- Must visit
Mathematikum
Hands-on science museum with interactive exhibits for all ages, especially popular with families and curious adults.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Giessen
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$53
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$109
Fastest journey on Sep 20
3 h 30 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
3 h 53 m
Trains on Sep 20
7
Distance
150 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen to Giessen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Essen to Giessen will cost around $109 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $53.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Essen to Giessen without transferring at least 2 times.
63628 · IC 2201 · 10919+
151131:04 PM3h43Essen Hbf4:47 PMGiessen station$531One-way3 transfers- S9 · ICE 519 · ICE 229 · 428912:20 PM4h22Essen Hbf4:42 PMGiessen station$991One-way3 transfers
- Bus RE1 · ICE 229 · 428912:22 PM4h20Essen4:42 PMGiessen station$991One-way2 transfers
- S6 · ICE 629 · 416012:18 PM3h44Essen Hbf4:02 PMGiessen station$1141One-way2 transfers
- 63608 · ICE 123+2479812:04 PM3h30Essen Hbf3:34 PMGiessen station$1141One-way2 transfers
- 63608 · ICE 123+2479812:04 PM3h30Essen Hbf3:34 PMGiessen station$1141One-way2 transfers
- 63628 · IC 2201 · 10919+151131:04 PM3h43Essen Hbf4:47 PMGiessen station$531One-way3 transfers
- S6 · ICE 629 · 416012:18 PM3h44Essen Hbf4:02 PMGiessen station$1141One-way2 transfers
- Bus RE1 · ICE 229 · ICE 315+2485212:22 PM4h12Essen4:34 PMGiessen station$1431One-way3 transfers
- S9 · 17341 · ICE 315+2485212:20 PM4h14Essen Hbf4:34 PMGiessen station$1431One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Essen to Giessen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Essen to Giessen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $18 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 31m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $18, while a train costs an average of $100.
Distance: 93 miles (150 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$100 Average price | $18 Average price Cheapest | $37 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 31m Average total duration Fastest 3h 1m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 13m Average total duration 3h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 18m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
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 Giessen is a bus with an average price of $18.
This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Giessen:
A bus is $83 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Giessen costing on average $100.
The fastest way to travel from Essen to Giessen is by train with an average journey time of 3h 1m.
Other travel options to Giessen take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 43m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Essen and Giessen including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Giessen 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 $100 compared to roughly $37 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-63.35. The journey takes 3h 1m versus 2h 18m 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 Giessen by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sep 25
Sat
Sep 26
Sep 26
Why should you book Essen to Giessen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Essen to Giessen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to Giessen.
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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Essen to Giessen.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Essen to Giessen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Giessen
GermanyGermany
Trains from Essen to Giessen run on average 5 times per day, taking around 3h 1m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $62 but you can travel from only $13 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:08, the last at 22:24. The fastest train covers the 93 miles (150 km) distance in 2h 38m.
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 $13
Distance 93 miles (150 km) |
Average train duration 3h 1m |
Cheapest ticket price $62 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 2h 38m |
First train 12:08 AM |
Last train 10:24 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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 $13
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Essen to Giessen trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Essen and Giessen from $13. 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
2h 38m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$62
Deutsche Bahn frequency
6 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 Giessen
Things to do in Giessen
Discover the best of Giessen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Giessen trip today.
- Recommended
Oberhessisches Museum Wallenfels-Haus
Giessen’s leading art museum with changing exhibitions, regional works, and modern presentation in a central location.
- Recommended
Röntgen-Gedenkstätte
Birthplace memorial museum for physicist Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen, highlighting his life, discoveries, and scientific impact.
- Must visit
Botanischer Garten Giessen
Botanical garden founded in the university tradition, valued for plant diversity, calm atmosphere, and seasonal beauty.
- Must visit
Kloster Schiffenberg Grounds
Historic monastery hill on the city edge, popular for walks, views, and combining nature with heritage architecture.
- Recommended
Berliner Platz
Central square framed by major civic buildings, useful as an orientation point and hub for events and city walks.
