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

Tue, Oct 27
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
metronom
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
metronom
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
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
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Hamburg to Essen

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 27

Cheapest price on Oct 27

$30

Average ticket price on Oct 27

$45

Fastest journey on Oct 27

2 h 35 m

Average journey duration on Oct 27

3 h 29 m

Trains on Oct 27

8

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 $45 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $30.

Fast trains

On Tue, Oct 27, we found 8 trains from Hamburg to Essen, including 8 direct services.

On Tue, Oct 27 the direct trains cover the 311 km distance in an average of 3 h 29 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 35 m .

On Tue, Oct 27 the slowest trains will take 5 h 48 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.

  • FlixTrain
    10:00 AM5h48
    Hamburg
    3:48 PMEssen
    $301One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixTrain
    4:30 AM6h18
    Hamburg
    10:48 AMEssen
    $301One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixTrain
    4:15 AM6h33
    Hamburg
    10:48 AMEssen
    $321One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixTrain
    9:00 AM5h48
    Hamburg
    2:48 PMEssen
    $341One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:42 AM3h16
    Hamburg
    10:58 AMEssen
    $441One-way
    0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Hamburg to Essen

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Hamburg to Essen run on average 9 times per day, taking around 3h 16m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $13 if you book in advance.

There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 193 miles (311 km) distance in 2h 34m.

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
193 miles (311 km)
Average train duration
3h 16m
Cheapest ticket price
$13
Trains per day
9
Direct trains
4
Fastest train
2h 34m
First train
12:03 AM
Last train
11:56 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
14 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

Frequently asked questions about your Hamburg to Essen trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Hamburg to Essen.

Train ticket prices from Hamburg to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $13, while the average price is around $75.
The train from Hamburg to Essen takes 2h 34m and runs 9 per day.
The distance by train from Hamburg to Essen is 193 miles (311 km).
The first train from Hamburg to Essen leaves at 12:03 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 4 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain.

Live departures

Hamburg to Essen train times

The table below shows live departures for Hamburg to Essen trains for today, Monday, October 26. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 619 · 102367:44 PM Hamburg Hbf
3h34
11:18 PM Essen Hbf1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 619 · 102367:45 PM Hamburg Hbf
3h33
11:18 PM Essen Hbf1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 209 · 10238
On time
8:45 PM Hamburg Hbf
3h33
12:18 AM Essen Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 921 · 22068
On time
10:45 PM Hamburg Hbf
4h22
3:07 AM Essen Hbf
1 transfer
Tuesday, October 27
FlixTrain4:15 AM Hamburg
6h33
10:48 AM Essen0 transfersDirect
FlixTrain4:30 AM Hamburg
6h18
10:48 AM Essen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn7:19 AM Hamburg
2h35
9:54 AM Essen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn7:42 AM Hamburg
3h16
10:58 AM Essen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn8:45 AM Hamburg
3h13
11:58 AM Essen0 transfersDirect
FlixTrain9:00 AM Hamburg
5h48
2:48 PM Essen0 transfersDirect
FlixTrain10:00 AM Hamburg
5h48
3:48 PM Essen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn11:19 AM Hamburg
2h35
1:54 PM Essen0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Hamburg to Essen trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain or metronom 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 or metronom 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 train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Hamburg to Essen.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixTrain or metronom to find the best option for your trip from Hamburg to Essen.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Hamburg to Essen.

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, metronom from Hamburg to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, metronom trains will get you between Hamburg and Essen from $13. 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
2h 34m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$18
Deutsche Bahn frequency
8 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 FlixTrain Duration
2h 59m
Cheapest FlixTrain Price
$13
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

metronom

About
Metronom Eisenbahngesellschaft mbH is a German railway company that has been connecting Northern Germany since 2003. Based in Uelzen, it focuses exclusively on passenger transport, operating services from Hamburg to Bremen, Lüneburg, Uelzen, Hanover, and Göttingen. The company also runs services under the brand Enno from Wolfsburg to Hanover and Hildesheim. Metronom is partly state-owned, with its trains, which can reach speeds of up to 160 km/h, being rented from the state transport company Landesnahverkehrsgesellschaft Niedersachsen mbH (LNVG). They are known for their yellow and blue double-decker trains, offering amenities like extra legroom and refreshments.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average metronom Duration
4h 53m
Cheapest metronom Price
$52
metronom frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one large piece of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
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 need ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Hamburg and Essen

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Hamburg to Essen.
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.

