- Must visit
Museum Folkwang
Major art museum known for outstanding 19th- to 21st-century collections, photography, and temporary exhibitions; one of Germany’s best museum visits.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Lausanne to Essen
Showing times and prices for Jul 07
Cheapest price
$146
Average price
$146
Fastest journey
7 h 5 m
Average duration
7 h 23 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
550 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Lausanne to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Lausanne to Essen will cost around $146 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $146.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Lausanne to Essen without transferring at least once.
IR 2509 · IC 960 · ICE 2006:40 AM7h18Lausanne station1:58 PMEssen Hbf$1461One-way2 transfers- IC 707 · IC 608 · ICE 74 · ICE 10106:17 AM7h05Lausanne station1:22 PMEssen Hbf$1461One-way3 transfers
- IC 1609 · ICE 2006:04 AM7h54Lausanne station1:58 PMEssen Hbf$1461One-way1 transfer
- IR 2511 · ICE 372 · ICE 6107:40 AM7h18Lausanne station2:58 PMEssen Hbf$1461One-way2 transfers
- IC 1609 · ICE 74 · ICE 10106:04 AM7h18Lausanne station1:22 PMEssen Hbf$1461One-way2 transfers
- IC 707 · IC 608 · ICE 74 · ICE 10106:17 AM7h05Lausanne station1:22 PMEssen Hbf$1461One-way3 transfers
- IR 2509 · IC 960 · ICE 2006:40 AM7h18Lausanne station1:58 PMEssen Hbf$1461One-way2 transfers
- IR 2511 · ICE 372 · ICE 6107:40 AM7h18Lausanne station2:58 PMEssen Hbf$1461One-way2 transfers
- IC 1609 · ICE 74 · ICE 10106:04 AM7h18Lausanne station1:22 PMEssen Hbf$1461One-way2 transfers
- IC 1609 · ICE 2006:04 AM7h54Lausanne station1:58 PMEssen Hbf$1461One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Lausanne to Essen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Lausanne to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $62. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 6h 57m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $62, and a flight costs an average of $102.
Distance: 341 miles (550 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$164 Average price | $278 Average price | $85 Average price Cheapest | $216 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 45m Average total duration 7h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 57m Average total duration Fastest 6h 57m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 19h 7m Average total duration 18h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 3m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.6 - 3.3kg CO2 emissions | 0.6 - 1.4kg 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 Lausanne to Essen is a bus with an average price of $85 (€70).
This is compared to other travel options from Lausanne to Essen:
A bus is $78 (€64) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Lausanne to Essen costing on average $164 (€135).
A bus is $192 (€158) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Lausanne to Essen costing on average $278 (€228).
The fastest way to travel from Lausanne to Essen is by flight with an average journey time of 6h 57m.
Other travel options to Essen take longer:
Train takes on average 7h 15m.
Bus takes on average 18h 37m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Lausanne and Essen including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Lausanne 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 (7h 15m by train vs 8h 3m by car) and roughly $52 (€43) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($164 (€135) vs $216 (€177)). 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.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Lausanne to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for Lausanne to Essen trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, July 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IC 1609 · ICE 200 | On time 6:04 AM Lausanne station | 7h54 | 1:58 PM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| IC 1609 · ICE 74 · ICE 1010 | On time 6:04 AM Lausanne station | 7h18 | 1:22 PM Essen Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| IC 707 · IC 608 · ICE 74 · ICE 1010 | On time 6:17 AM Lausanne station | 7h05 | 1:22 PM Essen Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| IR 2509 · IC 960 · ICE 200 | On time 6:40 AM Lausanne station | 7h18 | 1:58 PM Essen Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| IR 2511 · ICE 372 · ICE 610 | On time 7:40 AM Lausanne station | 7h18 | 2:58 PM Essen Hbf | 2 transfers |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Lausanne 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.
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Jul 07
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Jul 09
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Jul 10
Sat
Jul 11
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Mon
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Jul 13
Why should you book Lausanne to Essen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) offer trains services from Lausanne to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Lausanne 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 Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) to find the best option for your trip from Lausanne 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 Lausanne 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 Lausanne to Essen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Lausanne to Essen
Switzerland
Germany
Trains from Lausanne to Essen run on average 8 times per day, taking around 7h 15m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $64 (€52) but you can travel from only $62 (€51) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:09. The fastest train covers the 341 miles (550 km) distance in 7h 18m.
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 $62 (€51)
Distance 341 miles (550 km) |
Average train duration 7h 15m |
Cheapest ticket price $64 (€52) |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 7h 18m |
First train 12:04 AM |
Last train 11:09 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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 $62 (€51)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) from Lausanne to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) trains will get you between Lausanne and Essen from $62 (€51). 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
7h 18m
Cheapest Price
$64 (€52)
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
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 54m
Cheapest Price
$206 (€169)
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
5 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
The main regional museum of the Ruhr area, located in the former coal washery at Zollverein, with archaeology, history, and industrial culture displays.
