Kassel to Essen train with Deutsche Bahn (IC)

Wed, Nov 04
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Deutsche Bahn
Hessische Landesbahn
Regionale
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Deutsche Bahn
Hessische Landesbahn
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2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Kassel to Essen

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 04
Cheapest price on Nov 04
€29
Average ticket price on Nov 04
€48
Fastest journey on Nov 04
2 h 42 m
Average journey duration on Nov 04
2 h 44 m
Trains on Nov 04
8
Distance
173 km
Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Kassel to Essen will cost around €48 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €29.

Fast trains

On Wed, Nov 04, we found 8 trains from Kassel to Essen, including 4 direct services.

On Wed, Nov 04 the direct trains cover the 173 km distance in an average of 2 h 44 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 42 m .

On Wed, Nov 04 the slowest trains will take 2 h 50 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.

  • Deutsche BahnICE 778 · ICE 946
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 776 · ICE 944
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 1748 · 26712
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 774 · ICE 942
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche Bahn26714
    0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Kassel to Essen

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Kassel to Essen run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 52m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €17 but you can travel from only €11 by bus.

There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:00. The fastest train covers the 107 miles (173 km) distance in 2h 33m.

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 €11

Plan this route

Journey facts

  • Distance107 miles (173 km)
  • Average train duration2h 52m
  • Cheapest ticket price€17
  • Trains per day8
  • Direct trains4
  • Fastest train2h 33m
  • First train12:01 AM
  • Last train11:00 PM
  • Cheapest MonthDec
  • Cheapest DayMon
  • High SeasonOct - Dec
  • Low SeasonJan - Mar
  • Busiest DayMon
  • Least Busy DayMon
  • Best time to book28 days

Understand & plan this route

Explore this journey

Book with confidence

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 €11

Frequently asked questions about your Kassel to Essen trip

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

Train ticket prices from Kassel to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €17, while the average price is around €57.
The train from Kassel to Essen takes 2h 33m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Kassel to Essen is 107 miles (173 km).
The first train from Kassel to Essen leaves at 12:01 AM.
The last train from Kassel to Essen leaves at 11:00 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Kassel to Essen. This service operates 4 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.

Live departures

Kassel to Essen train times

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

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn267065:55 AM Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe
2h50
8:45 AM Essen Hbf0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 778 · ICE 946
On time
6:12 AM Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe
3h23
9:35 AM Essen Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn267087:03 AM Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe
2h42
9:45 AM Essen Hbf0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn267108:03 AM Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe
2h42
10:45 AM Essen Hbf0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 776 · ICE 944
On time
8:13 AM Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe
3h22
11:35 AM Essen Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1748 · 26712
On time
9:02 AM Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe
2h43
11:45 AM Essen Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn2671410:03 AM Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe
2h42
12:45 PM Essen Hbf0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 774 · ICE 942
On time
10:13 AM Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe
3h22
1:35 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 Kassel to Essen trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Hessische Landesbahn offer trains services from Kassel to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Kassel 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 Hessische Landesbahn to find the best option for your trip from Kassel 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Kassel to Essen.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

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

Train companies

Train companies from Kassel to Essen

Trains from Kassel to Essen with Deutsche Bahn and Hessische Landesbahn. Night trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn. High-speed trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn. Regional trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn and Hessische Landesbahn. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.

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 33m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€17
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

Hessische Landesbahn

About
Hessische Landesbahn (HLB) is a regional transport company owned by the German state of Hesse, headquartered in Frankfurt am Main. It provides extensive bus and rail passenger transport services within Hesse and extends its operations into neighboring states like Bavaria, Lower Saxony, North Rhine-Westphalia, Rhineland-Palatinate, and Thuringia. HLB operates as a holding company with subsidiaries managing rail services (HLB Hessenbahn GmbH), bus services (HLB Hessenbus GmbH), and infrastructure/vehicle resources (HLB Basis AG). Their diverse fleet includes modern train types such as Stadler FLIRT, Alstom LINT, and Coradia Continental trains. Tickets from Deutsche Bahn are also valid on HLB trains.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Hessische Landesbahn Duration
6h 17m
Cheapest Hessische Landesbahn Price
€40
Hessische Landesbahn frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack and beverage service available on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require a ticket and must be leashed
Quiet zone

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Kassel 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 Kassel 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 Kassel to Essen is more functional than scenic, primarily passing through urban and industrial areas with occasional glimpses of the countryside.
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 Kassel to Essen

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

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Kassel to Essen

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

Departure train stations in Kassel
Arrival train stations in Essen

Which Kassel station do trains to Essen leave from?

Trains from Kassel to Essen leave from Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe. The station is 2 miles (4 km) from Kassel city centre at Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe, Willy-Brandt-Platz 1, 34131 Kassel.
Kassel-WilhelmshöheKassel-Wilhelmshöhe, Willy-Brandt-Platz 1, 34131 KasselWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe from Kassel city centre

Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe is 3 km from Kassel city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRb39, Re39, Re30, Rb38, Re50, Rb4 · 4m · €1 · every ~3 min
Bus55, 52 · 10m · €2 · every ~5 min
52, 55 · 13m · every ~5 min
52 · 18m · every ~5 min
TramE, 4, 3, 1, 0 · 12m · every ~22 min
3, 1, 7, 4, 0, E · 14m · every ~27 min

Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe train station facilities and services

Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe 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: Matterhorn-Stübli, Biond Restaurant, Schwälmer Brotladen, Kleine Konoba

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe. ATMs are available at Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe. Information desks are available at Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include InterCityHotel, Schweizer Hof, Kurfürst Wilhelm I., Kurparkhotel.

Kassel HbfKassel Hbf, Rainer-Dierichs-Platz 1, 34117 KasselWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Kassel Hbf from Kassel city centre

TrainRb39, Re39, Re30, Rb38, Re50, Rb4 · 4m · €1 · every ~3 min
Bus55, 52 · 10m · €2 · every ~5 min
52, 55 · 13m · every ~5 min
52 · 18m · every ~5 min
TramE, 4, 3, 1, 0 · 12m · every ~22 min
3, 1, 7, 4, 0, E · 14m · every ~27 min

Kassel Hbf train station facilities and services

Kassel 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: HermannS, Eckstein, Lohmann, Il Convento

Wi-Fi and ATMs

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

Tickets and information

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

Luggage and lost property

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

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Kassel Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

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

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Kassel Hbf.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel am Rathaus, Stadthotel, Arosa Hotel, Foto-Motel.

Train stations for Kassel to Essen

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

The train station in Kassel that goes to Essen is Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe, which connects to Essen Hbf.

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