- 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 Nov 04
- Cheapest price on Nov 04
- $182
- Average ticket price on Nov 04
- $228
- Fastest journey on Nov 04
- 7 h 11 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 04
- 8 h
- Trains on Nov 04
- 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 $228 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $182.
Fast trains
On Wed, Nov 04, we found 3 trains from Lyon to Essen, including 3 direct services.
On Wed, Nov 04 the direct trains cover the 654 km distance in an average of 8 h but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 11 m .
On Wed, Nov 04 the slowest trains will take 8 h 52 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.
9:01 AM 8h52 Lyon 5:53 PM Essen $182 1 One-way 0 transfers8:01 AM 7h57 Lyon 3:58 PM Essen $218 1 One-way 0 transfers
11:04 AM 7h11 Lyon 6:15 PM Essen $283 1 One-way 0 transfers
11:04 AM 7h11 Lyon 6:15 PM Essen $283 1 One-way 0 transfers8:01 AM 7h57 Lyon 3:58 PM Essen $218 1 One-way 0 transfers9:01 AM 8h52 Lyon 5:53 PM Essen $182 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Lyon to Essen
France
Germany
Trains from Lyon to Essen run on average 2 times per day, taking around 7h 43m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $61 but you can travel from only $37 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 $37
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance406 miles (654 km)
- Average train duration7h 43m
- Cheapest ticket price$61
- Trains per day2
- Fastest train6h 20m
- First train12:01 AM
- Last train11:00 PM
- Cheapest MonthSep
- Cheapest DayTue
- High SeasonApr - Jun
- Low SeasonJan - Mar
- Busiest DayWed
- Least Busy DayThu
Understand & plan this route
- Operators on this routeTGV • Eurostar • TER
- Departure & arrivalLyon Part Dieu → Essen Hbf
- High-speed trainsAvailable on this route
- Cross-border trainsFrance–Germany services
Explore this journey
Book with confidence
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 $37
Frequently asked questions about your Lyon to Essen trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Lyon to Essen.
Train ticket prices from Lyon to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $61, while the average price is around $139.
The train from Lyon to Essen takes 6h 20m and runs 2 per day.
The first train from Lyon to Essen leaves at 12:01 AM.
The distance by train from Lyon to Essen is 406 miles (654 km).
The last train from Lyon to Essen leaves at 11:00 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Lyon to Essen.
Live departures
Lyon to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for Lyon to Essen trains for today, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2:04 PM Lyon | 7h11 | 9:15 PM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Wednesday, November 4 | |||||
| 8:01 AM Lyon | 7h57 | 3:58 PM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:01 AM Lyon | 8h52 | 5:53 PM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Lyon to Essen trains with Omio?
TGV as well as Eurostar or TER offer trains services from Lyon to Essen.
Omio is the only official third party seller for TGV tickets.
Why book with Omio vs TGV?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for TGV, but also compare tickets for the likes of Eurostar or TER to find the best option for your trip from Lyon 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 TGV with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Lyon to Essen.
Train companies
Train companies from Lyon to Essen
Trains from Lyon to Essen with TGV, Eurostar, and TER. High-speed trains available on this route with TGV and Eurostar. Regional trains available on this route with TER. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
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
$71
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
$61
Eurostar frequency
8 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
$79
TER frequency
5 a day
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Lyon and Essen
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Lyon to Essen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Lyon to Essen.
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.
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.
Plan your visit to Essen
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Essen.
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.
Popular day trips by train from Essen include Cologne, Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Münster, Aachen.
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.
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.
Yes, you can take the train from Lyon to Essen.
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, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus. 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 · $4 · 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 · $2
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, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus, 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, Kruppstraße / Am ThyssenhausAm Thyssenhaus & Kruppstraße, 45128 Essen-Stadtbezirk I, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus from Essen city centre
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Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus train station facilities and services
Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus. ATMs are available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus: The station has basic accessibility features.
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.
Train stations for Lyon to Essen
Check train stations information for Lyon and Essen, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Lyon that goes to Essen is Lyon Part Dieu, which connects to Essen Hbf.
Most popular trains to and from Essen and Lyon
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