- Must visit
Museum Folkwang
One of Germany’s leading art museums, known for major 19th- to 21st-century collections and high-quality temporary exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Friedrichshafen to Essen
Showing times and prices for Jun 16
Cheapest price
$99
Average price
$113
Fastest journey
5 h 16 m
Average duration
5 h 18 m
Trains per day
15
Distance
458 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Friedrichshafen to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Friedrichshafen to Essen will cost around $113 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $99.
Fast trains
Of the 15 trains that leave Friedrichshafen for Essen on Tue, Jun 16, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Jun 16 the direct trains cover the 458 km distance in an average of 5 h 18 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 16 m .
On Tue, Jun 16 the slowest trains will take 5 h 19 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.
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12:35 PM6h18Friedrichshafen6:53 PMEssen$991One-way0 transfers.png)
5:27 AM5h31Friedrichshafen10:58 AMEssen$1121One-way1 transfer- 6:03 AM5h19Friedrichshafen11:22 AMEssen$1121One-way1 transfer
- 7:32 AM5h26Friedrichshafen12:58 PMEssen$1121One-way1 transfer
- 8:06 AM5h16Friedrichshafen1:22 PMEssen$1121One-way1 transfer
- 8:06 AM5h16Friedrichshafen1:22 PMEssen$1121One-way1 transfer
- 10:05 AM5h17Friedrichshafen3:22 PMEssen$1121One-way1 transfer
- 4:05 PM5h17Friedrichshafen9:22 PMEssen$1121One-way1 transfer
- 6:03 AM5h19Friedrichshafen11:22 AMEssen$1121One-way1 transfer
- 12:03 PM5h19Friedrichshafen5:22 PMEssen$1121One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Friedrichshafen to Essen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Friedrichshafen to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $60. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 57m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $60, and a train costs an average of $184.
Distance: 284 miles (458 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$200 Average price | $74 Average price Cheapest | $104 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 27m Average total duration Fastest 5h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 13h 50m Average total duration 13h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 58m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.5 - 1.1kg 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 Friedrichshafen to Essen is a bus with an average price of $74 (€60).
This is compared to other travel options from Friedrichshafen to Essen:
A bus is $126 (€103) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Friedrichshafen to Essen costing on average $200 (€162).
The fastest way to travel from Friedrichshafen to Essen is by train with an average journey time of 5h 57m.
Other travel options to Essen take longer:
Bus takes on average 13h 20m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Friedrichshafen and Essen including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Friedrichshafen to Essen among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 1h 1m sooner (5h 57m by train vs 6h 58m by car). Tickets start at around $200 (€162) compared to roughly $104 (€84) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Friedrichshafen to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for Friedrichshafen to Essen trains for today, Monday, June 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4208 · ICE 1010 · ICE 926 · ICE 641 | On time 8:06 AM Friedrichshafen Stadt | 7h12 | 3:18 PM Essen Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| 4208 · ICE 1010 | On time 8:06 AM Friedrichshafen Stadt | 5h16 | 1:22 PM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 4240 · ICE 690 · ICE 200 | On time 8:35 AM Friedrichshafen Stadt | 5h23 | 1:58 PM Essen Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| 4210 · ICE 568 · ICE 770 · ICE 1645 | On time 9:05 AM Friedrichshafen Stadt | 6h53 | 3:58 PM Essen Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| 4806 · ICE 610 | On time 9:34 AM Friedrichshafen Stadt | 5h24 | 2:58 PM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Friedrichshafen to Essen 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.
Tue
Jun 16
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Why should you book Friedrichshafen to Essen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or DB ZugBus Regionalverkehr Alb-Bodensee GmbH (RAB) offer trains services from Friedrichshafen to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Friedrichshafen 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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or DB ZugBus Regionalverkehr Alb-Bodensee GmbH (RAB) to find the best option for your trip from Friedrichshafen 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Friedrichshafen to Essen.
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 Friedrichshafen to Essen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Friedrichshafen to Essen
GermanyGermany
Trains from Friedrichshafen to Essen run on average 6 times per day, taking around 5h 57m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $184 (€149) but you can travel from only $60 (€49) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 01:09, the last at 23:00. The fastest train covers the 284 miles (458 km) distance in 6h 53m.
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 $60 (€49)
Distance 284 miles (458 km) |
Average train duration 5h 57m |
Cheapest ticket price $184 (€149) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 6h 53m |
First train 1:09 AM |
Last train 11:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 35 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 $60 (€49)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), DB ZugBus Regionalverkehr Alb-Bodensee GmbH (RAB) from Friedrichshafen to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), DB ZugBus Regionalverkehr Alb-Bodensee GmbH (RAB) trains will get you between Friedrichshafen and Essen from $60 (€49). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
About
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main train operator, running around 40,000 domestic and international services each day. Its fleet includes a variety of train types: high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) trains, reaching up to 300 km/h; IC (Intercity) and EC (EuroCity) trains for long-distance travel; and IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express), and RB (Regionalbahn) services for regional and local connections. While bathrooms are standard on all trains, amenities such as onboard restaurants and free Wi-Fi are available only on certain train types and routes. DB offers a wide range of fares, including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible tickets, along with discount cards like the BahnCard 25, 50, and 100. Additional options include single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Popular routes include Berlin–Munich, Hamburg–Frankfurt, Cologne–Stuttgart, Berlin–Dresden, and Hamburg–Cologne, as well as numerous regional services across Germany.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 53m
Cheapest Price
$184 (€149)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
6 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
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 18m
Cheapest Price
$99 (€80)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
2 a day
DB ZugBus Regionalverkehr Alb-Bodensee GmbH (RAB)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 16m
Cheapest Price
$112 (€91)
DB ZugBus Regionalverkehr Alb-Bodensee GmbH (RAB) frequency
8 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
Ruhr Museum
The main regional museum of the Ruhr, inside the Zollverein Coal Mine complex, covering industrial, cultural, and natural history.
