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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Munich
Showing times and prices for Apr 18
Cheapest price
$102
Average price
$160
Fastest journey
5 h 4 m
Average duration
5 h 14 m
Trains per day
15
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 $160 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $102.
Fast trains
Of the 15 trains that leave Essen for Munich on Sat, Apr 18, 7 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Apr 18 the direct trains cover the 493 km distance in an average of 5 h 14 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 4 m .
On Sat, Apr 18 the slowest trains will take 5 h 19 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.
ICE 219 · ICE 575 · ICE 5659:03 AM5h46Essen Hbf2:49 PMMunich Hbf$1021One-way2 transfers- ICE 5276:53 AM5h19Essen Hbf12:12 PMMunich Hbf$1151One-way0 transfers
- 26711 · ICE 7879:13 AM6h37Essen Hbf3:50 PMMunich Hbf$1341One-way1 transfer
- IC 2013 · ICE 5179:40 AM6h49Essen Hbf4:29 PMMunich Hbf$1391One-way1 transfer
- ICE 208 · 26705 · ICE 5836:00 AM6h52Essen Hbf12:52 PMMunich Hbf$1631One-way2 transfers
- ICE 9158:36 AM5h04Essen Hbf1:40 PMMunich Hbf$1681One-way0 transfers
- ICE 105 · ICE 59510:00 AM5h14Essen Hbf3:14 PMMunich Hbf$1681One-way1 transfer
- ICE 103 · ICE 5938:00 AM5h15Essen Hbf1:15 PMMunich Hbf$1681One-way1 transfer
- ICE 5276:53 AM5h19Essen Hbf12:12 PMMunich Hbf$1151One-way0 transfers
- ICE 6218:53 AM5h19Essen Hbf2:12 PMMunich Hbf$1681One-way0 transfers
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 $31. 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 $31, and a flight costs an average of $47.
Distance: 306 miles (493 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus |
|---|---|---|
$130 Average price | $198 Average price | $54 Average price Cheapest |
6h 9m Average total duration 5h 39m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 6m Average total duration Fastest 1h 6m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 9h 24m Average total duration 8h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.5 - 3.0kg CO2 emissions | 0.5 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Essen to Munich train times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Munich trains for today, Friday, April 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 541 · 26703 · ICE 783 | On time 3:19 AM Essen Hbf | 6h31 | 9:50 AM Munich Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 101 · ICE 591 | On time 4:00 AM Essen Hbf | 5h15 | 9:15 AM Munich Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 26705 · ICE 583 | On time 4:13 AM Essen Hbf | 6h39 | 10:52 AM Munich Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 913 · ICE 117 | On time 4:36 AM Essen Hbf | 5h34 | 10:10 AM Munich Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 527 | On time 4:53 AM Essen Hbf | 5h19 | 10:12 AM Munich Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 513 | On time 4:59 AM Essen Hbf | 5h30 | 10:29 AM Munich Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 26707 · ICE 785 | On time 5:13 AM Essen Hbf | 6h37 | 11:50 AM Munich Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 103 · ICE 593 | On time 6:00 AM Essen Hbf | 5h15 | 11:15 AM Munich Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 119 | On time 6:03 AM Essen Hbf | 6h07 | 12:10 PM Munich Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 915 · ICE 119 | On time 6:36 AM Essen Hbf | 5h34 | 12:10 PM Munich Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 621 | On time 6:53 AM Essen Hbf | 5h19 | 12:12 PM Munich Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 26711 · ICE 787 | On time 7:13 AM Essen Hbf | 6h37 | 1:50 PM Munich Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| IC 2013 · ICE 517 | On time 7:40 AM Essen Hbf | 6h49 | 2:29 PM Munich Hbf | 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 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.
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Why should you book Essen to Munich trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all 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?
- 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 $54Buses
from $39Flights
from $118Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Munich
GermanyGermany
Trains from Essen to Munich run on average 12 times per day, taking around 5h 39m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $27 (€22) if you book in advance.
There are 3 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 39m |
Cheapest ticket price $27 (€22) |
Trains per day 12 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 5h 4m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:51 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 84 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
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Essen to Munich trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Essen and Munich from $27 (€22). 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
$27 (€22)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
16 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
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 $27 (€22), while the average price is around $130 (€103).
The train from Essen to Munich takes 5h 4m and runs 12 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 3 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
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 $27 (€22).
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
Essen
Munich
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 Munich.
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
Essen Süd
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
- Haus Wilmes
- Mana Mana
- Karawane
Hotel
- Webers
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 Munich is München Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at München Hbf for your journey to Munich from Essen.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes.
Lockers
- The station has luggage lockers.
Dining
- Cantina Estación Mediterrano
- Rischart Bakery
- Ditsch Pretzels
- backWERK
- Cafe-Shop
- Le Crobag
- Yorma's
- Coffee Fellows
- Dunkin Donuts
- McDonald's
- & many more
Accessibility
- Accessibility equipment, elevators, & mobility service. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
- a&o München Hauptbahnhof
- IntercityHotel München
- Sofitel Munich Bayerpost
Information Desk
- There is an information desk located on the main concourse near the food court.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Tuesday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Wednesday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Thursday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 18:00
- Sunday: 08:00 - 18:00
Distance to city center
8 kmDining
- Burger King
- McDonald's
- Hunsinger in der Goldenen Gans
- Orexi Taverna
Hotel
- Guenstigwohnen24.de
- Jagdschloss Residenz
- Hotel Miano
München Hackerbrücke
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
2 kmDining
- Augustiner Bräustuben
- Lenz
- Das Bad
- Subway
Hotel
- Theresienhöhe
- Hotel Schweiz
- Hotel Uhland
- Germania
Most popular train connections from Essen
More options for your journey from Essen to Munich
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Most popular trains to and from Munich and Essen
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