- Must visit
European Hansemuseum
A major museum on the history of the Hanseatic League, using immersive exhibits to explain Lübeck’s role as a medieval trading power.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Lübeck
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$44
Average price
$64
Fastest journey
4 h 24 m
Average duration
5 h 2 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
365 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen to Lübeck is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Essen to Lübeck will cost around $64 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $44.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Essen for Lübeck on Sun, Jun 21, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 21 the direct trains cover the 365 km distance in an average of 5 h 2 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 24 m .
On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest trains will take 6 h 18 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.
7:00 AM4h24Essen11:24 AMLübeck$441One-way0 transfers- 7:34 AM6h18Essen1:52 PMLübeck$461One-way0 transfers
- 6:00 AM4h24Essen10:24 AMLübeck$1031One-way0 transfers
- 7:00 AM4h24Essen11:24 AMLübeck$441One-way0 transfers
- 6:00 AM4h24Essen10:24 AMLübeck$1031One-way0 transfers
- 7:34 AM6h18Essen1:52 PMLübeck$461One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Essen to Lübeck
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Essen to Lübeck among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $37. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 30m. 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 $37, and a flight costs an average of $114.
Distance: 226 miles (365 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$96 Average price | $50 Average price Cheapest | $259 Average price | $76 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 50m Average total duration 4h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 10m Average total duration 4h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 30m Average total duration Fastest 1h 30m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 57m 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 Lübeck is a bus with an average price of $50 (€41).
This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Lübeck:
A bus is $46 (€37) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Lübeck costing on average $96 (€78).
A bus is $209 (€171) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Essen to Lübeck costing on average $259 (€212).
The fastest way to travel from Essen to Lübeck is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 30m.
Other travel options to Lübeck take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 20m.
Bus takes on average 4h 40m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Essen and Lübeck including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Lübeck among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 37m sooner (4h 20m by train vs 4h 57m by car). Tickets start at around $96 (€78) compared to roughly $76 (€63) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Essen to Lübeck train times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Lübeck trains for tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:00 AM Essen | 4h24 | 10:24 AM Lübeck | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:00 AM Essen | 4h24 | 11:24 AM Lübeck | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:34 AM Essen | 6h18 | 1:52 PM Lübeck | 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 Lübeck 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
Jun 21
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Jun 22
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Sat
Jun 27
Jun 27
Why should you book Essen to Lübeck trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Essen to Lübeck.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to Lübeck.
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 Lübeck.
- 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 Lübeck.
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 Lübeck.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Lübeck
GermanyGermany
Trains from Essen to Lübeck run on average 7 times per day, taking around 4h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $40 (€33) but you can travel from only $37 (€30) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 01:09, the last at 21:37. The fastest train covers the 226 miles (365 km) distance in 4h 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
Bus from $37 (€30)
Distance 226 miles (365 km) |
Average train duration 4h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price $40 (€33) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 4h 17m |
First train 1:09 AM |
Last train 9:37 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 14 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 $37 (€30)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Essen to Lübeck trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Essen and Lübeck from $37 (€30). 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 17m
Cheapest Price
$40 (€33)
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
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 57m
Cheapest Price
$97 (€79)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
16 a day
Complete guide to Lübeck
Things to do in Lübeck
Discover the best of Lübeck — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Lübeck trip today.
- Must visit
Buddenbrookhaus
Museum dedicated to Thomas Mann, Heinrich Mann, and the famous Buddenbrooks family novel closely tied to Lübeck.
- Recommended
St. Annen Museum
Important collection of medieval sacred art, altarpieces, sculpture, and cultural history in a former monastery complex.
- Must visit
Lübeck Old Town
UNESCO-listed island center packed with Gothic brick architecture, canals, courtyards, and the city’s main sights.
- Must visit
Marktplatz
Historic main square beside the town hall and St. Mary’s Church, a natural starting point for exploring the city.
- Recommended
An der Obertrave
Popular canal-side promenade with classic views of the Holstentor and salt warehouses, especially photogenic at sunset.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Lübecker Marzipan
The city’s most famous specialty, made from a high proportion of almonds and sugar. It is closely associated with Lübeck’s confectionery tradition and is a classic souvenir and local treat.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Rotspon
A traditional red wine matured in Lübeck after import, historically linked to Hanseatic trade. It is one of the city’s best-known drinks and often paired with regional meals.
