Lille to Essen train with Deutsche Bahn

Tue, Oct 13
+ Add return
Eurostar
Deutsche Bahn
Intercity
Regionalbahn
Regional
2,000+ travel companies
Eurostar
Deutsche Bahn
Intercity
Regionalbahn
Regional
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Lille to Essen

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 13

Cheapest price on Oct 13

$100

Average ticket price on Oct 13

$140

Fastest journey on Oct 13

3 h 48 m

Average journey duration on Oct 13

4 h 2 m

Trains on Oct 13

3

Distance

291 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Lille to Essen will cost around $140 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $100.

Fast trains

On Tue, Oct 13, we found 3 trains from Lille to Essen, including 3 direct services.

On Tue, Oct 13 the direct trains cover the 291 km distance in an average of 4 h 2 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 48 m .

On Tue, Oct 13 the slowest trains will take 4 h 31 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.

  • SNCF
    4:44 PM4h31
    Lille
    9:15 PMEssen
    $1001One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:30 AM3h48
    Lille
    11:18 AMEssen
    $1431One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    11:30 AM3h48
    Lille
    3:18 PMEssen
    $1761One-way
    0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Lille to Essen

FranceFrance
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Lille to Essen run on average 4 times per day, taking around 4h 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $29 (€24) but you can travel from only $23 (€19) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 20:39. The fastest train covers the 180 miles (291 km) distance in 3h 15m.

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 $23 (€19)
Distance
180 miles (291 km)
Average train duration
4h 13m
Cheapest ticket price
$29 (€24)
Trains per day
4
Fastest train
3h 15m
First train
12:01 AM
Last train
8:39 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Wed
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 $23 (€19)

Live departures

Lille to Essen train times

The table below shows live departures for Lille to Essen trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, October 13. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn7:30 AM Lille
3h48
11:18 AM Essen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn11:30 AM Lille
3h48
3:18 PM Essen0 transfersDirect
SNCF4:44 PM Lille
4h31
9:15 PM Essen0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Lille to Essen trains with Omio?

Eurostar as well as Deutsche Bahn, Intercity, Regionalbahn, Regional and more offer trains services from Lille to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Lille to Essen.

Why book with Omio vs Eurostar?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Eurostar, but also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn, Intercity, Regionalbahn or Regional to find the best option for your trip from Lille 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 Eurostar with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Lille 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, Intercity, Regionalbahn or Regional to find the best option for your trip from Lille to Essen.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Lille to Essen.

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar, Regional, Intercity, Regionalbahn from Lille to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, Eurostar, Regional, Intercity, Regionalbahn trains will get you between Lille and Essen from $23 (€19). 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
3h 15m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$29 (€24)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
10 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

Eurostar

About
Eurostar is a high-speed international rail service connecting the UK with France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany, primarily via the Channel Tunnel. Since merging with Thalys in October 2023, Eurostar now operates an expanded network across Western Europe. Known for its city-center to city-center travel, Eurostar offers a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to flying. Passengers can enjoy amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi and power sockets at every seat. Key destinations include London, Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, and Cologne, with seasonal services to other locations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Eurostar Duration
3h 15m
Cheapest Eurostar Price
$29 (€24)
Eurostar frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included in standard ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at the end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café-bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First-class passengers receive complimentary meals on some routes
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for all classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed for a fee. Large dogs not permitted except guide dogs
Quiet zone

Intercity

About
Intercity is a broad classification for express train services that connect cities over longer distances than commuter or regional trains, often with limited stops and comfortable carriages for long-distance travel. The term "InterCity" originated with British Rail in 1966 for its electrified West Coast Main Line services.Today, "Intercity" or "IC" is a brand name used by various railway operators across Europe and other parts of the world, including PKP Intercity in Poland, Trenitalia in Italy, and services in countries like Sweden and Ukraine. These trains typically offer both Standard and First Class seating, with amenities such as power sockets and luggage space. While some Intercity services are modern and high-speed, others may use older rolling stock, with speeds generally up to 160 km/h (100 mph).
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Intercity Duration
5h 21m
Cheapest Intercity Price
$86 (€72)
Intercity frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone

Regionalbahn

About
Regionalbahn (RB) is a type of local passenger train service in Germany, similar to regional train categories in Austria and Switzerland. These trains typically stop at all stations along a given line, connecting cities to their surrounding areas and serving shorter, regional routes. While many RB trains are operated by DB Regio, a subsidiary of Deutsche Bahn, other private companies also run these services. Regionalbahn trains are a budget-friendly option for regional travel and are often covered by tickets like the Deutschland Ticket.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Regionalbahn Duration
3h 47m
Cheapest Regionalbahn Price
$106 (€89)
Regionalbahn frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available
Pets
Small pets in carriers free, larger dogs need ticket
Quiet zone

Regional

About
The term "Regional" can refer to different train companies and services depending on the country. In Germany, "Regionalbahn" (RB) is a type of local passenger train that typically stops at all stations on a given line, connecting cities to their surrounding areas. Many RB trains are operated by DB Regio, a division of Deutsche Bahn, but other companies also run these services.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Regional Duration
4h 47m
Cheapest Regional Price
$86 (€72)
Regional frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
Standard luggage allowance included with ticket
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Refunds according to ticket type and conditions
Refund
Full refund if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket

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 Lille to Essen

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lille 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 Lille to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $29 (€24), while the average price is around $125 (€105).
The train from Lille to Essen takes 3h 15m and runs 4 per day.
The distance by train from Lille to Essen is 180 miles (291 km).
The first train from Lille to Essen leaves at 12:01 AM.
The last train from Lille to Essen leaves at 8:39 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Lille to Essen.
There is no direct train service currently available from Lille to Essen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Lille to Essen.
The train station in Lille that goes to Essen is Lille-Europe, which connects to Essen Hbf.
The train journey from Lille to Essen offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with views of charming European towns, fields, and industrial areas, though it is not typically considered one of the most scenic routes in Europe.
Yes, you can take the train from Lille to Essen.
Popular day trips by train from Essen include Cologne, Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Münster, Aachen.
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 Lille to Essen

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

Departure train stations in Lille
Arrival train stations in Essen

Which Lille station do trains to Essen leave from?

Trains from Lille to Essen leave from Lille-Europe. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Lille city centre at 1 Place François Mitterrand, 59777 Euralille, France.
Lille-Europe1 Place François Mitterrand, 59777 Euralille, France+33 892353535WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Lille-Europe from Lille city centre

Lille-Europe is 1 km from Lille city centre. Public transport options include:

BusL5 · 5m · $2 · every ~19 min
L5, N1 · 7m · $2 · every ~20 min

Lille-Europe train station facilities and services

Lille-Europe has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Costa Coffee, Factory & Co., PAUL, Selecta

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available for a fee. ATMs are located in Hall 3.

Tickets and information

The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 06:30 - 20:00. Information desks are located in Hall 2 and Hall 3.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is staffed luggage counter is open daily from 07:30 to 20:00 and is located in Hall 1.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Lille-Europe: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Lille-Europe: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Lille-Europe: The station is fully accessible, including wheelchair ramps, a magnetic induction loop for people with hearing loss and a guidance system for people with visual impairments. Staff can provide additional assistance, and wheelchairs are available.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Novotel Suites Gare Lille Europe, Hôtel Lille Europe - Euralille, Kyriad Lille Gare - Grand Palais.

Lille FlandresPlace des Buisses 59000 Lille, France+33 184943635WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Lille Flandres from Lille city centre

BusL5, 14 · 4m · $2 · every ~33 min
SubwayM1 · 3m · $2 · every ~28 min

Lille Flandres train station facilities and services

Lille Flandres has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food options include: Chopsticks & Co, McDonald's, Subway, Black Coffee, Eric Kayser, So! Coffee, Aux Merveilleux de Fred

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free, unlimited Wi-Fi is available after creating an account and connecting to "CONNECTION.". ATMs are aTM is located by Track 9.

Tickets and information

The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 07:00 - 20:00, Sat: 08:00 - 19:30, Sun: 09:00 - 19:30.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Lille Flandres: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Lille Flandres: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Lille Flandres: Accessibility available with elevator, ramp or step-free access, barrier-free toilets, services to assist disabled passengers.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Le Napoleon, Hotel Chopin, Ibis Styles Lille Centre Grand Place.

More options for your journey from Lille to Essen

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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