breisgau) Hbf. Information desks are available at Freiburg(Breisgau) Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Freiburg(Breisgau) Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Freiburg(Breisgau) Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Freiburg(Breisgau) Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Freiburg(Breisgau) Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Minerva, Hotel Barbara, Parkhotel Post, Hotel Oberkirch.
Most popular train connections from Essen
More options for your journey from Essen to Freiburg im Breisgau
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Freiburg im Breisgau and Essen
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