- Must visit
Cultural History Museum Rostock
Leading regional history museum in a former monastery, with Hanseatic art, archaeology, and changing exhibitions on Rostock's past.
.png){kind=small}
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Rostock
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 03
Cheapest price on Sep 03
$68
Average ticket price on Sep 03
$89
Fastest journey on Sep 03
5 h 36 m
Average journey duration on Sep 03
6 h 17 m
Trains on Sep 03
4
Distance
452 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen to Rostock is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Essen to Rostock will cost around $89 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $68.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Essen to Rostock without transferring at least once.
ICE 618 · 43097:31 AM6h19Essen Hbf1:50 PMRostock Hbf$681One-way1 transfer- 10207 · ICE 618 · 43097:40 AM6h10Essen Hbf1:50 PMRostock Hbf$681One-way2 transfers
- ICE 843 · 43566:21 AM7h02Essen Hbf1:23 PMRostock Hbf$1081One-way1 transfer
- ICE 543 · ICE 686 · ICE 15347:19 AM5h36Essen Hbf12:55 PMRostock Hbf$1111One-way2 transfers
- ICE 543 · ICE 686 · ICE 15347:19 AM5h36Essen Hbf12:55 PMRostock Hbf$1111One-way2 transfers
- 10207 · ICE 618 · 43097:40 AM6h10Essen Hbf1:50 PMRostock Hbf$681One-way2 transfers
- ICE 618 · 43097:31 AM6h19Essen Hbf1:50 PMRostock Hbf$681One-way1 transfer
- ICE 843 · 43566:21 AM7h02Essen Hbf1:23 PMRostock Hbf$1081One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Essen to Rostock
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Essen to Rostock among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $72 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 2h 55m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $72, while a flight costs an average of $208.
Distance: 280 miles (452 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$94 Average price | $208 Average price | $72 Average price Cheapest | $99 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 14m Average total duration 5h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 55m Average total duration Fastest 55m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 12h 55m Average total duration 12h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 0m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions | 0.5 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
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 Rostock is a bus with an average price of $72.
This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Rostock:
A bus is $22 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Rostock costing on average $94.
A bus is $136 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Essen to Rostock costing on average $208.
The fastest way to travel from Essen to Rostock is by flight with an average journey time of 55m.
Other travel options to Rostock take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 44m.
Bus takes on average 12h 25m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Essen and Rostock including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Rostock among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 16m faster (5h 44m by train vs 6h 0m by car) and roughly $5 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($94 vs $99). 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.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Essen to Rostock train times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Rostock trains for tomorrow, Thursday, September 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 843 · 4356 | On time 6:21 AM Essen Hbf | 7h02 | 1:23 PM Rostock Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 543 · ICE 686 · ICE 1534 | On time 7:19 AM Essen Hbf | 5h36 | 12:55 PM Rostock Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 618 · 4309 | On time 7:31 AM Essen Hbf | 6h19 | 1:50 PM Rostock Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 10207 · ICE 618 · 4309 | 7:40 AM Essen Hbf | 6h10 | 1:50 PM Rostock Hbf | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Essen to Rostock 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.
Thu
Sep 03
Sep 03
Fri
Sep 04
Sep 04
Sat
Sep 05
Sep 05
Sun
Sep 06
Sep 06
Mon
Sep 07
Sep 07
Tue
Sep 08
Sep 08
Wed
Sep 09
Sep 09
Why should you book Essen to Rostock trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Essen to Rostock.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to Rostock.
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 Rostock.
- 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 Rostock.
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 Rostock.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Rostock
GermanyGermany
Trains from Essen to Rostock run on average 8 times per day, taking around 5h 44m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $40 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:22, the last at 23:34. The fastest train covers the 280 miles (452 km) distance in 5h 50m.
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 280 miles (452 km) |
Average train duration 5h 44m |
Cheapest ticket price $40 |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 5h 50m |
First train 12:22 AM |
Last train 11:34 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 2 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, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Essen to Rostock trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Essen and Rostock from $40. 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
5h 50m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$145
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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) Duration
6h 28m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) Price
$126
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
3 a day
Complete guide to Rostock
Things to do in Rostock
Discover the best of Rostock — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Rostock trip today.
- Must visit
Kunsthalle Rostock
Art museum in a landmark East German modernist building, known for important collections of 20th-century and contemporary art.
- Recommended
Shipbuilding and Maritime Museum Rostock
Maritime museum on a preserved cargo ship in IGA Park, explaining seafaring, shipbuilding, and life aboard a vessel.
- Must visit
Kröpeliner Straße
Main pedestrian street lined with historic facades, shops, and gateways; ideal for experiencing Rostock's Hanseatic core on foot.
- Must visit
Neuer Markt
Central square with the town hall and market traditions, serving as the symbolic heart of Rostock's old city.
