- Must visit
Museum Folkwang
World-class art museum in the Villa Hügel parkland, famous for 19th and 20th century masterpieces and changing exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Frankfurt am Main Airport to Essen
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 04
- Cheapest price on Nov 04
- €47
- Average ticket price on Nov 04
- €55
- Fastest journey on Nov 04
- 2 h
- Average journey duration on Nov 04
- 2 h 36 m
- Trains on Nov 04
- 5
- Distance
- 191 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Frankfurt am Main Airport to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Frankfurt am Main Airport to Essen will cost around €55 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €47.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Frankfurt am Main Airport to Essen without transferring at least once.
S8 · IC 2049 · ICE 202 · 267178:30 AM 3h41 Frankfurt am Main Flughafen 12:11 PM Essen Hbf €47 1 One-way 3 transfers- ICE 1022 · 26715
7:59 AM 3h12 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station 11:11 AM Essen Hbf €47 1 One-way 1 transfer - ICE 316 · 26813
8:48 AM 2h02 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station 10:50 AM Essen Hbf €58 1 One-way 1 transfer - ICE 822 · 89715
8:22 AM 2h05 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station 10:27 AM Essen Hbf €58 1 One-way 1 transfer - ICE 204 · 26713
8:11 AM 2h00 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station 10:11 AM Essen Hbf €62 1 One-way 1 transfer
- ICE 204 · 26713
8:11 AM 2h00 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station 10:11 AM Essen Hbf €62 1 One-way 1 transfer - ICE 316 · 26813
8:48 AM 2h02 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station 10:50 AM Essen Hbf €58 1 One-way 1 transfer - ICE 822 · 89715
8:22 AM 2h05 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station 10:27 AM Essen Hbf €58 1 One-way 1 transfer - ICE 1022 · 26715
7:59 AM 3h12 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station 11:11 AM Essen Hbf €47 1 One-way 1 transfer - S8 · IC 2049 · ICE 202 · 26717
8:30 AM 3h41 Frankfurt am Main Flughafen 12:11 PM Essen Hbf €47 1 One-way 3 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Frankfurt am Main Airport to Essen
GermanyGermany
Trains from Frankfurt am Main Airport to Essen run on average 14 times per day, taking around 2h 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €18 but you can travel from only €13 by bus.
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:59, the last at 08:22. The fastest train covers the 118 miles (191 km) distance in 1h 38m.
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 €13
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance118 miles (191 km)
- Average train duration2h 13m
- Cheapest ticket price€18
- Trains per day14
- Direct trains5
- Fastest train1h 38m
- First train5:59 AM
- Last train8:22 AM
- Cheapest MonthMay
- Cheapest DayMon
- High SeasonJul - Sep
- Low SeasonJan - Mar
- Busiest DayWed
- Least Busy DaySun
Understand & plan this route
Explore this journey
Book with confidence
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 €13
Frequently asked questions about your Frankfurt am Main Airport to Essen trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Frankfurt am Main Airport to Essen.
Train ticket prices from Frankfurt am Main Airport to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €18, while the average price is around €60.
The train from Frankfurt am Main Airport to Essen takes 1h 38m and runs 14 per day.
The distance by train from Frankfurt am Main Airport to Essen is 118 miles (191 km).
The first train from Frankfurt am Main Airport to Essen leaves at 5:59 AM.
The last train from Frankfurt am Main Airport to Essen leaves at 8:22 AM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Frankfurt am Main Airport to Essen. This service operates 5 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
Live departures
Frankfurt am Main Airport to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for Frankfurt am Main Airport to Essen trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, November 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 1022 · 26715 | On time 7:59 AM Frankfurt Airport long-distance station | 3h12 | 11:11 AM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 204 · 26713 | On time 8:11 AM Frankfurt Airport long-distance station | 2h00 | 10:11 AM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 822 · 89715 | On time 8:22 AM Frankfurt Airport long-distance station | 2h05 | 10:27 AM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| S8 · IC 2049 · ICE 202 · 26717 | 8:30 AM Frankfurt am Main Flughafen | 3h41 | 12:11 PM Essen Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 316 · 26813 | On time 8:48 AM Frankfurt Airport long-distance station | 2h02 | 10:50 AM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Frankfurt am Main Airport to Essen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Regional or Intercity offer trains services from Frankfurt am Main Airport to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Frankfurt am Main Airport to Essen.
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 Regional or Intercity to find the best option for your trip from Frankfurt am Main Airport to Essen.
- 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 Frankfurt am Main Airport to Essen.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Regional or Intercity to find the best option for your trip from Frankfurt am Main Airport to Essen.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Frankfurt am Main Airport to Essen.
Train companies
Train companies from Frankfurt am Main Airport to Essen
Trains from Frankfurt am Main Airport to Essen with Deutsche Bahn, Regional, and Intercity. Night trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn. High-speed trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn. Regional trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn and Regional. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
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
1h 38m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€18
Deutsche Bahn frequency
58 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
Intercity
About
Intercity is a broad classification for express train services that connect cities over longer distances than commuter or regional trains, often with limited stops and comfortable carriages for long-distance travel. The term "InterCity" originated with British Rail in 1966 for its electrified West Coast Main Line services.Today, "Intercity" or "IC" is a brand name used by various railway operators across Europe and other parts of the world, including PKP Intercity in Poland, Trenitalia in Italy, and services in countries like Sweden and Ukraine. These trains typically offer both Standard and First Class seating, with amenities such as power sockets and luggage space. While some Intercity services are modern and high-speed, others may use older rolling stock, with speeds generally up to 160 km/h (100 mph).
