- Must visit
Museum Folkwang
World-class art museum in the Villa Hügel parkland, famous for 19th and 20th century masterpieces and changing exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Lyon to Essen
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
kr1601
Average ticket price on Sep 20
kr1601
Fastest journey on Sep 20
8 h 20 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
8 h 20 m
Trains on Sep 20
1
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 kr1601 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only kr1601.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Lyon to Essen without transferring at least 2 times.
ICE 2516 · 10226+
TGV 958310:01 AM8h20Lyon Part Dieu6:21 PMEssen Hbfkr16011One-way2 transfers
- ICE 2516 · 10226+TGV 958310:01 AM8h20Lyon Part Dieu6:21 PMEssen Hbfkr16011One-way2 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 an average ticket price of kr571 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 40m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.2 - 0.6kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of kr571, while a flight costs an average of kr3087.
Distance: 406 miles (654 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
kr885 Average price | kr571 Average price Cheapest | kr3087 Average price | kr1292 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 4m Average total duration 7h 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 15h 29m Average total duration 14h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 40m Average total duration Fastest 2h 40m Onboard + 2h 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 kr571.
This is compared to other travel options from Lyon to Essen:
A bus is kr315 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Lyon to Essen costing on average kr885.
A bus is kr2517 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Lyon to Essen costing on average kr3087.
The fastest way to travel from Lyon to Essen is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 40m.
Other travel options to Essen take longer:
Train takes on average 7h 34m.
Bus takes on average 14h 59m.
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 50m faster (7h 34m by train vs 8h 24m by car) and roughly kr407 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (kr885 vs kr1292). 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 today, Saturday, September 19. 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 | |
| 9:01 AM Lyon | 7h57 | 4:58 PM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:02 AM Lyon | 9h56 | 6:58 PM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
 | 12:04 PM Lyon | 7h11 | 7:15 PM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:04 PM Lyon | 7h11 | 9:15 PM Essen | 0 transfersDirect |
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
Sep 20
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Lyon to Essen
France
Germany
Trains from Lyon to Essen run on average 3 times per day, taking around 7h 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at kr406 but you can travel from only kr243 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 6h 20m.
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 kr243
Distance 406 miles (654 km) |
Average train duration 7h 34m |
Cheapest ticket price kr406 |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 6h 20m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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 kr243
Train companies: TGV, Eurostar, TER from Lyon to Essen trainsTGV, Eurostar, TER trains will get you between Lyon and Essen from kr243. 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
Average TGV Duration
7h 25m
Cheapest TGV Price
kr470
TGV frequency
1 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
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
6h 20m
Cheapest Eurostar Price
kr406
Eurostar frequency
5 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
TER
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average TER Duration
9h 50m
Cheapest TER Price
kr522
TER frequency
5 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
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.
- Must visit
Baldeneysee
Large urban lake with promenades, sailing, and scenic paths; a favorite leisure area for locals and visitors alike.
- Recommended
Kettwiger Straße
Lively central pedestrian street for shopping and city life, linking Essen’s station area with key downtown landmarks.
- Recommended
Stadtgarten Essen
Leafy city park with botanical features, sculptures, and open lawns near major museums and cultural institutions.
- Vegetarian
Reibekuchen
A hearty potato pancake from the Ruhr area, usually served with applesauce or beet syrup. It is a beloved regional comfort food eaten at fairs and homes.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Pumpernickel
Traditional rye bread from Westphalia, baked dark and dense with a slightly sweet flavor. It is a staple across the region and often served with ham or cheese.
Sauerbraten
A classic Rhineland-Ruhr beef roast marinated in vinegar and spices, then braised. It is a festive dish found on Sunday and holiday menus.
Restaurant Hannappel
Refined two-star dining in Villa Hügel parkland, known for modern French-inspired cuisine, polished service, and one of Essen's most prestigious settings.
Hausbrauerei Im Fcxschen Essen
Traditional brewery restaurant in Werden serving hearty regional dishes and house beers in a historic, rustic atmosphere popular with locals and visitors.
Meisenburg
Casual local favorite for grilled meats, schnitzel, and classic pub plates, with a lively traditional atmosphere and dependable portions.
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.
VRR App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.60
- Day pass
- €8.90
To the city center
Essen Hbf -> Essen Hbf
- Distance
- 0 km
- Travel time
- 0 min
- Buy tickets in the VRR App, at ticket machines, or onboard where offered. Tap validators if your ticket requires validation before boarding.
- Contactless card payment is available at many ticket machines, but not reliably onboard all buses or trams. Keep a valid ticket ready for inspection.
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 kr406, while the average price is around kr885.
The train from Lyon to Essen takes 6h 20m and runs 3 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 kr243.
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 6h 20m 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 bus 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
Most Lyon to Essen trains use the Lyon Part Dieu to Essen Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Essen-Altenessen. Use this guide to compare Lyon and Essen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Lyon
Arrival train stations in Essen
Which Lyon station do trains to Essen leave from?
Trains from Lyon to Essen leave from Lyon Part Dieu. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Lyon city centre at 5 Place Charles Béraudier, 69003 Lyon, France.
Lyon Part Dieu5 Place Charles Béraudier, 69003 Lyon, France+33 184943635 
City-centre transport
Getting to Lyon Part Dieu from Lyon city centre
Lyon Part Dieu is 1 km from Lyon city centre. Public transport options include:
BusX75 · 25m · kr24 · every ~1 min
Lyon Part Dieu train station facilities and services
Lyon Part Dieu 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: Alto Café, Paul, Paul The Café, Starbucks, Exki, Sushi Shop, Carrefour
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free unlimited WiFi. ATMs are located in the station's main hall.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Wed: 05:00 - 20:45, Thu - Sat: 05:00 - 21:45, Sun: 06:45 - 21:45. Information desks are located in the station's main hall. .
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is luggage lockers are available daily from 06:15 to 23:15. They are located near the station's reception desk. .
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Lyon Part Dieu: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Lyon Part Dieu: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lyon Part Dieu: Complimentary personalized care is available.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Radisson Blu Hotel Lyon, Mercure Lyon Center, ibis Styles Lyon Center.
Lyon-Perrache14 cours de Verdun, 69002 Lyon, France+33 72401062
City-centre transport
Getting to Lyon-Perrache from Lyon city centre
Lyon-Perrache is 1 km from Lyon city centre. Public transport options include:
BusN734 · 10m · kr8
Jd397 · 24m
Lyon-Perrache train station facilities and services
Lyon-Perrache has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: PAUL
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free, unlimited Wi-Fi is available after creating an account and connecting to "CONNECTION.". ATMs are aTM machine is located in Hall Level 2 in front of the PAUL bakery.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 10:00 - 18:00. Information desks are information services are available at the ticket office, located in Hall Level 2.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Lyon-Perrache: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Lyon-Perrache: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lyon-Perrache: Hearing, mobility, and visual disability assistance. Accessibility available with elevator, ramp or step-free access, barrier-free toilets.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Mercure Lyon Centre Chateau Perrache, Hotel De Normandie, InterContinental Lyon-Hotel Dieu.
Which Essen station do trains from Lyon arrive at?
Trains from Lyon to Essen most often arrive at Essen Hbf. Some services arrive at Essen-Altenessen, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Essen arrival station.
Essen HbfEssen Hbf, Am Hauptbahnhof 5, 45127 Essen
City-centre transport
Getting to Essen Hbf from Essen city centre
BusNe12, Ne11, Ne2, Ne1, 196, 166, 155, 154, 146, 145 · 5m · every ~50 min
Tram109, 108, 107, 105, 103, 101 · 2m · every ~46 min
Essen Hbf train station facilities and services
Essen 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: Bollywood Express - Pizza & More, Kiepenkerl, Cafe Extrablatt, Tacos
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Essen Hbf. ATMs are available at Essen Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Essen Hbf. Information desks are available at Essen Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Essen Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Essen Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Ambassador, Gästearpartment Dahl, WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus, Motel One.
Essen-AltenessenEssen-Altenessen, Hövelstraße 8, 45326 Essen
City-centre transport
Getting to Essen-Altenessen from Essen city centre
Essen-Altenessen is 3 km from Essen city centre. Public transport options include:
BusNe1 · 8m
Tram108 · 10m · every ~10 min
SubwayU11, U17 · 4m · every ~18 min
U17, U11 · 6m · every ~18 min
Essen-Altenessen train station facilities and services
Essen-Altenessen 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.
Food and drink
Food options include: Burger King, Werner, Bückmannsmühle, Muckel-Eis
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Essen-Altenessen. ATMs are available at Essen-Altenessen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Essen-Altenessen. Information desks are available at Essen-Altenessen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Essen-Altenessen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen-Altenessen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Essen-Altenessen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen-Altenessen.
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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