- Recommended
Touristikmuseum Interlaken
Local history museum covering tourism, mountaineering, transport, and daily life in the Interlaken region. A good choice for understanding how the town became a major Alpine destination.
.png){kind=small}
2,000+ travel companies
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
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Interlaken
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$136
Average price
$136
Fastest journey
8 h 46 m
Average duration
8 h 46 m
Trains per day
1
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 $136 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $136.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Essen for Interlaken on Sat, Jun 20, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct trains cover the 534 km distance in an average of 8 h 46 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 8 h 46 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest trains will take 8 h 46 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.
6:36 AM8h46Essen3:22 PMInterlaken$1361One-way0 transfers
- 6:36 AM8h46Essen3:22 PMInterlaken$1361One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and flight for Essen to Interlaken
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Essen to Interlaken among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $66. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 23m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $66, and a flight costs an average of $93.
Distance: 331 miles (534 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$146 Average price Cheapest | $173 Average price | $156 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 20m Average total duration 7h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 23m Average total duration Fastest 3h 23m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 7h 25m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Essen to Interlaken is a train with an average price of $146 (€120).
This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Interlaken:
A train is $27 (€22) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Essen to Interlaken costing on average $173 (€142).
The fastest way to travel from Essen to Interlaken is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 23m.
Other travel options to Interlaken take longer:
Train takes on average 7h 50m.
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. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $146 (€120) compared to roughly $156 (€128) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $10 (€8). The journey takes 7h 50m versus 7h 25m 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 Interlaken train times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Interlaken trains for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:00 AM Essen | 6h53 | 1:53 PM Interlaken | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, June 20 | |||||
| 6:36 AM Essen | 8h46 | 3:22 PM Interlaken | 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 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.
Sat
Jun 20
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Jun 26
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 9 times per day, taking around 7h 50m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $66 (€54) 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 46m.
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 7h 50m |
Cheapest ticket price $66 (€54) |
Trains per day 9 |
Fastest train 6h 46m |
First train 6:04 AM |
Last train 11:05 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
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, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Essen to Interlaken trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Essen and Interlaken from $66 (€54). 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 46m
Cheapest Price
$66 (€54)
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.
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
6h 46m
Cheapest Price
$111 (€91)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
10 a day
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
Large open-air museum with historic Swiss buildings, crafts, and rural traditions. It is outside Interlaken but is one of the strongest museum visits in the broader region.
Kunsthaus Interlaken
Contemporary art gallery and cultural venue presenting rotating exhibitions by Swiss and regional artists. Worth visiting for a smaller local art stop in the center of town.
- Must visit
Höhematte
Interlaken’s iconic central park and open meadow, famous for grand mountain views and paragliders landing nearby. It is the town’s signature public space and a must-visit.
- Must visit
Höheweg
The main promenade through central Interlaken, lined with hotels, gardens, shops, and classic views toward the Jungfrau. A key walking route for first-time visitors.
- Must visit
Harder Kulm
The best-known viewpoint above Interlaken, offering a dramatic panorama over Lakes Thun and Brienz and the surrounding peaks. Widely shared on social media and highly popular.
- Vegetarian
Cheese Fondue
A classic Swiss pot of melted cheese, usually served with bread for dipping. It is a social mountain dish strongly associated with the Bernese Oberland and winter dining.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Raclette
Melted Swiss raclette cheese scraped over potatoes, pickles, and onions. It is a traditional Alpine comfort food widely enjoyed in the region.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Rosti
A Bernese favorite made from pan-fried grated potatoes, often served as a side or topped with cheese, egg, or sausage. It is one of the most iconic dishes near Interlaken.
Husi Bierhaus
Established casual venue serving Swiss and Central European comfort food with local beers. Known for a lively atmosphere and generous portions.
Restaurant Taverne
Well-known traditional Swiss restaurant in Interlaken, popular for fondue, raclette, and hearty regional dishes in a rustic chalet-style setting.
Laterne
Long-standing Interlaken restaurant with Swiss and European dishes, appreciated for its welcoming service and relaxed old-town atmosphere.
Swiss Franc
Interlaken is pricey by European standards, especially for hotels and restaurants, but supermarkets and takeaway spots help cut costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 12-20 for takeaway or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- CHF 25-45 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- CHF 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- CHF 4.50-6 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for great service is appreciated. Round up taxi fares.
SBB Mobile
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 2.80
- Day pass
- CHF 8.80
To the city center
Interlaken West, Interlaken -> Interlaken Ost, Interlaken
- Distance
- 1.8 km
- Travel time
- 4 min
- The SBB Mobile app is the official tool for timetables and mobile tickets across Interlaken and Switzerland.
- Card payment is generally accepted for tickets at station machines and in the SBB Mobile app. Buy before boarding when possible.
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 $66 (€54), while the average price is around $146 (€120).
The train from Essen to Interlaken takes 6h 46m and runs 9 per day.
The distance by train from Essen to Interlaken is 331 miles (534 km).
The first train from Essen to Interlaken leaves at 6:04 AM.
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 $66 (€54).
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 46m 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 train 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
Essen
Interlaken
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 Interlaken.
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
The major train station for arrivals in Interlaken is Interlaken West. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Interlaken West for your journey to Interlaken from Essen.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:30 AM - 8:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
4Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available near the station, with access from Bahnhofstrasse
Dining
- Restaurant Taverne
- Restaurant Bären
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms
WC
- CHF 1
Hotel
- Hotel Interlaken
- Hotel Krebs Interlaken
- Hotel Bellevue
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 520 places, covered
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-4 for trains to regional destinations
- Hall 2: ticket office and waiting area
Public transit options for Interlaken West
- Bus: Several lines available
- Boat: Thunersee line
- Train: Connections to Interlaken Ost and other regional destinations
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
8Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, with access from the main road
Dining
- Restaurant Taverne
- Restaurant Des Alpes
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms
WC
- CHF 1
Hotel
- Hotel Interlaken
- Lindner Grand Hotel Beau Rivage
- Hotel Du Nord
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 120 places, covered and uncovered
Car Rental
- Europcar
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-8 for trains to various destinations
- Hall 2: ticket office and information desk
- Hall 3: access to bus and boat connections
Public transit options for Interlaken Ost
- Bus: Several lines available
- Boat: Lake Thun and Lake Brienz connections
- Train: Connections to major Swiss cities
Interlaken, West Bahnhof
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingCar RentalMost 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
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
