FRANKFURT AM MAIN to ESSEN train from €7 with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RE)

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Frankfurt am Main to Essen

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 02

Cheapest price on Sep 02

€21

Average ticket price on Sep 02

€62

Fastest journey on Sep 02

2 h 48 m

Average journey duration on Sep 02

2 h 56 m

Trains on Sep 02

Distance

190 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Frankfurt am Main 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 to Essen will cost around €62 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €21.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Frankfurt am Main to Essen without transferring at least once.

FlixTrain · FlixTrain
11:58 AM8h50
Frankfurt South station
8:48 PMEssen Hbf
€211One-way
1 transfer
IC 1141 · 17409 · 26813
6:43 AM4h20
Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
11:03 AMEssen Hbf
€391One-way
2 transfers
4491 · IC 1149 · 17413 · 26817
8:38 AM4h25
Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
1:03 PMEssen Hbf
€431One-way
3 transfers
ICE 1022 · 17411 · 26815
7:43 AM4h20
Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
12:03 PMEssen Hbf
€441One-way
2 transfers
ICE 994 · 26714
8:20 AM4h25
Frankfurt South station
12:45 PMEssen Hbf
€621One-way
1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Frankfurt am Main to Essen

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Frankfurt am Main to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €19 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 2h 45m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €19, while a flight costs an average of €113.

Distance: 118 miles (190 km)

Compare train with

Most popular Train	Bus	Flight	Driving
€40 Average price	€19 Average price Cheapest	€113 Average price	€36 Average price (fuel + tolls)
3h 39m Average total duration 3h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	4h 12m Average total duration 3h 42m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	2h 45m Average total duration Fastest 45m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time*	2h 59m Average total duration (door-to-door)
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest	0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions	0.6 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions	- CO2 emissions
Most popular train company	Most popular bus company	Most popular airline	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 Frankfurt am Main to Essen is a bus with an average price of €19.

This is compared to other travel options from Frankfurt am Main to Essen:

A bus is €21 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Frankfurt am Main to Essen costing on average €40.

A bus is €94 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Frankfurt am Main to Essen costing on average €113.

The fastest way to travel from Frankfurt am Main to Essen is by flight with an average journey time of 45m.

Other travel options to Essen take longer:

Train takes on average 3h 9m.

Bus takes on average 3h 42m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Frankfurt am Main and Essen including taking a train, bus, and flight.

We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Frankfurt am Main to Essen 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 €40 compared to roughly €36 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-4.53. The journey takes 3h 9m versus 2h 59m 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

Frankfurt am Main to Essen train times

The table below shows live departures for Frankfurt am Main to Essen trains for today, Tuesday, September 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
ICE 526	9:08 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	2h07	11:15 PM Essen Hbf	0 transfersDirect
Wednesday, September 2
ICE 220 · 89713	On time 6:39 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	2h48	9:27 AM Essen Hbf	1 transfer
IC 1141 · 17409 · 26813	On time 6:43 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	4h20	11:03 AM Essen Hbf	2 transfers
ICE 378 · IC 2156 · 26712	On time 7:15 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	4h30	11:45 AM Essen Hbf	2 transfers
ICE 1022 · 17411 · 26815	On time 7:43 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	4h20	12:03 PM Essen Hbf	2 transfers
ICE 2522 · 17409 · 26813	On time 8:08 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	2h55	11:03 AM Essen Hbf	2 transfers
ICE 1612 · 17409 · 26813	On time 8:12 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	2h51	11:03 AM Essen Hbf	2 transfers
ICE 994 · 26714	On time 8:20 AM Frankfurt South station	4h25	12:45 PM Essen Hbf	1 transfer
ICE 128 · 89717	On time 8:38 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	2h49	11:27 AM Essen Hbf	1 transfer
4491 · IC 1149 · 17413 · 26817	8:38 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	4h25	1:03 PM Essen Hbf	3 transfers
ICE 1656 · ICE 614 · 30770	On time 8:43 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	3h15	11:58 AM Essen Hbf	2 transfers
FlixTrain · FlixTrain	11:58 AM Frankfurt South station	8h50	8:48 PM Essen Hbf	1 transfer
This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Frankfurt am Main to Essen 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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Why should you book Frankfurt am Main to Essen trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Hessische Landesbahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), vlexx and more offer trains services from Frankfurt am Main to Essen.

Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Frankfurt am Main 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 Hessische Landesbahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) or vlexx to find the best option for your trip from Frankfurt am Main 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 to Essen.

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 Frankfurt am Main to Essen.

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Frankfurt am Main to Essen

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

Comfort

Equipment (wifi, sockets)

Cleanliness

Disadvantages

Price

My train ticket from Frankfurt am Main to Essen was really great! The comfort on the train was top, and the equipment with wifi and sockets made the journey really pleasant. I was pleasantly surprised by the cleanliness of the train, everything was tidy. But yes, the price was admittedly not exactly cheap. But, if you are willing to spend a bit more to travel in comfort, then this train ticket is definitely the right choice. I would book it again despite the price because the comfort and facilities were just great.

Advantages

Direct connection

Speed

Service

Disadvantages

Frequency

Capacity utilisation

Cleanliness

My journey from Frankfurt to Essen went without a hitch. The direct connection is comfortable, fast and the service on board on the day of travel was top class. On the negative side, the occupancy rate was high during my journey and the cleanliness in one of the compartments was in part worthy of criticism. Also, the train only runs every 2 hours as a direct connection. All in all, I am very satisfied with my journey from Frankfurt to Essen and would use the train again in the future,

Advantages

Everything works well

Good connection

Disadvantages

The train was unfortunately very full

The staff was overwhelmed

The ICE had wifi and also a power socket. The seats were comfortable, the noise level was OK, we didn't use the catering. The toilet was okay, but not particularly clean. The ICE was on time and the price-performance ratio was okay. We got our connecting train. The travel connection was fast. It is better to travel by train than by car.

Advantages

Fast connection

Comfortable travel

Disadvantages

Cold

As with the outward journey, the return journey was also satisfactory. Fast connection without changing trains, which made the journey very pleasant. Unfortunately, it was again a bit chilly on the train and the conductor was not in a particularly good mood either. But not every day is the same. The wifi connection held up for the most part and the train was relatively clean.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Frankfurt am Main to Essen

Germany

Trains from Frankfurt am Main to Essen run on average 10 times per day, taking around 3h 9m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €7 if you book in advance.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:48. The fastest train covers the 118 miles (190 km) distance in 1h 55m.

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

Distance

118 miles (190 km)

Average train duration

3h 9m

Cheapest ticket price

€7

Trains per day

Direct trains

Fastest train

1h 55m

First train

12:01 AM

Last train

11:48 PM

Cheapest Month

Jun

Cheapest Day

Wed

High Season

Oct - Dec

Low Season

Apr - Jun

Busiest Day

Fri

Least Busy Day

Sun

Best time to book

14 days

Price information

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Hessische Landesbahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), vlexx from Frankfurt am Main to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, Hessische Landesbahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), vlexx trains will get you between Frankfurt am Main and Essen from €7. 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

1h 55m

Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price

€7

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

Learn more about Deutsche Bahn

Hessische Landesbahn

About

Hessische Landesbahn (HLB) is a regional transport company owned by the German state of Hesse, headquartered in Frankfurt am Main. It provides extensive bus and rail passenger transport services within Hesse and extends its operations into neighboring states like Bavaria, Lower Saxony, North Rhine-Westphalia, Rhineland-Palatinate, and Thuringia. HLB operates as a holding company with subsidiaries managing rail services (HLB Hessenbahn GmbH), bus services (HLB Hessenbus GmbH), and infrastructure/vehicle resources (HLB Basis AG). Their diverse fleet includes modern train types such as Stadler FLIRT, Alstom LINT, and Coradia Continental trains. Tickets from Deutsche Bahn are also valid on HLB trains.

