- Must visit
Pinacoteca di Brera
One of Italy’s top art museums, featuring masterpieces by Mantegna, Bellini, Raphael, Caravaggio, and Piero della Francesca.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Milan
Showing times and prices for Aug 25
Cheapest price
$0.00
Average price
$253
Fastest journey
10 h 21 m
Average duration
10 h 27 m
Trains per day
7
Distance
685 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen to Milan is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Essen to Milan without transferring at least 2 times.
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6:00 PM17h21Essen11:21 AMMilanFind prices3 transfers- 12:00 PM10h51Essen10:51 PMMilan$2571One-way2 transfers
- 6:00 AM10h21Essen4:21 PMMilan$3031One-way3 transfers
- 8:00 AM10h21Essen6:21 PMMilan$3031One-way3 transfers
- 10:00 AM10h21Essen8:21 PMMilan$3031One-way3 transfers
- 6:00 AM10h21Essen4:21 PMMilan$3031One-way3 transfers
- 8:00 AM10h21Essen6:21 PMMilan$3031One-way3 transfers
- 10:00 AM10h21Essen8:21 PMMilan$3031One-way3 transfers
- 12:00 PM10h21Essen10:21 PMMilan$3031One-way3 transfers
- 12:00 PM10h51Essen10:51 PMMilan$2571One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Essen to Milan
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Essen to Milan among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $24. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 33m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 0.7 - 1.7kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $24, and a train costs an average of $257.
Distance: 425 miles (685 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$295 Average price | $84 Average price Cheapest | $92 Average price | $242 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
10h 22m Average total duration 9h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 33m Average total duration Fastest 1h 33m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 19h 46m Average total duration 19h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 41m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
- CO2 emissions | 2.1 - 4.1kg CO2 emissions | 0.7 - 1.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - 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 Milan is a flight with an average price of $84 (€67).
This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Milan:
A flight is $8 (€6) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Essen to Milan costing on average $92 (€74).
A flight is $211 (€170) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Milan costing on average $295 (€238).
The fastest way to travel from Essen to Milan is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 33m.
Other travel options to Milan take longer:
Train takes on average 9h 52m.
Bus takes on average 19h 16m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Essen and Milan including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Milan among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $295 (€238) compared to roughly $242 (€195) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-53.18 (€-42.81). The journey takes 9h 52m versus 9h 41m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Essen to Milan train times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Milan trains for today, Monday, August 24. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:00 PM Essen | 17h21 | 11:21 AM Milan | 3 transfers | |
| Tuesday, August 25 | |||||
| 6:00 AM Essen | 10h21 | 4:21 PM Milan | 3 transfers | |
| 8:00 AM Essen | 10h21 | 6:21 PM Milan | 3 transfers | |
| 10:00 AM Essen | 10h21 | 8:21 PM Milan | 3 transfers | |
| 12:00 PM Essen | 10h21 | 10:21 PM Milan | 3 transfers | |
| 12:00 PM Essen | 10h51 | 10:51 PM Milan | 2 transfers | |
| 4:00 PM Essen | 18h21 | 10:21 AM Milan | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Essen to Milan 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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Why should you book Essen to Milan trains with Omio?
Trenitalia as well as Deutsche Bahn or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Essen to Milan.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to Milan.
Why book with Omio vs Trenitalia?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Trenitalia, but also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Essen to Milan.
- 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 Trenitalia with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Essen to Milan.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Essen to Milan.
- 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 Milan.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Milan
Germany
Italy
Trains from Essen to Milan run on average 4 times per day, taking around 9h 52m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $257 (€207) but you can travel from only $24 (€19) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 01:00, the last at 23:45. The fastest train covers the 425 miles (685 km) distance in 10h 21m.
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
Flight from $24 (€19)
Distance 425 miles (685 km) |
Average train duration 9h 52m |
Cheapest ticket price $257 (€207) |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 10h 21m |
First train 1:00 AM |
Last train 11:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 35 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
Flight from $24 (€19)
Train companies: Trenitalia, Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Essen to Milan trainsTrenitalia, Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Essen and Milan from $24 (€19). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Trenitalia
About
Trenitalia is not only Italy's national railroad company but also the country's largest train operator. Trenitalia’s fleet of trains ncludes the high-speed Frecciarossa, Frecciargento and Frecciabianca trains as well as intercity, regional and night trains. Bathrooms and WiFi access are standard on long-distance routes. In most cases, the trains also provide barrier-free access. Trenitalia offers different tickets, which vary in price and flexibility: Base, Economy, Super Economy and Ordinaria. You can even use Trenitalia discount cards on Omio. Make sure to look out for the latest offers from Trenitalia on Omio to score special deals!
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage per passenger included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, and spaces between seat backs
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car on high-speed trains, trolley service with snacks and beverages, vending machines on some trains
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation, costs extra except on high-speed trains where it's mandatory and included
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance service available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle, guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
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
9h 39m
Cheapest Price
$241 (€194)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
1 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
10h 21m
Cheapest Price
$257 (€207)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
6 a day
Complete guide to Milan
Things to do in Milan
Discover the best of Milan — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Milan trip today.
- Must visit
Fondazione Prada
This contemporary art museum near Porta Romana presents rotating exhibitions in a striking former industrial distillery complex.
- Must visit
Museo Nazionale della Scienza e della Tecnologia Leonardo da Vinci
Italy’s leading science museum is set in a former monastery and features Leonardo galleries, trains, aircraft, and a submarine.
- Must visit
Piazza del Duomo
Milan’s central square frames the cathedral and major civic buildings, making it the city’s essential meeting point and photo stop.
