- Must visit
Museum Folkwang
One of Germany’s leading art museums, known for outstanding 19th- and 20th-century painting, photography, and modern art collections.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Kiel to Essen
Showing times and prices for May 29
Cheapest price
$36
Average price
$37
Fastest journey
9 h 10 m
Average duration
9 h 20 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
381 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Kiel to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Kiel to Essen will cost around $37 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $36.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Kiel for Essen on Fri, May 29, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, May 29 the direct trains cover the 381 km distance in an average of 9 h 20 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 9 h 10 m .
On Fri, May 29 the slowest trains will take 9 h 30 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.
7:50 AM9h10Kiel5:00 PMEssen$361One-way0 transfers- 1:30 AM9h30Kiel11:00 AMEssen$371One-way0 transfers
- 7:50 AM9h10Kiel5:00 PMEssen$361One-way0 transfers
- 1:30 AM9h30Kiel11:00 AMEssen$371One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Kiel to Essen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Kiel to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $26. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 51m. 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 $26, and a flight costs an average of $90.
Distance: 236 miles (381 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$54 Average price | $41 Average price Cheapest | $235 Average price | $83 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 54m Average total duration 4h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 30m Average total duration 6h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 51m Average total duration Fastest 1h 51m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 12m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 1.0kg CO2 emissions | 1.1 - 2.3kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
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 Kiel to Essen is a bus with an average price of $41 (€33).
This is compared to other travel options from Kiel to Essen:
A bus is $13 (€10) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Kiel to Essen costing on average $54 (€43).
A bus is $194 (€156) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Kiel to Essen costing on average $235 (€189).
The fastest way to travel from Kiel to Essen is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 51m.
Other travel options to Essen take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 24m.
Bus takes on average 6h 0m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Kiel and Essen including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Kiel to Essen among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 48m faster (4h 24m by train vs 5h 12m by car) and roughly $30 (€24) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($54 (€43) vs $83 (€67)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Kiel to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for Kiel to Essen trains for tomorrow, Friday, May 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1:30 AM Kiel | 9h30 | 11:00 AM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:50 AM Kiel | 9h10 | 5:00 PM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Kiel 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.
Fri
May 29
May 29
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May 31
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Why should you book Kiel to Essen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) offer trains services from Kiel to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Kiel 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) or Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) to find the best option for your trip from Kiel 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 Kiel 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 Kiel to Essen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Kiel to Essen
GermanyGermany
Trains from Kiel to Essen run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 24m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $28 (€22) but you can travel from only $26 (€21) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:46. The fastest train covers the 236 miles (381 km) distance in 4h 42m.
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 $26 (€21)
Distance 236 miles (381 km) |
Average train duration 4h 24m |
Cheapest ticket price $28 (€22) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 4h 42m |
First train 12:04 AM |
Last train 11:46 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 28 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 $26 (€21)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) from Kiel to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) trains will get you between Kiel and Essen from $26 (€21). 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
4h 42m
Cheapest Price
$45 (€36)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
7 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.
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.
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.
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
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 42m
Cheapest Price
$113 (€91)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
4 a day
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 17m
Cheapest Price
$102 (€82)
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) frequency
10 a day
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
Ruhr Museum
A major regional museum inside the Zollverein Coal Mine complex, covering the natural, cultural, and industrial history of the Ruhr area.
- Recommended
Red Dot Design Museum
Design museum in a former boiler house at Zollverein, showcasing contemporary product design and award-winning objects.
- Must visit
Baldeneysee
Large lake area popular for walking, cycling, sailing, and scenic relaxation, especially in warmer months.
- Recommended
Kettwiger Straße
Essen’s main pedestrian shopping street, busy and central, useful for first-time visitors exploring the heart of the city.
- Recommended
Grugapark
Large landscaped park with botanical features, open lawns, and family-friendly paths; one of Essen’s best green escapes.
Currywurst
Sliced sausage served with a spiced ketchup-style curry sauce, a beloved Ruhrgebiet snack commonly eaten with fries.
