- Must visit
Museum Folkwang
One of Germany’s leading art museums, known for major collections of 19th- to 21st-century painting, photography, and design.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Lyon to Essen
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$122
Average price
$194
Fastest journey
7 h 11 m
Average duration
7 h 57 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
654 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Lyon to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Lyon to Essen will cost around $194 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $122.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Lyon for Essen on Sun, Jun 21, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 21 the direct trains cover the 654 km distance in an average of 7 h 57 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 11 m .
On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest trains will take 8 h 42 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.
8:16 AM8h42Lyon4:58 PMEssen$1221One-way0 transfers- 8:01 AM7h57Lyon3:58 PMEssen$1861One-way0 transfers
12:04 PM7h11Lyon7:15 PMEssen$2751One-way0 transfers
- 12:04 PM7h11Lyon7:15 PMEssen$2751One-way0 transfers
- 8:01 AM7h57Lyon3:58 PMEssen$1861One-way0 transfers
- 8:16 AM8h42Lyon4:58 PMEssen$1221One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Lyon to Essen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Lyon to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $50. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 51m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.6kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $50, and a flight costs an average of $68.
Distance: 406 miles (654 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$191 Average price | $76 Average price Cheapest | $255 Average price | $197 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 18m Average total duration 7h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 15h 12m Average total duration 14h 42m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 51m Average total duration Fastest 1h 51m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 8h 24m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.7 - 1.6kg CO2 emissions | 2.0 - 3.9kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
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 Lyon to Essen is a bus with an average price of $76 (€62).
This is compared to other travel options from Lyon to Essen:
A bus is $115 (€94) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Lyon to Essen costing on average $191 (€156).
A bus is $179 (€146) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Lyon to Essen costing on average $255 (€208).
The fastest way to travel from Lyon to Essen is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 51m.
Other travel options to Essen take longer:
Train takes on average 7h 48m.
Bus takes on average 14h 42m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Lyon and Essen including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Lyon to Essen among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 36m faster (7h 48m by train vs 8h 24m by car) and roughly $6 (€5) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($191 (€156) vs $197 (€161)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Lyon to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for Lyon to Essen trains for tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:01 AM Lyon | 7h57 | 3:58 PM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:16 AM Lyon | 8h42 | 4:58 PM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:04 PM Lyon | 7h11 | 7:15 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 Lyon 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.
Sun
Jun 21
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Jun 23
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Jun 27
Jun 27
Journey information
Overview: Train from Lyon to Essen
France
Germany
Trains from Lyon to Essen run on average 4 times per day, taking around 7h 48m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $95 (€78) but you can travel from only $50 (€41) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:00. The fastest train covers the 406 miles (654 km) distance in 7h 11m.
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 $50 (€41)
Distance 406 miles (654 km) |
Average train duration 7h 48m |
Cheapest ticket price $95 (€78) |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 7h 11m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:00 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 28 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 $50 (€41)
Train companies: TGV, SNCF | TGV INOUI from Lyon to Essen trainsTGV, SNCF | TGV INOUI trains will get you between Lyon and Essen from $50 (€41). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
TGV
About
TGV is a high-speed train company based in France. It operates a fleet of modern trains that can reach speeds of up to 320 km/h. The TGV offers a variety of train types, including the TGV Duplex, TGV Lyria, TGV InOui, and TGV OuiGo. Each train type provides different amenities, such as Wi-Fi, power outlets, and comfortable seating. Ticket options include Standard, Flexi, and Prem’s. Onboard facilities feature a bar, restaurant, and luggage storage. Popular TGV routes include Paris to Lyon, Paris to Marseille, and Paris to Lille.
Luggage & cancellation policy
TGV frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 suitcase included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
According to fare conditions and ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full meals and bar service, at-seat dining in first class
Seat reservation
Included in first class, optional fee in second class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket, guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
SNCF | TGV INOUI
About
SNCF's TGV INOUI is a premium high-speed train service operating across France and to other European cities. Launched in 2017, it aims to provide an enhanced travel experience with greater comfort, connectivity, and services compared to traditional TGV services. TGV INOUI trains offer features like adjustable seats, electrical outlets, fold-down tables, and dedicated luggage spaces. Passengers can enjoy onboard Wi-Fi and access to the TGV INOUI portal for entertainment and journey information. The service also includes a "Bistro TGV INOUI" for dining, with options for online ordering. SNCF is also introducing a new generation of TGV INOUI trains from 2026, which will be more modular, energy-efficient, and 97% recyclable.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 7m
Cheapest Price
$323 (€264)
SNCF | TGV INOUI frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
1 hand luggage + 2 pieces of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, end of carriages, between seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund conditions depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (not all trains), at-seat service in 1st class, snack bar/cafe
Seat reservation
Second class: Optional, additional fee. First class: Included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers: Free. Large dogs: Paid ticket required. Guide dogs: Free
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.
- Recommended
Ruhr Museum
A key museum for the Ruhr region’s history, archaeology, and natural heritage, housed in the iconic Zollverein Coal Washery.
- Recommended
Red Dot Design Museum
A major design museum displaying award-winning contemporary product and industrial design inside the Zollverein complex.
- Must visit
Zollverein Park
Large open area around the Zollverein complex with striking industrial scenery, walking paths, and some of Essen’s most photographed views.
- Must visit
Baldeneysee
A major leisure area around a reservoir on the Ruhr, popular for walking, cycling, lakeside views, and social-media-friendly sunsets.
