- Must visit
Autostadt
Automotive-themed destination with pavilions, classic cars, design exhibitions, and family-friendly experiences beside the VW plant.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Wolfsburg
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$84
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$84
Fastest journey on Sep 19
2 h 49 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
2 h 49 m
Trains on Sep 19
1
Distance
280 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen to Wolfsburg is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Essen to Wolfsburg will cost around $84 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $84.
Fast trains
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 1 trains from Essen to Wolfsburg, including 1 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 280 km distance in an average of 2 h 49 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 49 m .
On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 2 h 49 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.
9:19 AM2h49Essen12:08 PMWolfsburg$841One-way0 transfers
- 9:19 AM2h49Essen12:08 PMWolfsburg$841One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Essen to Wolfsburg
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Essen to Wolfsburg among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $28 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 16m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $28, while a train costs an average of $60.
Distance: 173 miles (280 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$60 Average price | $28 Average price Cheapest | $60 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 16m Average total duration Fastest 2h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 20m Average total duration 5h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 42m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.7kg 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 Wolfsburg is a bus with an average price of $28 (€23).
This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Wolfsburg:
A bus is $32 (€26) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Wolfsburg costing on average $60 (€49).
The fastest way to travel from Essen to Wolfsburg is by train with an average journey time of 2h 46m.
Other travel options to Wolfsburg take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 50m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Essen and Wolfsburg including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Wolfsburg among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 56m faster (2h 46m by train vs 3h 42m by car) and roughly $0.76 (€0.62) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($60 (€49) vs $60 (€49)). 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 Intercity (DB IC).
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Essen to Wolfsburg train times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Wolfsburg 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:19 AM Essen | 2h49 | 12:08 PM Wolfsburg | 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 Wolfsburg 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
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Tue
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Sep 25
Sep 25
Why should you book Essen to Wolfsburg trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Essen to Wolfsburg.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to Wolfsburg.
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 Wolfsburg.
- 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 Wolfsburg.
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 Wolfsburg.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Wolfsburg
GermanyGermany
Trains from Essen to Wolfsburg run on average 5 times per day, taking around 2h 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $49 (€40) but you can travel from only $26 (€21) by bus.
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:20. The fastest train covers the 173 miles (280 km) distance in 2h 42m.
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 $26 (€21)
Distance 173 miles (280 km) |
Average train duration 2h 46m |
Cheapest ticket price $49 (€40) |
Trains per day 5 |
Direct trains 5 |
Fastest train 2h 42m |
First train 12:04 AM |
Last train 11:20 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 4 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 $26 (€21)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Essen to Wolfsburg trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Essen and Wolfsburg from $26 (€21). 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
2h 42m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$49 (€40)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
5 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 Wolfsburg
Things to do in Wolfsburg
Discover the best of Wolfsburg — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Wolfsburg trip today.
- Must visit
Kunstmuseum Wolfsburg
One of Europe's leading contemporary art museums, known for major international exhibitions in a striking cultural complex.
- Must visit
phaeno
Interactive science center with hands-on exhibits on physics, technology, and perception in a landmark building by Zaha Hadid.
- Must visit
Autostadt Area
Waterfront leisure district with promenades, architecture, and direct access to major attractions, ideal for first-time visitors.
- Must visit
Allerpark
Lakeside park with broad lawns, paths, and recreation areas, popular for relaxing walks close to the city center.
- Must visit
Altstadt Fallersleben
Charming old town quarter with half-timbered houses, small squares, and heritage sites around Hoffmann von Fallersleben's home.
Grünkohl Mit Bregenwurst
A hearty Lower Saxony kale stew cooked with onions and spices, often served in winter with potatoes and sausage. A classic regional comfort dish.
- Vegetarian
Spargel
White asparagus from the region, prized in spring for its delicate flavor. Commonly served with potatoes, hollandaise, or ham during Spargel season.
- Gluten-free
Heidekartoffeln
A rustic potato side dish of boiled potatoes mixed with onions, bacon, and herbs. It reflects everyday North German home cooking.
