- Must visit
MuCEM
The Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations is Marseille’s signature museum, combining major exhibitions with striking modern architecture on the waterfront.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Marseille
Showing times and prices for Jun 22
Cheapest price
$325
Average price
$352
Fastest journey
9 h 16 m
Average duration
10 h 35 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
916 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen to Marseille is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Essen to Marseille will cost around $352 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $325.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Essen to Marseille without transferring at least once.
9426+
61297:41 AM15h43Essen Hbf11:24 PMMarseille Saint-Charles$3251One-way1 transfer- 9414+61775:41 AM11h33Essen Hbf5:14 PMMarseille Saint-Charles$3581One-way1 transfer
- 9426+61157:41 AM10h16Essen Hbf5:57 PMMarseille Saint-Charles$3581One-way1 transfer
- 9414+61115:41 AM9h16Essen Hbf2:57 PMMarseille Saint-Charles$3581One-way1 transfer
- 9426+61777:41 AM9h33Essen Hbf5:14 PMMarseille Saint-Charles$3581One-way1 transfer
- 9414+61115:41 AM9h16Essen Hbf2:57 PMMarseille Saint-Charles$3581One-way1 transfer
- 9426+61777:41 AM9h33Essen Hbf5:14 PMMarseille Saint-Charles$3581One-way1 transfer
- 9426+61157:41 AM10h16Essen Hbf5:57 PMMarseille Saint-Charles$3581One-way1 transfer
- 9414+61775:41 AM11h33Essen Hbf5:14 PMMarseille Saint-Charles$3581One-way1 transfer
- 9414+61155:41 AM12h16Essen Hbf5:57 PMMarseille Saint-Charles$3581One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Essen to Marseille
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Essen to Marseille among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $61. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 26m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.3 - 0.8kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $61, and a train costs an average of $128.
Distance: 569 miles (916 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$295 Average price | $95 Average price Cheapest | $251 Average price | $293 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
10h 18m Average total duration 9h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 21h 14m Average total duration 20h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 26m Average total duration Fastest 2h 26m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 11h 47m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.9 - 2.3kg CO2 emissions | 2.7 - 5.5kg 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 Marseille is a bus with an average price of $95 (€78).
This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Marseille:
A bus is $156 (€127) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Essen to Marseille costing on average $251 (€205).
A bus is $200 (€164) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Marseille costing on average $295 (€242).
The fastest way to travel from Essen to Marseille is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 26m.
Other travel options to Marseille take longer:
Train takes on average 9h 48m.
Bus takes on average 20h 44m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Essen and Marseille including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Marseille 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 1h 59m sooner (9h 48m by train vs 11h 47m by car). Tickets start at around $295 (€242) compared to roughly $293 (€240) 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 Marseille train times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Marseille trains for tomorrow, Monday, June 22. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9414+6177 | 5:41 AM Essen Hbf | 11h33 | 5:14 PM Marseille Saint-Charles | 1 transfer | |
| 9414+6111 | 5:41 AM Essen Hbf | 9h16 | 2:57 PM Marseille Saint-Charles | 1 transfer | |
| 9414+6115 | 5:41 AM Essen Hbf | 12h16 | 5:57 PM Marseille Saint-Charles | 1 transfer | |
| 9426+6177 | 7:41 AM Essen Hbf | 9h33 | 5:14 PM Marseille Saint-Charles | 1 transfer | |
| 9426+6129 | 7:41 AM Essen Hbf | 15h43 | 11:24 PM Marseille Saint-Charles | 1 transfer | |
| 9426+6115 | 7:41 AM Essen Hbf | 10h16 | 5:57 PM Marseille Saint-Charles | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Essen to Marseille 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.
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Jun 22
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Marseille
Germany
France
Trains from Essen to Marseille run on average 3 times per day, taking around 9h 48m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $128 (€105) but you can travel from only $61 (€50) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 02:45, the last at 22:00. The fastest train covers the 569 miles (916 km) distance in 9h 13m.
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 $61 (€50)
Distance 569 miles (916 km) |
Average train duration 9h 48m |
Cheapest ticket price $128 (€105) |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 9h 13m |
First train 2:45 AM |
Last train 10:00 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 7 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 $61 (€50)
Train companies: TGV, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Essen to Marseille trainsTGV, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Essen and Marseille from $61 (€50). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
TGV
About
TGV is a high-speed train company based in France. It operates a fleet of modern trains that can reach speeds of up to 320 km/h. The TGV offers a variety of train types, including the TGV Duplex, TGV Lyria, TGV InOui, and TGV OuiGo. Each train type provides different amenities, such as Wi-Fi, power outlets, and comfortable seating. Ticket options include Standard, Flexi, and Prem’s. Onboard facilities feature a bar, restaurant, and luggage storage. Popular TGV routes include Paris to Lyon, Paris to Marseille, and Paris to Lille.
Luggage & cancellation policy
TGV frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 suitcase included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
According to fare conditions and ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full meals and bar service, at-seat dining in first class
Seat reservation
Included in first class, optional fee in second class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket, guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 46m
Cheapest Price
$375 (€307)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Marseille
Things to do in Marseille
Discover the best of Marseille — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Marseille trip today.
- Recommended
Musée Regards de Provence
An art museum in a restored port health station, known for regional paintings and one of the best terrace views toward the Old Port and cathedral.
- Recommended
Musée d'Histoire de Marseille
Marseille’s city history museum, covering the Greek founding of Massalia through modern times, with notable archaeological remains beside the site.
- Must visit
Vieux-Port
The historic Old Port remains the heart of Marseille, ideal for strolling, boat watching, and experiencing the city’s maritime atmosphere.
