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Hamburg to Essen train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RE,EC)

Wed, Jan 28
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Hamburg to Essen

Showing times and prices for Jan 28

Cheapest price

$66

Average price

$82

Fastest journey

2 h 58 m

Average duration

3 h 24 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

311 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Hamburg to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Hamburg to Essen will cost around $82 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $66.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Hamburg to Essen without transferring at least once.

Deutsche BahnICE 585 · ICE 642
09:01AM3h37
Hamburg Hbf
12:38PMEssen Hbf
$661One-way
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 519 · 22038
09:45AM3h22
Hamburg Hbf
01:07PMEssen Hbf
$711One-way
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 107 · 22036
08:42AM3h25
Hamburg Hbf
12:07PMEssen Hbf
$771One-way
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 787 · ICE 942
10:01AM3h36
Hamburg Hbf
01:37PMEssen Hbf
$921One-way
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1521 · S2
08:09AM2h58
Hamburg Hbf
11:07AMEssen Hbf
$1071One-way
1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Hamburg to Essen

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Hamburg to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €15. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 27m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €15, and a flight costs an average of €60.

Distance: 193 miles (311 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight

€37

Average price

€27

Average price

Cheapest

€205

Average price

3h 43m

Average total duration

3h 13m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 10m

Average total duration

4h 40m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 27m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 27m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.8kg

CO2 emissions

0.9 - 1.9kg

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

Most popular bus company

Eurowings

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Hamburg to Essen train times

The table below shows live departures for Hamburg to Essen trains for today, Tuesday, January 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 5:21 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
deutsche_bahn8:46 PM Hamburg
3h49
12:35 AM Essen0 transfersDirect
Wednesday, January 28
deutsche_bahnICE 1521 · S2
On time
7:09 AM Hamburg Hbf
2h58
10:07 AM Essen Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 107 · 22036
On time
7:42 AM Hamburg Hbf
3h25
11:07 AM Essen Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 585 · ICE 642
On time
8:01 AM Hamburg Hbf
3h37
11:38 AM Essen Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 519 · 22038
On time
8:45 AM Hamburg Hbf
3h22
12:07 PM Essen Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 787 · ICE 942
On time
9:01 AM Hamburg Hbf
3h36
12:37 PM Essen Hbf
1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Hamburg to Essen by bus, train, or flight

Compare bus, train, 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.

Wed
Jan 28
Thu
Jan 29
Fri
Jan 30
Sat
Jan 31
Sun
Feb 01
Mon
Feb 02
Tue
Feb 03

Why should you book Hamburg to Essen trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain offer trains services from Hamburg to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Hamburg 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 FlixTrain to find the best option for your trip from Hamburg 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, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Hamburg to Essen.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Hamburg to Essen.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Hamburg to Essen

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Train Ticket Prices
  • Budget Options: Train tickets from Hamburg to Essen start from as low as $19 (€15) if booked well in advance.
  • Standard Fares: Typically, trains cost $47 (€37) depending on the train type and class.
Journey Duration & Frequency
  • On average there are 15 daily trains from Hamburg to Essen with 6 direct service.
  • The fastest trains can take as little as 2h 57m but the average duration is 3h 13m
Train Operators
  • Travel from Hamburg to Essen with Deutsche Bahn and FlixTrain
  • The most booked train company for this route on Omio is Deutsche Bahn.
Stations & Schedule
  • Most trains depart from Hamburg Hbf and arrive in Essen Hbf
  • First train typically departs at 12:01 AM and the last at 11:56 PM
Distance
193 miles (311 km)
Average train duration
3h 13m
Cheapest ticket price
$19 (€15)
Trains per day
15
Direct trains
6
Fastest train
2h 57m
First train
00:01
Last train
23:56
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
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: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain from Hamburg to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Hamburg and Essen from $19 (€15). 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
2h 57m
Cheapest Price
$37 (€29)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
16 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.
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.
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.
Quiet zone

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 Duration
2h 59m
Cheapest Price
$12 (€9)
FlixTrain frequency
3 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

Train tickets from Hamburg to Essen: when to book to save $

Time Price Savings
1 week earlier 20 €
2 weeks earlier 18 €11%
3 weeks earlier 20 €0%
1 month before 16 €25%
2 months earlier 16 €25%
3 months earlier 15 €33%


Train companies often offer promotional prices and offers—by buying in advance—you can get access the best prices for trains in the U.S., Canada, and the major European railroad operators. Search on Omio to check prices and cheap train tickets from Hamburg - Essen. Easily find the most attractive rates and choose the your preferred route for your journey. Book and choose your mobile ticket: avoid the queues at the station and the added stress of printing your ticket.

