LEIPZIG to ESSEN train from €17 with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Leipzig to Essen

Showing times and prices for Aug 03

Cheapest price

€34

Average price

€51

Fastest journey

5 h 44 m

Average duration

6 h 47 m

Trains per day

Distance

372 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Leipzig to Essen will cost around €51 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €34.

Fast trains

Of the 4 trains that leave Leipzig for Essen on Mon, Aug 03, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Mon, Aug 03 the direct trains cover the 372 km distance in an average of 6 h 47 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 44 m .

On Mon, Aug 03 the slowest trains will take 8 h 58 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.

6:50 AM8h58
Leipzig
3:48 PMEssen
€341One-way
0 transfers
8:35 AM6h13
Leipzig
2:48 PMEssen
€521One-way
0 transfers
1:32 PM6h13
Leipzig
7:45 PMEssen
€591One-way
0 transfers
10:04 AM5h44
Leipzig
3:48 PMEssen
€591One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Leipzig to Essen

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Leipzig to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €17. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 23m. 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 €17, and a flight costs an average of €195.

Distance: 231 miles (372 km)

Compare train with

Most popular Train	Bus	Flight	Driving
€65 Average price	€28 Average price Cheapest	€421 Average price	€62 Average price (fuel + tolls)
5h 53m Average total duration Fastest 5h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	6h 3m Average total duration 5h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	11h 0m Average total duration 8h 0m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time*	5h 18m Average total duration (door-to-door)
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest	0.4 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions	1.1 - 2.2kg 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 Leipzig to Essen is a bus with an average price of €28.

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

A bus is €37 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Leipzig to Essen costing on average €65.

A bus is €393 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Leipzig to Essen costing on average €421.

The fastest way to travel from Leipzig to Essen is by train with an average journey time of 5h 23m.

Other travel options to Essen take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 33m.

Flight takes on average 8h 0m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Leipzig and Essen including taking a bus, train, and flight.

We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Leipzig 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 €65 compared to roughly €62 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-2.85. The journey takes 5h 23m versus 5h 18m 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.

Live departures

Leipzig to Essen train times

The table below shows live departures for Leipzig to Essen trains for tomorrow, Monday, August 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
	6:50 AM Leipzig	8h58	3:48 PM Essen	0 transfersDirect
	8:35 AM Leipzig	6h13	2:48 PM Essen	0 transfersDirect
	10:04 AM Leipzig	5h44	3:48 PM Essen	0 transfersDirect
	1:32 PM Leipzig	6h13	7:45 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 Leipzig 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.

Mon
Aug 03

Tue
Aug 04

Wed
Aug 05

Thu
Aug 06

Fri
Aug 07

Sat
Aug 08

Sun
Aug 09

Why should you book Leipzig to Essen trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Leipzig to Essen.

Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Leipzig 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 FlixTrain or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Leipzig 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 Leipzig 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 Leipzig to Essen.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Leipzig to Essen

Germany

Trains from Leipzig to Essen run on average 7 times per day, taking around 5h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €26 but you can travel from only €17 by bus.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 231 miles (372 km) distance in 4h 49m.

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 €17

Distance

231 miles (372 km)

Average train duration

5h 23m

Cheapest ticket price

€26

Trains per day

Direct trains

Fastest train

4h 49m

First train

12:04 AM

Last train

11:56 PM

Cheapest Month

Jun

Cheapest Day

Mon

High Season

Apr - Jun

Low Season

Jan - Mar

Busiest Day

Sun

Least Busy Day

Thu

Best time to book

84 days

Price information

Cheapest alternative travel mode

Bus from €17

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Leipzig to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Leipzig and Essen from €17. 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 49m

Cheapest Price

€26

Deutsche Bahn frequency

6 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.

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

Learn more about Deutsche Bahn

FlixTrain

About

FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Duration

5h 44m

Cheapest Price

€27

FlixTrain frequency

1 a day

Luggage included

1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)

Luggage storage

Overhead racks and designated luggage areas

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions

Refund

Full refund if train is cancelled by operator

Amenities on board the train

Wifi

Food sold onboard

Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service

Seat reservation

Seat reservation included in ticket price

Toilets

USB plugs

Accessibility

Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available

Pets

Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle

Quiet zone

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Duration

4h 50m

Cheapest Price

€70

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency

12 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

Museum Folkwang

World-class art museum in the Villa Hügel parkland, famous for 19th and 20th century masterpieces and changing exhibitions.

View on map Visit website

Must visit

Ruhr Museum

Ruhr Museum presents the region’s natural, cultural, and industrial history inside Zollverein’s iconic coal washery.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Deutsches Plakat Museum

Internationally important poster museum with graphic design, advertising, and visual culture collections in a central location.

View on map Visit website

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 Leipzig to Essen

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Leipzig 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 Leipzig to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €26, while the average price is around €65.

The train from Leipzig to Essen takes 4h 49m and runs 7 per day.

The distance by train from Leipzig to Essen is 231 miles (372 km).

The first train from Leipzig to Essen leaves at 12:04 AM.

The last train from Leipzig to Essen leaves at 11:56 PM.

Yes, there is a direct train from Leipzig to Essen. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).

Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Leipzig to Essen.

The train station in Leipzig that goes to Essen is Leipzig Hbf, which connects to Essen Hbf.

The cheapest way to get from Leipzig to Essen is by bus, with a cost of around €17.

The train journey from Leipzig to Essen offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, passing through picturesque landscapes such as the Harz Mountains and the Ruhr Valley, providing a pleasant visual experience.

A day trip from Leipzig to Essen is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 49m one way and the distance is 231 miles (372 km). However, there are 11 train trips per day available.

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 Leipzig to Essen.

Since both Leipzig 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 Leipzig 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 Leipzig to Essen

Most Leipzig to Essen trains use the Leipzig Hauptbahnhof to Essen Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Essen-Frohnhausen. Use this guide to compare Leipzig and Essen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Leipzig

Arrival train stations in Essen

Which Leipzig station do trains to Essen leave from?

Trains from Leipzig to Essen leave from Leipzig Hauptbahnhof. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Leipzig city centre at Willy-Brandt-Platz 5, 04109 Leipzig, Germany.

Leipzig HauptbahnhofWilly-Brandt-Platz 5, 04109 Leipzig, Germany+49 341 9686190 Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Leipzig Hauptbahnhof from Leipzig city centre

TrainS5x, S5, S4, S3, S1, S2 · 1m · €1 · every ~23 min

BusN3, 89 · 9m · every ~11 min

Tram9 · 8m · every ~11 min

Leipzig Hauptbahnhof train station facilities and services

Leipzig Hauptbahnhof 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, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurant Zchocolat, Vapiano Leipzig

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof: Elevators, ramps.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Steigenberger Grandhotel Handelshof, a&o Leipzig Hauptbahnhof, IntercityHotel Leipzig.

More about Leipzig Hauptbahnhof

Leipzig MesseLeipzig Messe, Merkurstraße, 04356 Leipzig Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Leipzig Messe from Leipzig city centre

Leipzig Messe is 6 km from Leipzig city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS2, Re13, S5x, S5 · 9m · €6 · every ~11 min

S5x, S5, S2 · 12m · €2 · every ~9 min

S2, S5x, S5 · 14m · €2 · every ~9 min

BusS5, S2 · 18m · €4

84 · 19m

Tram56, 16, 14 · 19m · every ~14 min

Leipzig Messe train station facilities and services

Leipzig Messe 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.