Leiden to Essen train with VIAS Rail GmbH

Thu, Jul 16
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VIAS Rail GmbH
Deutsche Bahn
Regionale
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
VIAS Rail GmbH
Deutsche Bahn
Regionale
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Leiden to Essen

Showing times and prices for Jul 16

Cheapest price

$68

Average price

$69

Fastest journey

3 h 5 m

Average duration

3 h 33 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

190 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Leiden to Essen will cost around $69 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $68.

Fast trains

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

  • Deutsche BahnIC 3227 · S3+VIAS Rail GmbH20017
    8:08 AM3h27
    Leiden Centraal
    11:35 AMEssen Hbf
    $681One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 3231 · S3+VIAS Rail GmbH20019
    9:08 AM3h27
    Leiden Centraal
    12:35 PMEssen Hbf
    $681One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnRE 8829 · IC 3129 · 32233 · 20077
    8:23 AM3h51
    Leiden Centraal
    12:14 PMEssen Hbf
    $691One-way
    4 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 3129 · 32233 · 20077 · 10131
    8:17 AM3h57
    Leiden Centraal
    12:14 PMEssen Hbf
    $691One-way
    3 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 3527 · ICE 225 · ICE 1022
    7:57 AM3h05
    Leiden Centraal
    11:02 AMEssen Hbf
    $731One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Leiden to Essen

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Leiden to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $18. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 40m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $18, and a flight costs an average of $462.

Distance: 118 miles (190 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$72

Average price

$21

Average price

Cheapest

$495

Average price

$50

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 10m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 40m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 1m

Average total duration

4h 31m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 23m

Average total duration

3h 23m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

2h 45m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

0.6 - 1.1kg

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 Leiden to Essen is a bus with an average price of $21 (€17).

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

A bus is $51 (€42) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Leiden to Essen costing on average $72 (€59).

A bus is $475 (€390) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Leiden to Essen costing on average $495 (€407).

The fastest way to travel from Leiden to Essen is by train with an average journey time of 2h 40m.

Other travel options to Essen take longer:

Flight takes on average 3h 23m.

Bus takes on average 4h 31m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Leiden and Essen including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Leiden 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 5m sooner (2h 40m by train vs 2h 45m by car). Tickets start at around $72 (€59) compared to roughly $50 (€41) 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.

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

Leiden to Essen train times

The table below shows live departures for Leiden to Essen trains for tomorrow, Thursday, July 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnIC 3527 · ICE 225 · ICE 1022
On time
7:57 AM Leiden Centraal
3h05
11:02 AM Essen Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 3227 · S3+VIAS Rail GmbH200178:08 AM Leiden Centraal
3h27
11:35 AM Essen Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 3129 · 32233 · 20077 · 101318:17 AM Leiden Centraal
3h57
12:14 PM Essen Hbf3 transfers
Deutsche BahnRE 8829 · IC 3129 · 32233 · 200778:23 AM Leiden Centraal
3h51
12:14 PM Essen Hbf4 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 3231 · S3+VIAS Rail GmbH200199:08 AM Leiden Centraal
3h27
12:35 PM Essen Hbf2 transfers

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Leiden 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.

Thu
Jul 16
Fri
Jul 17
Sat
Jul 18
Sun
Jul 19
Mon
Jul 20
Tue
Jul 21
Wed
Jul 22

Why should you book Leiden to Essen trains with Omio?

VIAS Rail GmbH as well as Deutsche Bahn offer trains services from Leiden to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Leiden to Essen.

Why book with Omio vs VIAS Rail GmbH?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for VIAS Rail GmbH, but also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn to find the best option for your trip from Leiden 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 VIAS Rail GmbH with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Leiden to Essen.

