Essen to Hamburg train with Deutsche Bahn

Thu, Dec 04
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
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Deutsche Bahn
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1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Hamburg

Showing times and prices for Dec 04

Cheapest price

$164

Average price

$170

Fastest journey

7 h 43 m

Average duration

8 h 5 m

Trains per day

2

Distance

443 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen to Hamburg is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Essen to Hamburg will cost around $170 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $164.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave Essen for Hamburg on Thu, Dec 04, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Dec 04 the direct trains cover the 443 km distance in an average of 8 h 5 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 43 m .

On Thu, Dec 04 the slowest trains will take 8 h 27 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.

Deutsche Bahn
06:31AM7h43
Essen
02:14PMHamburg
$1641One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche Bahn
06:47AM8h27
Essen
03:14PMHamburg
$1761One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Essen to Hamburg

Omio recommends booking the flight 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 €18. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 5h 44m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €18, and a flight costs an average of €86.

Distance: 275 miles (443 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Flight
Bus

€121

Average price

€245

Average price

€35

Average price

Cheapest

7h 17m

Average total duration

6h 47m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 44m

Average total duration

Fastest

5h 44m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

11h 6m

Average total duration

10h 36m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

Essen to Hamburg train times

The table below shows live departures for Essen to Hamburg trains for tomorrow, Thursday, December 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 1:12 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
deutsche_bahn6:31 AM Essen
7h43
2:14 PM Hamburg0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahn6:47 AM Essen
8h27
3:14 PM Hamburg0 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 bus, train, or flight

Compare bus, train, 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.

Thu
Dec 04
Fri
Dec 05
Sat
Dec 06
Sun
Dec 07
Mon
Dec 08
Tue
Dec 09
Wed
Dec 10

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Essen to Hamburg

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userReviewLogo
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
Iconwifi
Disadvantages
IconCleanliness
The 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
IconHygiene
Disadvantages
IconNone
I 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

BelgiumBelgium
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Essen to Hamburg run on average 6 times per day, taking around 6h 47m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $125 (€101) but you can travel from only $22 (€18) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 04:37, the last at 23:21. The fastest train covers the 275 miles (443 km) distance in 6h 43m.

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 (€18)
Distance
275 miles (443 km)
Average train duration
6h 47m
Cheapest ticket price
$125 (€101)
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
6h 43m
First train
04:37
Last train
23:21
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 (€18)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain from Essen to Hamburg trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Essen and Hamburg from $22 (€18). 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 43m
Cheapest Price
$144 (€116)
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.
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
Learn more about Deutsche Bahn

FlixTrain

About
FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 5m
Cheapest Price
$125 (€101)
FlixTrain frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone

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.

FAQs
A day trip from Essen to Hamburg is not feasible as the journey duration is 6h 43m. However, trains run frequently with 6 trips per day, covering a distance of 275 miles (443 km).
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.
Train ticket prices from Essen to Hamburg can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $125 (€101), while the average price is around $150 (€121).
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Hamburg is by bus, with a cost of around $22 (€18).
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.
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.
The train from Essen to Hamburg takes 6h 43m and runs 6 per day.
The train station in Essen that goes to Hamburg is Essen station, which connects to Hamburg Hbf.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Hamburg.
The distance by train from Essen to Hamburg is 275 miles (443 km).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Hamburg.
The first train from Essen to Hamburg leaves at 4:37 AM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Essen to Hamburg. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain.
The last train from Essen to Hamburg leaves at 11:21 PM.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Essen to Hamburg

Essen
Hamburg
The major train station for departures in Essen is Essen. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Essen for your trip from Essen to Hamburg.
EssenParkingDiningATMAccessibilityBike Parking
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
AccessibilityAccessibility
Bike ParkingBike Parking
information
address
Address
2910 Essen, Belgium

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