Grugahalle Bratwurst
Classic grilled German sausage associated with fairs and events in Essen, typically served in a bread roll with mustard.
- Gluten-free
Pfefferpotthast
A traditional Westphalian beef stew seasoned generously with pepper, valued across the wider region for its hearty flavor.
Restaurant Schote
Refined Michelin-starred dining known for modern tasting menus, polished service, and a special-occasion atmosphere.
Hannappel
Well-regarded upscale restaurant serving modern German cuisine with seasonal ingredients in an elegant but relaxed environment.
Zur Kluse
Traditional and long-running local restaurant praised for hearty German and regional dishes in a cozy, classic setting.
Euro
Moderate by German standards. Supermarkets and casual dining are affordable, while hotels and upscale restaurants cost more during trade fairs and events.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or fast food.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-5 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. In restaurants, add about 5-10% for good service. Round up taxis and small café bills; tips are not obligatory.
VRR App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 3.60
- Day pass
- EUR 8.90
To the city center
Essen Hbf, Essen -> Essen City Center, Essen
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Tap-in is not used; keep your valid ticket with you for inspection on VRR services.
- Card payment is available in many ticket machines, but not always on board buses or trams, so buy in the app or carry a backup payment method.
FAQs: Trains from Kiel to Essen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Kiel 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.
Train ticket prices from Kiel to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $28 (€22), while the average price is around $54 (€43).
The train from Kiel to Essen takes 4h 42m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Kiel to Essen is 236 miles (381 km).
The first train from Kiel to Essen leaves at 12:04 AM.
The last train from Kiel to Essen leaves at 11:46 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Kiel to Essen. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Kiel to Essen.
The train station in Kiel that goes to Essen is Kiel Hbf, which connects to Essen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Kiel to Essen is by bus, with a cost of around $26 (€21).
The train journey from Kiel to Essen offers a mix of scenic views, including glimpses of the North German Plain, picturesque fields, and quaint villages, though much of the route is through urban and industrial areas.
A day trip from Kiel to Essen is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 42m. The distance between these cities is 236 miles (381 km), and there are 8 trips per day by train.
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 Kiel to Essen.
Since both Kiel 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 Kiel 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 Kiel to Essen
Kiel
Essen
The major train station for departures in Kiel is Kiel Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Kiel Hbf for your trip from Kiel to Essen.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 05:45 - 20:30
- Tuesday: 05:45 - 20:30
- Wednesday: 05:45 - 20:30
- Thursday: 05:45 - 20:30
- Friday: 05:45 - 20:30
- Saturday: 06:45 - 20:00
- Sunday: 06:45 - 20:00
Dining
- MUM&DAD
- Lunatique
- McDonald's
- Campus Suite
Hotel
- Hotel Wiking
- Hotel Berliner Hof Kiel
- Astor
- InterCityHotel Kiel
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
8Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week. Access is available via Kaistraße.
Dining
- Restaurant Pier 16
- Vapiano Kiel
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps, restrooms.
WC
- €1
Hotel
- IntercityHotel Kiel
- Atlantic Hotel Kiel
- Hotel Berliner Hof
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Sixt
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-8 for regional and long-distance trains
- Hall 2: bus connections
- Hall 3: ferry connections
Public transit options for Kiel, Hbf Kaistraße
- Bus: Several lines available
- Ferry: SFK Fjord Ferry connections
- Train: Regional and long-distance services
The major train station for arrivals in Essen is Essen Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Essen Hbf for your journey to Essen from Kiel.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Saturday: 09:00 - 18:00
- Sunday: 09:00 - 18:00
Dining
- Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
- Kiepenkerl
- Cafe Extrablatt
- Tacos
Hotel
- Ambassador
- Gästearpartment Dahl
- WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus
- Motel One
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
2 kmDining
- Pizzeria Don Camillo
- Lindos
- Zur Platte
- Arman Döner
Hotel
- McDreams
Essen Süd
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
- Haus Wilmes
- Mana Mana
- Karawane
Hotel
- Webers
Most popular train connections from Kiel
More options for your journey from Kiel to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Essen and Kiel
Most popular train connections to Essen
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