- Must visit
Moderne Galerie
The region’s leading art museum, noted for modern and contemporary works and architecture. A top choice for visitors seeking major exhibitions in Saarbrücken.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Saarbrücken
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
€31
Average ticket price on Sep 19
€55
Fastest journey on Sep 19
4 h 41 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
4 h 51 m
Trains on Sep 19
2
Distance
247 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen to Saarbrücken is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Essen to Saarbrücken will cost around €55 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €31.
Fast trains
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 2 trains from Essen to Saarbrücken, including 2 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 247 km distance in an average of 4 h 51 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 41 m .
On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 5 h 1 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.
7:40 AM5h01Essen12:41 PMSaarbrücken€311One-way0 transfers- 7:00 AM4h41Essen11:41 AMSaarbrücken€791One-way0 transfers
- 7:00 AM4h41Essen11:41 AMSaarbrücken€791One-way0 transfers
- 7:40 AM5h01Essen12:41 PMSaarbrücken€311One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Essen to Saarbrücken
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Essen to Saarbrücken among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €47 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 51m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €47, while a train costs an average of €96.
Distance: 153 miles (247 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€96 Average price | €47 Average price Cheapest | €47 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 51m Average total duration Fastest 4h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 0m Average total duration 7h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 44m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
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 Saarbrücken is a bus with an average price of €47.
This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Saarbrücken:
A bus is €49 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Saarbrücken costing on average €96.
The fastest way to travel from Essen to Saarbrücken is by train with an average journey time of 4h 21m.
Other travel options to Saarbrücken take longer:
Bus takes on average 7h 30m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Essen and Saarbrücken including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Saarbrücken 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 €96 compared to roughly €47 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-49.73. The journey takes 4h 21m versus 3h 44m 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 Saarbrücken train times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Saarbrücken trains for tomorrow, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:00 AM Essen | 4h41 | 11:41 AM Saarbrücken | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:40 AM Essen | 5h01 | 12:41 PM Saarbrücken | 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 Saarbrücken by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
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Sep 20
Sep 20
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Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
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Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sep 25
Why should you book Essen to Saarbrücken trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Essen to Saarbrücken.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to Saarbrücken.
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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Essen to Saarbrücken.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Essen to Saarbrücken.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Saarbrücken
GermanyGermany
Trains from Essen to Saarbrücken run on average 11 times per day, taking around 4h 21m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €24 but you can travel from only €20 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 02:50, the last at 23:51. The fastest train covers the 153 miles (247 km) distance in 3h 32m.
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 €20
Distance 153 miles (247 km) |
Average train duration 4h 21m |
Cheapest ticket price €24 |
Trains per day 11 |
Fastest train 3h 32m |
First train 2:50 AM |
Last train 11:51 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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 €20
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Essen to Saarbrücken trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Essen and Saarbrücken from €20. 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
3h 32m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€24
Deutsche Bahn frequency
9 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
Complete guide to Saarbrücken
Things to do in Saarbrücken
Discover the best of Saarbrücken — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Saarbrücken trip today.
- Recommended
Historisches Museum Saar
History and culture museum inside the castle area, with archaeology and city collections. Ideal for understanding Saarbrücken and the wider Saarland region.
- Recommended
Museum für Vor- und Frühgeschichte
Museum dedicated to prehistory and early regional history. Its compact displays make it a useful stop for visitors interested in ancient Saarland cultures.
- Must visit
St. Johann
Lively riverside district with baroque streets, shopping, and nightlife. It is the city’s main area for walking, architecture, and urban atmosphere.
- Must visit
Ludwigsplatz
Historic square framed by Ludwigskirche and baroque buildings. One of Saarbrücken’s most elegant public spaces and a classic place for photos and quiet walks.
- Must visit
St. Johanner Markt
The city’s central market square, lined with historic façades and public buildings. A practical and scenic base for exploring the old center on foot.
Gefillde
Gefillde are potato dumplings stuffed with seasoned minced meat and often served with bacon cream sauce, a hallmark of Saarland home cooking.
- Gluten-free
Dibbelabbes
Dibbelabbes is a baked potato dish with leek, onions and cured pork, cooked until crisp. It is one of the most iconic rustic dishes in Saarland.
- Gluten-free
Schwenker
Schwenker is a marinated pork neck steak grilled over open flame on a swinging grill. It is central to Saarland barbecue culture and local gatherings.
