- Must visit
Silesian Museum
Major regional museum on a former coal mine site, known for its underground galleries, Polish art, industrial heritage exhibitions, and striking modern architecture.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Katowice
Showing times and prices for Jun 13
Cheapest price
$78
Average price
$166
Fastest journey
10 h 41 m
Average duration
14 h 29 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
853 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen to Katowice is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Essen to Katowice will cost around $166 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $78.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Essen for Katowice on Sat, Jun 13, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 13 the direct trains cover the 853 km distance in an average of 14 h 29 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 10 h 41 m .
On Sat, Jun 13 the slowest trains will take 16 h 23 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.
10:53 AM16h23Essen3:16 AMKatowice$781One-way0 transfers- 11:53 AM16h23Essen4:16 AMKatowice$1691One-way0 transfers
- 9:47 AM10h41Essen8:28 PMKatowice$2501One-way0 transfers
- 9:47 AM10h41Essen8:28 PMKatowice$2501One-way0 transfers
- 11:53 AM16h23Essen4:16 AMKatowice$1691One-way0 transfers
- 10:53 AM16h23Essen3:16 AMKatowice$781One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Essen to Katowice
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Essen to Katowice among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $57. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 33m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.3 - 0.8kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $57, and a train costs an average of $52.
Distance: 530 miles (853 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$153 Average price | $145 Average price | $74 Average price Cheapest | $179 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
11h 28m Average total duration 10h 58m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 33m Average total duration Fastest 1h 33m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 16h 1m Average total duration 15h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 18m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 2.6 - 5.1kg CO2 emissions | 0.9 - 2.1kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | 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 Katowice is a bus with an average price of $74 (€60).
This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Katowice:
A bus is $70 (€57) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Essen to Katowice costing on average $145 (€118).
A bus is $79 (€64) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Katowice costing on average $153 (€124).
The fastest way to travel from Essen to Katowice is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 33m.
Other travel options to Katowice take longer:
Train takes on average 10h 58m.
Bus takes on average 15h 31m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Essen and Katowice including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Katowice 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 $153 (€124) compared to roughly $179 (€145) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $25 (€21). The journey takes 10h 58m versus 10h 18m 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 Katowice train times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Katowice trains for today, Friday, June 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:00 PM Essen | 15h32 | 11:32 AM Katowice | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, June 13 | |||||
| 9:47 AM Essen | 10h41 | 8:28 PM Katowice | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:53 AM Essen | 16h23 | 3:16 AM Katowice | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:53 AM Essen | 16h23 | 4:16 AM Katowice | 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 Katowice 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.
Sat
Jun 13
Jun 13
Sun
Jun 14
Jun 14
Mon
Jun 15
Jun 15
Tue
Jun 16
Jun 16
Wed
Jun 17
Jun 17
Thu
Jun 18
Jun 18
Fri
Jun 19
Jun 19
Why should you book Essen to Katowice trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Essen to Katowice.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to Katowice.
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 Katowice.
- 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 Katowice.
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 Katowice.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Katowice
Germany
Poland
Trains from Essen to Katowice run on average 6 times per day, taking around 10h 58m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $52 (€42) but you can travel from only $33 (€27) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:15. The fastest train covers the 530 miles (853 km) distance in 10h 17m.
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
Flight from $33 (€27)
Distance 530 miles (853 km) |
Average train duration 10h 58m |
Cheapest ticket price $52 (€42) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 10h 17m |
First train 12:04 AM |
Last train 11:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 42 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
Flight from $33 (€27)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Essen to Katowice trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Essen and Katowice from $33 (€27). 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
10h 17m
Cheapest Price
$52 (€42)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
4 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
10h 41m
Cheapest Price
$170 (€138)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
8 a day
Complete guide to Katowice
Things to do in Katowice
Discover the best of Katowice — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Katowice trip today.
- Recommended
Museum of the History of Katowice
City museum focused on Katowice’s urban development, bourgeois interiors, local culture, and everyday life, housed in historic townhouses.
- Recommended
Wilson Shaft Gallery
Large post-industrial art gallery in Nikiszowiec, notable for exhibitions staged inside a former mine complex and for its distinctive industrial atmosphere.
- Must visit
Culture Zone
Katowice’s flagship public space around Spodek, NOSPR, and the International Congress Centre, popular for events, architecture, and urban photography.
- Must visit
Nikiszowiec
Historic district beloved for its red-brick workers’ housing, intimate courtyards, and highly photogenic streets that are especially popular online.
- Recommended
Mariacka Street
Lively pedestrian street known for its restored townhouses and energetic atmosphere, especially attractive for an evening walk in the center.
- Gluten-free
Rolada Śląska
Classic Silesian beef roulade, usually filled with bacon, onion and pickled cucumber, then braised. It is one of the best-known festive dishes of Upper Silesia.
