- Must visit
Rijksmuseum van Oudheden
National museum of antiquities with acclaimed collections from Ancient Egypt, Rome, and the Netherlands' archaeological past.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Leiden
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$40
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$60
Fastest journey on Sep 20
3 h 47 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
3 h 51 m
Trains on Sep 20
2
Distance
190 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen to Leiden is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Essen to Leiden will cost around $60 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $40.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 2 trains from Essen to Leiden, including 2 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 190 km distance in an average of 3 h 51 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 47 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 3 h 55 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.
7:21 AM3h55Essen11:16 AMLeiden$401One-way0 transfers- 9:20 AM3h47Essen1:07 PMLeiden$791One-way0 transfers
- 9:20 AM3h47Essen1:07 PMLeiden$791One-way0 transfers
- 7:21 AM3h55Essen11:16 AMLeiden$401One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Essen to Leiden
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Essen to Leiden among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $31 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 25m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $31, while a flight costs an average of $745.
Distance: 118 miles (190 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$78 Average price | $31 Average price Cheapest | $745 Average price | $49 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 25m Average total duration Fastest 2h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 20m Average total duration 4h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 1m Average total duration 3h 1m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 2h 39m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | 0.6 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | 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 Leiden is a bus with an average price of $31.
This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Leiden:
A bus is $47 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Leiden costing on average $78.
A bus is $714 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Essen to Leiden costing on average $745.
The fastest way to travel from Essen to Leiden is by train with an average journey time of 2h 55m.
Other travel options to Leiden take longer:
Flight takes on average 3h 1m.
Bus takes on average 4h 50m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Essen and Leiden including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Leiden 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 $78 compared to roughly $49 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-28.56. The journey takes 2h 55m versus 2h 39m 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 Leiden train times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Leiden trains for tomorrow, Sunday, September 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:21 AM Essen | 3h55 | 11:16 AM Leiden | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:20 AM Essen | 3h47 | 1:07 PM Leiden | 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 Leiden 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.
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
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Sep 23
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Sat
Sep 26
Sep 26
Why should you book Essen to Leiden trains with Omio?
VIAS Rail GmbH as well as Deutsche Bahn offer trains services from Essen to Leiden.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to Leiden.
Why book with Omio vs VIAS Rail GmbH?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for VIAS Rail GmbH, but also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn to find the best option for your trip from Essen to Leiden.
- 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 VIAS Rail GmbH with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Essen to Leiden.
Why book with Omio over Rome2rio, Trainline or Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn to find the best option for your trip from Essen to Leiden.
- 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 Leiden.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Leiden
Germany
Netherlands
Trains from Essen to Leiden run on average 5 times per day, taking around 2h 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $44 but you can travel from only $17 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 16:57. The fastest train covers the 118 miles (190 km) distance in 2h 34m.
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 $17
Distance 118 miles (190 km) |
Average train duration 2h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price $44 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 2h 34m |
First train 12:02 AM |
Last train 4:57 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 2 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 $17
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH from Essen to Leiden trainsDeutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH trains will get you between Essen and Leiden from $17. 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
2h 34m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$44
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
VIAS Rail GmbH
About
VIAS Rail GmbH is a German rail service company based in Frankfurt, operating passenger rail services in the states of Hesse, Rhineland-Palatinate, and North Rhine-Westphalia. The name "VIAS" is derived from the Latin word "via" (way) and "S" for service. VIAS Rail GmbH operates numerous regional train lines, including services on the Odenwald Railway network and lines in the Rhein-Main Gebiet. They utilize various train types, such as Bombardier Itino and Stadler FLIRT vehicles. The company is a subsidiary of the RATH Group.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average VIAS Rail GmbH Duration
3h 4m
Cheapest VIAS Rail GmbH Price
$67
VIAS Rail GmbH frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack and beverage service available
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Leiden
Things to do in Leiden
Discover the best of Leiden — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Leiden trip today.
- Must visit
Naturalis Biodiversity Center
Major natural history museum famous for dinosaurs, biodiversity displays, and interactive galleries suitable for all ages.
- Must visit
Rijksmuseum Boerhaave
Museum about human body science in Leiden's academic tradition, featuring anatomy, medicine, and curious medical objects.
- Must visit
Rapenburg
Leiden's oldest canal is lined with monuments, bridges, and terraces, making it a classic route for a first city walk.
- Recommended
Leidse Singels
Tree-lined ring canal around the historic center, ideal for walking past gates, mills, and broad water views.
- Recommended
Nieuwe Rijn
Busy central square beside the church, often hosting markets and events and serving as a lively meeting point.
- Vegetarian
Stroopwafels
Buttery cookies from nearby Gouda, sold across Leiden. Their crisp texture and caramel notes make them a classic Dutch sweet with coffee or tea.
