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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Leipzig
Showing times and prices for May 10
Cheapest price
$70
Average price
$124
Fastest journey
4 h 54 m
Average duration
4 h 56 m
Trains per day
11
Distance
372 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen to Leipzig is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Essen to Leipzig will cost around $124 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $70.
Fast trains
Of the 11 trains that leave Essen for Leipzig on Sun, May 10, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, May 10 the direct trains cover the 372 km distance in an average of 4 h 56 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 54 m .
On Sun, May 10 the slowest trains will take 4 h 56 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.
FlixTrain1:05 PM5h44Essen Hbf6:49 PMLeipzig Hbf$701One-way0 transfers- FlixTrain+
FlixBus5:04 PM8h11Essen Hbf1:15 AMLeipzig, Merkurpromenade (Messe)$711One-way1 transfer 
ICE 545 · IC 20379:19 AM4h56Essen Hbf2:15 PMLeipzig Hbf$881One-way1 transfer- ICE 845 · IC 24438:21 AM4h56Essen Hbf1:17 PMLeipzig Hbf$1001One-way1 transfer
- ICE 847 · IC 244110:21 AM4h56Essen Hbf3:17 PMLeipzig Hbf$1181One-way1 transfer
- IC 2155 · ICE 69010:15 AM4h54Essen Hbf3:09 PMLeipzig Hbf$1311One-way1 transfer
- ICE 545 · IC 20379:19 AM4h56Essen Hbf2:15 PMLeipzig Hbf$881One-way1 transfer
- ICE 847 · IC 244110:21 AM4h56Essen Hbf3:17 PMLeipzig Hbf$1181One-way1 transfer
- ICE 845 · IC 24438:21 AM4h56Essen Hbf1:17 PMLeipzig Hbf$1001One-way1 transfer
- ICE 547 · IC 203911:19 AM4h56Essen Hbf4:15 PMLeipzig Hbf$1311One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Essen to Leipzig
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Essen to Leipzig among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $23. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 10m. 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 $23, and a flight costs an average of $414.
Distance: 231 miles (372 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$78 Average price | $41 Average price Cheapest | $546 Average price | $79 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 57m Average total duration 5h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 4m Average total duration 5h 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 10m Average total duration Fastest 4h 10m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 32m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions | 1.1 - 2.2kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
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 Leipzig is a bus with an average price of $41 (€33).
This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Leipzig:
A bus is $37 (€30) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Leipzig costing on average $78 (€62).
A bus is $509 (€405) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Essen to Leipzig costing on average $550 (€438).
The fastest way to travel from Essen to Leipzig is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 17m.
Other travel options to Leipzig take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 27m.
Bus takes on average 5h 34m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Essen and Leipzig including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Leipzig among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 5m faster (5h 27m by train vs 5h 32m by car) and roughly $0.57 (€0.45) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($78 (€62) vs $79 (€63)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Essen to Leipzig train times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Leipzig trains for today, Saturday, May 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 845 · IC 2443 | On time 8:21 AM Essen Hbf | 4h56 | 1:17 PM Leipzig Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 621 · ICE 930 · ICE 508 | On time 8:53 AM Essen Hbf | 5h11 | 2:04 PM Leipzig Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 545 · IC 2037 | On time 9:19 AM Essen Hbf | 4h56 | 2:15 PM Leipzig Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| IC 2155 · ICE 690 | On time 10:15 AM Essen Hbf | 4h54 | 3:09 PM Leipzig Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 847 · IC 2441 | On time 10:21 AM Essen Hbf | 4h56 | 3:17 PM Leipzig Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| FlixTrain | 1:05 PM Essen Hbf | 5h44 | 6:49 PM Leipzig Hbf | 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 Leipzig 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
May 10
May 10
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May 13
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May 16
May 16
Why should you book Essen to Leipzig trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Essen to Leipzig.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to Leipzig.
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 FlixTrain or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Essen to Leipzig.
- 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 Leipzig.
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 Leipzig.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Leipzig
GermanyGermany
Trains from Essen to Leipzig run on average 7 times per day, taking around 5h 27m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $28 (€22) but you can travel from only $23 (€18) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 231 miles (372 km) distance in 4h 56m.
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 $23 (€18)
Distance 231 miles (372 km) |
Average train duration 5h 27m |
Cheapest ticket price $28 (€22) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 4h 56m |
First train 12:04 AM |
Last train 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 63 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 $23 (€18)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Essen to Leipzig trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Essen and Leipzig from $23 (€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 56m
Cheapest Price
$38 (€30)
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.
