Essen to Kiel train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE)

Fri, Nov 07
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Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
Regionale
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1,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
Regionale
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1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Kiel

Showing times and prices for Nov 07

Cheapest price

$61

Average price

$130

Fastest journey

4 h 22 m

Average duration

5 h 14 m

Trains per day

3

Distance

381 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Essen to Kiel will cost around $130 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $61.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave Essen for Kiel on Fri, Nov 07, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, Nov 07 the direct trains cover the 381 km distance in an average of 5 h 14 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 22 m .

On Fri, Nov 07 the slowest trains will take 6 h 50 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
05:55AM6h50
Essen
12:45PMKiel
$611One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche Bahn
06:04PM4h31
Essen
10:35PMKiel
$1541One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche Bahn
11:00AM4h22
Essen
03:22PMKiel
$1751One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Essen to Kiel

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Essen to Kiel among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €21. 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 €21, and a flight costs an average of €120.

Distance: 236 miles (381 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight

€50

Average price

€31

Average price

Cheapest

€182

Average price

4h 55m

Average total duration

4h 25m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 52m

Average total duration

7h 22m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 0m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 0m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.4 - 1.0kg

CO2 emissions

1.1 - 2.3kg

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Eurowings

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Essen to Kiel train times

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

Last updated at 10:24 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
deutsche_bahn3:00 PM Essen
4h41
7:41 PM Kiel0 transfersDirect
Friday, November 7
flixbus_flixtrain5:55 AM Essen
6h50
12:45 PM Kiel0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Essen to Kiel 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
Nov 07
Sat
Nov 08
Sun
Nov 09
Mon
Nov 10
Tue
Nov 11
Wed
Nov 12
Thu
Nov 13

Journey information

Overview: Train from Essen to Kiel

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train
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
236 miles (381 km)
Average train duration
4h 25m
Cheapest ticket price
$22 (€18)
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
4h 17m
First train
00:05
Last train
23:05

Key Takeaways

Train Ticket Prices
  • Budget Options: Train tickets from Essen to Kiel start from as low as $22 (€18) if booked well in advance.
  • Standard Fares: Typically, trains cost $61 (€50) depending on the train type and class.
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, FlixTrain from Essen to Kiel trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Essen and Kiel from $22 (€18). 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 22m
Cheapest Price
$34 (€28)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
13 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

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
6h 50m
Cheapest Price
$26 (€21)
FlixTrain frequency
1 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

FAQs: Trains from Essen to Kiel

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

FAQs
To fully explore Kiel's maritime history, museums, and nearby attractions, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Train ticket prices from Essen to Kiel can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $22 (€18), while the average price is around $61 (€50).
The train journey from Essen to Kiel offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with views of the lush North Rhine-Westphalia countryside, charming small towns, and the occasional glimpse of the Baltic Sea as you approach Kiel.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Kiel is by train, with a cost of around $22 (€18).
The distance by train from Essen to Kiel is 236 miles (381 km).
The train from Essen to Kiel takes 4h 17m and runs 7 per day.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Kiel.
The first train from Essen to Kiel leaves at 12:05 AM.
The train station in Essen that goes to Kiel is Essen Hbf, which connects to Kiel Hbf.
Yes, there is a direct train from Essen to Kiel. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
The last train from Essen to Kiel leaves at 11:05 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Kiel.
A day trip from Essen to Kiel is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 17m. The distance is 236 miles (381 km), with a train frequency of 7 per day.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Essen to Kiel

Essen
Kiel
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 Kiel.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
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
Dining
  • Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
  • Kiepenkerl
  • Cafe Extrablatt
  • Tacos
Hotel
Hotel
  • Ambassador
  • Gästearpartment Dahl
  • WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus
  • Motel One
Essen-SteeleWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
4 km
Dining
Dining
  • Bootshaus Ruhreck
  • Da Vinici
  • Asia-Nudeln
  • Bacchos
Hotel
Hotel
  • Zur Guten Quelle
  • Hotel Töff-Töff
  • Budike
Essen SüdWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
  • Haus Wilmes
  • Mana Mana
  • Karawane
Hotel
Hotel
  • Webers
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
Dining
Dining
  • Pizzeria Don Camillo
  • Lindos
  • Zur Platte
  • Arman Döner
Hotel
Hotel
  • McDreams
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
Dining
Dining
  • Burger King
  • Werner
  • Bückmannsmühle
  • Muckel-Eis

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