- Must visit
Museum of Broken Relationships
Globally known museum presenting intimate stories from former relationships through donated objects, both moving and uniquely memorable.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Zagreb
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$75
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$156
Fastest journey on Sep 20
14 h 24 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
15 h 52 m
Trains on Sep 20
3
Distance
909 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen to Zagreb is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Essen to Zagreb will cost around $156 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $75.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 3 trains from Essen to Zagreb, including 3 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 909 km distance in an average of 15 h 52 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 14 h 24 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 18 h 15 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.
6:03 AM14h57Essen9:00 PMZagreb$751One-way0 transfers- 10:00 PM18h15Essen4:15 PMZagreb$1711One-way0 transfers
- 7:36 AM14h24Essen10:00 PMZagreb$2231One-way0 transfers
- 7:36 AM14h24Essen10:00 PMZagreb$2231One-way0 transfers
- 6:03 AM14h57Essen9:00 PMZagreb$751One-way0 transfers
- 10:00 PM18h15Essen4:15 PMZagreb$1711One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Essen to Zagreb
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Essen to Zagreb among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $139 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 43m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.3 - 0.8kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $139, while a flight costs an average of $750.
Distance: 564 miles (909 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$170 Average price | $750 Average price | $139 Average price Cheapest | $77 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
15h 16m Average total duration 14h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 43m Average total duration Fastest 2h 43m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 20h 21m Average total duration 19h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 12h 1m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 2.7 - 5.4kg CO2 emissions | 0.9 - 2.3kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
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 Zagreb is a bus with an average price of $139 (€114).
This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Zagreb:
A bus is $31 (€25) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Zagreb costing on average $170 (€139).
A bus is $611 (€499) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Essen to Zagreb costing on average $750 (€613).
The fastest way to travel from Essen to Zagreb is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 43m.
Other travel options to Zagreb take longer:
Train takes on average 14h 46m.
Bus takes on average 19h 51m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Essen and Zagreb including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Zagreb 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 $170 (€139) compared to roughly $77 (€63) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-93.02 (€-76.03). The journey takes 14h 46m versus 12h 1m 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 Zagreb train times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Zagreb trains for tomorrow, Sunday, September 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:03 AM Essen | 14h57 | 9:00 PM Zagreb | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:36 AM Essen | 14h24 | 10:00 PM Zagreb | 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 Zagreb by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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.
Sun
Sep 20
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Sep 26
Why should you book Essen to Zagreb trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Essen to Zagreb.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to Zagreb.
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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Essen to Zagreb.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Essen to Zagreb.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Zagreb
Germany
Croatia
Trains from Essen to Zagreb run on average 2 times per day, taking around 14h 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $98 (€80) but you can travel from only $35 (€29) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 05:25, the last at 23:04. The fastest train covers the 564 miles (909 km) distance in 13h 37m.
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
Flight from $35 (€29)
Distance 564 miles (909 km) |
Average train duration 14h 46m |
Cheapest ticket price $98 (€80) |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 13h 37m |
First train 5:25 AM |
Last train 11:04 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 42 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
Flight from $35 (€29)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Sylt Shuttle Plus from Essen to Zagreb trainsDeutsche Bahn, Sylt Shuttle Plus trains will get you between Essen and Zagreb from $35 (€29). 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
13h 37m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$98 (€80)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
2 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
Sylt Shuttle Plus
About
Sylt Shuttle Plus was a unique passenger train service operated by Deutsche Bahn (DB) that connected Niebüll and Westerland on the island of Sylt, Germany. Unlike the primary Sylt Shuttle, which transports vehicles, the "Plus" service was designed for passengers without cars. It involved coupling a Class 628 diesel multiple unit to the rear of the car shuttle train. Introduced in 2015, the Sylt Shuttle Plus gained notoriety for its often-empty carriages and longer travel times compared to regional trains, leading to its nickname "ghost train." The service was discontinued in December 2024.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Sylt Shuttle Plus Duration
13h 46m
Cheapest Sylt Shuttle Plus Price
$171 (€140)
Sylt Shuttle Plus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type
Refund
Full refund for cancelled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and drinks
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended, additional fee applies
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs need ticket
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Zagreb
Things to do in Zagreb
Discover the best of Zagreb — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Zagreb trip today.
- Recommended
Museum of Arts and Crafts
Leading Croatian art museum with major collections from medieval works to modern masters, ideal for a broad cultural overview.
- Recommended
Archaeological Museum in Zagreb
Major archaeology museum featuring Egyptian, Greek, Roman, and Croatian finds, including the famous Zagreb mummy linen text.
- Must visit
Ban Josip Jelačić Square
Lively central square and Zagreb’s main meeting point, surrounded by historic facades, shops, and easy access to major sights.
- Must visit
Gornji Grad
Historic Upper Town quarter of cobbled streets, government buildings, and landmark churches, ideal for slow walks and city history.
