- Recommended
Touristik-Museum der Jungfrau-Region
Regional museum in a 17th-century building presenting local history, tourism, crafts, and mountain culture of Interlaken and the lakes.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Interlaken
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
€148
Average ticket price on Sep 20
€187
Fastest journey on Sep 20
7 h 2 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
11 h 46 m
Trains on Sep 20
3
Distance
534 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen to Interlaken is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Essen to Interlaken will cost around €187 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €148.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Essen to Interlaken without transferring at least once.
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4:00 PM17h53Essen9:53 AMInterlaken€1481One-way1 transfer- 4:59 PM7h02Essen12:01 AMInterlaken€1721One-way2 transfers
- 11:00 PM10h22Essen9:22 AMInterlaken€2421One-way2 transfers
- 4:59 PM7h02Essen12:01 AMInterlaken€1721One-way2 transfers
- 11:00 PM10h22Essen9:22 AMInterlaken€2421One-way2 transfers
- 4:00 PM17h53Essen9:53 AMInterlaken€1481One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and flight for Essen to Interlaken
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Essen to Interlaken among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of €121 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 27m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €121, while a flight costs an average of €508.
Distance: 331 miles (534 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€121 Average price Cheapest | €508 Average price | €129 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 26m Average total duration 6h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 27m Average total duration Fastest 2h 27m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 7h 25m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Essen to Interlaken is a train with an average price of €121.
This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Interlaken:
A train is €387 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Essen to Interlaken costing on average €508.
The fastest way to travel from Essen to Interlaken is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 27m.
Other travel options to Interlaken take longer:
Train takes on average 6h 56m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Essen and Interlaken including taking a train and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Interlaken among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 29m faster (6h 56m by train vs 7h 25m by car) and roughly €7 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (€121 vs €129). 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.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Compare prices and tickets Essen to Interlaken by train or flight
Compare 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.
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Why should you book Essen to Interlaken trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Essen to Interlaken.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to Interlaken.
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 Interlaken.
- 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 and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Essen to Interlaken.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Essen to Interlaken.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Interlaken
Germany
Switzerland
Trains from Essen to Interlaken run on average 7 times per day, taking around 6h 56m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €78 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 06:04, the last at 23:05. The fastest train covers the 331 miles (534 km) distance in 6h 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
Distance 331 miles (534 km) |
Average train duration 6h 56m |
Cheapest ticket price €78 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 6h 27m |
First train 6:04 AM |
Last train 11:05 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
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
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Essen to Interlaken trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Essen and Interlaken from €78. 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
6h 27m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€78
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 Interlaken
Things to do in Interlaken
Discover the best of Interlaken — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Interlaken trip today.
- Recommended
Freilichtmuseum Ballenberg
Open-air museum with preserved farmhouses and rural buildings that vividly introduce traditional Bernese Highland life and architecture.
- Recommended
Schlossmuseum Thun
Extensive museum in Thun Castle covering regional archaeology, noble life, and Bernese history in a landmark setting.
- Must visit
Höhematte
Large open meadow in central Interlaken with classic Jungfrau views, strolling paths, and frequent paragliders landing nearby.
- Must visit
Harder Kulm
Popular panoramic lookout above Interlaken, reached by funicular or hiking, with unforgettable views over both lakes and peaks.
- Recommended
Unterseen Old Town
Historic old town west of Interlaken with arcades, painted facades, and quieter streets that show the area's local character.
- Vegetarian
Cheese Fondue
Cheese fondue is melted Swiss cheese served communally with bread. It is a classic Alpine meal popular across the Bernese Oberland in cold weather.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Rösti
Rösti is a Bernese potato dish fried until crisp and golden. It is a local staple often served plain or topped with cheese, egg, or meats.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Raclette
Raclette is melted cheese scraped over potatoes, pickles, and onions. It is a beloved Swiss mountain dish tied to Alpine dairy traditions.
La Terrasse
Upscale dining room at Victoria Jungfrau with refined Swiss and international cuisine, elegant service, and a grand hotel atmosphere.
Husi Bierhaus
Historic traditional restaurant known for Swiss classics like fondue and rösti in a warm chalet-style setting in central Interlaken.
Restaurant Taverne
Popular casual Swiss restaurant serving fondue, raclette, and regional dishes in a rustic atmosphere near the main tourist area.
Swiss franc (CHF, Fr.)
Interlaken is pricier than many Alpine towns. Hotels, dining, and mountain transit add up fast, though supermarkets and guesthouses can reduce daily costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 12-20 for takeaway or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- CHF 25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- CHF 70+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- CHF 4.50-6.50 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great service. Taxis are often rounded up; cafes may get small change.
