Essen to Stuttgart train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,EC,RE)

Wed, Jun 03
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
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2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Stuttgart

Showing times and prices for Jun 03

Cheapest price

$40

Average price

$103

Fastest journey

3 h 1 m

Average duration

3 h 1 m

Trains per day

37

Distance

335 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Essen to Stuttgart will cost around $103 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $40.

Fast trains

Of the 37 trains that leave Essen for Stuttgart on Wed, Jun 03, 14 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Jun 03 the direct trains cover the 335 km distance in an average of 3 h 1 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 1 m .

On Wed, Jun 03 the slowest trains will take 3 h 3 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.

  • FlixTrainFlixTrain · FlixTrain
    1:05 PM10h41
    Essen Hbf
    11:46 PMStuttgart
    $401One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixTrainFlixTrain · FlixTrain
    1:05 PM10h41
    Essen Hbf
    11:46 PMStuttgart
    $431One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche Bahn10170 · IC 60403 · ICE 699
    10:46 PM6h07
    Essen Hbf
    4:53 AMStuttgart Hbf
    $471One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 101 · ICE 1648 · ICE 573
    6:00 AM4h38
    Essen Hbf
    10:38 AMStuttgart Hbf
    $571One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 205 · ICE 695
    8:00 PM3h38
    Essen Hbf
    11:38 PMStuttgart Hbf
    $591One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Essen to Stuttgart

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Essen to Stuttgart among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $28. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 45m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $28, and a flight costs an average of $201.

Distance: 208 miles (335 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$96

Average price

$40

Average price

Cheapest

$466

Average price

$75

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 15m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 45m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 44m

Average total duration

7h 14m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 49m

Average total duration

5h 49m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

4h 52m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.8kg

CO2 emissions

1.0 - 2.0kg

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 Stuttgart is a bus with an average price of $40 (€32).

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

A bus is $56 (€46) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Stuttgart costing on average $96 (€78).

A bus is $426 (€344) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Essen to Stuttgart costing on average $466 (€376).

The fastest way to travel from Essen to Stuttgart is by train with an average journey time of 3h 45m.

Other travel options to Stuttgart take longer:

Flight takes on average 5h 49m.

Bus takes on average 7h 14m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Essen and Stuttgart including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Stuttgart among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 1h 7m sooner (3h 45m by train vs 4h 52m by car). Tickets start at around $96 (€78) compared to roughly $75 (€61) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.

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

Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Essen to Stuttgart train times

The table below shows live departures for Essen to Stuttgart trains for today, Tuesday, June 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 103 · ICE 593
On time
8:00 AM Essen Hbf
3h14
11:14 AM Stuttgart Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 103 · IC 1940 · ICE 595
On time
8:00 AM Essen Hbf
5h14
1:14 PM Stuttgart Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 915
On time
8:36 AM Essen Hbf
3h01
11:37 AM Stuttgart Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 646 · ICE 1225 · ICE 225
On time
8:40 AM Essen Hbf
4h58
1:38 PM Stuttgart Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 515
On time
8:59 AM Essen Hbf
3h12
12:11 PM Stuttgart Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 1221 · ICE 913
On time
4:59 AM Essen Hbf
4h38
9:37 AM Stuttgart 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 Stuttgart 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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Jun 03
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Why should you book Essen to Stuttgart trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Essen to Stuttgart.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to Stuttgart.

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 Stuttgart.
  • 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 Stuttgart.

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 Stuttgart.

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Essen to Stuttgart

userReviewImage
userReviewLogo
The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Advantages
IconService
IconClean
Disadvantages
IconDelay
The journey from Essen to Stuttgart was relatively unspectacular. I had to change trains twice. Unfortunately, the connecting train was late. I found the service positive, as the staff were all friendly. The cleanliness and hygiene on the train were also exemplary.
Advantages
IconPrice
IconPunctuality
Disadvantages
IconMany changes
On my journey from Essen to Stuttgart, I had to change trains twice. The changes were uncomplicated, but a direct journey would still have been preferable. On the other hand, the ticket was relatively cheap. Except for the first train, the other two trains were relatively clean and hygienic, you felt comfortable. All the staff were friendly. There were no delays during the entire journey.
Advantages
IconStaff friendly and helpful
IconTrain very clean and comfortable seats and equipment
IconNo change
IconTemperature pleasantly regulated
Disadvantages
IconOne toilet defective
This train had been quite empty, so it had been quiet in the passenger compartment. Just as well, because one toilet was broken. But the staff were friendly and helped with problems. The train was quite clean, including the toilets and the on-board bistro. The seats were comfortable and had the full equipment. The temperature on the train was also pleasantly regulated. There was no need to change trains and the train was only a few minutes late, which is acceptable and cannot be considered a delay.
Advantages
IconClean train
Disadvantages
IconUnpunctual
I travelled from Essen to Stuttgart by ICE. Unfortunately, I had to change trains twice and the train in Wuppertal was late, so I had to hurry in Frankfurt. This unfortunately led to stress. I must say that all the machines were very clean. I was able to use the toilets in all the machines. Disappointingly, the staff were not always friendly and the wifi was not always available.
Advantages
IconCleanliness
IconGood service
IconSmooth train change
Disadvantages
IconNone
I can only rate the journey from Essen to Stuttgart positively. Although I had to change trains once in Düsseldorf, this went smoothly. The trains were also both on time and so I arrived in Stuttgart on time. I was served delicious coffee on board, which indicates good service. It was clean on board, which also applied to the toilets. Overall, I can recommend this connection.
Advantages
IconFast train connection
IconGood punctuality
Disadvantages
IconI didn't notice anything negative
The train arrived and departed on time, sticking to the timetable. I quickly found my reserved seat, which was by the window and looked very comfortable and neat. There was enough legroom for luggage or a laptop bag. The toilet facilities were fine, well equipped, the flush worked and the toilet seat was clean. The train staff were very friendly and attentive. There was a power socket at my seat, which worked without any problems. I reached my destination on time and was very satisfied with this train connection.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Essen to Stuttgart