Why book with Omio over Rome2rio, Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn to find the best option for your trip from Leiden to Essen.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Leiden to Essen.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Leiden to Essen

NetherlandsNetherlands
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Leiden to Essen run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 40m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $68 (€56) but you can travel from only $18 (€14) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 02:26, the last at 23:08. The fastest train covers the 118 miles (190 km) distance in 3h 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 $18 (€14)
Distance
118 miles (190 km)
Average train duration
2h 40m
Cheapest ticket price
$68 (€56)
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
3h 42m
First train
2:26 AM
Last train
11:08 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Best time to book
4 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 $18 (€14)

Train companies: VIAS Rail GmbH, Deutsche Bahn from Leiden to Essen trainsVIAS Rail GmbH, Deutsche Bahn trains will get you between Leiden and Essen from $18 (€14). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

VIAS Rail GmbH

About
VIAS Rail GmbH is a German rail service company based in Frankfurt, operating passenger rail services in the states of Hesse, Rhineland-Palatinate, and North Rhine-Westphalia. The name "VIAS" is derived from the Latin word "via" (way) and "S" for service. VIAS Rail GmbH operates numerous regional train lines, including services on the Odenwald Railway network and lines in the Rhein-Main Gebiet. They utilize various train types, such as Bombardier Itino and Stadler FLIRT vehicles. The company is a subsidiary of the RATH Group.
Luggage & cancellation policy
VIAS Rail GmbH frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack and beverage service available
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone

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 47m
Cheapest Price
$72 (€59)
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

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 Leiden to Essen

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Leiden 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 Leiden to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $68 (€56), while the average price is around $72 (€59).
The train from Leiden to Essen takes 3h 42m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Leiden to Essen is 118 miles (190 km).
The first train from Leiden to Essen leaves at 2:26 AM.
The last train from Leiden to Essen leaves at 11:08 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Leiden to Essen.
There is no direct train service currently available from Leiden to Essen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Leiden to Essen.
The train station in Leiden that goes to Essen is Leiden Centraal, which connects to Essen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Leiden to Essen is by bus, with a cost of around $18 (€14).
The train journey from Leiden to Essen is moderately scenic, offering views of the Dutch countryside, charming towns, and green landscapes, especially as you pass through areas like Utrecht and Arnhem before entering the industrial regions of Germany.
A day trip from Leiden to Essen is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 42m, which exceeds the limit for a day trip. There are 9 trips per day for trains over a distance of 118 miles (190 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 Leiden to Essen.
Since both Leiden 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 Leiden 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 Leiden to Essen

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

Departure train stations in Leiden
Arrival train stations in Essen

Which Leiden station do trains to Essen leave from?

Trains from Leiden to Essen leave from Leiden Centraal. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Leiden city centre at Stationsplein 3, 2312 AJ Leiden, Netherlands.
Leiden CentraalStationsplein 3, 2312 AJ Leiden, Netherlands+31 30 751 5155WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Leiden Centraal from Leiden city centre

Leiden Centraal is 1 km from Leiden city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus45 · 6m · $2 · every ~7 min
54, 1, 2, 3, 4, 169 · 7m · $4 · every ~24 min
54, 56, 3, 4 · 9m · $5 · every ~16 min

Leiden Centraal train station facilities and services

Leiden Centraal has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurant De Bruine Boon, Grand Café Van Buuren

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Leiden Centraal. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Leiden Centraal. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Leiden Centraal: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Leiden Centraal: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Leiden Centraal: Elevators, ramps.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Ibis Leiden Centre, Golden Tulip Leiden Centre, City Hotel Nieuw Minerva.

Leiden LammenschansCentral Facility Building, 2311 VV Leiden, NetherlandsParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCBike ParkingCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Leiden Lammenschans from Leiden city centre

Leiden Lammenschans is 1 km from Leiden city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus1, 2 · 4m · $4 · every ~7 min

Leiden Lammenschans train station facilities and services

Leiden Lammenschans has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Leiden Lammenschans.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Leiden Lammenschans.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Leiden Lammenschans: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Leiden Lammenschans: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Leiden Lammenschans.

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