- Must visit
Museum Folkwang
World-class art museum in the Villa Hügel parkland, famous for 19th and 20th century masterpieces and changing exhibitions.
.png){kind=small}
.png){kind=small}
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Gelsenkirchen to Essen
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Gelsenkirchen to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $7 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 42m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.0kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $7, while a train costs an average of $7.
Distance: 6 miles (10 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$7 Average price Cheapest | $2 Average price (fuel + tolls) | |
42m Average total duration Fastest 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 21m Average total duration (door-to-door) | |
0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
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 Gelsenkirchen to Essen is a train with an average price of $7 (€6).
The fastest way to travel from Gelsenkirchen to Essen is by train with an average journey time of 12m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Gelsenkirchen and Essen including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Gelsenkirchen 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 9m sooner (12m by train vs 21m by car). Tickets start at around $7 (€6) compared to roughly $2 (€2) 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), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional).
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 Gelsenkirchen 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.
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sep 25
ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Gelsenkirchen 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
Quick and easy ticket inspectionSnack machine availableComfortable seats with good equipmentTrain was cleanno change was necessaryDisadvantages
Delay of 35 minutesToilet a little dirtyThis train had already arrived very late at the start. Over the course of the journey, there were further delays, so that the train ended up arriving 35 minutes late. Just as well, I didn't have to change trains on this journey. The train was clean and I had the opportunity to use the snack vending machine. I found the seats comfortable and they were adequately equipped. However, the toilet on the train was a bit dirty. The staff here were friendly and carried out a smooth ticket inspection. I must also emphasise here that the train was not full and it was therefore very quiet.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Gelsenkirchen to Essen
GermanyGermany
Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Essen run on average 2 times per day, taking around 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $4 (€3) if you book in advance.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:43, the last at 23:08. The fastest train covers the 6 miles (10 km) distance in 12m.
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 6 miles (10 km) |
Average train duration 12m |
Cheapest ticket price $4 (€3) |
Trains per day 2 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 12m |
First train 12:43 AM |
Last train 11:08 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Train companies: FlixTrain from Gelsenkirchen to Essen trainsFlixTrain trains will get you between Gelsenkirchen and Essen from $4 (€3). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
FlixTrain
About
FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixTrain Duration
12m
Cheapest FlixTrain Price
$4 (€3)
FlixTrain frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone
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 Gelsenkirchen to Essen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Gelsenkirchen 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 Gelsenkirchen to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $4 (€3), while the average price is around $7 (€6).
The train from Gelsenkirchen to Essen takes 12m and runs 2 per day.
The first train from Gelsenkirchen to Essen leaves at 12:43 AM.
The distance by train from Gelsenkirchen to Essen is 6 miles (10 km).
The last train from Gelsenkirchen to Essen leaves at 11:08 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Gelsenkirchen to Essen.
Yes, there is a direct train from Gelsenkirchen to Essen. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Gelsenkirchen to Essen.
The train station in Gelsenkirchen that goes to Essen is Gelsenkirchen Hbf, which connects to Essen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Gelsenkirchen to Essen is by train, with a cost of around $4 (€3).
The train journey from Gelsenkirchen to Essen is primarily urban, passing through developed industrial areas, so it is not particularly known for scenic views.
Yes, a day trip from Gelsenkirchen to Essen is feasible. The journey takes 12m and covers 6 miles (10 km). There are 2 trips per day by train.
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 Gelsenkirchen to Essen.
Since both Gelsenkirchen 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Gelsenkirchen 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 Gelsenkirchen to Essen
Most Gelsenkirchen to Essen trains use the Gelsenkirchen Hbf to Essen Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Essen-Steele. Use this guide to compare Gelsenkirchen and Essen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Gelsenkirchen
Arrival train stations in Essen
Which Gelsenkirchen station do trains to Essen leave from?
Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Essen leave from Gelsenkirchen Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Gelsenkirchen city centre at Gelsenkirchen Hbf, Bahnhofsvorplatz 10, 45879 Gelsenkirchen.
Gelsenkirchen HbfGelsenkirchen Hbf, Bahnhofsvorplatz 10, 45879 Gelsenkirchen
City-centre transport
Getting to Gelsenkirchen Hbf from Gelsenkirchen city centre
Gelsenkirchen Hbf is 1 km from Gelsenkirchen city centre. Public transport options include:
BusE51, 382, 348 · 12m · every ~10 min
Gelsenkirchen Hbf train station facilities and services
Gelsenkirchen 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: Subway, Café Madrid, Shere Punjab, Café del Sol
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf. ATMs are available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf. Information desks are available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel St. Petrus.
Which Essen station do trains from Gelsenkirchen arrive at?
Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Essen most often arrive at Essen Hbf. Some services arrive at Essen-Steele, 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-SteeleEssen-Steele, Steeler Platz 1, 45276 Essen
City-centre transport
Getting to Essen-Steele from Essen city centre
Essen-Steele is 4 km from Essen city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS1, S3 · 6m · $1 · every ~11 min
BusNe5 · 13m
S1, S3 · 16m · $5
Essen-Steele train station facilities and services
Essen-Steele 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: Bootshaus Ruhreck, Da Vinici, Asia-Nudeln, Bacchos
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Essen-Steele. ATMs are available at Essen-Steele.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Essen-Steele. Information desks are available at Essen-Steele.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Essen-Steele. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen-Steele: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Essen-Steele: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen-Steele.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Zur Guten Quelle, Hotel Töff-Töff, Budike.
Most popular train connections from Gelsenkirchen
More options for your journey from Gelsenkirchen to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Essen and Gelsenkirchen
Most popular train connections to Essen
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