SBB Mobile
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 3.80
- Day pass
- CHF 8.80
To the city center
Interlaken Ost -> Interlaken West Station
- Distance
- 1.8 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- SBB Mobile and Libero ticket machines let you buy local tickets. Contactless card payment is commonly accepted on ticket machines, but not reliably on board every bus.
- For local buses in Interlaken, check whether your hotel guest card includes free or discounted travel before buying a ticket.
FAQs: Trains from Essen to Interlaken
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Interlaken 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 Interlaken, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Essen to Interlaken can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €78, while the average price is around €121.
The train from Essen to Interlaken takes 6h 27m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Essen to Interlaken leaves at 6:04 AM.
The distance by train from Essen to Interlaken is 331 miles (534 km).
The last train from Essen to Interlaken leaves at 11:05 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Essen to Interlaken.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Interlaken.
The train station in Essen that goes to Interlaken is Essen Hbf, which connects to Interlaken West.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Interlaken is by train, with a cost of around €78.
The train journey from Essen to Interlaken is scenic, offering views of the picturesque Rhine Valley, charming German towns, and the stunning Swiss Alps as you approach Interlaken.
A day trip from Essen to Interlaken is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 27m each way. The distance is 331 miles (534 km), and there are 10 train trips available per day.
In Interlaken, you can explore Jungfraujoch for breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps, visit Harder Kulm for panoramic vistas of the Bernese Alps and Interlaken, enjoy boat cruises and water sports on Lake Thun, experience the thrill of paragliding with stunning aerial views, and discover the St. Beatus Caves with their impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Additionally, the Schynige Platte offers a mountain ridge experience with its alpine garden and hiking trails accessible by cogwheel train.
To fully enjoy Interlaken and its surrounding attractions, a stay of 3 to 4 days is recommended, allowing time for activities such as visiting the Jungfraujoch, exploring Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, and engaging in outdoor adventures like hiking or paragliding.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Interlaken.
Since both Essen and Interlaken 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 Interlaken include Milan, Grindelwald, Lucerne, Lauterbrunnen, Basel.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Interlaken 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.
Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF) as its currency. Travelers can use both cash and cards; however, credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially in cities and larger establishments, making card payments convenient. Cash is still useful for small purchases, local markets, or remote areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Interlaken, travelers should be aware of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and public transport. Common safety concerns include sudden weather changes affecting outdoor activities like hiking and paragliding, so proper gear and local advice are essential. Scams are rare but can include overpriced taxi fares or unofficial tour offers; using licensed services helps avoid these issues.
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 Interlaken
Most Essen to Interlaken trains use the Essen Hbf to Interlaken West station pair, with some services arriving at Interlaken Ost. Use this guide to compare Essen and Interlaken 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 Interlaken
Which Essen station do trains to Interlaken leave from?
Trains from Essen to Interlaken 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.
Which Interlaken station do trains from Essen arrive at?
Trains from Essen to Interlaken most often arrive at Interlaken West. Some services arrive at Interlaken Ost, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Interlaken arrival station.
Interlaken WestBahnhofstrasse, 3800 Interlaken, Switzerland+41 33 828 70 00
City-centre transport
Getting to Interlaken West from Interlaken city centre
Interlaken West is 1 km from Interlaken city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus108, 102, 60 · 5m · €2 · every ~6 min
Interlaken West train station facilities and services
Interlaken West has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Taverne, Restaurant Bären
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Interlaken West. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Interlaken West. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Interlaken West: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Interlaken West: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Interlaken West: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Interlaken, Hotel Krebs Interlaken, Hotel Bellevue.
Interlaken OstInterlaken Ost, 3800 Interlaken, Switzerland+41 51 225 78 00
City-centre transport
Getting to Interlaken Ost from Interlaken city centre
TrainIce, Ic61, Ic81 · 5m · €3 · every ~3 min
Bus21 · 6m · €2 · every ~3 min
M42 · 6m · €2
Interlaken Ost train station facilities and services
Interlaken Ost has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Taverne, Restaurant Des Alpes
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Interlaken Ost. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Interlaken Ost. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Interlaken Ost: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Interlaken Ost: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Interlaken Ost: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Interlaken, Lindner Grand Hotel Beau Rivage, Hotel Du Nord.
Most popular train connections from Essen
More options for your journey from Essen to Interlaken
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Interlaken and Essen
Most popular train connections to Interlaken
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