- Recommended
Red Dot Design Museum
Design museum in the Zollverein complex showing contemporary product and industrial design in a striking former boiler house.
- Must visit
Margarethenhöhe
Picturesque garden-city district with distinctive early 20th-century planning, charming streets, and strong local character; very photogenic and walkable.
- Must visit
Baldeneysee
Large lake area popular for walking, cycling, sailing views, and relaxed Ruhr landscapes; one of Essen’s top outdoor recreation spots.
- Must visit
Zollverein Park
Contemporary landscape park woven through the former industrial complex, mixing architecture, art, and broad walking spaces popular on social media.
Currywurst
Sliced sausage with a spiced ketchup-style curry sauce, a Ruhr area classic found at snack stands and pubs across Essen.
- Gluten-free
Himmel und Erde
A traditional Rhineland dish of mashed potatoes and apple sauce, often served with black pudding and onions; common in the wider region around Essen.
Rheinischer Sauerbraten
Pot roast marinated for days in vinegar and spices, usually served with gravy and dumplings or potatoes; a classic festive dish in North Rhine-Westphalia.
Schote
An established fine-dining restaurant known for modern German cuisine, tasting menus, and an elegant atmosphere.
Unperfekthaus
A well-known creative venue with casual dining, buffet-style meals, and a lively cultural atmosphere in central Essen.
Tablo
A popular long-running restaurant serving generous Turkish and Mediterranean dishes in a busy, friendly setting.
Euro
Moderate by German standards. Supermarkets and casual dining are reasonable; hotels and upscale dining cost more.
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 included, but tipping is customary. Round up small bills or add about 5-10% in restaurants. Taxis are usually rounded up; no tip is expected for counter service.
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
- Check in the VRR App for ticket validity zones before travel, as fares depend on the price level.
- On most VRR buses and trams, card payment is not always available onboard, so buy tickets in the app or from machines in advance.
FAQs: Trains from Lausanne to Essen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lausanne 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 Lausanne to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $64 (€52), while the average price is around $164 (€135).
The train from Lausanne to Essen takes 7h 18m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Lausanne to Essen leaves at 12:04 AM.
The distance by train from Lausanne to Essen is 341 miles (550 km).
The last train from Lausanne to Essen leaves at 11:09 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Lausanne to Essen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Lausanne to Essen.
The train station in Lausanne that goes to Essen is Lausanne station, which connects to Essen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Lausanne to Essen is by bus, with a cost of around $62 (€51).
The train journey from Lausanne to Essen offers scenic views, particularly through the Swiss Alps and along Lake Geneva, providing passengers with picturesque landscapes before transitioning into the more urban settings of Germany.
A day trip from Lausanne to Essen is not feasible as the journey duration is 7h 18m. Trains operate 9 times per day for this route, covering a distance of 341 miles (550 km).
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 Lausanne to Essen.
Since both Lausanne 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 Lausanne 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.
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 Lausanne to Essen
Most Lausanne to Essen trains use the Lausanne to Essen Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Lausanne and Essen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Lausanne
Arrival train stations in Essen
Which Lausanne station do trains to Essen leave from?
Trains from Lausanne to Essen leave from Lausanne. The station is from Lausanne city centre at Place de la Gare 5, 1003 Lausanne, Switzerland.
LausannePlace de la Gare 5, 1003 Lausanne, Switzerland+41 51 225 78 00
City-centre transport
Getting to Lausanne from Lausanne city centre
Bus1, 2, 4, 8, 9 · 9m · $6 · every ~65 min
Lausanne train station facilities and services
Lausanne has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafe du Grutli, Le Chalet Suisse
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Lausanne. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Lausanne. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Lausanne: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Lausanne: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lausanne: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Beau-Rivage Palace, Lausanne Palace, Hotel Continental.
Which Essen station do trains from Lausanne arrive at?
Trains from Lausanne to Essen most often arrive at Essen Hbf. Some services arrive at Gelsenkirchen Hbf, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Essen arrival station.
Essen HbfEssen Hbf, Am Hauptbahnhof 5, 45127 Essen
City-centre transport
Getting to Essen Hbf from Essen city centre
BusNe12, Ne11, Ne2, Ne1, 196, 166, 155, 154, 146, 145 · 5m · every ~50 min
Tram109, 108, 107, 105, 103, 101 · 2m · every ~46 min
Essen Hbf train station facilities and services
Essen 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: Bollywood Express - Pizza & More, Kiepenkerl, Cafe Extrablatt, Tacos
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Essen Hbf. ATMs are available at Essen Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Essen Hbf. Information desks are available at Essen Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Essen Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Essen Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Ambassador, Gästearpartment Dahl, WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus, Motel One.
Most popular train connections from Lausanne
More options for your journey from Lausanne to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Essen and Lausanne
Most popular train connections to Essen
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