- Must visit
Zrinjevac Park
Beloved inner-city park with shaded paths, ponds, and sculptures, offering a relaxed break near museums and the main railway station.
- Vegetarian
Zagorski Štrukli
Štrukli are baked or boiled pastry parcels filled with fresh cheese and sour cream, a signature dish of Zagreb and Hrvatsko Zagorje served from snack to dessert.
Purica S Mlincima
Purica s mlincima is roast turkey with baked flatbread softened in roasting juices. It is a festive Sunday classic in Zagreb and northwestern Croatia.
Zagrebački Odrezak
Zagrebački odrezak is a breaded veal cutlet stuffed with ham and cheese, then fried. It is Zagreb's best-known city-style comfort dish.
Noel
Refined fine-dining restaurant offering contemporary Croatian tasting menus with seasonal ingredients and polished service.
Stari Fijaker 900
Beloved traditional tavern near Dolac Market serving roast meats, sarma and local comfort food in a lively, rustic atmosphere.
Restoran Vinodol
Historic city-center restaurant known for Zagrebački odrezak, štrukli and classic Croatian dishes in an elegant old-world setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Central Europe. Hotels rise in summer, but dining, coffee, and trams stay fairly affordable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or street food.
- Mid-range
- €15-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €2-3.50 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Round up in cafes and taxis, or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service.
FAQs: Trains from Essen to Zagreb
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Zagreb 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 Zagreb, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Essen to Zagreb can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $98 (€80), while the average price is around $170 (€139).
The train from Essen to Zagreb takes 13h 37m and runs 2 per day.
The first train from Essen to Zagreb leaves at 5:25 AM.
The distance by train from Essen to Zagreb is 564 miles (909 km).
The last train from Essen to Zagreb leaves at 11:04 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Essen to Zagreb.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Zagreb.
The train station in Essen that goes to Zagreb is Essen Hbf, which connects to Zagreb Main Station.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Zagreb is by flight, with a cost of around $35 (€29).
The train journey from Essen to Zagreb offers a scenic experience, passing through picturesque landscapes, including the rolling hills and forests of Germany, the charming towns and countryside of Austria, and the scenic valleys and rivers of Slovenia before reaching the vibrant cityscape of Zagreb.
A day trip from Essen to Zagreb is not feasible, as the journey takes 13h 37m and covers a distance of 564 miles (909 km). The frequency is 3 per day for trains.
In Zagreb, you can visit the Zagreb Botanical Garden for a serene escape, explore vibrant street art, attend performances at the Croatian National Theatre, enjoy Maksimir Park's natural beauty, and uncover the history of the Grič Tunnel. Must-see sights include the stunning Zagreb Cathedral, the unique Museum of Broken Relationships, St. Mark's Church with its colorful roof, the lively Dolac Market, and Lotrščak Tower with panoramic city views.
Three to four days are ideal to explore Zagreb's main attractions, enjoy its vibrant culture, and savor local cuisine.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Zagreb.
Since both Essen and Zagreb 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 Zagreb include Celje, Dobova, Harmica, Sevnica, Zidani Most.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Zagreb 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.
Croatia uses the Croatian kuna (HRK) as its currency. Travelers can use both cash and cards, but card payments are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, while cash may be preferred in smaller towns and markets.
In Zagreb, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport, markets, and tourist spots. Common scams include taxi drivers overcharging or taking longer routes. It's advisable to use official taxis or ride-hailing apps. Additionally, travelers should be wary of street vendors selling counterfeit goods and avoid unlicensed currency exchange offices to prevent fraud. Staying alert and securing 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 Zagreb
Most Essen to Zagreb trains use the Essen Hbf to Zagreb Glavni Kolodvor station pair. Use this guide to compare Essen and Zagreb 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 Zagreb
Which Essen station do trains to Zagreb leave from?
Trains from Essen to Zagreb 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 Zagreb station do trains from Essen arrive at?
Trains from Essen to Zagreb arrive at Zagreb Glavni Kolodvor. Zagreb Glavni Kolodvor is 0 miles (1 km) from Zagreb city centre.
Zagreb Glavni KolodvorTrg kralja Tomislava 12, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia+385 1 3782 583
City-centre transport
Getting to Zagreb Glavni Kolodvor from Zagreb city centre
Zagreb Glavni Kolodvor is 1 km from Zagreb city centre. Public transport options include:
Tram6, 13, 31, 34 · 4m · $1 · every ~24 min
Zagreb Glavni Kolodvor train station facilities and services
Zagreb Glavni Kolodvor has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Zinfandel's Restaurant, Le Bistro Esplanade
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Zagreb Glavni Kolodvor. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Zagreb Glavni Kolodvor. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Zagreb Glavni Kolodvor: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Zagreb Glavni Kolodvor: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Zagreb Glavni Kolodvor: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Esplanade Zagreb Hotel, Hotel Central, Palace Hotel Zagreb.
Most popular train connections from Essen
More options for your journey from Essen to Zagreb
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Zagreb and Essen
Most popular train connections to Zagreb
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