- Must visit
Brera
This artistic district offers charming lanes, Brera atmosphere, boutiques, and easy access to galleries and evening strolls.
- Must visit
Parco Sempione
A large landscaped park behind the castle, perfect for walks, skyline views, and reaching landmarks like the Arch of Peace.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Risotto Alla Milanese
Saffron risotto cooked with butter, stock and cheese. It is Milan's signature dish, linked to the city's love of rich northern Italian rice cookery.
Cotoletta Alla Milanese
Breaded veal cutlet fried in butter until golden. A classic Milanese main, prized for its simple preparation and long-standing local tradition.
- Gluten-free
Ossobuco
Slow-braised veal shanks with vegetables, wine and broth, often finished with gremolata. A hearty Lombard specialty commonly paired with risotto.
Enrico Bartolini Al Mudec
Three-Michelin-star fine dining by Enrico Bartolini in MUDEC. Expect refined Italian tasting menus in a polished contemporary setting.
Ristorante Savini
Historic Milanese restaurant near the Duomo, famous for risotto and cotoletta. Traditional, elegant rooms and a strong local culinary identity.
Antica Trattoria Della Pesa
Long-running local favorite for classic Milanese cuisine, especially risotto and ossobuco. Warm, old-school atmosphere in the Brera area.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Western Europe. Hotels and central dining can be pricey, but transit is affordable and budget meals, aperitivo deals, and local cafes help keep daily costs reasonable.
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
- €1.20-2.50 for espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. Service may be included. Round up or leave €1-2 at cafes, 5-10% for good restaurant service, and round up taxi fares.
ATM Milano Official App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.20
- Day pass
- €7.60
To the city center
Milan Centrale -> Piazza del Duomo
- Distance
- 3 km
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Contactless bank cards work on ATM metro gates and on many buses and trams with tap-in validators.
- The €2.20 ticket is valid for 90 min on ATM urban network, including metro, buses, and trams within Milan fare zones.
FAQs: Trains from Essen to Milan
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Milan 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 Milan, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Essen to Milan can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $257 (€207), while the average price is around $295 (€238).
The train from Essen to Milan takes 10h 21m and runs 4 per day.
The distance by train from Essen to Milan is 425 miles (685 km).
The first train from Essen to Milan leaves at 1:00 AM.
The last train from Essen to Milan leaves at 11:45 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Essen to Milan.
There is no direct train service currently available from Essen to Milan.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Milan.
The train station in Essen that goes to Milan is Essen Hbf, which connects to Milan Centrale.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Milan is by flight, with a cost of around $24 (€19).
The train journey from Essen to Milan offers scenic views, especially as it travels through the Swiss Alps, showcasing picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and stunning mountain vistas.
A day trip from Essen to Milan is not feasible as the journey takes 10h 21m and covers 425 miles (685 km). The frequency is 4 per day for trains.
In Milan, you can visit the iconic Duomo di Milano for its stunning Gothic architecture and panoramic views, explore Leonardo da Vinci's The Last Supper at the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie, and stroll through the historic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II with its luxury boutiques. Discover the grand Sforza Castle, which houses various museums and art collections, and relax in the serene Sempione Park near the city center.
To fully experience Milan's key attractions, including the Duomo, The Last Supper, and shopping in the fashion district, plan for around 3 to 4 days.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Milan.
Since both Essen and Milan 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 Milan include Como, Varenna, Turin, Bergamo, Genoa.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Milan 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.
Italy uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most payments, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small shops, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Milan, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transportation, popular tourist sites, and busy shopping streets such as Corso Buenos Aires. Common scams include distraction techniques used by groups to steal wallets or phones, and fake charity collectors near landmarks. It's advisable to avoid unlicensed taxi services and to confirm fares beforehand. Staying alert and securing valuables can help ensure a safe visit.
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 Milan
Most Essen to Milan trains use the Essen Hbf to Milano Centrale station pair. Use this guide to compare Essen and Milan 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 Milan
Which Essen station do trains to Milan leave from?
Trains from Essen to Milan 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 Milan station do trains from Essen arrive at?
Trains from Essen to Milan arrive at Milano Centrale. Milano Centrale is 1 miles (3 km) from Milan city centre.
Milano CentralePiazza Duca d'Aosta, 1, 20124 Milan, Italy+39 892021
City-centre transport
Getting to Milano Centrale from Milan city centre
Milano Centrale is 2 km from Milan city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRe51 · 11m · $2 · every ~5 min
BusNm3 · 9m · $2 · every ~1 min
60 · 31m · $2 · every ~10 min
Tram9 · 27m · $2 · every ~16 min
Subway3 · 11m · $2 · every ~25 min
Milano Centrale train station facilities and services
Milano Centrale 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: Venchi, Panzera Coffee, Burger King, Bar Motta, Caffè Napoli, VyTA Boulangerie, Spontini, Starbucks, Dispensa Emilia, McDonald's, & many more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free WiFi in the station. ATMs are there are ATMs in various locations around the station.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 05:50 - 22:20. Information desks are located next to the ticket office on the ground floor in the shopping gallery.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is provided by KiPoint and located on the ground floor, on the side of Piazza Luigi di Savoia. It is open every day from 06:00 to 23:00.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Milano Centrale: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Milano Centrale: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Milano Centrale: Station is wheelchair accessible, has elevators and the Sala Blu, Trenitalia's office of assistance for disabled travelers, is next to Platform 4.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Glam Hotel Milano, NYX MIlan, iQ Hotel Milano.
Most popular train connections from Essen
More options for your journey from Essen to Milan
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Milan and Essen
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