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
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
5h 44m
Cheapest Price
$28 (€22)
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
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 46m
Cheapest Price
$88 (€70)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
10 a day
FAQs: Trains from Essen to Leipzig
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Leipzig 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 Leipzig, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Essen to Leipzig can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $28 (€22), while the average price is around $78 (€62).
The train from Essen to Leipzig takes 4h 56m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Essen to Leipzig is 231 miles (372 km).
The first train from Essen to Leipzig leaves at 12:04 AM.
The last train from Essen to Leipzig leaves at 11:55 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Essen to Leipzig. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Leipzig.
The train station in Essen that goes to Leipzig is Essen Hbf, which connects to Leipzig Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Leipzig is by bus, with a cost of around $23 (€18).
The train journey from Essen to Leipzig offers views of the picturesque Ruhr Valley, lush countryside, and charming small towns, making it a visually pleasant experience.
A day trip from Essen to Leipzig is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 56m. The distance is 231 miles (372 km). There are 10 trains per day.
In Leipzig, you can explore Karl-Heine-Straße for its eclectic shops and street art, attend a world-class performance at the Leipzig Opera House, and visit the serene Leipzig Botanical Garden. Discover contemporary German history at the Zeitgeschichtliches Forum and enjoy a boat tour along Leipzig's canals. Don't miss the historic St. Thomas Church linked to Bach, the modern Leipzig Zoo, the Monument to the Battle of the Nations, the Leipzig Panometer with its panoramic art, and the Museum of Fine Arts with its extensive European collection.
To fully experience Leipzig's cultural, historical, and modern attractions, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended. This timeframe allows you to explore key sites such as the Leipzig Zoo, St. Thomas Church, and the Bach Museum, as well as enjoy the vibrant local arts and music scene.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Leipzig.
Since both Essen and Leipzig 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 Leipzig include Berlin, Dresden, Erfurt, Chemnitz, Eisenach.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Leipzig 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.
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 Leipzig, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the main train station and popular tourist spots. Scams involving overpriced taxi rides or unlicensed taxis can occur, so it is advisable to use official taxi services or ride-sharing apps. Additionally, travelers should remain vigilant in nightlife districts to avoid theft or scams related to drinks and personal belongings. Overall, standard urban safety precautions 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 Leipzig
Essen
Leipzig
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 Leipzig.
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
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
3 kmDining
- Burger King
- Werner
- Bückmannsmühle
- Muckel-Eis
Essen-Hügel
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
5 kmDining
- Parkhaus Hügel
- Cafe au Lac
- ETUF
- LUJO
Hotel
- Parkhaus Hügel
The major train station for arrivals in Leipzig is Leipzig Hauptbahnhof. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof for your journey to Leipzig from Essen.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
23Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24/7. Access via Willy-Brandt-Platz.
Dining
- Restaurant Zchocolat
- Vapiano Leipzig
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps.
WC
- €1
Hotel
- Steigenberger Grandhotel Handelshof
- a&o Leipzig Hauptbahnhof
- IntercityHotel Leipzig
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Sixt
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-13 for long-distance and regional trains
- Hall 2: S-Bahn platforms 14-23
- Hall 3: shopping and dining area
Public transit options for Leipzig Hauptbahnhof
- Tram: Lines 1, 3, 4, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15
- S-Bahn: Lines S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, S5X, S6
- Bus: Several lines available
Leipzig MDR
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
2 kmDining
- La mia pizza
- Eis fichte MCL
- Pata Negra
- Shams Bistro
Leipzig Hbf, Ostseite
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelShowerLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
26Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, with multiple entry points around the station.
Dining
- Restaurant Weinstock
- Auerbachs Keller
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps, restrooms.
WC
- €1
Hotel
- Steigenberger Grandhotel Handelshof
- Leipzig Marriott Hotel
- IntercityHotel Leipzig
Shower
- Cost €6
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Sixt
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-12 for regional and long-distance trains
- Hall 2: S-Bahn platforms
- Hall 3: shopping and dining area
Public transit options for Leipzig Hbf, Ostseite
- Tram: Lines 3, 4, 7, 10, 12, 15
- Bus: Several lines available
- S-Bahn: Lines S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, S5X, S6
Most popular train connections from Essen
More options for your journey from Essen to Leipzig
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Leipzig and Essen
Most popular train connections to Leipzig
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