Luggage & cancellation policy

Hessische Landesbahn frequency

1 a day

Luggage included

One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage free of charge

Luggage storage

Overhead racks and designated luggage areas

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation possible according to fare conditions

Refund

Full refund for canceled services

Amenities on board the train

Wifi

Food sold onboard

Snack and beverage service available on some routes

Seat reservation

Seat reservations available for an additional fee

Toilets

USB plugs

Accessibility

Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available

Pets

Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require a ticket and must be leashed

Quiet zone

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) Duration

1h 54m

Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) Price

€45

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency

12 a day

Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) Duration

2h 3m

Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) Price

€54

Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) frequency

9 a day

vlexx

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average vlexx Duration

1h 58m

Cheapest vlexx Price

€51

vlexx frequency

6 a day

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

Museum Folkwang

World-class art museum in the Villa Hügel parkland, famous for 19th and 20th century masterpieces and changing exhibitions.

View on map Visit website

Must visit

Ruhr Museum

Ruhr Museum presents the region’s natural, cultural, and industrial history inside Zollverein’s iconic coal washery.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Deutsches Plakat Museum

Internationally important poster museum with graphic design, advertising, and visual culture collections in a central location.

View on map Visit website

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.

FAQs: Trains from Frankfurt am Main to Essen

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Frankfurt am Main 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.

Train ticket prices from Frankfurt am Main to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €7, while the average price is around €40.

The train from Frankfurt am Main to Essen takes 1h 55m and runs 10 per day.

The first train from Frankfurt am Main to Essen leaves at 12:01 AM.

The distance by train from Frankfurt am Main to Essen is 118 miles (190 km).

The last train from Frankfurt am Main to Essen leaves at 11:48 PM.

Yes, there is a direct train from Frankfurt am Main to Essen. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).

Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Frankfurt am Main to Essen.

The train station in Frankfurt am Main that goes to Essen is Frankfurt (Main) Hbf, which connects to Essen Hbf.

The cheapest way to get from Frankfurt am Main to Essen is by train, with a cost of around €7.

The train journey from Frankfurt am Main to Essen offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the Rhine River, rolling hills, and industrial landscapes, providing a pleasant but not particularly dramatic experience.

A day trip from Frankfurt am Main to Essen is feasible with a travel time of 1h 55m and a distance of 118 miles (190 km). There are 13 trains available per day.

To explore Essen's key attractions, such as the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, Museum Folkwang, and Grugapark, a stay of 2 to 3 days is generally sufficient.

Yes, you can take the train from Frankfurt am Main to Essen.

Since both Frankfurt am Main and Essen 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 Essen include Cologne, Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Münster, Aachen.

We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Frankfurt am Main to Essen 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 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.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Frankfurt am Main to Essen

Most Frankfurt am Main 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 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

Which Frankfurt am Main station do trains to Essen leave from?

Trains from Frankfurt am Main to Essen leave from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Frankfurt am Main city centre at Im Hauptbahnhof, 60329 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.

Frankfurt (Main) HbfIm Hauptbahnhof, 60329 Frankfurt am Main, Germany Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Frankfurt (Main) Hbf from Frankfurt am Main city centre

Frankfurt (Main) Hbf is 1 km from Frankfurt am Main city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS9, S8, S6, S5, S4, S3, S2, S1 · 5m · €1 · every ~51 min

BusN5, N12, N4 · 5m · every ~1 min

Tram18, 14, 12, 11 · 6m · €3 · every ~38 min

SubwayU5, U4 · 4m · €3 · every ~39 min

Frankfurt (Main) Hbf train station facilities and services

Frankfurt (Main) 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: asiagourmet, Burger King, Ciao Bella, Coffee Fellows, Crepes de France Express, dean&david, Starbucks, Uddin's Sky Sportsbar, McDonald's, Dunkin Donuts, & many more

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf. Information desks are located opposite Platforms 12 and 13.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located in the main hall. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf: Step-free access and step markings. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Cristall, Grand Hotel Empire, Hotel Carlton.

More about Frankfurt (Main) Hbf

Frankfurt Flughafen FernbfFrankfurt am Main Flughafen Fernbahnhof, 60549 Frankfurt am Main, Germany+49 69 2651055 Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf from Frankfurt am Main city centre

Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf is 10 km from Frankfurt am Main city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainIce · 11m · €2

Trn · 12m · €3

S8, S9 · 19m · €3 · every ~5 min

BusS8e · 28m · €6

X61, 61 · 41m · every ~13 min

61, X61 · 42m · every ~13 min

Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf train station facilities and services

Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.