ESSEN to MUNICH train from $26 (€21) with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RE)

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Munich

Showing times and prices for Aug 25

Cheapest price

$62

Average price

$76

Fastest journey

6 h 20 m

Average duration

6 h 26 m

Trains per day

Distance

493 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen to Munich is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Essen to Munich will cost around $76 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $62.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Essen to Munich without transferring at least once.

10114 · 17412 · ICE 623
8:46 AM6h26
Essen Hbf
3:12 PMMunich Hbf
$621One-way
2 transfers
26706 · S8 · 17412 · ICE 623
8:47 AM6h25
Essen Hbf
3:12 PMMunich Hbf
$621One-way
3 transfers
89710 · ICE 623
8:32 AM6h40
Essen Hbf
3:12 PMMunich Hbf
$621One-way
1 transfer
ICE 845 · ICE 1185
8:21 AM6h44
Essen Hbf
3:05 PMMunich Hbf
$821One-way
1 transfer
30763 · ICE 515
8:07 AM6h22
Essen Hbf
2:29 PMMunich Hbf
$841One-way
1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Essen to Munich

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Essen to Munich among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $30. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 6m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $30, and a flight costs an average of $50.

Distance: 306 miles (493 km)

Compare train with

Most popular Train	Bus	Flight	Driving
$97 Average price	$52 Average price Cheapest	$158 Average price	$115 Average price (fuel + tolls)
6h 7m Average total duration 5h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	8h 50m Average total duration 8h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	4h 6m Average total duration Fastest 1h 6m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time*	6h 58m Average total duration (door-to-door)
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest	0.5 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions	1.5 - 3.0kg 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 Munich is a bus with an average price of $52 (€42).

This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Munich:

A bus is $45 (€36) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Munich costing on average $97 (€78).

A bus is $106 (€86) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Essen to Munich costing on average $158 (€127).

The fastest way to travel from Essen to Munich is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 6m.

Other travel options to Munich take longer:

Train takes on average 5h 37m.

Bus takes on average 8h 20m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Essen and Munich including taking a train, bus, and flight.

We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Munich among Omio's users.

Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 1h 21m faster (5h 37m by train vs 6h 58m by car) and roughly $19 (€15) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($97 (€78) vs $115 (€93)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.

Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).

Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Essen to Munich train times

The table below shows live departures for Essen to Munich trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, August 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
30763 · ICE 515	On time 8:07 AM Essen Hbf	6h22	2:29 PM Munich Hbf	1 transfer
26808 · 10615 · ICE 515	On time 8:09 AM Essen Hbf	6h20	2:29 PM Munich Hbf	2 transfers
26709 · ICE 585	On time 8:13 AM Essen Hbf	6h39	2:52 PM Munich Hbf	1 transfer
ICE 845 · ICE 1185	On time 8:21 AM Essen Hbf	6h44	3:05 PM Munich Hbf	1 transfer
89710 · ICE 623	On time 8:32 AM Essen Hbf	6h40	3:12 PM Munich Hbf	1 transfer
10114 · 17412 · ICE 623	On time 8:46 AM Essen Hbf	6h26	3:12 PM Munich Hbf	2 transfers
26706 · S8 · 17412 · ICE 623	On time 8:47 AM Essen Hbf	6h25	3:12 PM Munich Hbf	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 Munich 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.

Tue
Aug 25

Wed
Aug 26

Thu
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Aug 28

Sat
Aug 29

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Mon
Aug 31

Why should you book Essen to Munich trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Essen to Munich.

Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to Munich.

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 Munich.
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 Munich.

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 Munich.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Essen to Munich?

The best time to book your train from Essen to Munich is 84 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Essen to Munich route.

Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Essen to Munich per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Essen to Munich.

Trains

from $54

Buses

from $39

Flights

from $116

Journey information

Overview: Train from Essen to Munich

Germany

Trains from Essen to Munich run on average 13 times per day, taking around 5h 37m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $26 (€21) if you book in advance.

There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:51. The fastest train covers the 306 miles (493 km) distance in 5h 4m.

