Essen to Jena train with Deutsche Bahn

Wed, Aug 05
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
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2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Jena

Showing times and prices for Aug 05

Cheapest price

€62

Average price

€101

Fastest journey

4 h 58 m

Average duration

5 h 45 m

Trains per day

2

Distance

324 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Essen to Jena will cost around €101 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €62.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave Essen for Jena on Wed, Aug 05, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Aug 05 the direct trains cover the 324 km distance in an average of 5 h 45 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 58 m .

On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest trains will take 6 h 31 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
    7:21 AM6h31
    Essen
    1:52 PMJena
    621One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    8:15 AM4h58
    Essen
    1:13 PMJena
    1411One-way
    0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Essen to Jena

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Essen to Jena run on average 9 times per day, taking around 5h 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €42 but you can travel from only €28 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:32, the last at 23:18. The fastest train covers the 201 miles (324 km) distance in 4h 58m.

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 €28
Distance
201 miles (324 km)
Average train duration
5h 13m
Cheapest ticket price
€42
Trains per day
9
Fastest train
4h 58m
First train
12:32 AM
Last train
11:18 PM
Cheapest Month
Oct
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Best time to book
5 days
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 €28

Live departures

Essen to Jena train times

The table below shows live departures for Essen to Jena trains for today, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnIC 2155 · 21425 · 80667
On time
10:15 AM Essen Hbf
5h36
3:51 PM Jena West station
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 847 · ICE 579 · 3663 · 21427
Delayed
8:22 AM 10:20 AMEssen Hbf
7h00
5:20 PM Jena West station
4 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 625 · ICE 838 · 21471 · 94069
On time
10:50 AM Essen Hbf
5h30
4:20 PM Jena West station
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 625 · ICE 838 · 74676
On time
10:50 AM Essen Hbf
6h44
5:34 PM Jena Paradies station
2 transfers
Wednesday, August 5
Deutsche Bahn7:21 AM Essen
6h31
1:52 PM Jena0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Essen to Jena trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Essen to Jena.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to Jena.

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 Jena.
  • 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 Jena.

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 Jena.

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Essen to Jena trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Essen and Jena from €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
4h 58m
Cheapest Price
€62
Deutsche Bahn frequency
7 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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 58m
Cheapest Price
€65
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
1 a day

Complete guide to Jena

Things to do in Jena

Discover the best of Jena — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Jena trip today.

  • Must visit

Optisches Museum Jena

Major science center with hands-on exhibitions on light, optics, and perception, ideal for families and curious adults.

  • Recommended

Universitätsmuseum Jena

University museum presenting the city's academic history, student culture, and notable scholars in a compact setting.

  • Recommended

Schillers Gartenhaus

Literary memorial house dedicated to Romantic writer Friedrich Schiller, who lived and worked in Jena.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany: hotels, dining, and local transit are generally cheaper than in Berlin or Munich, but pricier than smaller towns.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
€18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
€2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included, but rounding up or adding 5-10% is common in restaurants. Round up taxi fares and leave small change at cafes for good service.

FAQs: Trains from Essen to Jena

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Jena 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 Jena, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Essen to Jena can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €42, while the average price is around €92.
The train from Essen to Jena takes 4h 58m and runs 9 per day.
The distance by train from Essen to Jena is 201 miles (324 km).
The first train from Essen to Jena leaves at 12:32 AM.
The last train from Essen to Jena leaves at 11:18 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Essen to Jena. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Jena.
The train station in Essen that goes to Jena is Essen Hbf, which connects to Jena West station.
The train journey from Essen to Jena offers scenic views, especially as it passes through the picturesque Thuringian Forest, providing glimpses of lush landscapes and charming small towns.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Jena.
Popular day trips by train from Jena include Leipzig, Saalfeld/Saale, Magdeburg, Weimar, Lichtenfels.
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 Jena, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded places like public transportation and popular tourist spots. It is advisable to stay alert when using ATMs and avoid sharing personal information with strangers. Overall, Jena is considered a safe city, but standard precautions for urban areas apply.
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 Jena

Most Essen to Jena trains use the Essen Hbf to Jena West station pair, with some services arriving at Jena Paradies. Use this guide to compare Essen and Jena 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 Jena

Which Essen station do trains to Jena leave from?

Trains from Essen to Jena 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 EssenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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.

Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus

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