Aqua
Michelin-starred dining in The Ritz-Carlton, specializing in modern creative tasting menus with refined service and an elegant atmosphere.
Lagune Foodhalls
Stylish brasserie in the Volkswagen Autostadt area, known for seasonal European dishes, polished service, and a contemporary setting.
La Fontana
Established Italian restaurant appreciated for pasta, pizza, and classic Mediterranean dishes in a relaxed, reliable setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels and dining are mid-priced, while local transit is reasonable. Costs are usually lower than Munich or Hamburg for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.80-4.20 for cappuccino or similar coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is common in restaurants. Round up for taxis and leave small change in cafes.
DB Navigator
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.20
- Day pass
- €8.60
To the city center
Wolfsburg Hbf -> Wolfsburg City Center (Porschestraße)
- Distance
- 500 m
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Buses in Wolfsburg are operated by WVG; check departures in DB Navigator or at stops before boarding.
- Contactless card payment is commonly available on regional DB services, but bus onboard payment policies can vary, so carry a backup payment method.
FAQs: Trains from Essen to Wolfsburg
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Wolfsburg 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 Wolfsburg, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Essen to Wolfsburg can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $49 (€40), while the average price is around $60 (€49).
The train from Essen to Wolfsburg takes 2h 42m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Essen to Wolfsburg leaves at 12:04 AM.
The distance by train from Essen to Wolfsburg is 173 miles (280 km).
The last train from Essen to Wolfsburg leaves at 11:20 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Essen to Wolfsburg. This service operates 5 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Wolfsburg.
The train station in Essen that goes to Wolfsburg is Essen Hbf, which connects to Wolfsburg Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Wolfsburg is by bus, with a cost of around $26 (€21).
The train journey from Essen to Wolfsburg offers a blend of industrial views and green landscapes, with stretches of countryside and forests providing a pleasant, though not particularly dramatic, scenic experience.
A day trip from Essen to Wolfsburg is not feasible because the journey takes 2h 42m. However, there are 13 trains available per day for this route.
Two to three days in Wolfsburg are generally sufficient to explore its key attractions, including the Autostadt, Volkswagen's headquarters, and the Phaeno Science Center.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Wolfsburg.
Since both Essen and Wolfsburg 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 Wolfsburg include Berlin, Hanover, Göttingen, Brunswick, Magdeburg.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Wolfsburg 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 Wolfsburg, travelers should be aware of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the main train station and around popular attractions such as the Autostadt. It is advisable to keep personal belongings secure and be cautious when approached by strangers offering unsolicited assistance or deals. There are occasional reports of taxi scams, so using official taxi services or pre-booked transportation is recommended. Overall, Wolfsburg is considered a safe city, but standard urban precautions apply.
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 Wolfsburg
Most Essen to Wolfsburg trains use the Essen Hbf to Wolfsburg Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Essen and Wolfsburg 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 Wolfsburg
Which Essen station do trains to Wolfsburg leave from?
Trains from Essen to Wolfsburg 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 Wolfsburg station do trains from Essen arrive at?
Trains from Essen to Wolfsburg arrive at Wolfsburg Hbf. Wolfsburg Hbf is 0 miles (1 km) from Wolfsburg city centre.
Wolfsburg HbfWolfsburg Hbf, Willy-Brandt-Platz 3, 38440 Wolfsburg
Wolfsburg Hbf train station facilities and services
Wolfsburg 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: Lagune Foodhalls, Chardonnay, Bar BQ, Cafe & Bar Celona
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Wolfsburg Hbf. ATMs are available at Wolfsburg Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Wolfsburg Hbf. Information desks are available at Wolfsburg Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Wolfsburg Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Wolfsburg Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Wolfsburg Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Wolfsburg Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Goldene Henne, Internationales Boardinghaus(Penthouse Hotel), Hotel Niedersachsen, City Hotel Journal.
Most popular train connections from Essen
More options for your journey from Essen to Wolfsburg
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Wolfsburg and Essen
Most popular train connections to Wolfsburg
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