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

Thu, Nov 05
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FlixTrain
WestfalenBahn
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Hanover to Essen

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 05
Cheapest price on Nov 05
$16
Average ticket price on Nov 05
$23
Fastest journey on Nov 05
2 h 25 m
Average journey duration on Nov 05
2 h 25 m
Trains on Nov 05
3
Distance
212 km
Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Hanover to Essen will cost around $23 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $16.

Fast trains

On Thu, Nov 05, we found 3 trains from Hanover to Essen, including 3 direct services.

On Thu, Nov 05 the direct trains cover the 212 km distance in an average of 2 h 25 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 25 m .

On Thu, Nov 05 the slowest trains will take 2 h 25 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
    0 transfers
  • FlixTrain
    0 transfers
  • FlixTrain
    0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Hanover to Essen

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Hanover to Essen run on average 9 times per day, taking around 2h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $7 if you book in advance.

There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 131 miles (212 km) distance in 2h 3m.

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
131 miles (212 km)
Average train duration
2h 20m
Cheapest ticket price
$7
Trains per day
9
Direct trains
6
Fastest train
2h 3m
First train
12:03 AM
Last train
11:56 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Mon
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

Frequently asked questions about your Hanover to Essen trip

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

Train ticket prices from Hanover to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $7, while the average price is around $57.
The train from Hanover to Essen takes 2h 3m and runs 9 per day.
The first train from Hanover to Essen leaves at 12:03 AM.
The distance by train from Hanover to Essen is 131 miles (212 km).
The last train from Hanover to Essen leaves at 11:56 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Hanover to Essen. This service operates 6 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain.

Live departures

Hanover to Essen train times

The table below shows live departures for Hanover to Essen trains for today, Wednesday, November 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 644
On time
8:31 AM Hanover Hbf
2h07
10:38 AM Essen Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 644 · 26710
On time
8:31 AM Hanover Hbf
2h14
10:45 AM Essen Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 654 · 89716
On time
8:40 AM Hanover Hbf
2h50
11:30 AM Essen Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 944
On time
9:31 AM Hanover Hbf
2h04
11:35 AM Essen Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnIC 2044 · 26816
On time
9:40 AM Hanover Hbf
2h27
12:07 PM Essen Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 2044 · ICE 107
On time
9:40 AM Hanover Hbf
2h18
11:58 AM Essen Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 642
On time
10:31 AM Hanover Hbf
2h07
12:38 PM Essen Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 642 · 26714
On time
10:31 AM Hanover Hbf
2h14
12:45 PM Essen Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 652 · 89720
On time
10:40 AM Hanover Hbf
2h50
1:30 PM Essen Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 942
On time
11:31 AM Hanover Hbf
2h04
1:35 PM Essen Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnIC 2046 · ICE 109
On time
11:40 AM Hanover Hbf
2h18
1:58 PM Essen Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 2046 · 26820
On time
11:40 AM Hanover Hbf
2h27
2:07 PM Essen Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 640 · 26718
On time
12:31 PM Hanover Hbf
2h14
2:45 PM Essen Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 640
On time
12:31 PM Hanover Hbf
2h07
2:38 PM Essen Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 650 · 89724
On time
12:42 PM Hanover Hbf
2h48
3:30 PM Essen Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 940
On time
1:31 PM Hanover Hbf
2h04
3:35 PM Essen Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnIC 2048 · ICE 201
On time
1:40 PM Hanover Hbf
2h18
3:58 PM Essen Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 2048 · 26824
On time
1:40 PM Hanover Hbf
2h27
4:07 PM Essen Hbf
1 transfer
FlixTrainFlixTrain2:23 PM Hanover Hbf
2h25
4:48 PM Essen Hbf0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 548
On time
2:31 PM Hanover Hbf
2h07
4:38 PM Essen Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 548 · 26722
On time
2:31 PM Hanover Hbf
2h14
4:45 PM Essen Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 558 · 89728
On time
2:42 PM Hanover Hbf
2h48
5:30 PM Essen Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 848
On time
3:31 PM Hanover Hbf
2h04
5:35 PM Essen Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnIC 2440 · ICE 203
On time
3:40 PM Hanover Hbf
2h18
5:58 PM Essen Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 2440 · 26828
On time
3:40 PM Hanover Hbf
2h27
6:07 PM Essen Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 546
On time
4:31 PM Hanover Hbf
2h07
6:38 PM Essen Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 546 · 26726
On time
4:31 PM Hanover Hbf
2h14
6:45 PM Essen Hbf
1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Hanover to Essen trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain or WestfalenBahn offer trains services from Hanover to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Hanover 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 WestfalenBahn to find the best option for your trip from Hanover 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 Hanover to Essen.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