- Must visit
Le Panier
Marseille’s oldest quarter, full of narrow lanes, colorful façades, small squares, and street art, making it a favorite for photographers and walkers.
- Must visit
Corniche Président-John-Fitzgerald-Kennedy
A scenic coastal road and promenade with sweeping Mediterranean views, especially popular for sunset walks and social-media photography.
Bouillabaisse
Marseille’s iconic fish stew, traditionally made with several Mediterranean fish, shellfish, saffron, and served with rouille and toasted bread. It is the city’s most famous culinary specialty.
- Gluten-free
Aïoli
A Provençal platter centered on garlic mayonnaise, often served with cod, boiled vegetables, and eggs. It is a classic regional meal strongly associated with southern France.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Panisse
Fried or baked chickpea flour cakes originating in Marseille, with a crisp exterior and soft center. They are a beloved local street food and aperitif snack.
L'Epuisette
An acclaimed seafood restaurant overlooking the sea, known for elegant Mediterranean cuisine and a special-occasion atmosphere.
La Boîte à Sardine
A popular casual seafood spot loved for very fresh fish, daily specials, and a lively local atmosphere.
Chez Fonfon
A celebrated Vallon des Auffes institution known for bouillabaisse and classic Marseille seafood in a picturesque harbor setting.
Euro
Moderate by French standards. Budget eats are manageable, but hotels and waterfront dining cost more in peak season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-15 for a simple lunch or street food.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 2.50-4 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Locals may round up or leave 5-10% for good service. Small change is fine in cafes; round up taxis.
RTM
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1.70 EUR
- Day pass
- 5.20 EUR
To the city center
Marseille Saint-Charles, Marseille -> Vieux-Port, Marseille
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Validate your ticket before boarding or entering the metro; inspections are frequent across the RTM network.
- You can buy tickets by card at metro and tram machines, but bus onboard payment is limited and card payment may not be available on all vehicles.
FAQs: Trains from Essen to Marseille
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Marseille 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 Marseille, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Essen to Marseille can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $128 (€105), while the average price is around $295 (€242).
The train from Essen to Marseille takes 9h 13m and runs 3 per day.
The distance by train from Essen to Marseille is 569 miles (916 km).
The first train from Essen to Marseille leaves at 2:45 AM.
The last train from Essen to Marseille leaves at 10:00 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Essen to Marseille.
There is no direct train service currently available from Essen to Marseille.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Marseille.
The train station in Essen that goes to Marseille is Essen Hbf, which connects to Marseille Saint-Charles.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Marseille is by bus, with a cost of around $61 (€50).
The train journey from Essen to Marseille offers diverse scenery, passing through the picturesque landscapes of Germany's Rhine Valley, the rolling vineyards of France, and the scenic views of the French countryside as you approach the Mediterranean coast.
A day trip from Essen to Marseille is not feasible due to the 9h 13m travel time and the 569 miles (916 km) distance. Additionally, trains operate 3 times per day.
In Marseille, you can visit the Old Port, a historic harbor area with vibrant markets and seafood restaurants. Explore the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde for stunning panoramic views of the city. Discover the Calanques National Park, perfect for hiking and boat tours. Wander through Le Panier, the oldest district with charming streets and artisan shops. Tour the MuCEM, the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations, to see diverse cultural exhibits. Also, don't miss the Château d'If, a fortress on an island, and enjoy the breathtaking landscape of Parc National des Calanques.
Typically, 2 to 3 days are sufficient to explore Marseille's key attractions, including the Old Port, Notre-Dame de la Garde, and the historic Le Panier district.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Marseille.
Since both Essen and Marseille 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 Marseille include Avignon, Toulon, Aix-en-Provence, Cassis, Arles.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Marseille 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.
France uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most transactions, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small vendors, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Marseille, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like Vieux-Port and public transport. Scams involving fake charity collectors and overpriced taxis are also common. It’s advisable to stay vigilant at night in certain neighborhoods and avoid displaying valuables openly.
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 Marseille
Most Essen to Marseille trains use the Essen Hbf to Marseille Saint-Charles station pair. Use this guide to compare Essen and Marseille 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 Marseille
Which Essen station do trains to Marseille leave from?
Trains from Essen to Marseille 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 Marseille station do trains from Essen arrive at?
Trains from Essen to Marseille most often arrive at Marseille Saint-Charles. Some services arrive at Aix-en-Provence TGV, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Marseille arrival station.
Marseille Saint-CharlesSquare Narvik, 13232 Marseille, France+33 4950491012
City-centre transport
Getting to Marseille Saint-Charles from Marseille city centre
Bus52, 509, Bm2 · 6m · $2 · every ~4 min
SubwayM2 · 1m · $2 · every ~22 min
Marseille Saint-Charles train station facilities and services
Marseille Saint-Charles has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Caffe San Carlo, DAKAO, Espressamente Illy, EXKi, McDonald's, Monop'Daily, Starbucks, Casa Di Pasta, Chatime, PAUL
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free, unlimited Wi-Fi is available throughout the station. ATMs are located between track M and the bus station at the Honnorat exit.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 09:00 - 18:00. Information desks are located on level -1 of the station, entrances via the station or via Bd Bourdet.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is the lockers are located on Boulevard Bourdet, on level 0 of the station. Service is provided by La Bag Mobile.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Marseille Saint-Charles: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Marseille Saint-Charles: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Marseille Saint-Charles: Accès Plus is a service offered to passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility who need assistance at the station. For more information email [email protected] or call +33 890640650.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Adagio Access Marseille-Saint Charles, Holiday Inn Express Marseille-Saint Charles, Hotel Les Bords De Me.
Most popular train connections from Essen
More options for your journey from Essen to Marseille
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Marseille and Essen
Most popular train connections to Marseille
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