- Recommended
Red Dot Design Museum
A design museum in the former boiler house of Zollverein, displaying award-winning product and industrial design in a dramatic setting.
- Must visit
Baldeneysee
Large lake and recreation area popular for walking, cycling, sailing views, and relaxed Ruhr scenery.
- Recommended
Kettwiger Straße
The main pedestrian shopping street in central Essen, lively and practical for first-time visitors exploring downtown on foot.
- Recommended
Grugapark
A major urban park with gardens, open lawns, themed areas, and seasonal appeal, popular with locals and families.
Currywurst
Sliced Bratwurst with a spiced ketchup-style curry sauce, a Ruhrgebiet classic popular as quick comfort food.
- Gluten-free
Pfefferpotthast
A traditional Westphalian beef stew seasoned generously with black pepper, long associated with nearby Westphalia and hearty regional cooking.
- Gluten-free
Himmel und Erde
A Rhineland and Ruhr favorite combining mashed potatoes and applesauce, often served with fried onions and sausage.
Schote
Well-known fine dining restaurant in Essen, recognized for modern seasonal cuisine and an elegant, upscale atmosphere.
Südtiroler Stuben
Longstanding upscale restaurant with a strong reputation for classic European cuisine, polished service, and a formal setting.
Restaurant Hannappel
Established traditional-style venue in Essen-Horst, appreciated for regional German dishes and a warm, classic atmosphere.
Euro
Prices are moderate by German standards. Supermarkets and casual dining are reasonable, while hotels and fine dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or takeaway.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60-120 per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-4.50 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. In restaurants, add about 5-10% for good service; round up in taxis; small tips are optional in cafés and bars.
VRR App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 3.60
- Day pass
- EUR 8.90
To the city center
Essen Hbf, Essen -> Essen Hbf, Essen
- Distance
- 0 km
- Travel time
- 0 min
- You can buy VRR tickets in the VRR App, at ticket machines, and at many stations; validate paper tickets if required before travel.
- Card payment is commonly accepted in ticket machines, but on-board payment on buses or trams may be limited, so buy your ticket in advance when possible.
FAQs: Trains from Friedrichshafen to Essen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Friedrichshafen 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 Friedrichshafen to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $184 (€149), while the average price is around $200 (€162).
The train from Friedrichshafen to Essen takes 6h 53m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Friedrichshafen to Essen leaves at 1:09 AM.
The distance by train from Friedrichshafen to Essen is 284 miles (458 km).
The last train from Friedrichshafen to Essen leaves at 11:00 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Friedrichshafen to Essen. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Friedrichshafen to Essen.
The train station in Friedrichshafen that goes to Essen is Friedrichshafen Stadt, which connects to Essen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Friedrichshafen to Essen is by bus, with a cost of around $60 (€49).
The train journey from Friedrichshafen to Essen offers scenic views, particularly as it passes by Lake Constance and through the rolling hills and picturesque landscapes of the Swabian Alps and the Rhine Valley.
A day trip from Friedrichshafen to Essen is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 53m each way. However, there are 8 train trips available per day. The distance is 284 miles (458 km).
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 Friedrichshafen to Essen.
Since both Friedrichshafen 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 Friedrichshafen 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 Friedrichshafen to Essen
Friedrichshafen
Essen
The major train station for departures in Friedrichshafen is Friedrichshafen Stadt. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Friedrichshafen Stadt for your trip from Friedrichshafen to Essen.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 08:00 - 18:30
- Tuesday: 08:00 - 18:30
- Wednesday: 08:00 - 18:30
- Thursday: 08:00 - 18:30
- Friday: 08:00 - 18:30
- Saturday: 08:15 - 16:30
- Sunday: 12:00 - 17:00
Dining
- Kochlöffel
- Ailinger Hof
- Cafe Vinebar Al Porto
- Felders
Hotel
- Stadthotel Kleiner Berg
- Select Hotel Goldenes Rad Friedrichshafen
- Schwanen
- Villa Von Soden
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
3 kmDining
- Do-X
- Imbiss auf Besucherterrasse
- LSC Restaurant
- Volare
The major train station for arrivals in Essen is Essen Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Essen Hbf for your journey to Essen from Friedrichshafen.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Saturday: 09:00 - 18:00
- Sunday: 09:00 - 18:00
Dining
- Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
- Kiepenkerl
- Cafe Extrablatt
- Tacos
Hotel
- Ambassador
- Gästearpartment Dahl
- WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus
- Motel One
Most popular train connections from Friedrichshafen
More options for your journey from Friedrichshafen to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Essen and Friedrichshafen
Most popular train connections to Essen
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