- Must visit
Warnemünde Promenade
Popular promenade and beach district with sea views, ferries, and resort architecture; the city's best-known coastal outing area.
- Gluten-free
Brathering
Fried or smoked Baltic herring, a Hanseatic coast staple long tied to Rostock's fishing trade and often served with potatoes or bread.
- Gluten-free
Räucheraal
Smoked eel from nearby waters, prized in Mecklenburg coastal cuisine for its rich flavor and traditional smokehouse preparation.
- Gluten-free
Dorsch
Fresh Baltic cod, often pan-fried or baked, reflecting Rostock's maritime food culture and the region's preference for simple fish dishes.
Restaurant Herberts
Well-known fish restaurant in Warnemünde focused on fresh seafood and maritime classics near the waterfront.
Burwitz Legendar
Historic restaurant in the old town serving refined regional and German cuisine in an elegant, traditional setting.
Ratskeller12
Popular brewery pub known for house beer and hearty northern German dishes in a lively, rustic atmosphere.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels often cost less than in Berlin or Hamburg, while dining and local transit stay fairly manageable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.80-4.50 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is common. Round up in cafes and taxis; tip only for good service.
RSAG Fahrinfo
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.40
- Day pass
- €6.00
To the city center
Rostock Hbf -> Neuer Markt, Rostock
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Validate paper tickets before boarding if they are not pre-stamped. Use the official RSAG app for live departures and mobile tickets.
- Contactless card payment is available in the RSAG app for mobile tickets. On-board payment options can vary by vehicle and sales channel.
FAQs: Trains from Essen to Rostock
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Rostock 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 Rostock, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Essen to Rostock can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $40, while the average price is around $94.
The train from Essen to Rostock takes 5h 50m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Essen to Rostock leaves at 12:22 AM.
The distance by train from Essen to Rostock is 280 miles (452 km).
The last train from Essen to Rostock leaves at 11:34 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Essen to Rostock.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Rostock.
The train station in Essen that goes to Rostock is Essen Hbf, which connects to Rostock Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Rostock is by train, with a cost of around $40.
The train journey from Essen to Rostock offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, passing through the industrial heartland of Germany, lush countryside, and picturesque towns, making parts of the trip scenic.
A day trip from Essen to Rostock is not feasible as the journey duration is 5h 50m. The frequency of trains for this route is 9 per day, with a distance of 280 miles (452 km).
In Rostock, you can explore the botanical garden at Rostock Zoo, enjoy a day at the popular Warnemünde Beach with its picturesque lighthouse and vibrant promenade, and stroll along Kröpeliner Straße, a bustling shopping street. Visit the Rostock Art Museum for contemporary and classical art, and take a harbor cruise from Rostock City Harbor to experience the city's maritime charm. Don't miss St. Mary's Church with its historic Gothic architecture and astronomical clock, and Kröpeliner Tor, a medieval city gate.
A stay of 2 to 3 days in Rostock is ideal to explore the city's historic sites, enjoy the local cuisine, and visit the nearby seaside resort of Warnemünde.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Rostock.
Since both Essen and Rostock 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 Rostock include Schwerin, Stralsund, Wismar, Ribnitz-Damgarten, Oranienburg.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Rostock 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 Rostock, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the city center and public transport. Taxi scams can occur, so it's advisable to use official taxi services or pre-book rides. Additionally, be aware of overcharging in some bars or restaurants frequented by visitors. Staying vigilant and securing personal belongings 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 Rostock
Most Essen to Rostock trains use the Essen Hbf to Rostock Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Essen and Rostock 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 Rostock
Which Essen station do trains to Rostock leave from?
Trains from Essen to Rostock 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.
Essen, Kruppstraße / Am ThyssenhausAm Thyssenhaus & Kruppstraße, 45128 Essen-Stadtbezirk I, Germany
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.
Which Rostock station do trains from Essen arrive at?
Trains from Essen to Rostock arrive at Rostock Hbf. Rostock Hbf is 0 miles (1 km) from Rostock city centre.
Rostock HbfRostock Hbf, Konrad-Adenauer-Platz 1, 18055 Rostock
City-centre transport
Getting to Rostock Hbf from Rostock city centre
Rostock Hbf is 1 km from Rostock city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus123, 113, 112 · 8m · every ~6 min
23, 22 · 11m · every ~11 min
Tram6, 5 · 5m · every ~16 min
Rostock Hbf train station facilities and services
Rostock 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: Layali Alsham, Heumond, Joho-Broiler, Cafe Kloster
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Rostock Hbf. ATMs are available at Rostock Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Rostock Hbf. Information desks are available at Rostock Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Rostock Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Rostock Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Rostock Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Rostock Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Stadthalle, Hotel Greifennest, Appartement-Hotel.
Most popular train connections from Essen
More options for your journey from Essen to Rostock
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Rostock and Essen
Most popular train connections to Rostock
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