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Intercity Duration
2h 48m
Cheapest Intercity Price
€28
Intercity frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone
Regional
About
The term "Regional" can refer to different train companies and services depending on the country. In Germany, "Regionalbahn" (RB) is a type of local passenger train that typically stops at all stations on a given line, connecting cities to their surrounding areas. Many RB trains are operated by DB Regio, a division of Deutsche Bahn, but other companies also run these services.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Regional Duration
1h 52m
Cheapest Regional Price
€28
Regional frequency
7 a day
Luggage included
Standard luggage allowance included with ticket
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Refunds according to ticket type and conditions
Refund
Full refund if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Frankfurt am Main Airport and Essen
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a night train from Frankfurt am Main Airport to Essen.
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.
Complete guide to Essen
Things to do in Essen
Discover the best of Essen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Essen trip today.
- Must visit
Ruhr Museum
Ruhr Museum presents the region’s natural, cultural, and industrial history inside Zollverein’s iconic coal washery.
- Recommended
Deutsches Plakat Museum
Internationally important poster museum with graphic design, advertising, and visual culture collections in a central location.
- Must visit
Baldeneysee
Large urban lake with promenades, sailing, and scenic paths; a favorite leisure area for locals and visitors alike.
- Recommended
Kettwiger Straße
Lively central pedestrian street for shopping and city life, linking Essen’s station area with key downtown landmarks.
- Recommended
Stadtgarten Essen
Leafy city park with botanical features, sculptures, and open lawns near major museums and cultural institutions.
- Vegetarian
Reibekuchen
A hearty potato pancake from the Ruhr area, usually served with applesauce or beet syrup. It is a beloved regional comfort food eaten at fairs and homes.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Pumpernickel
Traditional rye bread from Westphalia, baked dark and dense with a slightly sweet flavor. It is a staple across the region and often served with ham or cheese.
Sauerbraten
A classic Rhineland-Ruhr beef roast marinated in vinegar and spices, then braised. It is a festive dish found on Sunday and holiday menus.
Restaurant Hannappel
Refined two-star dining in Villa Hügel parkland, known for modern French-inspired cuisine, polished service, and one of Essen's most prestigious settings.
Hausbrauerei Im Fcxschen Essen
Traditional brewery restaurant in Werden serving hearty regional dishes and house beers in a historic, rustic atmosphere popular with locals and visitors.
Meisenburg
Casual local favorite for grilled meats, schnitzel, and classic pub plates, with a lively traditional atmosphere and dependable portions.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than Munich or Frankfurt, while local transit and casual meals stay fairly affordable for visitors.
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 at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for cappuccino or similar coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. Round up or add about 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Taxi fares are often rounded up. In cafes, small change or rounding up is typical.
VRR App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.60
- Day pass
- €8.90
To the city center
Essen Hbf -> Essen Hbf
- Distance
- 0 km
- Travel time
- 0 min
- Buy tickets in the VRR App, at ticket machines, or onboard where offered. Tap validators if your ticket requires validation before boarding.
- Contactless card payment is available at many ticket machines, but not reliably onboard all buses or trams. Keep a valid ticket ready for inspection.
Plan your visit to Essen
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Essen.
The train journey from Frankfurt am Main Airport to Essen offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with views of the Rhine River and picturesque German towns, but it is not typically considered one of the more scenic routes in Germany.
Popular day trips by train from Essen include Cologne, Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Münster, Aachen.
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 Essen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport and popular tourist spots. Scams involving fake charity collectors and overpriced taxi rides have also been reported. It's advisable to use official transport services and stay alert in busy locations to ensure safety.
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.
FAQs: Trains from Frankfurt am Main Airport to Essen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Frankfurt am Main Airport to Essen 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 Essen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Yes, you can take the train from Frankfurt am Main Airport to Essen.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Frankfurt am Main Airport to Essen
Most Frankfurt am Main Airport to Essen trains use the Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Essen Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus. Use this guide to compare Frankfurt am Main Airport and Essen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Frankfurt am Main
Arrival train stations in 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.
Essen-AltenessenEssen-Altenessen, Hövelstraße 8, 45326 Essen
City-centre transport
Getting to Essen-Altenessen from Essen city centre
Essen-Altenessen is 3 km from Essen city centre. Public transport options include:
BusNe1 · 8m
Tram108 · 10m · every ~10 min
SubwayU11, U17 · 4m · every ~18 min
U17, U11 · 6m · every ~18 min
Essen-Altenessen train station facilities and services
Essen-Altenessen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Burger King, Werner, Bückmannsmühle, Muckel-Eis
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Essen-Altenessen. ATMs are available at Essen-Altenessen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Essen-Altenessen. Information desks are available at Essen-Altenessen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Essen-Altenessen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen-Altenessen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Essen-Altenessen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen-Altenessen.
Most popular train connections from Frankfurt am Main Airport
Most popular trains to and from Essen and Frankfurt am Main Airport
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