- Must visit
Zeppelin Museum Friedrichshafen
The city’s signature museum on airship history, design, and technology. Original artifacts and a partial Hindenburg reconstruction make it essential.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Friedrichshafen
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
$197
Average price
$197
Fastest journey
8 h 13 m
Average duration
8 h 13 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
458 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen to Friedrichshafen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Essen to Friedrichshafen will cost around $197 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $197.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Essen for Friedrichshafen on Wed, Aug 05, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 05 the direct trains cover the 458 km distance in an average of 8 h 13 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 8 h 13 m .
On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest trains will take 8 h 13 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.
5:00 AM8h13Essen1:13 PMFriedrichshafen$1971One-way0 transfers
- 5:00 AM8h13Essen1:13 PMFriedrichshafen$1971One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Friedrichshafen
GermanyGermany
Trains from Essen to Friedrichshafen run on average 5 times per day, taking around 6h 21m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $172 but you can travel from only $52 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:27, the last at 23:37. The fastest train covers the 284 miles (458 km) distance in 6h 13m.
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 $52
Distance 284 miles (458 km) |
Average train duration 6h 21m |
Cheapest ticket price $172 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 6h 13m |
First train 5:27 AM |
Last train 11:37 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jan - Mar |
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 $52
Live departures
Essen to Friedrichshafen train times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Friedrichshafen trains for tomorrow, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:00 AM Essen | 8h13 | 1:13 PM Friedrichshafen | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Essen to Friedrichshafen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Essen to Friedrichshafen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to Friedrichshafen.
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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Essen to Friedrichshafen.
- 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Essen to Friedrichshafen.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Essen to Friedrichshafen.
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Essen to Friedrichshafen trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Essen and Friedrichshafen from $52. 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 13m
Cheapest Price
$172
Deutsche Bahn frequency
5 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
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 16m
Cheapest Price
$98
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
10 a day
Complete guide to Friedrichshafen
Things to do in Friedrichshafen
Discover the best of Friedrichshafen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Friedrichshafen trip today.
- Must visit
Dornier Museum
Major aviation museum at the airport with aircraft, simulators, and Dornier engineering history. Ideal for technology and transport enthusiasts.
- Recommended
Schulmuseum Friedrichshafen
Compact school museum showing classrooms, teaching tools, and daily education history from past centuries in the region.
- Must visit
Uferpromenade
Long lakeside promenade for walking, views of the Alps, harbor activity, and sunset. It is the city’s classic public space.
- Recommended
Hafen Friedrichshafen
The main harbor area with ferries, excursion boats, and open lake views. A practical and scenic base for exploring the city.
- Recommended
Adenauerplatz
Central square near the waterfront used for markets, events, and everyday city life. A good orientation point in the center.
- Vegetarian
Maultaschen
Cheese-filled pasta pockets from Swabia, often topped with caramelized onions. A regional classic around Lake Constance and a staple in local inns.
- Vegetarian
Käsespätzle
Soft egg noodles, usually served with cheese and fried onions or with gravy. One of the most beloved traditional Swabian comfort foods.
Flädlesuppe
Thin pancakes sliced into strips and served in clear beef broth. Common across Swabia and southern Germany as a traditional starter.
Restaurant Maier
Elegant Michelin-starred dining in Hotel Maier, known for refined regional cuisine, polished service, and a calm upscale setting in Fischbach.
Kommodore
Historic brewery tavern serving hearty Swabian dishes and beer in a traditional atmosphere. A reliable choice for regional comfort food.
Zum Klosterwirt
Popular traditional venue for Swabian classics, local beer, and generous portions in an informal setting suited to both locals and visitors.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany. Hotels can rise in summer trade fair and lake season; dining is mid-priced, while local buses and regional trains are fairly reasonable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €3-4.50 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave about 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Round up taxi fares and leave small change in cafes.
DB Navigator
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.80
- Day pass
- $null
To the city center
Friedrichshafen Stadt -> Friedrichshafen Stadtbahnhof, Friedrichshafen
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Use the bodo tariff for Friedrichshafen city buses. Buy tickets in the app or from vending machines before boarding when available.
- Card payment availability varies by bus and sales channel. The DB Navigator and bodo apps support cashless payment for many local tickets.
FAQs: Trains from Essen to Friedrichshafen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Friedrichshafen 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 Friedrichshafen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Essen to Friedrichshafen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $172, while the average price is around $192.