Labskaus
A classic North German sailor’s dish of mashed potatoes, corned beef and beetroot, often served with pickles, herring and egg. It reflects Lübeck’s maritime heritage.
Wullenwever
Established fine dining restaurant in central Lübeck, recognized for refined modern cuisine and elegant service.
Johanna Berger
Well-regarded restaurant offering contemporary German cooking with a polished but relaxed atmosphere near the old town.
Schiffergesellschaft
Historic Lübeck restaurant in a former guild hall, known for classic Hanseatic and North German cuisine in a very atmospheric setting.
Euro
Moderate by German standards. Old Town dining and hotels cost more, but bakeries, lunch deals, and local transit help keep daily costs reasonable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery lunch, or simple takeaway.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-35 per person at a casual sit-down restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-5 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. In restaurants, round up or add about 5-10% for good service. Round up taxis and café bills; hotel tipping is modest and optional.
Moovit
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 3.50 EUR
- Day pass
- 8.60 EUR
To the city center
Lübeck Hbf, Lübeck -> Lübeck Rathaus, Lübeck
- Distance
- 1.2 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- You can buy tickets in the NAH.SH app or from ticket machines; validate paper tickets if required before boarding.
- Card payment availability varies by bus and sales channel, so buying in the app is the safest option.
FAQs: Trains from Essen to Lübeck
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Lübeck 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 Lübeck, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Essen to Lübeck can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $40 (€33), while the average price is around $96 (€78).
The train from Essen to Lübeck takes 4h 17m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Essen to Lübeck is 226 miles (365 km).
The first train from Essen to Lübeck leaves at 1:09 AM.
The last train from Essen to Lübeck leaves at 9:37 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Essen to Lübeck.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Lübeck.
The train station in Essen that goes to Lübeck is Essen Hbf, which connects to Lübeck Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Lübeck is by bus, with a cost of around $37 (€30).
The train journey from Essen to Lübeck offers varied scenery, including views of the Ruhr region's industrial landscapes, lush countryside, and glimpses of the North German Plain, providing a mix of urban and natural vistas.
A day trip from Essen to Lübeck is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 17m, covering a distance of 226 miles (365 km). Trains are available 7 times per day.
In Lübeck, you can explore the iconic Holstentor Museum to learn about the city's medieval history, visit the stunning St. Mary's Church with its astronomical clock, and wander through the charming streets of Lübeck's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Discover the history of the Hanseatic League at the European Hansemuseum and indulge in the famous marzipan at the Niederegger Marzipan Museum. Don't miss the Lübeck Cathedral and the Buddenbrookhaus, a museum dedicated to Thomas Mann's novel "Buddenbrooks".
To fully enjoy Lübeck's medieval architecture, historical sites, and cultural experiences, 2 to 3 days are recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Lübeck.
Since both Essen and Lübeck 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 Lübeck include Hamburg, Wismar, Bremen, Schwerin, Lüneburg.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Lübeck 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 Lübeck, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the old town and near train stations. Scams involving overpriced taxi fares can occur, so it is advisable to use official taxi services or ride-hailing apps. Additionally, travelers should be aware of common safety practices such as securing personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night.
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 Lübeck
Essen
Lübeck
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 Lübeck.
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
The major train station for arrivals in Lübeck is Lübeck Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Lübeck Hbf for your journey to Lübeck from Essen.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 05:45 - 20:00
- Tuesday: 05:45 - 20:00
- Wednesday: 05:45 - 20:00
- Thursday: 05:45 - 20:00
- Friday: 05:45 - 20:00
- Saturday: 06:30 - 19:30
- Sunday: 08:30 - 19:30
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- MyWaffel
- McDonald's
- Cafe Maret
- Café Brazil
Hotel
- LIHO
- Mercure
- Hotel Stadt Lübeck
- Hotel an der Marienkirche
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
16 kmDining
- TEATIME
- Café Marleen
- Strandoase
- Ostsee Lounge
Hotel
- Grand SPA Resort A-ROSA Travemünde
- Atlantic Grand Hotel Travemünde
- Seeschlößchen
- Deutscher Kaiser
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
15 kmDining
- TEATIME
- Café Marleen
- Niederegger
- Landungsbrücken
Hotel
- Grand SPA Resort A-ROSA Travemünde
- Deutscher Kaiser
- Lili Marleen
- Hotel Soldwisch
Most popular train connections from Essen
More options for your journey from Essen to Lübeck
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Lübeck and Essen
Most popular train connections to Lübeck
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