- Recommended
Kunsthalle Rostock
Rostock’s main art museum, known for modern and contemporary art exhibitions in a landmark 1960s building.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Rostock
Showing times and prices for Jun 04
Cheapest price
$74
Average price
$137
Fastest journey
8 h 56 m
Average duration
9 h 24 m
Trains per day
2
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 $137 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $74.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Essen for Rostock on Thu, Jun 04, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Jun 04 the direct trains cover the 452 km distance in an average of 9 h 24 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 8 h 56 m .
On Thu, Jun 04 the slowest trains will take 9 h 51 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.
8:04 AM8h56Essen5:00 PMRostock$741One-way0 transfers
6:59 PM9h51Essen4:50 AMRostock$2011One-way0 transfers
- 8:04 AM8h56Essen5:00 PMRostock$741One-way0 transfers
- 6:59 PM9h51Essen4:50 AMRostock$2011One-way0 transfers
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 prices starting from $51. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 46m. 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 $51, and a flight costs an average of $111.
Distance: 280 miles (452 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$90 Average price | $266 Average price | $66 Average price Cheapest | $99 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 13m Average total duration 5h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 46m Average total duration Fastest 1h 46m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 15h 13m Average total duration 14h 43m 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 $66 (€54).
This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Rostock:
A bus is $24 (€19) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Rostock costing on average $90 (€73).
A bus is $199 (€161) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Essen to Rostock costing on average $266 (€215).
The fastest way to travel from Essen to Rostock is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 46m.
Other travel options to Rostock take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 43m.
Bus takes on average 14h 43m.
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 17m faster (5h 43m by train vs 6h 0m by car) and roughly $8 (€7) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($90 (€73) vs $99 (€80)). 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.
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, June 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:04 AM Essen | 8h56 | 5:00 PM Rostock | 0 transfersDirect | |
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
Jun 04
Jun 04
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Wed
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Jun 10
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 43m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $52 (€42) but you can travel from only $51 (€41) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:22, the last at 23:34. The fastest train covers the 280 miles (452 km) distance in 6h 30m.
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 $51 (€41)
Distance 280 miles (452 km) |
Average train duration 5h 43m |
Cheapest ticket price $52 (€42) |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 6h 30m |
First train 12:22 AM |
Last train 11:34 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 $51 (€41)
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 $51 (€41). 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
6h 30m
Cheapest Price
$79 (€64)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
7 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
6h 28m
Cheapest Price
$126 (€102)
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.
- Recommended
Kulturhistorisches Museum Rostock
City history museum in a former monastery, with collections on Rostock’s Hanseatic past, art, and archaeology.
- Recommended
Schifffahrtsmuseum Rostock
Maritime museum aboard the preserved cargo ship Dresden, covering seafaring, shipbuilding, and port history.
- Must visit
Warnemünde Beach
Broad Baltic beach popular for promenades, sunrise photos, and summer atmosphere; one of the area’s top draws.
- Must visit
Alter Strom
Picturesque canal-side promenade in Warnemünde lined with fishing boats and harbor activity, ideal for strolling.
- Recommended
Kröpeliner Straße
Main pedestrian shopping street through the historic center, connecting several key sights and city gates.
Fischbrötchen
A crusty bread roll filled with pickled herring, fried fish, or smoked fish. It is a classic Baltic and North German snack strongly associated with Rostock and the coast.
- Gluten-free
Rostocker Räucheraal
Smoked eel from the Baltic coast and nearby waters, traditionally prepared in local smokehouses. It is a regional delicacy with a rich, salty flavor.
- Gluten-free
Brathering Mit Bratkartoffeln
Pan-fried and marinated herring, often served with fried potatoes. This is a traditional northern German fish dish commonly eaten around the coast.
KAI40 Restaurant
Upscale dining venue in Warnemünde with modern cuisine, seafood emphasis, and a refined contemporary atmosphere.
Borwin Hafenrestaurant
Established harborside restaurant specializing in fresh fish, seafood, and regional North German dishes with views over the water.
Zwölf Apostel Rostock
Popular long-running restaurant in the historic center, known for generous Italian dishes and a lively, atmospheric setting.
Euro
Moderate by German standards. Groceries and casual meals are reasonable, while hotels and seafront dining cost more in peak season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-14 for kebab, bakery, or simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-30 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 50-90 per person for a three-course meal.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. Tip about 5-10% in restaurants for good service, round up taxi fares, and leave small change in cafés or bars.
RSAG Fahrinfo
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 2.70
- Day pass
- EUR 6.20
To the city center
Rostock Hbf, Rostock -> Neuer Markt, Rostock
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 7 min
- Tickets can be bought in the RSAG app and from ticket machines at major stops. Validate paper tickets if required before boarding.
- Card payment is available in many ticket machines, but not always on board buses and trams. It is safest to buy in the app or carry a backup payment method.
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 $52 (€42), while the average price is around $90 (€73).
The train from Essen to Rostock takes 6h 30m 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.
Yes, there is a direct train from Essen to Rostock. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
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 bus, with a cost of around $51 (€41).
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 6h 30m. 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
Essen
Rostock
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 Rostock.
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
The major train station for arrivals in Rostock is Rostock Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Rostock Hbf for your journey to Rostock from Essen.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 06:00 - 20:00
- Tuesday: 06:00 - 20:00
- Wednesday: 06:00 - 20:00
- Thursday: 06:00 - 20:00
- Friday: 06:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 17:00
- Sunday: 09:00 - 18:00
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Layali Alsham
- Heumond
- Joho-Broiler
- Cafe Kloster
Hotel
- 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
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