ESSEN to HAMBURG train from $18 (€15) with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

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

4.9

42K ratings

Google Play

4.6

136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Hamburg

Showing times and prices for Aug 07

Cheapest price

$29

Average price

$71

Fastest journey

2 h 59 m

Average duration

3 h 3 m

Trains per day

Distance

311 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 $71 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $29.

Fast trains

Of the 7 trains that leave Essen for Hamburg on Fri, Aug 07, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, Aug 07 the direct trains cover the 311 km distance in an average of 3 h 3 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 59 m .

On Fri, Aug 07 the slowest trains will take 3 h 15 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.

FlixTrain
3:56 PM2h59
Essen Hbf
6:55 PMHamburg Harburg
$291One-way
0 transfers
FlixTrain
9:56 AM2h59
Essen Hbf
12:55 PMHamburg Harburg
$291One-way
0 transfers
ICE 206
8:00 AM3h15
Essen Hbf
11:15 AMHamburg Hbf
$761One-way
0 transfers
ICE 2310
8:35 AM3h00
Essen Hbf
11:35 AMHamburg Harburg
$761One-way
0 transfers
26809 · ICE 616
8:52 AM3h23
Essen Hbf
12:15 PMHamburg Hbf
$921One-way
1 transfer

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 $18. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 0m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $18, and a flight costs an average of $101.

Distance: 193 miles (311 km)

Compare train with

Most popular Train	Bus	Flight	Driving
$54 Average price	$32 Average price Cheapest	$291 Average price	$66 Average price (fuel + tolls)
3h 44m Average total duration 3h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	5h 14m Average total duration 4h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	4h 0m Average total duration Fastest 1h 0m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time*	4h 24m Average total duration (door-to-door)
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest	0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions	0.9 - 1.9kg CO2 emissions	- CO2 emissions
Most popular train company	Most popular bus company	Most popular airline	Your own car or car rental
Direct Options	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 Hamburg is a bus with an average price of $32 (€26).

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

A bus is $22 (€18) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Hamburg costing on average $54 (€44).

A bus is $259 (€211) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Essen to Hamburg costing on average $291 (€237).

The fastest way to travel from Essen to Hamburg is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 0m.

Other travel options to Hamburg take longer:

Train takes on average 3h 14m.

Bus takes on average 4h 44m.

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. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 1h 10m faster (3h 14m by train vs 4h 24m by car) and roughly $12 (€9) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($54 (€44) vs $66 (€53)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.

Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).

Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Essen to Hamburg train times

The table below shows live departures for Essen to Hamburg trains for today, Thursday, August 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
ICE 206	On time 8:00 AM Essen Hbf	3h15	11:15 AM Hamburg Hbf	0 transfersDirect
ICE 2310	On time 8:35 AM Essen Hbf	3h00	11:35 AM Hamburg Harburg	0 transfersDirect
26809 · ICE 616	On time 8:52 AM Essen Hbf	3h23	12:15 PM Hamburg Hbf	1 transfer
ICE 1036	On time 9:34 AM Essen Hbf	3h04	12:38 PM Hamburg Harburg	0 transfersDirect
FlixTrain	9:56 AM Essen Hbf	2h59	12:55 PM Hamburg Harburg	0 transfersDirect
ICE 204	On time 10:00 AM Essen Hbf	3h15	1:15 PM Hamburg Hbf	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.

Fri
Aug 07

Sat
Aug 08

Sun
Aug 09

Mon
Aug 10

Tue
Aug 11

Wed
Aug 12

Thu
Aug 13

Why should you book Essen to Hamburg trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain or 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 FlixTrain or 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.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Essen to Hamburg

Germany

Trains from Essen to Hamburg run on average 11 times per day, taking around 3h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $22 (€18) but you can travel from only $18 (€15) by bus.

There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 193 miles (311 km) distance in 2h 39m.

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 $18 (€15)

Distance

193 miles (311 km)

Average train duration

3h 14m

Cheapest ticket price

$22 (€18)

Trains per day

Direct trains

Fastest train

2h 39m

First train

12:03 AM

Last train

11:56 PM

Cheapest Month

Mar

Cheapest Day

Sat

High Season

Jul - Sep

Low Season

Jan - Mar

Busiest Day

Sat

Least Busy Day

Sun

Best time to book

28 days

Price information

Cheapest alternative travel mode

Bus from $18 (€15)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Essen to Hamburg trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Essen and Hamburg from $18 (€15). 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

2h 39m

Cheapest Price

$22 (€18)

Deutsche Bahn frequency

9 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

2h 59m

Cheapest Price

$28 (€23)

FlixTrain frequency

4 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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Duration

2h 46m

Cheapest Price

$74 (€60)

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency

17 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

Hamburger Kunsthalle

Internationally respected art museum with major works from medieval altarpieces to modern masters. Essential for art lovers in Hamburg.

View on map Visit website

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.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Deichtorhallen Hamburg

Contemporary art museum in a former market hall, showing ambitious international exhibitions. A strong choice for modern art and photography.

View on map Visit website

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.

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 $22 (€18), while the average price is around $54 (€44).

The train from Essen to Hamburg takes 2h 39m and runs 11 per day.

The first train from Essen to Hamburg leaves at 12:03 AM.

The distance by train from Essen to Hamburg is 193 miles (311 km).

The last train from Essen to Hamburg leaves at 11:56 PM.

Yes, there is a direct train from Essen to Hamburg. This service operates 7 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, 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 Hbf, which connects to Hamburg Hbf.

The cheapest way to get from Essen to Hamburg is by bus, with a cost of around $18 (€15).

The train journey from Essen to Hamburg offers a mix of urban and rural views, with scenic highlights including the Ruhr region's industrial landscapes and stretches of countryside, though it may not be as picturesque as routes through mountainous or coastal areas.

A day trip from Essen to Hamburg is not feasible as the travel time is 2h 39m. Trains operate 15 times per day.

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.

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 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 Hbf 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 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 Wifi

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.

More about Essen Hbf

Essen, Kruppstraße / Am ThyssenhausAm Thyssenhaus & Kruppstraße, 45128 Essen-Stadtbezirk I, Germany Wifi

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.

Essen-WerdenEssen-Werden, Im Löwental 11, 45239 Essen Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Essen-Werden from Essen city centre

Essen-Werden is 7 km from Essen city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS6 · 11m · $2 · every ~6 min

BusS6 · 14m · $5

Ne8 · 22m · $5

Essen-Werden train station facilities and services

Essen-Werden 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.