The rule of buying in advance to save money is not only valid when booking a flight but also for train travel. Train tickets are generally on sale 6 months before the departure date. Some train booking tips from us:

  • Buying your train ticket from Hamburg - Essen 3 weeks in advance means you can save on average up to 0% compared to the price available on the day of departure.
  • If you book a ticket Hamburg - Essen with 2 months in advance you save up to about 25% compared to the initial price.
  • By booking 3 months in advance, you could save up to 33%.
  • On Omio you can find all offers, train times and prices for train travel in Europe, the U.S., and Canada.

FAQs: Trains from Hamburg to Essen

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Hamburg 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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Hamburg to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $19 (€15), while the average price is around $47 (€37).
The train from Hamburg to Essen takes 2h 57m and runs 15 per day.
The distance by train from Hamburg to Essen is 193 miles (311 km).
The first train from Hamburg to Essen leaves at 12:01 AM.
The last train from Hamburg to Essen leaves at 11:56 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Hamburg to Essen. This service operates 6 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Hamburg to Essen.
The train station in Hamburg that goes to Essen is Hamburg Hbf, which connects to Essen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Hamburg to Essen is by train, with a cost of around $19 (€15).
The train journey from Hamburg to Essen offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with views of the North German Plain and passing through cities like Bremen and Münster, though it is not particularly known for its scenic vistas compared to routes through mountainous or coastal regions.
A day trip from Hamburg to Essen is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 57m. The distance is 193 miles (311 km). Trains run 15 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 Hamburg to Essen.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Hamburg to Essen

Hamburg
Essen
The major train station for departures in Hamburg is Hamburg Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Hamburg Hbf for your trip from Hamburg to Essen.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:30
  • Sat - Sun: 08:00 - 20:15
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Lockers
Lockers
  • The station has luggage lockers.
Dining
Dining
  • Le Crobag
  • Burger King
  • Coffee Fellows
  • Havin Grill
  • KFC
  • Mr. CLOU
  • Starbucks
  • dean&david
  • SPAR Express
  • Pommesfreunde
  • & more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair friendly with lifts and ramps. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
Hotel
  • Boutique 053 Hamburg Main Station
  • IntercityHotel Hamburg Hauptbahnhof
  • Park Hyatt Hamburg
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the east hall on the opposite side of the DB ticket office.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Monday: 07:40 - 18:30
  • Tuesday: 07:40 - 18:30
  • Wednesday: 07:40 - 18:30
  • Thursday: 07:40 - 18:30
  • Friday: 07:40 - 18:30
  • Saturday: 08:00 - 13:30
  • Sunday: 09:00 - 14:30
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
13 km
Dining
Dining
  • Café Bom Dia
  • Hünkar
  • Yoko Sushi Harburg
  • Mathewes Grill
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Panorama
  • Hotel Harburger Hof
  • Hotel Jeta
  • Hotel Süderelbe
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Monday: 06:00 - 21:00
  • Tuesday: 06:00 - 21:00
  • Wednesday: 06:00 - 21:00
  • Thursday: 06:00 - 21:00
  • Friday: 06:00 - 21:00
  • Saturday: 07:00 - 20:00
  • Sunday: 08:00 - 20:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
5 km
Dining
Dining
  • Ethio
  • Trattoria Toscana
  • Marta
  • Pavillon
Hotel
Hotel
  • Schanzenstern Bio-Restaurant
  • Hotel Hamburg Altona
  • Hotel Central
  • Best Western Raphael Hotel Altona

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