- Vegetarian
Poffertjes
Fluffy small pancakes served with butter and powdered sugar. A beloved Dutch treat found in Leiden cafés and traditional pancake houses.
Kroketten
Deep-fried ragout croquettes, often eaten with mustard. This classic Dutch snack is common in Leiden bars, cafés, and lunch spots.
In den Doofpot
Elegant fine dining in a historic setting, known for refined French-inspired cuisine and polished service near central Leiden.
Oudt Leyden
Established Leiden pancake house specializing in Dutch pancakes and poffertjes in a casual, family-friendly setting.
Waag
Historic restaurant in a former weighing house, serving classic Dutch and French-influenced dishes in a grand, traditional atmosphere.
Euro (€)
Moderate for the Netherlands. Hotels and restaurants are not cheap, but transit is manageable and budget eats are easy to find.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for fast food or lunch specials.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €3-4.50 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service. Taxis can be rounded up. In cafes, small change is enough.
9292
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.08 + €0.196 per km
- Day pass
- €9.50
To the city center
Leiden Centraal -> Leiden City Center
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- You can check in and out on buses with OVpay using a contactless bank card, phone, or smartwatch.
- For local buses in Leiden, fares are distance-based. Plan routes and live departures in the 9292 app.
FAQs: Trains from Essen to Leiden
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Leiden 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 Leiden, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Essen to Leiden can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $44, while the average price is around $78.
The train from Essen to Leiden takes 2h 34m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Essen to Leiden is 118 miles (190 km).
The first train from Essen to Leiden leaves at 12:02 AM.
The last train from Essen to Leiden leaves at 4:57 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Essen to Leiden.
There is no direct train service currently available from Essen to Leiden.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Leiden.
The train station in Essen that goes to Leiden is Essen Hbf, which connects to Leiden Centraal.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Leiden is by bus, with a cost of around $17.
The train journey from Essen to Leiden offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Lower Rhine region and the flat, lush countryside of the Netherlands, dotted with windmills and charming villages.
A day trip from Essen to Leiden is not feasible as the journey duration is 2h 34m. However, trains run 8 times per day, covering a distance of 118 miles (190 km).
In Leiden, you can enjoy scenic boat tours along the Leiden Canals, visit the Naturalis Biodiversity Center for interactive exhibits, explore the historic Pieterskerk, and admire art at Museum De Lakenhal. Don't miss the vibrant Leiden Market for local produce and delicacies. Key sights include the Rijksmuseum van Oudheden, Hortus Botanicus Leiden, the prestigious Leiden University, Molen de Valk windmill, and the Burcht van Leiden fortress with panoramic city views.
Two to three days are ideal to explore Leiden's rich history, museums, and charming canals.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Leiden.
Since both Essen and Leiden 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 Leiden include Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Antwerp, The Hague, Eindhoven.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Leiden 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 the Netherlands is the Euro (EUR). Travelers generally find it more convenient to use cards, as most places accept debit and credit cards, though having some cash on hand is useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Leiden, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, train stations, and popular tourist spots. Bicycle theft is also common, so securing bikes properly is important. Scams involving overpriced taxis or unofficial transport services can occur; travelers are advised to use licensed providers. Overall, staying alert and safeguarding belongings helps ensure a safe visit.
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 Leiden
Most Essen to Leiden trains use the Essen Hbf to Leiden Centraal station pair. Use this guide to compare Essen and Leiden 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 Leiden
Which Essen station do trains to Leiden leave from?
Trains from Essen to Leiden 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.
Essen, Kruppstraße / Am ThyssenhausAm Thyssenhaus & Kruppstraße, 45128 Essen-Stadtbezirk I, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus from Essen city centre
TRUE
Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus train station facilities and services
Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus. ATMs are available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus: The station has basic accessibility features.
Which Leiden station do trains from Essen arrive at?
Trains from Essen to Leiden arrive at Leiden Centraal. Leiden Centraal is 0 miles (1 km) from Leiden city centre.
Leiden CentraalStationsplein 3, 2312 AJ Leiden, Netherlands+31 30 751 5155
City-centre transport
Getting to Leiden Centraal from Leiden city centre
Leiden Centraal is 1 km from Leiden city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus45 · 6m · $2 · every ~7 min
54, 1, 2, 3, 4, 169 · 7m · $4 · every ~24 min
54, 56, 3, 4 · 9m · $5 · every ~16 min
Leiden Centraal train station facilities and services
Leiden Centraal has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant De Bruine Boon, Grand Café Van Buuren
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Leiden Centraal. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Leiden Centraal. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Leiden Centraal: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Leiden Centraal: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Leiden Centraal: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Ibis Leiden Centre, Golden Tulip Leiden Centre, City Hotel Nieuw Minerva.
Most popular train connections from Essen
More options for your journey from Essen to Leiden
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Leiden and Essen
Most popular train connections to Leiden
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