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

306 miles (493 km)

Average train duration

5h 37m

Cheapest ticket price

$26 (€21)

Trains per day

Direct trains

Fastest train

5h 4m

First train

12:01 AM

Last train

11:51 PM

Cheapest Month

Jul

Cheapest Day

Tue

High Season

Jul - Sep

Low Season

Jan - Mar

Busiest Day

Wed

Least Busy Day

Fri

Best time to book

84 days

Price information

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Essen to Munich trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Essen and Munich from $26 (€21). 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

5h 4m

Cheapest Price

$26 (€21)

Deutsche Bahn frequency

10 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.

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.

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.

Quiet zone

Learn more about Deutsche Bahn

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Duration

5h 4m

Cheapest Price

$106 (€85)

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency

16 a day

Complete guide to Munich

Things to do in Munich

Discover the best of Munich — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Munich trip today.

Must visit

Deutsches Museum

One of the world's largest science and technology museums, with hands-on exhibits spanning aviation, physics, mining, and more.

View on map Visit website

Must visit

Alte Pinakothek

Munich's premier Old Masters gallery, renowned for European paintings from Dürer to Rubens in a landmark 19th-century museum building.

View on map Visit website

Must visit

Pinakothek der Moderne

Leading modern art museum featuring Picasso, Kandinsky, and major 20th-century movements in a spacious, well-curated setting.

View on map Visit website

Euro (€)

Munich is pricey by German standards. Hotels, dining, and central-area drinks cost more than in many German cities, though public transit is efficient and reasonably priced.

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: €3-4.50 for cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Round up or add about 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Round up taxi fares and leave small change in cafes. Tell the total amount when paying.

FAQs: Trains from Essen to Munich

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Munich 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 Munich, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Train ticket prices from Essen to Munich can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $26 (€21), while the average price is around $97 (€78).

The train from Essen to Munich takes 5h 4m and runs 13 per day.

The distance by train from Essen to Munich is 306 miles (493 km).

The first train from Essen to Munich leaves at 12:01 AM.

The last train from Essen to Munich leaves at 11:51 PM.

Yes, there is a direct train from Essen to Munich. This service operates 4 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).

Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Munich.

The train station in Essen that goes to Munich is Essen Hbf, which connects to Munich Hbf.

The cheapest way to get from Essen to Munich is by train, with a cost of around $26 (€21).

The train journey from Essen to Munich offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Rhine Valley and the rolling hills of Bavaria, providing passengers with a visually appealing experience.

A day trip from Essen to Munich is not feasible with a travel time of 5h 4m. However, trains run 14 times per day for this route, covering a distance of 306 miles (493 km).

In Munich, you can visit the Hofbräuhaus for traditional Bavarian food and live music, explore BMW Welt for the latest BMW models and interactive experiences, and catch a game or admire the architecture at Allianz Arena. Discover history at the Munich Residenz, enjoy sports and views at Olympiapark, and marvel at the Glockenspiel show at Marienplatz. Wander through the opulent Nymphenburg Palace and its gardens, relax in the expansive English Garden, learn at the Deutsches Museum, and savor local delicacies at Viktualienmarkt.

To fully experience Munich's main attractions, such as Marienplatz, the English Garden, Nymphenburg Palace, and the BMW Museum, a stay of 3 to 4 days is recommended.

Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Munich.

Since both Essen and Munich 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 Munich include Salzburg, Nuremberg, Augsburg, Memmingen, Kitzbühel.

We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Munich 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 Munich, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport, major tourist sites, and during festivals such as Oktoberfest. Common scams include distraction techniques where one person engages the traveler while another steals belongings. It is also advisable to avoid unofficial taxi services to prevent overcharging. Staying alert in busy places and securing personal items helps 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 Munich

Most Essen to Munich trains use the Essen Hbf to München Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at München-Pasing. Use this guide to compare Essen and Munich 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 Munich

Which Essen station do trains to Munich leave from?

Trains from Essen to Munich 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 Wifi

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.

More about Essen Hbf

Essen, Kruppstraße / Am ThyssenhausAm Thyssenhaus & Kruppstraße, 45128 Essen-Stadtbezirk I, Germany Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus from Essen city centre

TRUE

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.

Essen SüdEssen Süd, Rellinghauser Str.175, 45136 Essen Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Essen Süd from Essen city centre

Essen Süd is 1 km from Essen city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS6 · 2m · $1 · every ~6 min

BusS6 · 10m · $4

Tram105 · 9m · every ~10 min

Essen Süd train station facilities and services

Essen Süd 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.