- Recommended
Kettwig Old Town
Charming historic quarter with half-timbered buildings, cobbled streets, and a relaxed small-town feel within Essen.
Currywurst
Sliced grilled sausage with curry ketchup and fries, a beloved Ruhr area fast-food classic found across Essen.
- Gluten-free
Pfefferpotthast
A traditional Westphalian beef stew seasoned generously with pepper and onions, long associated with the wider region around Essen.
- Gluten-free
Himmel und Erde
A hearty Rhineland dish of mashed potatoes and applesauce, often served with black pudding; common in western German home cooking.
Hugenpoet Restaurant 1831
Refined dining in Schloss Hugenpoet, offering upscale cuisine in a historic manor-house atmosphere south of central Essen.
Schote
Well-known fine-dining restaurant in Essen with modern creative cuisine and an elegant, intimate atmosphere.
Meisenburg
Long-established restaurant and beer garden popular for German and regional dishes in a relaxed, green setting.
Euro
Moderate by German standards. Budget eats are reasonable, while hotels and sit-down dining cost more.
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. Round up small bills; tip about 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Round up in taxis. Little or no tip is fine for counter service.
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 Hbf, Essen
- Distance
- 0 km
- Travel time
- 0 min
- You can buy tickets digitally in the VRR App before boarding local trains, trams, and buses.
- Card payment is commonly available in ticket machines, but on-board payment options can vary by operator and vehicle.
FAQs: Trains from Lyon to Essen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lyon 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 Lyon to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $95 (€78), while the average price is around $191 (€156).
The train from Lyon to Essen takes 7h 11m and runs 4 per day.
The distance by train from Lyon to Essen is 406 miles (654 km).
The first train from Lyon to Essen leaves at 12:01 AM.
The last train from Lyon to Essen leaves at 11:00 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Lyon to Essen.
There is no direct train service currently available from Lyon to Essen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Lyon to Essen.
The train station in Lyon that goes to Essen is Lyon Part Dieu, which connects to Essen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Lyon to Essen is by bus, with a cost of around $50 (€41).
The Lyon to Essen train journey offers a variety of scenic views, including picturesque landscapes of the French countryside, charming villages, and the rolling hills of the Rhineland region in Germany, making it a visually appealing travel experience.
A day trip from Lyon to Essen is not feasible as the journey takes 7h 11m one way. However, there are 4 train connections available per day for this 406 miles (654 km) route.
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 Lyon to Essen.
Since both Lyon 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 Lyon 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 Lyon to Essen
Lyon
Essen
The major train station for departures in Lyon is Lyon Part Dieu. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Lyon Part Dieu for your trip from Lyon to Essen.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Wed: 05:00 - 20:45
- Thu - Sat: 05:00 - 21:45
- Sun: 06:45 - 21:45
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free unlimited WiFi
Lockers
- Luggage lockers are available daily from 06:15 to 23:15. They are located near the station's reception desk.
Dining
- Alto Café
- Paul
- Paul The Café
- Starbucks
- Exki
- Sushi Shop
- Carrefour
Accessibility
- Complimentary personalized care is available
Hotel
- Radisson Blu Hotel Lyon
- Mercure Lyon Center
- ibis Styles Lyon Center
Ticket Office
- Mon - Wed: 05:00 - 20:45
- Thu - Sat: 05:00 - 21:45
- Sun: 06:45 - 21:45
Information Desk
- Located in the station's main hall.
Public transit options for Lyon Part Dieu
- Metro lines: A, B, C, D
- Tram lines: T4, K240, T3, K100
- Bus lines: 2960, C2, C3, C6, C9
- Train lines: TGV, TGV Lyria, TGV INOUI, OUIGO, TER, Intercités, Eurostar, AVE
Amenities at train station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 10:00 - 18:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free, unlimited Wi-Fi is available after creating an account and connecting to "CONNECTION."
Dining
- PAUL
Accessibility
- Hearing, mobility, and visual disability assistance. Accessibility available with elevator, ramp or step-free access, barrier-free toilets
Hotel
- Mercure Lyon Centre Chateau Perrache
- Hotel De Normandie
- InterContinental Lyon-Hotel Dieu
Ticket Office
- Mon - Fri: 10:00 - 18:00
Information Desk
- Information services are available at the ticket office, located in Hall Level 2
Public transit options for Lyon-Perrache
- Metro lines: A, B, C, D
- Bus lines: 8, 31, 46, 49, 55, 60, 63, S1, C19, C21, C22
- Tram lines: 1, 2
- Train lines: TGV, TGV INOUI, OUIGO, TER Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, Intercités
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
Lost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
3 km
Number of platforms
4Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week. Access is available via Rue de Grèce
Dining
- Restaurant Moxy Lyon Airport
- NH Lyon Airport Restaurant
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms
WC
- €0.50
Hotel
- Moxy Lyon Airport
- NH Lyon Airport
- Ibis Budget Aéroport Lyon Saint Exupéry
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 150 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform access
- Hall 2: ticket office and services
- Hall 3: connection to Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport
Public transit options for Lyon Saint-Exupéry TGV
- Tramway: Rhônexpress
- Bus: Several lines available
The 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 Lyon.
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
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
3 kmDining
- Burger King
- Werner
- Bückmannsmühle
- Muckel-Eis
More options for your journey from Lyon to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Essen and Lyon
Most popular train connections to Essen
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