- Must visit
Hamburger Kunsthalle
Internationally respected art museum with major works from medieval altarpieces to modern masters. Essential for art lovers in Hamburg.
No trains found
We are not able to find a train between these two places.
The cheapest and fastest trainsfrom Essen to HamburgShowing times and prices for Jul 17
Cheapest price
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Essen to Hamburg train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Essen to Hamburg
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Essen to Hamburg among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $34. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 6h 20m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $34, and a flight costs an average of $126.
Distance: 275 miles (443 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$175 Average price | $403 Average price | $63 Average price Cheapest | $65 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 50m Average total duration Fastest 6h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 1m Average total duration 7h 1m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 10h 50m Average total duration 10h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 41m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Essen to Hamburg is a bus with an average price of $63 (€51).
This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Hamburg:
A bus is $112 (€92) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Hamburg costing on average $175 (€143).
A bus is $340 (€279) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Essen to Hamburg costing on average $403 (€331).
The fastest way to travel from Essen to Hamburg is by train with an average journey time of 6h 20m.
Other travel options to Hamburg take longer:
Flight takes on average 7h 1m.
Bus takes on average 10h 20m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Essen and Hamburg including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Hamburg 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 $175 (€143) compared to roughly $65 (€53) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-109.64 (€-89.98). The journey takes 6h 20m versus 5h 41m 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 Hamburg train times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Hamburg trains for tomorrow, Saturday, July 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 7:30 AM Essen | 7h21 | 2:51 PM Hamburg | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:30 AM Essen | 7h21 | 3:51 PM Hamburg | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:37 AM Essen | 9h52 | 6:29 PM Hamburg | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:37 AM Essen | 9h20 | 7:57 PM Hamburg | 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 Hamburg 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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Jul 18
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Why should you book Essen to Hamburg trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Essen to Hamburg.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to Hamburg.
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 Hamburg.
- 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 Hamburg.
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 Hamburg.
ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Essen to Hamburg
The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Advantages
wifiDisadvantages
CleanlinessThe train journey from Essen to Hamburg was alright overall, but there was room for improvement in terms of comfort and cleanliness.The comfort during the journey was quite good. The seats were acceptable but not particularly comfortable for longer journeys. The availability of power outlets was limited but the wifi was stable. Cleanliness was OK but there were occasional spills that would have required more thorough cleaning.Train staff were polite but not particularly present. There were limited announcements and information about the next stops.The value for money of the train journey was reasonable. Ticket prices were fair, but there was potential for more comfort and improved cleanliness.
Advantages
HygieneDisadvantages
NoneI have absolutely nothing to criticise about the return journey. The train was very punctual and also kept very hygienic and clean. The benches were very comfortable and I could feel a sense of security. The staff always helped me with any questions I had and were very friendly. I rate the price-performance ratio as very good and I can give the train connection a positive review.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Hamburg
Belgium
Germany
Trains from Essen to Hamburg run on average 6 times per day, taking around 6h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $82 (€68) but you can travel from only $34 (€28) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 06:46, the last at 18:46. The fastest train covers the 275 miles (443 km) distance in 6h 45m.
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 $34 (€28)
Distance 275 miles (443 km) |
Average train duration 6h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price $82 (€68) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 6h 45m |
First train 6:46 AM |
Last train 6:46 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Thu |
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 $34 (€28)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Essen to Hamburg trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Essen and Hamburg from $34 (€28). 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 45m
Cheapest Price
$82 (€68)
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
2h 46m
Cheapest Price
$73 (€60)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
16 a day
Complete guide to Hamburg
Things to do in Hamburg
Discover the best of Hamburg — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Hamburg trip today.
- Must visit
Miniatur Wunderland
Large railway model world with intricate miniature cities, airports, and landscapes. Technically not a museum, but one of Hamburg’s top attractions.
- Recommended
Deichtorhallen Hamburg
Contemporary art museum in a former market hall, showing ambitious international exhibitions. A strong choice for modern art and photography.
- Must visit
Jungfernstieg
Historic lakeside promenade and central square, ideal for people-watching, shopping, and views over the Inner Alster and city skyline.
- Must visit
Landungsbrücken
Harborfront district with piers, ferries, and fish market atmosphere. A lively base for boat trips and classic views of the port.
- Must visit
Outer Alster
Lakeside quarter around the Outer Alster, popular for strolling, sailing views, and elegant residential scenery close to the city center.
Hamburger Aalsuppe
A rich fish soup from the old port, made with several fish species, vegetables and broth. It reflects Hamburg’s long maritime and fishing tradition.
Finkenwerder Scholle
Pan-fried fillet of North Sea plaice, often served with bacon, potatoes and salad. A classic Northern German fish dish common in Hamburg.
- Vegetarian
Franzbrötchen
A sweet yeast pastry shaped like a knot, traditionally baked in Hamburg and often enjoyed with coffee. It is a long-standing local bakery specialty.
Restaurant Haerlin
Two-Michelin-star dining with modern, highly refined tasting menus and polished service in an elegant setting near the Inner Alster.
Fischereihafen Restaurant
Historic fish hall on the Elbe known for fresh seafood platters, harbour views and classic Hamburg maritime atmosphere.
