- 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 Groningen to Essen
Showing times and prices for Jul 15
Cheapest price
$52
Average price
$70
Fastest journey
4 h 17 m
Average duration
4 h 23 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
198 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Groningen to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Groningen to Essen will cost around $70 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $52.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Groningen to Essen without transferring at least 3 times.
RE 6118 · IC 17915 · 20203 · ICE 1055:32 AM4h26Groningen station9:58 AMEssen Hbf$521One-way3 transfers- IC 520 · IC 3621 · S3+
200156:18 AM4h17Groningen station10:35 AMEssen Hbf$771One-way4 transfers - IC 718 · RE RS23 · 20257 · 101205:48 AM4h26Groningen station10:14 AMEssen Hbf$811One-way3 transfers
- IC 520 · IC 3621 · S3+200156:18 AM4h17Groningen station10:35 AMEssen Hbf$771One-way4 transfers
- IC 718 · RE RS23 · 20257 · 101205:48 AM4h26Groningen station10:14 AMEssen Hbf$811One-way3 transfers
- RE 6118 · IC 17915 · 20203 · ICE 1055:32 AM4h26Groningen station9:58 AMEssen Hbf$521One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Groningen to Essen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Groningen to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $17. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 47m. 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 $17, and a train costs an average of $40.
Distance: 123 miles (198 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$73 Average price | $37 Average price Cheapest | $54 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 17m Average total duration Fastest 3h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 17m Average total duration 9h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 43m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg 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 Groningen to Essen is a bus with an average price of $37 (€30).
This is compared to other travel options from Groningen to Essen:
A bus is $36 (€30) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Groningen to Essen costing on average $73 (€60).
The fastest way to travel from Groningen to Essen is by train with an average journey time of 3h 47m.
Other travel options to Essen take longer:
Bus takes on average 9h 47m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Groningen and Essen including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Groningen 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 $73 (€60) compared to roughly $54 (€44) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-19.41 (€-16.00). The journey takes 3h 47m versus 2h 43m 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
Groningen to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for Groningen to Essen trains for today, Tuesday, July 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IC 544 · ICE 127 · ICE 1520 | On time 12:18 PM Groningen station | 4h36 | 4:54 PM Essen Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| IC 544 · IC 3645+20027+S3 | 12:18 PM Groningen station | 4h17 | 4:35 PM Essen Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| IC 548 · IC 3649 · ICE 127 · ICE 1520 | On time 1:18 PM Groningen station | 3h36 | 4:54 PM Essen Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| RE 6150 · IC 17947 · 20219 · ICE 203 | On time 1:32 PM Groningen station | 4h26 | 5:58 PM Essen Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| IC 750 · RE RS23 · 20273 · 58306 | 1:48 PM Groningen station | 4h26 | 6:14 PM Essen Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| RE 6118 · IC 17915 · 20203 · ICE 105 | On time 5:32 AM Groningen station | 4h26 | 9:58 AM Essen Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| IC 718 · RE RS23 · 20257 · 10120 | 5:48 AM Groningen station | 4h26 | 10:14 AM Essen Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| IC 520 · IC 3621 · S3+21231 | 6:18 AM Groningen station | 4h17 | 10:35 AM Essen Hbf | 4 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Groningen to Essen by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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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Jul 21
Why should you book Groningen to Essen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as VIAS Rail GmbH, WestfalenBahn, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) and more offer trains services from Groningen to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Groningen 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 VIAS Rail GmbH, WestfalenBahn or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from Groningen 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Groningen to Essen.
Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of VIAS Rail GmbH, WestfalenBahn or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from Groningen to Essen.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Groningen to Essen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Groningen to Essen
Netherlands
Germany
Trains from Groningen to Essen run on average 15 times per day, taking around 3h 47m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $40 (€33) but you can travel from only $17 (€14) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 02:50, the last at 23:08. The fastest train covers the 123 miles (198 km) distance in 3h 40m.
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 $17 (€14)
Distance 123 miles (198 km) |
Average train duration 3h 47m |
Cheapest ticket price $40 (€33) |
Trains per day 15 |
Fastest train 3h 40m |
First train 2:50 AM |
Last train 11:08 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $17 (€14)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH, WestfalenBahn, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Groningen to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH, WestfalenBahn, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Groningen and Essen from $17 (€14). 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
3h 40m
Cheapest Price
$40 (€33)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
13 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
VIAS Rail GmbH
About
VIAS Rail GmbH is a German rail service company based in Frankfurt, operating passenger rail services in the states of Hesse, Rhineland-Palatinate, and North Rhine-Westphalia. The name "VIAS" is derived from the Latin word "via" (way) and "S" for service. VIAS Rail GmbH operates numerous regional train lines, including services on the Odenwald Railway network and lines in the Rhein-Main Gebiet. They utilize various train types, such as Bombardier Itino and Stadler FLIRT vehicles. The company is a subsidiary of the RATH Group.
Luggage & cancellation policy
VIAS Rail GmbH frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack and beverage service available
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
WestfalenBahn
About
WestfalenBahn is a train company offering regional trains in Lower Saxony and North Rhine-Westphalia in Northern Germany. Founded in 2005, it has been owned by Abellio Deutschland since 2017. WestfahlenBahn covers the RE15, RE60 and RE70 regional train routes serving cities like Emden, Braunschweig, Hanover, Münster and Bielefeld.
Luggage & cancellation policy
WestfalenBahn frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Seat reservation
Seat reservations not included, can be purchased separately
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 26m
Cheapest Price
$115 (€95)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency
12 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.
FAQs: Trains from Groningen to Essen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Groningen 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 Groningen to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $40 (€33), while the average price is around $73 (€60).
The train from Groningen to Essen takes 3h 40m and runs 15 per day.
The distance by train from Groningen to Essen is 123 miles (198 km).
The first train from Groningen to Essen leaves at 2:50 AM.
The last train from Groningen to Essen leaves at 11:08 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Groningen to Essen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Groningen to Essen.
The train station in Groningen that goes to Essen is Groningen station, which connects to Essen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Groningen to Essen is by bus, with a cost of around $17 (€14).
The train journey from Groningen to Essen offers scenic views of the Dutch and German countryside, with picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and stretches of greenery, especially as you pass through rural areas and smaller towns.
A day trip from Groningen to Essen is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 40m. Trains run 21 times 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 Groningen to Essen.
Since both Groningen 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 Groningen 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.
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.
Most popular train connections from Groningen
More options for your journey from Groningen to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Essen and Groningen
Most popular train connections to Essen
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