- Must visit
Museum Folkwang
One of Germany’s leading art museums, known for major collections of 19th- to 21st-century painting, photography, and design.
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Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Leer to Essen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Leer to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $47. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 49m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $47, and a bus costs an average of $61.
Distance: 124 miles (200 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$61 Average price Cheapest | $66 Average price | $41 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 19m Average total duration Fastest 2h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 12h 13m Average total duration 11h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 31m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Leer to Essen is a train with an average price of $61 (€50).
This is compared to other travel options from Leer to Essen:
A train is $5 (€4) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Leer to Essen costing on average $66 (€54).
The fastest way to travel from Leer to Essen is by train with an average journey time of 2h 49m.
Other travel options to Essen take longer:
Bus takes on average 11h 43m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Leer and Essen including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Leer to Essen among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $61 (€50) compared to roughly $41 (€33) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-19.89 (€-16.29). The journey takes 2h 49m versus 2h 31m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Compare prices and tickets Leer to Essen by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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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Why should you book Leer to Essen trains with Omio?
WestfalenBahn as well as Deutsche Bahn offer trains services from Leer to Essen.
Omio is the only official third party seller for WestfalenBahn tickets.
Why book with Omio vs WestfalenBahn?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for WestfalenBahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn to find the best option for your trip from Leer 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 WestfalenBahn with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Leer to Essen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Leer to Essen
GermanyGermany
Trains from Leer to Essen run on average 4 times per day, taking around 2h 49m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $47 (€38) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:46, the last at 20:56. The fastest train covers the 124 miles (200 km) distance in 3h 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 124 miles (200 km) |
Average train duration 2h 49m |
Cheapest ticket price $47 (€38) |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 3h 3m |
First train 12:46 AM |
Last train 8:56 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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
Train companies: WestfalenBahn, Deutsche Bahn from Leer to Essen trainsWestfalenBahn, Deutsche Bahn trains will get you between Leer and Essen from $47 (€38). 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
2h 50m
Cheapest Price
$63 (€52)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
2 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
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
WestfalenBahn frequency
4 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
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.
- Recommended
Ruhr Museum
A key museum for the Ruhr region’s history, archaeology, and natural heritage, housed in the iconic Zollverein Coal Washery.
- Recommended
Red Dot Design Museum
A major design museum displaying award-winning contemporary product and industrial design inside the Zollverein complex.
- Must visit
Zollverein Park
Large open area around the Zollverein complex with striking industrial scenery, walking paths, and some of Essen’s most photographed views.
- Must visit
Baldeneysee
A major leisure area around a reservoir on the Ruhr, popular for walking, cycling, lakeside views, and social-media-friendly sunsets.
- Recommended
Kettwig Old Town
Charming historic quarter with half-timbered buildings, cobbled streets, and a relaxed small-town feel within Essen.
Currywurst
Sliced grilled sausage with curry ketchup and fries, a beloved Ruhr area fast-food classic found across Essen.
- Gluten-free
Pfefferpotthast
A traditional Westphalian beef stew seasoned generously with pepper and onions, long associated with the wider region around Essen.
- Gluten-free
Himmel und Erde
A hearty Rhineland dish of mashed potatoes and applesauce, often served with black pudding; common in western German home cooking.
Hugenpoet Restaurant 1831
Refined dining in Schloss Hugenpoet, offering upscale cuisine in a historic manor-house atmosphere south of central Essen.
Schote
Well-known fine-dining restaurant in Essen with modern creative cuisine and an elegant, intimate atmosphere.
Meisenburg
Long-established restaurant and beer garden popular for German and regional dishes in a relaxed, green setting.
Euro
Moderate by German standards. Budget eats are reasonable, while hotels and sit-down 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 usually included. Round up small bills; tip about 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Round up in taxis. Little or no tip is fine 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 Hbf, Essen
- Distance
- 0 km
- Travel time
- 0 min
- You can buy tickets digitally in the VRR App before boarding local trains, trams, and buses.
- Card payment is commonly available in ticket machines, but on-board payment options can vary by operator and vehicle.
FAQs: Trains from Leer to Essen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Leer 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 Leer to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $47 (€38), while the average price is around $61 (€50).
The train from Leer to Essen takes 3h 3m and runs 4 per day.
The distance by train from Leer to Essen is 124 miles (200 km).
The first train from Leer to Essen leaves at 12:46 AM.
The last train from Leer to Essen leaves at 8:56 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Leer to Essen.
There is no direct train service currently available from Leer to Essen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Leer to Essen.
The train station in Leer that goes to Essen is Leer (Ostfriesl), which connects to Essen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Leer to Essen is by train, with a cost of around $47 (€38).
The train journey from Leer to Essen is generally not considered scenic, as it primarily travels through urban and industrial areas typical of the North Rhine-Westphalia region.
A day trip from Leer to Essen is not feasible since the journey duration is 3h 3m. However, there are 9 train trips available per day for this 124 miles (200 km) journey.
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 Leer to Essen.
Since both Leer 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 Leer 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 Leer to Essen
Most Leer to Essen trains use the Leer(Ostfriesl) to Essen Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Essen-Frohnhausen. Use this guide to compare Leer and Essen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Leer
Arrival train stations in Essen
Which Leer station do trains to Essen leave from?
Trains from Leer to Essen leave from Leer(Ostfriesl). The station is from Leer city centre at Leer (Ostfriesl), Bahnhofsring 8, 26789 Leer.
Leer(Ostfriesl)Leer (Ostfriesl), Bahnhofsring 8, 26789 Leer
City-centre transport
Getting to Leer(Ostfriesl) from Leer city centre
BusN61, 656, 635, 625, 624, 622, 621, 620, N62, 623 · 2m · every ~6 min
Leer(Ostfriesl) train station facilities and services
Leer(Ostfriesl) 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: Cafe Extrablatt, Mamma Mia, Kaffeebohne, Tai Shan
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Leer(Ostfriesl). ATMs are available at Leer(Ostfriesl).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Leer(Ostfriesl). Information desks are available at Leer(Ostfriesl).
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Leer(Ostfriesl). Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Leer(Ostfriesl): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Leer(Ostfriesl): Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Leer(Ostfriesl).
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Sophien-Cafe, Am Markt, Hotel Frisia, Oberledinger Hof.
Which Essen station do trains from Leer arrive at?
Trains from Leer to Essen most often arrive at Essen Hbf. Some services arrive at Essen-Frohnhausen, 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.
Essen-FrohnhausenEssen-Frohnhausen, Onckenstraße 61, 45144 Essen
City-centre transport
Getting to Essen-Frohnhausen from Essen city centre
Essen-Frohnhausen is 3 km from Essen city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS1, S3 · 4m · $1 · every ~8 min
BusS1, S3 · 19m · $4
161 · 31m · every ~4 min
Essen-Frohnhausen train station facilities and services
Essen-Frohnhausen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Pizzeria Don Camillo, Pizza Farm, Call a Pizza, Nefeli
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Essen-Frohnhausen. ATMs are available at Essen-Frohnhausen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Essen-Frohnhausen. Information desks are available at Essen-Frohnhausen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Essen-Frohnhausen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen-Frohnhausen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Essen-Frohnhausen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen-Frohnhausen.
Most popular train connections from Leer
More options for your journey from Leer to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Essen and Leer
Most popular train connections to Essen
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