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

Thu, Sep 17
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
DB Regio Stuttgart
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
DB Regio Stuttgart
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Heidelberg to Essen

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 17

Cheapest price on Sep 17

$88

Average ticket price on Sep 17

$110

Fastest journey on Sep 17

3 h 9 m

Average journey duration on Sep 17

3 h 39 m

Trains on Sep 17

6

Distance

257 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Heidelberg to Essen will cost around $110 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $88.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Heidelberg to Essen without transferring at least 2 times.

  • Deutsche BahnIC 2049 · S9
    8:24 AM4h16
    Heidelberg Hbf
    12:40 PMEssen Hbf
    $881One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnIC 2049 · ICE 202 · S6
    8:24 AM4h08
    Heidelberg Hbf
    12:32 PMEssen Hbf
    $901One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 2049 · ICE 202 · Bus RE1
    8:24 AM4h13
    Heidelberg Hbf
    12:37 PMEssen
    $901One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnS3 · ICE 614 · S9
    8:13 AM3h27
    Heidelberg Hbf
    11:40 AMEssen Hbf
    $1261One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnS3 · ICE 614 · ICE 1022 · S6
    8:13 AM3h19
    Heidelberg Hbf
    11:32 AMEssen Hbf
    $1261One-way
    3 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Heidelberg to Essen

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Heidelberg to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $35 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 2h 47m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $35, while a flight costs an average of $147.

Distance: 159 miles (257 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$116

Average price

$35

Average price

Cheapest

$147

Average price

$57

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 5m

Average total duration

3h 35m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 44m

Average total duration

6h 14m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 47m

Average total duration

Fastest

47m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

3h 36m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.6kg

CO2 emissions

0.8 - 1.5kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Lufthansa

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

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 Heidelberg to Essen is a bus with an average price of $35.

This is compared to other travel options from Heidelberg to Essen:

A bus is $81 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Heidelberg to Essen costing on average $116.

A bus is $112 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Heidelberg to Essen costing on average $147.

The fastest way to travel from Heidelberg to Essen is by flight with an average journey time of 47m.

Other travel options to Essen take longer:

Train takes on average 3h 35m.

Bus takes on average 6h 14m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Heidelberg and Essen including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Heidelberg 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 1m sooner (3h 35m by train vs 3h 36m by car). Tickets start at around $116 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.

Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).

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

Heidelberg to Essen train times

The table below shows live departures for Heidelberg to Essen trains for today, Wednesday, September 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn11:56 PM Heidelberg
6h22
6:18 AM Essen0 transfersDirect
Thursday, September 17
Deutsche BahnS3 · ICE 614 · S98:13 AM Heidelberg Hbf
3h27
11:40 AM Essen Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnS3 · ICE 614 · ICE 1022 · S68:13 AM Heidelberg Hbf
3h19
11:32 AM Essen Hbf3 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 2049 · ICE 202 · S6
On time
8:24 AM Heidelberg Hbf
4h08
12:32 PM Essen Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 2049 · ICE 202 · Bus RE1
On time
8:24 AM Heidelberg Hbf
4h13
12:37 PM Essen
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 2049 · S9
On time
8:24 AM Heidelberg Hbf
4h16
12:40 PM Essen Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnS3 · ICE 1012 · S68:43 AM Heidelberg Hbf
3h09
11:52 AM Essen Hbf2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Heidelberg 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.

Thu
Sep 17
Fri
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23

Why should you book Heidelberg to Essen trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), DB Regio Stuttgart and more offer trains services from Heidelberg to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Heidelberg 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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) or DB Regio Stuttgart to find the best option for your trip from Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg to Essen.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Heidelberg to Essen

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Heidelberg to Essen run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 35m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $34 but you can travel from only $17 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:36, the last at 23:30. The fastest train covers the 159 miles (257 km) distance in 2h 25m.

