- 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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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 €49. 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 €49, and a train costs an average of €149.
Distance: 284 miles (458 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€162 Average price | €60 Average price Cheapest | €84 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 €60.
This is compared to other travel options from Friedrichshafen to Essen:
A bus is €103 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Friedrichshafen to Essen costing on average €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 €162 compared to roughly €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.
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.
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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 €149 but you can travel from only €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 €49
Distance 284 miles (458 km) |
Average train duration 5h 57m |
Cheapest ticket price €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 €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 €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
€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
€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
€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
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.
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 €149, while the average price is around €162.
The train from Friedrichshafen to Essen takes 6h 53m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Friedrichshafen to Essen is 284 miles (458 km).
The first train from Friedrichshafen to Essen leaves at 1:09 AM.
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 €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
Most Friedrichshafen to Essen trains use the Friedrichshafen Stadt to Essen Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus. Use this guide to compare Friedrichshafen and Essen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Friedrichshafen
Arrival train stations in Essen
Which Friedrichshafen station do trains to Essen leave from?
Trains from Friedrichshafen to Essen leave from Friedrichshafen Stadt. The station is from Friedrichshafen city centre at Friedrichshafen Stadt, Stadtbahnhof 1, 88045 Friedrichshafen.
Friedrichshafen StadtFriedrichshafen Stadt, Stadtbahnhof 1, 88045 Friedrichshafen
City-centre transport
Getting to Friedrichshafen Stadt from Friedrichshafen city centre
Bus7395 · 5m · €2
Friedrichshafen Stadt train station facilities and services
Friedrichshafen Stadt 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: Kochlöffel, Ailinger Hof, Cafe Vinebar Al Porto, Felders
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Friedrichshafen Stadt. ATMs are available at Friedrichshafen Stadt.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Friedrichshafen Stadt. Information desks are available at Friedrichshafen Stadt.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Friedrichshafen Stadt. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Friedrichshafen Stadt: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Friedrichshafen Stadt: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Friedrichshafen Stadt.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Stadthotel Kleiner Berg, Select Hotel Goldenes Rad Friedrichshafen, Schwanen, Villa Von Soden.
Friedrichshafen FlughafenFriedrichshafen Flughafen, Am Flugplatz 64, 88046 Meckenbeuren
City-centre transport
Getting to Friedrichshafen Flughafen from Friedrichshafen city centre
Friedrichshafen Flughafen is 3 km from Friedrichshafen city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb91 · 5m · €1 · every ~2 min
BusR45 · 9m · €3 · every ~2 min
Friedrichshafen Flughafen train station facilities and services
Friedrichshafen Flughafen 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: Do-X, Imbiss auf Besucherterrasse, LSC Restaurant, Volare
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Friedrichshafen Flughafen. ATMs are available at Friedrichshafen Flughafen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Friedrichshafen Flughafen. Information desks are available at Friedrichshafen Flughafen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Friedrichshafen Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Friedrichshafen Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Friedrichshafen Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Friedrichshafen Flughafen.
Which Essen station do trains from Friedrichshafen arrive at?
Trains from Friedrichshafen to Essen most often arrive at Essen Hbf. Some services arrive at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Essen arrival station.
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 Thyssenhaus
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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