- Must visit
Museum der bildenden Künste
Leipzig’s major fine arts museum with strong German painting, modern works, and a bright contemporary building in the city center.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Leipzig
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 07
Cheapest price on Oct 07
$76
Average ticket price on Oct 07
$101
Fastest journey on Oct 07
5 h 18 m
Average journey duration on Oct 07
5 h 36 m
Trains on Oct 07
5
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 $101 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $76.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Essen to Leipzig without transferring at least once.
26709 · ICE 845 · IC 24438:13 AM5h18Essen Hbf1:31 PMLeipzig Hbf$761One-way2 transfers
31306+ICE 555 · 161198:34 AM6h05Essen Hbf2:39 PMLeipzig Hbf$761One-way2 transfers- 89873 · ICE 17459:40 AM5h21Essen Hbf3:01 PMLeipzig Hbf$841One-way1 transfer
- 28074 · ICE 621 · ICE 930 · ICE 5088:39 AM5h25Essen Hbf2:04 PMLeipzig Hbf$1351One-way3 transfers
- 28074 · ICE 621 · ICE 15598:39 AM5h52Essen Hbf2:31 PMLeipzig Hbf$1351One-way2 transfers
- 26709 · ICE 845 · IC 24438:13 AM5h18Essen Hbf1:31 PMLeipzig Hbf$761One-way2 transfers
- 89873 · ICE 17459:40 AM5h21Essen Hbf3:01 PMLeipzig Hbf$841One-way1 transfer
- 28074 · ICE 621 · ICE 930 · ICE 5088:39 AM5h25Essen Hbf2:04 PMLeipzig Hbf$1351One-way3 transfers
- 28074 · ICE 621 · ICE 15598:39 AM5h52Essen Hbf2:31 PMLeipzig Hbf$1351One-way2 transfers
- 31306+ICE 555 · 161198:34 AM6h05Essen Hbf2:39 PMLeipzig Hbf$761One-way2 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Leipzig
GermanyGermany
Trains from Essen to Leipzig run on average 7 times per day, taking around 5h 16m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $22 (€18) if you book in advance.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 231 miles (372 km) distance in 4h 39m.
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 231 miles (372 km) |
Average train duration 5h 16m |
Cheapest ticket price $22 (€18) |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 4h 39m |
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 Thu |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Live departures
Essen to Leipzig train times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Leipzig trains for today, Tuesday, October 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:21 AM Essen | 4h56 | 2:17 PM Leipzig | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Essen to Leipzig trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain 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 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 bus, train 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 bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Essen to Leipzig.
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain from Essen to Leipzig trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Essen and Leipzig 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
4h 39m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$22 (€18)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
6 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 FlixTrain Duration
5h 44m
Cheapest FlixTrain Price
$32 (€26)
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
Complete guide to Leipzig
Things to do in Leipzig
Discover the best of Leipzig — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Leipzig trip today.
- Must visit
Museum in der Runden Ecke
Immersive museum on Leipzig’s role in East Germany’s Peaceful Revolution. Essential for understanding 1989 and modern German democracy.
- Must visit
Bach Museum
Bach’s former residence and museum, presenting manuscripts, instruments, and Leipzig’s central role in his life and work.
- Must visit
Marktplatz
Leipzig’s central square framed by historic buildings, arcades, and markets. A natural starting point for exploring the old town on foot.
- Must visit
Augustusplatz
Major city square with dramatic architecture, fountains, opera, and concert hall. Best for urban views and Leipzig’s cultural heart.
- Must visit
Baumwollspinnerei
Former cotton mill transformed into one of Europe’s notable art districts. Explore galleries, studios, and Leipzig’s influential contemporary scene.
- Gluten-free
Leipziger Allerlei
Leipzig’s signature mixed vegetable dish with peas, carrots, asparagus and morel mushrooms, often enriched with crayfish butter. A classic Saxon specialty.
- Vegetarian
Sächsische Grießklößchensuppe
A clear broth with small semolina dumplings. This simple soup is a long-standing Saxon home-style favorite served in Leipzig and the region.
- Gluten-free
Sächsische Kartoffelsuppe
A hearty Saxon potato soup, often made with root vegetables and marjoram, sometimes served with sausage. A comforting everyday dish in the region.
Frieda
Elegant Michelin-starred dining in the Rosental with modern tasting menus, refined service and a tranquil setting in a historic building.
Thüringer Hof
Well-known restaurant and inn by the monument, popular for hearty Saxon food and local beer in a warm, traditional setting.
Auerbachs Keller
Historic Auerbachs Keller serves classic Saxon and German dishes in a famous vaulted cellar linked to Goethe and Leipzig tradition.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany. Hotels, dining, and transit are usually cheaper than Munich or Frankfurt, making Leipzig good value for city breaks.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or street food.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip about 5-10% in restaurants or round up the bill. Round up for taxis and leave small change at cafes if service was good.
LeipzigMOVE
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.20
- Day pass
- €9.60
To the city center
Leipzig Hbf -> Augustusplatz, Leipzig
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is available in many LVB trams and buses, but not all vehicles. Buy in the LeipzigMOVE app for the most consistent cashless option.
- Validate paper tickets before travel if they are not pre-validated. Leipzig Hbf is within walking distance of much of the city center.
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 $22 (€18), while the average price is around $122 (€102).
The train from Essen to Leipzig takes 4h 39m 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 1 times per day, provided by FlixTrain.
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 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.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Leipzig.
Popular day trips by train from Leipzig include Berlin, Dresden, Erfurt, Chemnitz, Eisenach.
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
Most Essen to Leipzig trains use the Essen Hbf to Leipzig Hauptbahnhof station pair. Use this guide to compare Essen and Leipzig 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 Leipzig
Which Essen station do trains to Leipzig leave from?
Trains from Essen to Leipzig 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
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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 Leipzig station do trains from Essen arrive at?
Trains from Essen to Leipzig arrive at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof. Leipzig Hauptbahnhof is 0 miles (1 km) from Leipzig city centre.
Leipzig HauptbahnhofWilly-Brandt-Platz 5, 04109 Leipzig, Germany+49 341 9686190
City-centre transport
Getting to Leipzig Hauptbahnhof from Leipzig city centre
TrainS5x, S5, S4, S3, S1, S2 · 1m · $1 · every ~23 min
BusN3, 89 · 9m · every ~11 min
Tram9 · 8m · every ~11 min
Leipzig Hauptbahnhof train station facilities and services
Leipzig Hauptbahnhof has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Zchocolat, Vapiano Leipzig
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Steigenberger Grandhotel Handelshof, a&o Leipzig Hauptbahnhof, IntercityHotel Leipzig.
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
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