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
Distance
159 miles (257 km)
Average train duration
3h 35m
Cheapest ticket price
$34
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
2h 25m
First train
12:36 AM
Last train
11:30 PM
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
7 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $17

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Intercity from Heidelberg to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Intercity trains will get you between Heidelberg and Essen from $17. 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 25m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$34
Deutsche Bahn frequency
17 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
9h 2m
Cheapest FlixTrain Price
$34
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

Intercity

About
Intercity is a broad classification for express train services that connect cities over longer distances than commuter or regional trains, often with limited stops and comfortable carriages for long-distance travel. The term "InterCity" originated with British Rail in 1966 for its electrified West Coast Main Line services.Today, "Intercity" or "IC" is a brand name used by various railway operators across Europe and other parts of the world, including PKP Intercity in Poland, Trenitalia in Italy, and services in countries like Sweden and Ukraine. These trains typically offer both Standard and First Class seating, with amenities such as power sockets and luggage space. While some Intercity services are modern and high-speed, others may use older rolling stock, with speeds generally up to 160 km/h (100 mph).
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Intercity Duration
4h 13m
Cheapest Intercity Price
$93
Intercity frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone

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.

FAQs: Trains from Heidelberg to Essen

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $34, while the average price is around $116.
The train from Heidelberg to Essen takes 2h 25m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Heidelberg to Essen is 159 miles (257 km).
The first train from Heidelberg to Essen leaves at 12:36 AM.
The last train from Heidelberg to Essen leaves at 11:30 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Heidelberg to Essen. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Heidelberg to Essen.
The train station in Heidelberg that goes to Essen is Heidelberg Hbf, which connects to Essen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Heidelberg to Essen is by bus, with a cost of around $17.
The train journey from Heidelberg to Essen offers a mix of urban and countryside views. Travelers can enjoy picturesque scenes of the Rhine Valley, including vineyards and charming villages, especially between Heidelberg and Koblenz. As the train continues towards Essen, the landscape becomes more industrial with views of the Ruhr area.
A day trip from Heidelberg to Essen is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 25m. Trains run 14 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 Heidelberg to Essen.
Since both Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg to Essen

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

Departure train stations in Heidelberg
Arrival train stations in Essen

Which Heidelberg station do trains to Essen leave from?

Trains from Heidelberg to Essen leave from Heidelberg Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Heidelberg city centre at Heidelberg Hbf, Willy-Brandt-Platz 5, 69115 Heidelberg.
Heidelberg HbfHeidelberg Hbf, Willy-Brandt-Platz 5, 69115 HeidelbergWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Heidelberg Hbf from Heidelberg city centre

Heidelberg Hbf is 1 km from Heidelberg city centre. Public transport options include:

BusRnv 35, Rnv 33, Rnv 20, RNV Moonliner 3 · 4m · $4 · every ~13 min
TramRnv 5, Rnv 23, Rnv 22, Rnv 21 · 4m · $2 · every ~20 min

Heidelberg Hbf train station facilities and services

Heidelberg 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: Heid´s Grill, McDonald's, Uuuhmami, Taj Mahal

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Heidelberg Hbf. ATMs are available at Heidelberg Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Heidelberg Hbf. Information desks are available at Heidelberg Hbf.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Heidelberg Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Heidelberg Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

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

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Heidelberg Hbf.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Leonardo Hotel, Qube Hotel, NH Heidelberg, Krokodil.

Heidelberg-Weststadt/SüdstadtHD-Weststadt/Südstadt, Rohrbacher Straße 96, 69115 HeidelbergWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Heidelberg-Weststadt/Südstadt from Heidelberg city centre

Heidelberg-Weststadt/Südstadt is 1 km from Heidelberg city centre. Public transport options include:

BusRnv 29, RNV Moonliner 1 · 3m · $4 · every ~6 min
TramRnv 23 · 7m · $2 · every ~10 min

Heidelberg-Weststadt/Südstadt train station facilities and services

Heidelberg-Weststadt/Südstadt 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, Saffron, Thanaphon, Krokodil

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Heidelberg-Weststadt/Südstadt. ATMs are available at Heidelberg-Weststadt/Südstadt.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Heidelberg-Weststadt/Südstadt. Information desks are available at Heidelberg-Weststadt/Südstadt.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Heidelberg-Weststadt/Südstadt. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Heidelberg-Weststadt/Südstadt: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Heidelberg-Weststadt/Südstadt: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Heidelberg-Weststadt/Südstadt.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Elite, Hotel Mille Stelle, Krokodil, Boardinghouse.

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