- 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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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 $472.
Distance: 118 miles (190 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$73 Average price | $21 Average price Cheapest | $506 Average price | $51 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 $52 (€42) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Leiden to Essen costing on average $73 (€59).
A bus is $485 (€390) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Leiden to Essen costing on average $506 (€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 $73 (€59) compared to roughly $51 (€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 today, Sunday, May 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 8:44 AM Leiden | 3h51 | 12:35 PM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:48 PM Leiden | 7h47 | 7:35 AM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
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.
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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
Netherlands
Germany
Trains from Leiden to Essen run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 40m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $70 (€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 $70 (€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
$73 (€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.
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
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 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.
Train ticket prices from Leiden to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $70 (€56), while the average price is around $73 (€59).
The train from Leiden to Essen takes 3h 42m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Leiden to Essen leaves at 2:26 AM.
The distance by train from Leiden to Essen is 118 miles (190 km).
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
Leiden
Essen
The major train station for departures in Leiden is Leiden Centraal. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Leiden Centraal for your trip from Leiden to Essen.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
9Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, accessible from the main entrance.
Dining
- Restaurant De Bruine Boon
- Grand Café Van Buuren
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps.
WC
- €0.70
Hotel
- Ibis Leiden Centre
- Golden Tulip Leiden Centre
- City Hotel Nieuw Minerva
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 4720 places, some covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-4 for intercity trains
- Hall 2: platform 5-9 for local trains
Public transit options for Leiden Centraal
- Bus: Several lines available
- Train: Intercity and local services
Leiden Lammenschans
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCBike ParkingCar RentalThe 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 Leiden.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockers
ShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost 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
12 kmDining
- Döbbe
- Der Bonner Hof
- Copper Irish Pub
- Giulia
Hotel
- Hotel Henning
Most popular train connections from Leiden
More options for your journey from Leiden to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Essen and Leiden
Most popular train connections to Essen
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