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

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Hanover to Essen

userReviewImage
userReviewLogo
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
IconFriendly staff
Disadvantages
IconToilets not clean
IconTrain overall not in good condition
I recently travelled from Essen to Hanover with my partner on the Deutsche Bahn ICE. The staff were extremely friendly, which we liked very much. The power sockets at the seats were functional. Unfortunately, the train was not very clean overall. Food leftovers on the floor and also the toilets were not very pleasant. Therefore, not a really nice experience.
Advantages
IconTrain arrived on time
IconTrain was clean
Disadvantages
IconUnpleasant fellow travellers
Some time ago, I took the Deutsche Bahn ICE from Essen to Hanover on business. The train pulled into the station on time and I arrived at my destination on time. Overall, the train was clean and the seats were comfortable. What bothered me a little were the somewhat unpleasant fellow passengers. The staff were friendly so far, but not outstanding. The sockets for charging my laptop were functional.
Advantages
IconTrain was on time
Disadvantages
IconThe train was overcrowded
IconSockets not accessible
I recently took the Deutsche Bahn train from Essen to Hanover. The train was on time and I arrived in Hanover at the specified time. Unfortunately, the journey was not very pleasant. For most of the journey, the train was very busy and the people were not very pleasant. At least there was still room for my luggage and the seat was ok. Unfortunately, the staff was also a bit tense. This could definitely be better.
Advantages
IconAir-conditioned
IconSocket
Disadvantages
IconFull
IconDelay
IconNo working wifi
The ICE I took from Essen to Hannover Hbf had wifi, but it didn't seem to work as I couldn't open a single website. Another negative aspect of the journey was the fact that the train was far too full, so I had to sit on the floor next to a door. Furthermore, I was frustrated by the fact that at least 2 times we were standing on open track, as there didn't seem to be some trains in front of us that were taking up too much of a section of track. This aspect and the fact that there was a storm over Germany probably caused the delay of almost an hour. The only positive aspect of the journey that remains in my memory is the fact that the train was pleasantly air-conditioned and clean.

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, WestfalenBahn from Hanover to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, WestfalenBahn trains will get you between Hanover and Essen from $7. 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 3m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$9
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 25m
Cheapest FlixTrain Price
$7
FlixTrain frequency
2 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

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
Average WestfalenBahn Duration
2h 46m
Cheapest WestfalenBahn Price
$35
WestfalenBahn frequency
1 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

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Hanover and Essen

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

Yes, there is a night train from Hanover 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 Hanover to Essen offers pleasant views of the Lower Saxony and North Rhine-Westphalia landscapes, including stretches of countryside, small towns, and industrial areas, but it is not particularly known for being scenic.
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 Hanover to Essen

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Hanover 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 Hanover to Essen.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Hanover to Essen

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

Departure train stations in Hanover
Arrival train stations in Essen

Which Hanover station do trains to Essen leave from?

Trains from Hanover to Essen leave from Hannover Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Hanover city centre at Ernst-August-Platz 1, 30159, Hannover, Germany.
Hannover HbfErnst-August-Platz 1, 30159, Hannover, GermanyWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Hannover Hbf from Hanover city centre

Bus120 · 10m · every ~10 min
170, 700, 500, 300 · 12m · every ~35 min

Hannover Hbf train station facilities and services

Hannover 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: Balzac Coffee, Burger King, McDonald's, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, asiahung, Mr. CLOU, Nordsee, Starbucks, Pizza Hut, & many more

Wi-Fi and ATMs

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

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Hannover Hbf. Information desks are located near the main entrance by the DB ticket office.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located near the main entrance. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Hannover Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

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

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Hannover Hbf: Escalators, elevators, wheelchair access. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Grand Hotel Mussmann, IntercityHotel Hannover, Hotel Loccumer Hof.

Train stations for Hanover to Essen

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

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

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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.

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