- Must visit
Holstentor Museum
Museum inside Lübeck's famous gate, presenting the city's Hanseatic history and fortifications. Essential for context before exploring the old town.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Lübeck
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$44
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$64
Fastest journey on Sep 20
4 h 24 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
5 h 2 m
Trains on Sep 20
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
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 3 trains from Essen to Lübeck, including 3 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 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, Sep 20 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 for Essen to Lübeck
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Essen to Lübeck among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $71 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 2m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $71, while a flight costs an average of $594.
Distance: 226 miles (365 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$119 Average price | $594 Average price | $71 Average price Cheapest | $77 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 33m Average total duration 4h 3m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 2m Average total duration Fastest 2h 2m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 8h 41m Average total duration 8h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 57m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.1 - 2.2kg CO2 emissions | 0.4 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | 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 Lübeck is a bus with an average price of $71.
This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Lübeck:
A bus is $48 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Lübeck costing on average $119.
A bus is $522 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Essen to Lübeck costing on average $594.
The fastest way to travel from Essen to Lübeck is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 2m.
Other travel options to Lübeck take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 3m.
Bus takes on average 8h 11m.
Yes, you can take a train between Essen and Lübeck.
We recommend using the flight 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 54m sooner (4h 3m by train vs 4h 57m by car). Tickets start at around $119 compared to roughly $77 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 today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:59 AM Essen | 4h20 | 12:19 PM Lübeck | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:01 PM Essen | 4h23 | 4:24 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
Compare train 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.
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Sep 20
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Why should you book Essen to Lübeck trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all 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?
- 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Lübeck
GermanyGermany
Trains from Essen to Lübeck run on average 9 times per day, taking around 4h 3m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $59 but you can travel from only $45 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 3h 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 $45
Distance 226 miles (365 km) |
Average train duration 4h 3m |
Cheapest ticket price $59 |
Trains per day 9 |
Fastest train 3h 34m |
First train 1:09 AM |
Last train 9:37 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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 $45
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Essen to Lübeck trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Essen and Lübeck from $45. 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
3h 34m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$59
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
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
European Hansemuseum
Outstanding museum on Hanseatic trade and Lübeck's global medieval role, housed in a former monastery. Rich exhibits make it a top cultural stop.
- Recommended
Buddenbrookhaus
Celebrates Nobel Prize winner Thomas Mann and his literary family in a historic townhouse. Excellent for literature, politics, and local culture.
- Must visit
Lübeck Old Town
UNESCO-listed island old town with lanes, courtyards, churches, and merchant houses. The essential area for walking and experiencing Lübeck's character.
- Recommended
Königstraße
Historic main street lined with gabled houses, shops, and key sights. Ideal for an introductory stroll through the heart of the city.
- Recommended
Markt
Elegant square in front of the town hall and St. Mary's Church. A central meeting point with impressive Gothic architecture all around.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Lübecker Marzipan
Sweet almond marzipan from Lübeck, protected by PGI status and famed for its high almond content. The city's best-known traditional specialty.
- Vegetarian
Marzipantorte
Marzipan-coated pastry or cake, common in Lübeck cafés and bakeries. It reflects the city's long confectionery tradition.
- Gluten-free
Brathering
Pan-fried Baltic herring, often served with potatoes or onion sauce. A classic North German fish dish tied to Lübeck's Hanseatic port history.
Wullenwever
Elegant fine dining restaurant known for modern tasting menus and polished service in Lübeck's old town.
Schiffergesellschaft
Historic tavern serving North German classics and local fish in a traditional Hanseatic setting near the old town center.
Café Niederegger
Historic café and confectionery famous for Lübeck marzipan, cakes, and coffee. A classic stop for the city's signature sweet.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels and dining are mid-priced, public transit is reasonable, and old-town tourist areas cost a bit more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for cappuccino or similar coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or tip about 5-10% in restaurants, round up taxi fares, and leave small change in cafes.
MOIA Lübeck mobil
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.40
- Day pass
- €7.90
To the city center
Lübeck Hbf -> Holstentorplatz, Lübeck
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Buy tickets in the NAH.SH or Stadtverkehr Lübeck app before boarding if possible. Bus drivers may have limited change.
- Contactless card payment is available on many buses, but carry a backup payment method in case a terminal is unavailable.
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 $59, while the average price is around $119.
The train from Essen to Lübeck takes 3h 34m and runs 9 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 $45.
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 3h 34m, 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 flight 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
Most Essen to Lübeck trains use the Essen Hbf to Lübeck Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Essen and Lübeck 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 Lübeck
Which Essen station do trains to Lübeck leave from?
Trains from Essen to Lübeck 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.
Which Lübeck station do trains from Essen arrive at?
Trains from Essen to Lübeck arrive at Lübeck Hbf. Lübeck Hbf is 0 miles (1 km) from Lübeck city centre.
Lübeck HbfLübeck Hbf, Am Bahnhof 6, 23558 Lübeck
City-centre transport
Getting to Lübeck Hbf from Lübeck city centre
Lübeck Hbf is 1 km from Lübeck city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus50, 34, 26, 40, 31, 30, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 21, 2, 16, 12, 11, 10, 1 · 5m · $2 · every ~77 min
Lübeck Hbf train station facilities and services
Lübeck 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: MyWaffel, McDonald's, Cafe Maret, Café Brazil
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Lübeck Hbf. ATMs are available at Lübeck Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Lübeck Hbf. Information desks are available at Lübeck Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Lübeck Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Lübeck Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Lübeck Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lübeck Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include LIHO, Mercure, Hotel Stadt Lübeck, Hotel an der Marienkirche.
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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