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Essen to Stuttgart run on average 12 times per day, taking around 3h 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $35 (€28) but you can travel from only $28 (€22) by bus.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:30. The fastest train covers the 208 miles (335 km) distance in 2h 57m.

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 $28 (€22)
Distance
208 miles (335 km)
Average train duration
3h 45m
Cheapest ticket price
$35 (€28)
Trains per day
12
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
2h 57m
First train
12:05 AM
Last train
11:30 PM
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
28 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $28 (€22)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Essen to Stuttgart trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Essen and Stuttgart from $28 (€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
2h 57m
Cheapest Price
$35 (€28)
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.
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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 57m
Cheapest Price
$80 (€65)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
16 a day

Complete guide to Stuttgart

Things to do in Stuttgart

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

  • Must visit

Mercedes-Benz Museum

Iconic automobile museum tracing the history of Mercedes-Benz through landmark vehicles, design, and technology. One of Stuttgart’s signature attractions.

  • Must visit

Porsche Museum

Modern museum presenting Porsche sports cars, racing heritage, and engineering milestones. Highly popular with car enthusiasts and general visitors alike.

  • Must visit

Staatsgalerie Stuttgart

Major art museum known for its strong collection ranging from Old Masters to modern and contemporary works in a striking postmodern complex.

Euro

Prices are above the German average, especially for hotels and dining, but public transport and casual meals remain manageable for most travelers.

Average meal costs

Budget
EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or takeaway.
Mid-range
EUR 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
EUR 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
EUR 3-5 for a cappuccino or latte.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included, but tipping is customary. Round up in cafes and taxis, and add about 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Tip by telling the total before payment.

FAQs: Trains from Essen to Stuttgart

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Essen to Stuttgart can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $35 (€28), while the average price is around $96 (€78).
The train from Essen to Stuttgart takes 2h 57m and runs 12 per day.
The distance by train from Essen to Stuttgart is 208 miles (335 km).
The first train from Essen to Stuttgart leaves at 12:05 AM.
The last train from Essen to Stuttgart leaves at 11:30 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Essen to Stuttgart. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Stuttgart.
The train station in Essen that goes to Stuttgart is Essen Hbf, which connects to Stuttgart Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Stuttgart is by bus, with a cost of around $28 (€22).
The train journey from Essen to Stuttgart passes through a mix of urban and rural landscapes, featuring industrial areas, small towns, and stretches of rolling countryside, offering some pleasant views though not typically considered a notably scenic route.
A day trip from Essen to Stuttgart is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 57m each way. Trains run 17 times per day.
In Stuttgart, you can explore the vibrant Markthalle for a variety of delicacies, enjoy a leisurely walk in the beautiful Killesberg Park, visit the Porsche Museum, and experience a performance at the Stuttgart Opera House. Don't miss the lively Cannstatter Volksfest, one of the largest beer festivals in the world. For the best sights, check out the Mercedes-Benz Museum, Stuttgart State Gallery, Wilhelma Zoo and Botanical Garden, Stuttgart TV Tower, and Schlossplatz, the city's largest square.
For a well-rounded experience in Stuttgart, 2 to 3 days are typically sufficient to explore its cultural attractions, enjoy local cuisine, and visit key sites like the Mercedes-Benz Museum and Schlossplatz.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Stuttgart.
Since both Essen and Stuttgart 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 Stuttgart include Strasbourg, Heidelberg, Mannheim, Memmingen, Karlsruhe.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Stuttgart 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 Stuttgart, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport and popular tourist spots. Scams involving fake charity collectors and overcharging taxis have also been reported. It's advisable to use official transportation and remain vigilant when approached by strangers offering unsolicited help or services.
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 Stuttgart

Essen
Stuttgart
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 Stuttgart.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
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
Dining
  • Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
  • Kiepenkerl
  • Cafe Extrablatt
  • Tacos
Hotel
Hotel
  • Ambassador
  • Gästearpartment Dahl
  • WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus
  • Motel One
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
Dining
Dining
  • Pizzeria Don Camillo
  • Lindos
  • Zur Platte
  • Arman Döner
Hotel
Hotel
  • McDreams
Essen SüdWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
  • Haus Wilmes
  • Mana Mana
  • Karawane
Hotel
Hotel
  • Webers

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