- 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 Gifhorn to Essen
Showing times and prices for Aug 06
Cheapest price
$99
Average price
$99
Fastest journey
3 h 7 m
Average duration
3 h 7 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
268 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Gifhorn to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Gifhorn to Essen will cost around $99 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $99.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Gifhorn for Essen on Thu, Aug 06, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Aug 06 the direct trains cover the 268 km distance in an average of 3 h 7 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 7 m .
On Thu, Aug 06 the slowest trains will take 3 h 7 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.
10:31 AM3h07Gifhorn1:38 PMEssen$991One-way0 transfers
- 10:31 AM3h07Gifhorn1:38 PMEssen$991One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Gifhorn to Essen
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Gifhorn to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $21. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 6m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $21, and a flight costs an average of $535.
Distance: 166 miles (268 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$93 Average price | $40 Average price Cheapest | $651 Average price | $57 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 36m Average total duration Fastest 3h 6m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 20m Average total duration 5h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 40m Average total duration 3h 40m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 46m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions | 0.8 - 1.6kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
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 Gifhorn to Essen is a bus with an average price of $40.
This is compared to other travel options from Gifhorn to Essen:
A bus is $53 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Gifhorn to Essen costing on average $93.
A bus is $611 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Gifhorn to Essen costing on average $651.
The fastest way to travel from Gifhorn to Essen is by train with an average journey time of 3h 6m.
Other travel options to Essen take longer:
Flight takes on average 3h 40m.
Bus takes on average 5h 50m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Gifhorn and Essen including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Gifhorn 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 40m sooner (3h 6m by train vs 3h 46m by car). Tickets start at around $93 compared to roughly $57 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.
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
Gifhorn to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for Gifhorn to Essen trains for today, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 5:16 AM Gifhorn | 3h22 | 8:38 AM Essen | 2 transfers | |
| 6:16 AM Gifhorn | 3h19 | 9:35 AM Essen | 2 transfers | |
| 7:16 AM Gifhorn | 3h22 | 10:38 AM Essen | 2 transfers | |
| 8:16 AM Gifhorn | 3h19 | 11:35 AM Essen | 2 transfers | |
| 9:16 AM Gifhorn | 3h22 | 12:38 PM Essen | 2 transfers | |
| 10:16 AM Gifhorn | 3h19 | 1:35 PM Essen | 2 transfers | |
| 11:16 AM Gifhorn | 3h22 | 2:38 PM Essen | 2 transfers | |
| 12:16 PM Gifhorn | 3h19 | 3:35 PM Essen | 2 transfers | |
| 1:16 PM Gifhorn | 3h22 | 4:38 PM Essen | 2 transfers | |
| 2:16 PM Gifhorn | 3h19 | 5:35 PM Essen | 2 transfers | |
| 3:16 PM Gifhorn | 3h22 | 6:38 PM Essen | 2 transfers | |
| 4:16 PM Gifhorn | 3h19 | 7:35 PM Essen | 2 transfers | |
| 5:16 PM Gifhorn | 3h21 | 8:37 PM Essen | 2 transfers | |
| 6:16 PM Gifhorn | 3h19 | 9:35 PM Essen | 2 transfers | |
| 7:16 PM Gifhorn | 3h22 | 10:38 PM Essen | 2 transfers | |
| 8:16 PM Gifhorn | 3h19 | 11:35 PM Essen | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Gifhorn 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from Gifhorn to Essen
GermanyGermany
Trains from Gifhorn to Essen run on average 8 times per day, taking around 3h 6m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $87 but you can travel from only $21 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:25, the last at 16:32. The fastest train covers the 166 miles (268 km) distance in 3h 4m.
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 $21
Distance 166 miles (268 km) |
Average train duration 3h 6m |
Cheapest ticket price $87 |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 3h 4m |
First train 5:25 AM |
Last train 4:32 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
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 $21
Train companies: Erixx from Gifhorn to Essen trainsErixx trains will get you between Gifhorn and Essen from $21. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Erixx
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 19m
Erixx frequency
16 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 Gifhorn to Essen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Gifhorn 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 Gifhorn to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $87, while the average price is around $93.
The train from Gifhorn to Essen takes 3h 4m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Gifhorn to Essen leaves at 5:25 AM.
The distance by train from Gifhorn to Essen is 166 miles (268 km).
The last train from Gifhorn to Essen leaves at 4:32 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Gifhorn to Essen.
There is no direct train service currently available from Gifhorn to Essen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Gifhorn to Essen.
The train station in Gifhorn that goes to Essen is Gifhorn station, which connects to Essen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Gifhorn to Essen is by bus, with a cost of around $21.
The train journey from Gifhorn to Essen offers a mix of scenic views, including stretches of picturesque countryside and charming small towns, especially as you travel through Lower Saxony and North Rhine-Westphalia. However, some parts of the route may include more urban or industrial landscapes.
A day trip from Gifhorn to Essen is not feasible due to the travel time of 3h 4m. However, there are 8 train trips available per day for this route.
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 Gifhorn to Essen.
Since both Gifhorn 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 Gifhorn 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 Gifhorn to Essen
Most Gifhorn to Essen trains use the Gifhorn to Essen Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Essen Süd. Use this guide to compare Gifhorn and Essen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Gifhorn
Arrival train stations in Essen
Which Gifhorn station do trains to Essen leave from?
Trains from Gifhorn to Essen leave from Gifhorn. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Gifhorn city centre at Gifhorn, Hallsberg-Platz 4 , 38518 Gifhorn.
GifhornGifhorn, Hallsberg-Platz 4 , 38518 Gifhorn
City-centre transport
Getting to Gifhorn from Gifhorn city centre
Gifhorn is 2 km from Gifhorn city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb · 4m · $2 · every ~3 min
Bus170, 141, 140, 100 · 9m · every ~5 min
Gifhorn train station facilities and services
Gifhorn 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: ANNA, La Cantina
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Gifhorn. ATMs are available at Gifhorn.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Gifhorn. Information desks are available at Gifhorn.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Gifhorn. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Gifhorn: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Gifhorn: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Gifhorn.
Which Essen station do trains from Gifhorn arrive at?
Trains from Gifhorn to Essen most often arrive at Essen Hbf. Some services arrive at Essen Süd, 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 SüdEssen Süd, Rellinghauser Str.175, 45136 Essen
City-centre transport
Getting to Essen Süd from Essen city centre
Essen Süd is 1 km from Essen city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS6 · 2m · $1 · every ~6 min
BusS6 · 10m · $4
Tram105 · 9m · every ~10 min
Essen Süd train station facilities and services
Essen Süd 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, Haus Wilmes, Mana Mana, Karawane
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Essen Süd. ATMs are available at Essen Süd.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Essen Süd. Information desks are available at Essen Süd.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Essen Süd. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen Süd: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Essen Süd: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen Süd.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Webers.
Most popular train connections from Gifhorn
More options for your journey from Gifhorn to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Essen and Gifhorn
Most popular train connections to Essen
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