Essen to Friedrichshafen train with Deutsche Bahn (IC,RE)

Sun, Jun 21
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
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2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Friedrichshafen

Showing times and prices for Jun 21

Cheapest price

$110

Average price

$110

Fastest journey

5 h 16 m

Average duration

5 h 46 m

Trains per day

5

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 $110 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $110.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Essen to Friedrichshafen without transferring at least once.

  • Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
    4:36 PM5h16
    Essen
    9:52 PMFriedrichshafen
    $1101One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
    4:59 PM5h26
    Essen
    10:25 PMFriedrichshafen
    $1101One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
    6:36 PM5h16
    Essen
    11:52 PMFriedrichshafen
    $1101One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
    6:59 PM5h40
    Essen
    12:39 AMFriedrichshafen
    $1101One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
    11:00 PM7h14
    Essen
    6:14 AMFriedrichshafen
    $1101One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Essen to Friedrichshafen

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Essen to Friedrichshafen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $52. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 6h 21m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $52, and a train costs an average of $171.

Distance: 284 miles (458 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$191

Average price

$64

Average price

Cheapest

$103

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

6h 51m

Average total duration

Fastest

6h 21m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

17h 6m

Average total duration

16h 36m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 56m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.5 - 1.1kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

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 Friedrichshafen is a bus with an average price of $64 (€52).

This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Friedrichshafen:

A bus is $127 (€104) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Friedrichshafen costing on average $191 (€157).

The fastest way to travel from Essen to Friedrichshafen is by train with an average journey time of 6h 21m.

Other travel options to Friedrichshafen take longer:

Bus takes on average 16h 36m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Essen and Friedrichshafen including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Friedrichshafen 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 35m sooner (6h 21m by train vs 6h 56m by car). Tickets start at around $191 (€157) compared to roughly $103 (€84) 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 Intercity (DB IC).

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 Friedrichshafen train times

The table below shows live departures for Essen to Friedrichshafen trains for tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)4:36 PM Essen
5h16
9:52 PM Friedrichshafen1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)4:59 PM Essen
5h26
10:25 PM Friedrichshafen1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Essen to Friedrichshafen by train or bus

Compare train and bus 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.

Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27

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.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Essen to Friedrichshafen

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Essen to Friedrichshafen run on average 5 times per day, taking around 6h 21m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $171 (€140) but you can travel from only $52 (€42) 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 (€42)
Distance
284 miles (458 km)
Average train duration
6h 21m
Cheapest ticket price
$171 (€140)
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 (€42)

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 (€42). 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
$171 (€140)
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.
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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 16m
Cheapest Price
$98 (€80)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
10 a day

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Essen to Friedrichshafen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $171 (€140), while the average price is around $191 (€157).
The train from Essen to Friedrichshafen takes 6h 13m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Essen to Friedrichshafen leaves at 5:27 AM.
The distance by train from Essen to Friedrichshafen is 284 miles (458 km).
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 cheapest way to get from Essen to Friedrichshafen is by bus, with a cost of around $52 (€42).
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.
A day trip from Essen to Friedrichshafen is not feasible due to a travel duration of 6h 13m. The journey covers a distance of 284 miles (458 km), with train services operating 8 times per day.
Two to three days are generally sufficient to explore Friedrichshafen's key attractions, such as the Zeppelin Museum, Lake Constance, and local vineyards.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Friedrichshafen.
Since both Essen and Friedrichshafen 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 Friedrichshafen include Bregenz, Memmingen, Sankt Gallen, Ulm, Schaffhausen.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Friedrichshafen 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 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 EssenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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.

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