Hessische Kartoffelsuppe
A Hessian potato soup often served with sausage. It is simple regional comfort food long linked to home cooking in central Hesse.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Handkäse Mit Musik
A rustic sour milk cheese from Hesse, usually served with onions, vinegar and oil. It is one of the region's most iconic tavern dishes.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Frankfurter Grüne Soße
Green sauce made with seven fresh herbs, traditionally eaten with eggs and potatoes. A classic Hessian spring and summer dish.
Bootshaus Giessen
Refined restaurant known for modern seasonal cuisine and an elegant atmosphere, suited for a higher-end dinner.
Knossos Giessen
Popular beer garden and casual dining spot with German dishes and a relaxed outdoor atmosphere by the Lahn.
Brauhaus Giessen
Traditional Hessian brewery restaurant serving regional classics and beer in a lively rustic setting near the center.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany. Hotels and dining are fairly priced, and local transit is reasonable. Costs are usually lower than Frankfurt or Munich.
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
- €2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. Tip 5-10% in restaurants for good service, round up taxi fares, and leave small change at cafes.
RMVgo
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.65
- Day pass
- €8.80
To the city center
Giessen Bahnhof -> Marktplatz Giessen
- Distance
- 1.2 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Buy tickets in RMVgo or at ticket machines before boarding; bus drivers may not always offer the full ticket range.
- Contactless card payment is available in RMVgo and at many ticket machines, but onboard bus payment options can vary.
FAQs: Trains from Essen to Giessen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Giessen 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 Giessen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Essen to Giessen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $62, while the average price is around $100.
The train from Essen to Giessen takes 2h 38m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Essen to Giessen leaves at 12:08 AM.
The distance by train from Essen to Giessen is 93 miles (150 km).
The last train from Essen to Giessen leaves at 10:24 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Essen to Giessen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Giessen.
The train station in Essen that goes to Giessen is Essen Hbf, which connects to Giessen station.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Giessen is by bus, with a cost of around $13.
The train journey from Essen to Giessen offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with views of the Ruhr area, green fields, and sections of the Lahn River, making parts of the trip quite scenic.
A day trip from Essen to Giessen is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 38m each way. However, there are 14 train trips available per day. The distance is 93 miles (150 km).
To fully explore Giessen, including its key attractions such as the Mathematikum science museum, the Botanical Garden of the University of Giessen, and the Liebig Museum, a two-day visit is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Giessen.
Since both Essen and Giessen 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 Giessen include Frankfurt am Main, Kassel, Mannheim, Marburg, Heidelberg.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Giessen 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 Giessen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and markets. It's advisable to keep personal belongings secure and be aware of surroundings. There are no widespread scams reported, but standard precautions against overcharging or misleading offers at local vendors are recommended. Overall, Giessen is considered a safe destination with typical urban safety concerns.
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 Giessen
Most Essen to Giessen trains use the Essen Hbf to Gießen station pair. Use this guide to compare Essen and Giessen 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 Giessen
Which Essen station do trains to Giessen leave from?
Trains from Essen to Giessen 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
TRUE
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 Giessen station do trains from Essen arrive at?
Trains from Essen to Giessen arrive at Gießen. Gießen is 0 miles (1 km) from Giessen city centre.
GießenGießen, Bahnhofstr. 102, 35390 Gießen
City-centre transport
Getting to Gießen from Giessen city centre
Bus2 · 6m · every ~7 min
371 · 8m · every ~2 min
Gießen train station facilities and services
Gießen 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: Aydin Grill, Südwinde, Subway, Alt Giessen
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Gießen. ATMs are available at Gießen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Gießen. Information desks are available at Gießen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Gießen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Gießen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Gießen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Gießen.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Liebig-Hotel, Hotel Flamingo, Hotel Köhler, Hotel Adler.
Most popular train connections from Essen
More options for your journey from Essen to Giessen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Giessen and Essen
Most popular train connections to Giessen
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