The train from Essen to Friedrichshafen takes 6h 13m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Essen to Friedrichshafen is 284 miles (458 km).
The first train from Essen to Friedrichshafen leaves at 5:27 AM.
The last train from Essen to Friedrichshafen leaves at 11:37 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Essen to Friedrichshafen. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Friedrichshafen.
The train station in Essen that goes to Friedrichshafen is Essen Hbf, which connects to Friedrichshafen Stadt.
The train journey from Essen to Friedrichshafen offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Rhine Valley and approaches Lake Constance, providing travelers with a mix of urban and natural scenery.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Friedrichshafen.
Popular day trips by train from Friedrichshafen include Bregenz, Memmingen, Sankt Gallen, Ulm, Schaffhausen.
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 Friedrichshafen, travelers should be aware of typical urban safety concerns such as pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the harbor and train station. Scams are rare but can include overpriced taxi rides or unofficial ticket sellers. Staying vigilant and using official transportation and ticket vendors helps ensure a safe 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 Friedrichshafen
Most Essen to Friedrichshafen trains use the Essen Hbf to Friedrichshafen Stadt station pair, with some services arriving at Friedrichshafen Hafen. Use this guide to compare Essen and Friedrichshafen 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 Friedrichshafen
Which Essen station do trains to Friedrichshafen leave from?
Trains from Essen to Friedrichshafen 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.
Which Friedrichshafen station do trains from Essen arrive at?
Trains from Essen to Friedrichshafen most often arrive at Friedrichshafen Stadt. Some services arrive at Friedrichshafen Flughafen, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Friedrichshafen arrival station.
Friedrichshafen StadtFriedrichshafen Stadt, Stadtbahnhof 1, 88045 Friedrichshafen
City-centre transport
Getting to Friedrichshafen Stadt from Friedrichshafen city centre
Bus7395 · 5m · $2
Friedrichshafen Stadt train station facilities and services
Friedrichshafen Stadt 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: Kochlöffel, Ailinger Hof, Cafe Vinebar Al Porto, Felders
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Friedrichshafen Stadt. ATMs are available at Friedrichshafen Stadt.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Friedrichshafen Stadt. Information desks are available at Friedrichshafen Stadt.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Friedrichshafen Stadt. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Friedrichshafen Stadt: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Friedrichshafen Stadt: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Friedrichshafen Stadt.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Stadthotel Kleiner Berg, Select Hotel Goldenes Rad Friedrichshafen, Schwanen, Villa Von Soden.
Friedrichshafen FlughafenFriedrichshafen Flughafen, Am Flugplatz 64, 88046 Meckenbeuren
City-centre transport
Getting to Friedrichshafen Flughafen from Friedrichshafen city centre
Friedrichshafen Flughafen is 3 km from Friedrichshafen city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb91 · 5m · $1 · every ~2 min
BusR45 · 9m · $4 · every ~2 min
Friedrichshafen Flughafen train station facilities and services
Friedrichshafen Flughafen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Do-X, Imbiss auf Besucherterrasse, LSC Restaurant, Volare
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Friedrichshafen Flughafen. ATMs are available at Friedrichshafen Flughafen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Friedrichshafen Flughafen. Information desks are available at Friedrichshafen Flughafen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Friedrichshafen Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Friedrichshafen Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Friedrichshafen Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Friedrichshafen Flughafen.
Friedrichshafen HafenFriedrichshafen Hafen, Romanshorner Platz 12, 88045 Friedrichshafen
City-centre transport
Getting to Friedrichshafen Hafen from Friedrichshafen city centre
Bus6 · 13m · $4 · every ~3 min
Friedrichshafen Hafen train station facilities and services
Friedrichshafen Hafen 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: McDonald's, Antalya, Kochlöffel, Ailinger Hof
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Friedrichshafen Hafen. ATMs are available at Friedrichshafen Hafen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Friedrichshafen Hafen. Information desks are available at Friedrichshafen Hafen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Friedrichshafen Hafen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Friedrichshafen Hafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Friedrichshafen Hafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Friedrichshafen Hafen.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Stadthotel Kleiner Berg, Select Hotel Goldenes Rad Friedrichshafen, Schwanen, Hotel Zeppelin.
Most popular train connections from Essen
More options for your journey from Essen to Friedrichshafen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Friedrichshafen and Essen
Most popular train connections to Friedrichshafen
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