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Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Essen to Groningen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Essen to Groningen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $22. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 50m. 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 $22, and a train costs an average of $27.
Distance: 123 miles (198 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$49 Average price | $37 Average price Cheapest | $56 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 20m Average total duration Fastest 3h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 15m Average total duration 4h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 57m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg 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 Groningen is a bus with an average price of $37 (€29).
This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Groningen:
A bus is $13 (€10) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Groningen costing on average $49 (€39).
The fastest way to travel from Essen to Groningen is by train with an average journey time of 3h 50m.
Other travel options to Groningen take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 45m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Essen and Groningen including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Groningen 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 $49 (€39) compared to roughly $56 (€45) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $7 (€5). The journey takes 3h 50m versus 2h 57m 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.
Live departures
Essen to Groningen train times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Groningen trains for today, Saturday, May 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:16 AM Essen | 4h09 | 11:25 AM Groningen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:58 AM Essen | 3h27 | 11:25 AM Groningen | 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 Groningen 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.
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Why should you book Essen to Groningen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as WestfalenBahn offer trains services from Essen to Groningen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to Groningen.
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 WestfalenBahn to find the best option for your trip from Essen to Groningen.
- 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 Groningen.
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 Groningen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Groningen
Germany
Netherlands
Trains from Essen to Groningen run on average 12 times per day, taking around 3h 50m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $27 (€22) but you can travel from only $22 (€17) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 01:47, the last at 23:48. The fastest train covers the 123 miles (198 km) distance in 3h 27m.
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 $22 (€17)
Distance 123 miles (198 km) |
Average train duration 3h 50m |
Cheapest ticket price $27 (€22) |
Trains per day 12 |
Fastest train 3h 27m |
First train 1:47 AM |
Last train 11:48 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 3 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 $22 (€17)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, WestfalenBahn from Essen to Groningen trainsDeutsche Bahn, WestfalenBahn trains will get you between Essen and Groningen from $22 (€17). 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
3h 27m
Cheapest Price
$27 (€22)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
1 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
WestfalenBahn
About
WestfalenBahn is a train company offering regional trains in Lower Saxony and North Rhine-Westphalia in Northern Germany. Founded in 2005, it has been owned by Abellio Deutschland since 2017. WestfahlenBahn covers the RE15, RE60 and RE70 regional train routes serving cities like Emden, Braunschweig, Hanover, Münster and Bielefeld.
Luggage & cancellation policy
WestfalenBahn frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Seat reservation
Seat reservations not included, can be purchased separately
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone
FAQs: Trains from Essen to Groningen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Groningen 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 Groningen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Essen to Groningen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $27 (€22), while the average price is around $49 (€39).
The train from Essen to Groningen takes 3h 27m and runs 12 per day.
The distance by train from Essen to Groningen is 123 miles (198 km).
The first train from Essen to Groningen leaves at 1:47 AM.
The last train from Essen to Groningen leaves at 11:48 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Essen to Groningen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Groningen.
The train station in Essen that goes to Groningen is Essen Hbf, which connects to Groningen Noord.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Groningen is by bus, with a cost of around $22 (€17).
The train journey from Essen to Groningen offers scenic views, particularly through the German countryside with picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and expansive fields, especially as you travel through regions such as North Rhine-Westphalia and Lower Saxony.
A day trip from Essen to Groningen is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 27m each way. Trains operate 16 times per day.
In Groningen, you can visit Vismarkt for fresh produce and local specialties, explore the vibrant nightlife in the city center, and learn about nautical history at the Northern Maritime Museum. Enjoy a bike tour through the scenic countryside, attend a performance at the historic Stadsschouwburg, or take in panoramic city views from Martinitoren. Discover modern art at the Groninger Museum, enjoy leisurely walks in Noorderplantsoen, relax in the Renaissance-style Prinsentuin, or visit Forum Groningen for cultural experiences including a library and cinema.
Two to three days in Groningen are typically sufficient to explore its main attractions, enjoy the vibrant cultural scene, and experience the local lifestyle.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Groningen.
Since both Essen and Groningen 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 Groningen include Leer, Oldenburg, Zwolle, Emden, Arnhem.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Groningen 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.
The currency used in the Netherlands is the Euro (EUR). Travelers generally find it more convenient to use cards, as most places accept debit and credit cards, though having some cash on hand is useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Groningen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and public transport. Bicycle theft is common, so securing bikes with strong locks is essential. Be aware of occasional scams involving fake charity collectors or overcharging in taxis. Always use official taxi services and avoid sharing personal information with strangers.
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 Groningen
Essen
Groningen
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 Groningen.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
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
- Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
- Kiepenkerl
- Cafe Extrablatt
- Tacos
Hotel
- Ambassador
- Gästearpartment Dahl
- WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus
- Motel One
Essen-Frohnhausen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
3 kmDining
- Pizzeria Don Camillo
- Pizza Farm
- Call a Pizza
- Nefeli
Essen-Steele
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
4 kmDining
- Bootshaus Ruhreck
- Da Vinici
- Asia-Nudeln
- Bacchos
Hotel
- Zur Guten Quelle
- Hotel Töff-Töff
- Budike
The major train station for arrivals in Groningen is Groningen. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Groningen for your journey to Groningen from Essen.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
9Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week from 5:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. Departures can be made outside of opening hours. You can access the car park at Stationsweg.
Dining
- De Drie Gezusters
- Mr. Mofongo
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- €0.70
Hotel
- NH Groningen Hotel
- The Student Hotel Groningen
- City Hotel Groningen
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 6500 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-3 for international and intercity trains
- Hall 2: regional train platforms
- Hall 3: bus connections
Public transit options for Groningen
- Bus: Several lines available
- Train: NS services to various destinations
Groningen Noord
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmNumber of platforms
2Parking
- Parking is available near the station, with spaces for both short-term and long-term parking.
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps.
WC
- Free of charge
Bike Parking
- 80 places, covered
Station Plan
- The station is a small regional station with two platforms and a simple layout.
Public transit options for Groningen Noord
- Bus: Line 3, Line 4
- Train: Arriva services to Groningen Central and Delfzijl
Groningen, Hoofdstation
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Most popular train connections from Essen
More options for your journey from Essen to Groningen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Groningen and Essen
Most popular train connections to Groningen
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