Esplanade
Refined dining venue with modern cuisine, careful presentation and an elegant atmosphere for a higher-end meal in Saarbrücken.
Zum Stiefel
Traditional Saarland restaurant known for regional classics and a cozy historic atmosphere near central Saarbrücken.
Gasthaus Brauerei Zum Schlüssel
Established brewery-style venue serving hearty German and Saarland dishes with house beer in a lively, casual setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels and dining are lower than Munich or Frankfurt, while local transit is typical and budget eats are easy to find.
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
- €2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is common in restaurants. Taxis are usually rounded up. Small change is fine in cafes.
saarVV mobil
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.80
- Day pass
- €7.00
To the city center
Saarbrücken Hbf -> St. Johanner Markt, Saarbrücken
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Buy tickets in the saarVV mobil app or from ticket machines before boarding. On-board sales and payment options can vary by bus operator.
- Saarbrücken city center is walkable from Saarbrücken Hbf. For short trips, check whether your ticket covers the needed fare zone before travel.
FAQs: Trains from Essen to Saarbrücken
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Saarbrücken 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 Saarbrücken, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Essen to Saarbrücken can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €24, while the average price is around €96.
The train from Essen to Saarbrücken takes 3h 32m and runs 11 per day.
The distance by train from Essen to Saarbrücken is 153 miles (247 km).
The first train from Essen to Saarbrücken leaves at 2:50 AM.
The last train from Essen to Saarbrücken leaves at 11:51 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Essen to Saarbrücken.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Saarbrücken.
The train station in Essen that goes to Saarbrücken is Essen Hbf, which connects to Saarbrücken Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Saarbrücken is by bus, with a cost of around €20.
The train journey from Essen to Saarbrücken offers a scenic route with views of picturesque landscapes, including the lush greenery of the Rhineland and charming small towns along the way, providing a pleasant and visually appealing experience.
A day trip from Essen to Saarbrücken is not feasible, as the journey takes 3h 32m. However, there are 13 train trips available per day.
In Saarbrücken, visitors can explore the historical Saarbrücken Castle for guided tours and panoramic views, enjoy a family day at Saarbrücker Zoo, or delve into industrial history at the UNESCO-listed Völklinger Hütte. Relax at Saarland Therme's spa facilities or immerse in local culture at St. Johanner Markt. For sightseeing, admire the baroque architecture of Ludwigskirche, visit the Saarland Museum for diverse art collections, stroll through the Deutsch-Französischer Garten, or appreciate the neo-Gothic beauty of the Basilica of St. John the Baptist.
Two to three days in Saarbrücken are typically sufficient to explore its main attractions, enjoy local cuisine, and experience the city's vibrant culture.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Saarbrücken.
Since both Essen and Saarbrücken 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 Saarbrücken include Luxembourg, Strasbourg, Forbach, Metz, Mannheim.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Saarbrücken 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 Saarbrücken, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the city center and public transport. Common scams include distraction techniques near popular attractions and at train stations. 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 Saarbrücken
Most Essen to Saarbrücken trains use the Essen Hbf to Saarbrücken Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Essen and Saarbrücken 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 Saarbrücken
Which Essen station do trains to Saarbrücken leave from?
Trains from Essen to Saarbrücken 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 Saarbrücken station do trains from Essen arrive at?
Trains from Essen to Saarbrücken arrive at Saarbrücken Hbf. Saarbrücken Hbf is 0 miles (1 km) from Saarbrücken city centre.
Saarbrücken HbfSaarbrücken Hbf, Am Hauptbahnhof 6-12, 66111 Saarbrücken
City-centre transport
Getting to Saarbrücken Hbf from Saarbrücken city centre
TrainRe1 · 4m · €6
Bus128, 105 · 11m · every ~8 min
Tram1 · 6m · every ~14 min
Saarbrücken Hbf train station facilities and services
Saarbrücken 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: Il Giardino, Eiscafe Jesolo, Pizza Hut, Brauhaus zum Stiefel
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Saarbrücken Hbf. ATMs are available at Saarbrücken Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Saarbrücken Hbf. Information desks are available at Saarbrücken Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Saarbrücken Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Saarbrücken Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Saarbrücken Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Saarbrücken Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Premier Inn Saarbrücken City Centre Hotel, Mercure SB City, Europa Hotel Saarbrücken, Hotel Stadt Hamburg Saarbrücken.
Most popular train connections from Essen
More options for your journey from Essen to Saarbrücken
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Saarbrücken and Essen
Most popular train connections to Saarbrücken
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