- Vegetarian
Kluski Śląskie
Round Silesian potato dumplings with a small hollow in the center, commonly served with gravy and roast meats. They are a signature staple of the region.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Modra Kapusta
Sweet-sour braised red cabbage, often served with roulade and dumplings. It is a defining side dish in traditional Silesian Sunday dinners.
Tatiana
Well-known central Katowice restaurant serving polished Polish and regional cuisine in an elegant but approachable setting.
Patio Restaurant
Established upscale restaurant at Hotel Diament Plaza, known for refined Polish and European dishes and a quiet, formal atmosphere.
Żurownia
Popular casual venue focused on traditional Polish soups and comfort food, including żur, with a rustic style that suits regional tasting.
Polish Zloty
Affordable by major EU city standards. Meals, coffee, and local transport are usually good value; central hotels vary by season and event dates.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- PLN 20-35 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- PLN 45-90 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- PLN 120-250+ per person at upscale venues.
- Coffee
- PLN 12-18 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is often included only in better restaurants, so check the bill. If not included, tip about 10% for good service. Round up in taxis; tips are not expected for counter service.
Transport GZM
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 6.00 PLN
- Day pass
- 24.00 PLN
To the city center
Katowice Airport -> Katowice Dworzec
- Distance
- 34 km
- Travel time
- 50 min
- You can buy tickets in the Transport GZM app and at many ticket machines across the network.
- Card payment is commonly available on buses and at ticket machines, but carry a backup payment method in case a terminal is unavailable.
FAQs: Trains from Essen to Katowice
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Katowice 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 Katowice, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Essen to Katowice can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $52 (€42), while the average price is around $153 (€124).
The train from Essen to Katowice takes 10h 17m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Essen to Katowice is 530 miles (853 km).
The first train from Essen to Katowice leaves at 12:04 AM.
The last train from Essen to Katowice leaves at 11:15 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Essen to Katowice.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Katowice.
The train station in Essen that goes to Katowice is Essen Hbf, which connects to Katowice station.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Katowice is by flight, with a cost of around $33 (€27).
The train journey from Essen to Katowice offers varied scenery, with stretches of industrial areas transitioning into more scenic landscapes, including countryside views and the occasional forested areas as you travel through Germany and into Poland.
A day trip from Essen to Katowice is not feasible due to a travel duration of 10h 17m and a distance of 530 miles (853 km). The frequency of this journey is 7 times per day for trains.
In Katowice, you can explore the Katowice Forest Park for outdoor activities, visit the NOSPR Concert Hall for performances by the Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra, and enjoy the Silesian Zoological Garden with its diverse animal exhibits. Discover vibrant murals with the Katowice Street Art Tour and wander through the picturesque Giszowiec district. For cultural insights, visit the Silesian Museum, admire the historic Nikiszowiec district, and experience events at the iconic Spodek arena. Relax at the Valley of Three Ponds or marvel at the Cathedral of Christ the King.
Two to three days are typically sufficient to explore Katowice's main attractions, cultural sites, and local cuisine.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Katowice.
Since both Essen and Katowice 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 Katowice include Kraków, Warsaw, Ostrava, Bohumin, Bielsko-Biała.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Katowice 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.
The currency used in Poland is the Polish złoty (PLN). For travelers, both cash and card payments are widely accepted, but using cards is often more convenient and secure, especially in cities. However, carrying some cash is recommended for small purchases or in rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Katowice, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transport. Common scams include overcharging by taxis that do not use meters and counterfeit tickets for events or transportation. It's advisable to use licensed taxi services and purchase tickets from official vendors to avoid issues. Overall, Katowice is considered safe, but staying alert in busy places helps prevent common petty crimes.
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 Katowice
Essen
Katowice
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 Katowice.
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
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
2 kmDining
- Pizzeria Don Camillo
- Lindos
- Zur Platte
- Arman Döner
Hotel
- McDreams
Essen Süd
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
- Haus Wilmes
- Mana Mana
- Karawane
Hotel
- Webers
The major train station for arrivals in Katowice is Katowice. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Katowice for your journey to Katowice from Essen.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
10Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week from 5:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. Departures can be made outside of opening hours. You can access the car park at Plac Oddziałów Młodzieży Powstańczej.
Dining
- Restaurant Tatiana
- Restauracja Patio
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps.
WC
- PLN 2
Hotel
- Vienna House Easy by Wyndham Katowice
- Hotel Diament Plaza Katowice
- Q Hotel Plus Katowice
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-10 for trains to Germany, Czech Republic, Slovakia, and regional destinations
- Hall 2: tram and bus connections
Public transit options for Katowice
- Tram: Line 6, Line 11, Line 19
- Bus: Several lines available
Most popular train connections from Essen
More options for your journey from Essen to Katowice
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Katowice and Essen
Most popular train connections to Katowice
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