Old Commercial Room
Beloved traditional inn serving robust Northern German classics such as Labskaus in a cozy, old-Hamburg setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey in peak season, but dining and transit are reasonable versus major Western European capitals.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or street food.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €3-4.50 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included, but rounding up or tipping 5-10% is common in restaurants. Round up taxi fares, and leave small change in cafes.
hvv switch
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.80
- Day pass
- €8.40
To the city center
Hamburg Hbf -> Hamburg City Center (Rathausmarkt)
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Buy tickets in the hvv switch app or at station machines before boarding. Card and contactless payment are widely accepted at machines and in the app.
- Hamburg Hbf is already central; Rathausmarkt is walkable in about 15 min. U-Bahn, S-Bahn, and buses also connect the center quickly.
FAQs: Trains from Essen to Hamburg
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Hamburg 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 Hamburg, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Essen to Hamburg can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $82 (€68), while the average price is around $175 (€143).
The train from Essen to Hamburg takes 6h 45m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Essen to Hamburg is 275 miles (443 km).
The first train from Essen to Hamburg leaves at 6:46 AM.
The last train from Essen to Hamburg leaves at 6:46 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Essen to Hamburg. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Hamburg.
The train station in Essen that goes to Hamburg is Essen station, which connects to Hamburg Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Hamburg is by bus, with a cost of around $34 (€28).
The train journey from Essen to Hamburg offers views of Germany's lush countryside, rolling hills, and occasional river vistas, making it a pleasant and moderately scenic experience.
A day trip from Essen to Hamburg is not feasible as the journey duration is 6h 45m. However, trains run frequently with 6 trips per day, covering a distance of 275 miles (443 km).
In Hamburg, you can explore the vibrant nightlife of the Reeperbahn, enjoy a scenic boat tour of the Port of Hamburg, visit the lively Hamburg Fish Market, and discover the International Maritime Museum. Stroll along the Alster Lakes for picturesque views, and don't miss the Miniatur Wunderland, Elbphilharmonie, Speicherstadt, St. Michael's Church, and Planten un Blomen for diverse attractions and experiences.
Three days in Hamburg are generally sufficient to explore major attractions such as the Miniatur Wunderland, Elbphilharmonie, and the historic Speicherstadt, as well as to experience its vibrant neighborhoods and local cuisine.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Hamburg.
Since both Essen and Hamburg 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 Hamburg include Bremen, Kiel, Schwerin, Lübeck, Bremerhaven.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Hamburg 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.
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 Hamburg, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like Reeperbahn, St. Pauli, and public transport. Common scams include distraction tactics near popular tourist spots and overcharging by unlicensed taxi drivers. It's advisable to use official transportation services and stay alert in busy nightlife districts to ensure safety.
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 Hamburg
Most Essen to Hamburg trains use the Essen to Hamburg Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Hamburg-Harburg. Use this guide to compare Essen and Hamburg 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 Hamburg
Which Essen station do trains to Hamburg leave from?
Trains from Essen to Hamburg leave from Essen. The station is from Essen city centre at 2910 Essen, Belgium.
Essen2910 Essen, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Essen from Essen city centre
TrainIntercity · 3h 54m · $55 · every ~4 min
Ice · 4h 58m · $63
Bus023 · 4h 5m · $27
Essen train station facilities and services
Essen has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Essen.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Essen.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Essen: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen.
Which Hamburg station do trains from Essen arrive at?
Trains from Essen to Hamburg most often arrive at Hamburg Hbf. Some services arrive at Hamburg-Harburg, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Hamburg arrival station.
Hamburg HbfHachmannplatz 16, 20099 Hamburg, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Hamburg Hbf from Hamburg city centre
Hamburg Hbf is 2 km from Hamburg city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS5, S3, S1 · 2m · $4 · every ~44 min
BusX35, 16, 606, 17, 6 · 3m · $2 · every ~47 min
SubwayU4, U2 · 1m · $2 · every ~33 min
Hamburg Hbf train station facilities and services
Hamburg 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: Le Crobag, Burger King, Coffee Fellows, Havin Grill, KFC, Mr. CLOU, Starbucks, dean&david, SPAR Express, Pommesfreunde, & more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are available at Hamburg Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Hamburg Hbf. Information desks are located in the east hall on the opposite side of the DB ticket office.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is the station has luggage lockers. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Hamburg Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Hamburg Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Hamburg Hbf: Wheelchair friendly with lifts and ramps. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Boutique 053 Hamburg Main Station, IntercityHotel Hamburg Hauptbahnhof, Park Hyatt Hamburg.
Hamburg-HarburgHamburg-Harburg, Hannoversche Str. 85, 21079 Hamburg
City-centre transport
Getting to Hamburg-Harburg from Hamburg city centre
Hamburg-Harburg is 13 km from Hamburg city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS3, S5 · 10m · $4 · every ~25 min
S3, S5 · 18m · $4 · every ~14 min
Bus641 · 24m · $4
Hamburg-Harburg train station facilities and services
Hamburg-Harburg 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: Café Bom Dia, Hünkar, Yoko Sushi Harburg, Mathewes Grill
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Hamburg-Harburg. ATMs are available at Hamburg-Harburg.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Hamburg-Harburg. Information desks are available at Hamburg-Harburg.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Hamburg-Harburg. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Hamburg-Harburg: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Hamburg-Harburg: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Hamburg-Harburg.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Panorama, Hotel Harburger Hof, Hotel Jeta, Hotel Süderelbe.
Most popular train connections from Essen
More options for your journey from Essen to Hamburg
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Hamburg and Essen
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