Lübeck to Essen train with Deutsche Bahn (IC,RE)

Mon, Aug 03
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Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
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Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Lübeck to Essen

Showing times and prices for Aug 03

Cheapest price

lei198

Average price

lei198

Fastest journey

11 h 8 m

Average duration

11 h 8 m

Trains per day

1

Distance

365 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Lübeck to Essen will cost around lei198 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only lei198.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave Lübeck for Essen on Mon, Aug 03, 1 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 365 km distance in an average of 11 h 8 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 11 h 8 m .

On Mon, Aug 03 the slowest trains will take 11 h 8 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.

  • FlixTrain
    12:40 AM11h08
    Lübeck
    11:48 AMEssen
    lei1981One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Lübeck to Essen

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Lübeck to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from lei196. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 55m. 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 lei196, and a flight costs an average of lei466.

Distance: 226 miles (365 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

lei536

Average price

lei256

Average price

Cheapest

lei820

Average price

lei350

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 37m

Average total duration

4h 7m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 23m

Average total duration

5h 53m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 55m

Average total duration

Fastest

55m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

4h 59m

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 Lübeck to Essen is a bus with an average price of lei256.

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

A bus is lei280 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Lübeck to Essen costing on average lei536.

A bus is lei564 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Lübeck to Essen costing on average lei820.

The fastest way to travel from Lübeck to Essen is by flight with an average journey time of 55m.

Other travel options to Essen take longer:

Train takes on average 4h 7m.

Bus takes on average 5h 53m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Lübeck and Essen including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Lübeck 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 52m sooner (4h 7m by train vs 4h 59m by car). Tickets start at around lei536 compared to roughly lei350 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

Lübeck to Essen train times

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

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
FlixTrain12:40 AM Lübeck
11h08
11:48 AM Essen0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Lübeck to Essen by train, bus, or flight

Compare train, bus, 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 Lübeck to Essen trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) offer trains services from Lübeck to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Lübeck 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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) to find the best option for your trip from Lübeck 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 train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Lübeck to Essen.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Lübeck to Essen.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Lübeck to Essen

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Lübeck to Essen run on average 5 times per day, taking around 4h 7m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at lei198 but you can travel from only lei196 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 22:08. The fastest train covers the 226 miles (365 km) distance in 4h 17m.

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 lei196
Distance
226 miles (365 km)
Average train duration
4h 7m
Cheapest ticket price
lei198
Trains per day
5
Fastest train
4h 17m
First train
12:04 AM
Last train
10:08 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Best time to book
14 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 lei196

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) from Lübeck to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) trains will get you between Lübeck and Essen from lei196. 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 21m
Cheapest Price
lei663
Deutsche Bahn frequency
5 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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 15m
Cheapest Price
lei487
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
1 a day

Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 45m
Cheapest Price
lei431
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) frequency
16 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.

  • 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 Lübeck to Essen

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lübeck 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 Lübeck to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at lei198, while the average price is around lei536.
The train from Lübeck to Essen takes 4h 17m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Lübeck to Essen is 226 miles (365 km).
The first train from Lübeck to Essen leaves at 12:04 AM.
The last train from Lübeck to Essen leaves at 10:08 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Lübeck to Essen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Lübeck to Essen.
The train station in Lübeck that goes to Essen is Lübeck Hbf, which connects to Essen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Lübeck to Essen is by bus, with a cost of around lei196.
The train journey from Lübeck to Essen offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, passing through regions like Lower Saxony and North Rhine-Westphalia, with views of fields, forests, and small towns, but it is not considered particularly scenic compared to routes with mountainous or coastal vistas.
A day trip from Lübeck to Essen is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 17m. However, trains run 6 times per day for this 226 miles (365 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 Lübeck to Essen.
Since both Lübeck 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 Lübeck 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 Lübeck to Essen

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

Departure train stations in Lübeck
Arrival train stations in Essen

Which Lübeck station do trains to Essen leave from?

Trains from Lübeck to Essen leave from Lübeck Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Lübeck city centre at Lübeck Hbf, Am Bahnhof 6, 23558 Lübeck.
Lübeck HbfLübeck Hbf, Am Bahnhof 6, 23558 LübeckWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Lübeck Hbf from Lübeck city centre

Lübeck Hbf is 1 km from Lübeck city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus50, 34, 26, 40, 31, 30, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 21, 2, 16, 12, 11, 10, 1 · 5m · lei11 · every ~77 min

Lübeck Hbf train station facilities and services

Lübeck 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: MyWaffel, McDonald's, Cafe Maret, Café Brazil

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Lübeck Hbf. ATMs are available at Lübeck Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Lübeck Hbf. Information desks are available at Lübeck Hbf.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Lübeck Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Lübeck Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Lübeck Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Lübeck Hbf.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include LIHO, Mercure, Hotel Stadt Lübeck, Hotel an der Marienkirche.

Lübeck-Travemünde StrandLübeck-Travemünde Strand, Bertlingstr. 21, 23570 LübeckWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Lübeck-Travemünde Strand from Lübeck city centre

Lübeck-Travemünde Strand is 16 km from Lübeck city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRb86, Re8, Re80, Re86 · 23m · lei28 · every ~4 min
Bus34, 40, 30 · 39m · every ~7 min
34, 40, 30 · 40m · every ~7 min

Lübeck-Travemünde Strand train station facilities and services

Lübeck-Travemünde Strand 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: TEATIME, Café Marleen, Strandoase, Ostsee Lounge

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Lübeck-Travemünde Strand. ATMs are available at Lübeck-Travemünde Strand.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Lübeck-Travemünde Strand. Information desks are available at Lübeck-Travemünde Strand.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Lübeck-Travemünde Strand. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Lübeck-Travemünde Strand: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Lübeck-Travemünde Strand: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Lübeck-Travemünde Strand.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Grand SPA Resort A-ROSA Travemünde, Atlantic Grand Hotel Travemünde, Seeschlößchen, Deutscher Kaiser.

Lübeck-Travemünde HafenLübeck-Travemünde Hafen, Vogteistr. 13, 23570 LübeckWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Lübeck-Travemünde Hafen from Lübeck city centre

Lübeck-Travemünde Hafen is 15 km from Lübeck city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRb86, Re8 · 20m · lei28 · every ~4 min
Bus34, 30 · 33m · every ~4 min
34, 30 · 34m · every ~4 min

Lübeck-Travemünde Hafen train station facilities and services

Lübeck-Travemünde Hafen 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: TEATIME, Café Marleen, Niederegger, Landungsbrücken

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Lübeck-Travemünde Hafen. ATMs are available at Lübeck-Travemünde Hafen.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Lübeck-Travemünde Hafen. Information desks are available at Lübeck-Travemünde Hafen.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Lübeck-Travemünde Hafen. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Lübeck-Travemünde Hafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Lübeck-Travemünde Hafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Lübeck-Travemünde Hafen.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Grand SPA Resort A-ROSA Travemünde, Deutscher Kaiser, Lili Marleen, Hotel Soldwisch.

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