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

Museum Folkwang

World-class art museum in the Villa Hügel parkland, famous for 19th and 20th century masterpieces and changing exhibitions.

  • 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.

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.

Plan your visit to Essen

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Essen.

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.
Popular day trips by train from Essen include Cologne, Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Münster, Aachen.
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.

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
Yes, you can take the train from Hamburg to Essen.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Hamburg to Essen

Most Hamburg to Essen trains use the Hamburg Hbf to Essen Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus. Use this guide to compare Hamburg and Essen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Hamburg
Arrival train stations in Essen

Which Hamburg station do trains to Essen leave from?

Trains from Hamburg to Essen leave from Hamburg Hbf. The station is 1 miles (3 km) from Hamburg city centre at Hachmannplatz 16, 20099 Hamburg, Germany.
Hamburg HbfHachmannplatz 16, 20099 Hamburg, GermanyWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Hamburg Hbf from Hamburg city centre

Hamburg Hbf is 2 km from Hamburg city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS5, S3, S1 · 2m · $4 · every ~44 min
BusX35, 16, 606, 17, 6 · 3m · $3 · every ~47 min
SubwayU4, U2 · 1m · $3 · every ~33 min

Hamburg Hbf train station facilities and services

Hamburg 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: Le Crobag, Burger King, Coffee Fellows, Havin Grill, KFC, Mr. CLOU, Starbucks, dean&david, SPAR Express, Pommesfreunde, & more

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are available at Hamburg Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Hamburg Hbf. Information desks are located in the east hall on the opposite side of the DB ticket office.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is the station has luggage lockers. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Hamburg Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Hamburg Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Hamburg Hbf: Wheelchair friendly with lifts and ramps. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Boutique 053 Hamburg Main Station, IntercityHotel Hamburg Hauptbahnhof, Park Hyatt Hamburg.

Hamburg-HarburgHamburg-Harburg, Hannoversche Str. 85, 21079 HamburgWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Hamburg-Harburg from Hamburg city centre

Hamburg-Harburg is 13 km from Hamburg city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS3, S5 · 10m · $4 · every ~25 min
S3, S5 · 18m · $4 · every ~14 min
Bus641 · 24m · $4

Hamburg-Harburg train station facilities and services

Hamburg-Harburg 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: Café Bom Dia, Hünkar, Yoko Sushi Harburg, Mathewes Grill

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Hamburg-Harburg. ATMs are available at Hamburg-Harburg.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Hamburg-Harburg. Information desks are available at Hamburg-Harburg.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Hamburg-Harburg. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Hamburg-Harburg: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Hamburg-Harburg: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Hamburg-Harburg.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Panorama, Hotel Harburger Hof, Hotel Jeta, Hotel Süderelbe.

Hamburg AirportHamburg Airport (Flughafen), Flughafenstraße 1, 22335 HamburgWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Hamburg Airport from Hamburg city centre

Hamburg Airport is 6 km from Hamburg city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS1 · 28m · $4 · every ~13 min
BusN73, 353, 198, 172 · 30m · $2
606 · 42m · $5
105 · 54m · $9 · every ~5 min

Hamburg Airport train station facilities and services

Hamburg Airport 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: McDonald's, St. Pauli, Scoom, McCafé

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Hamburg Airport. ATMs are available at Hamburg Airport.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Hamburg Airport. Information desks are available at Hamburg Airport.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Hamburg Airport. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Hamburg Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Hamburg Airport: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Hamburg Airport.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Leonardo Inn Airport.

Train stations for Hamburg to Essen

Check train stations information for Hamburg and Essen, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Hamburg that goes to Essen is Hamburg Hbf, which connects to Essen Hbf.

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.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone