- Must visit
Museum Folkwang
One of Germany’s leading art museums, known for major collections of 19th- to 21st-century painting, photography, and design.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Madrid to Essen
Showing times and prices for Jun 22
Cheapest price
$557
Average price
$563
Fastest journey
1 d 1 h 8 m
Average duration
1 d 4 h 17 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
1478 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Madrid to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Madrid to Essen will cost around $563 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $557.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Madrid to Essen without transferring at least 3 times.
12:50 PM31h25Madrid8:15 PMEssen$5571One-way3 transfers
9:07 PM25h08Madrid10:15 PMEssen$5691One-way3 transfers
- 9:07 PM25h08Madrid10:15 PMEssen$5691One-way3 transfers
- 12:50 PM31h25Madrid8:15 PMEssen$5571One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Madrid to Essen
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Madrid to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $76. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 11m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 1.5 - 3.7kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $76, and a train costs an average of $557.
Distance: 918 miles (1478 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$563 Average price | $204 Average price | $124 Average price Cheapest | $358 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
28h 50m Average total duration 28h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 11m Average total duration Fastest 3h 11m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 27h 3m Average total duration 26h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 17h 49m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
- CO2 emissions | 4.4 - 8.9kg CO2 emissions | 1.5 - 3.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - 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 Madrid to Essen is a bus with an average price of $124 (€101).
This is compared to other travel options from Madrid to Essen:
A bus is $80 (€66) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Madrid to Essen costing on average $204 (€167).
A bus is $439 (€360) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Madrid to Essen costing on average $563 (€461).
The fastest way to travel from Madrid to Essen is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 11m.
Other travel options to Essen take longer:
Bus takes on average 26h 33m.
Train takes on average 28h 20m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Madrid and Essen including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Essen among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $563 (€461) compared to roughly $358 (€293) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-204.97 (€-167.76). The journey takes 28h 20m versus 17h 49m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Madrid to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for Madrid to Essen trains for today, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:07 PM Madrid | 25h08 | 10:15 PM Essen | 3 transfers | |
| Monday, June 22 | |||||
| 12:50 PM Madrid | 31h25 | 8:15 PM Essen | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Madrid to Essen by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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
Jun 22
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27
Jun 27
Sun
Jun 28
Jun 28
Why should you book Madrid to Essen trains with Omio?
AVE as well as Renfe Viajeros offer trains services from Madrid to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Madrid to Essen.
Why book with Omio vs AVE?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for AVE, but also compare tickets for the likes of Renfe Viajeros to find the best option for your trip from Madrid 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 AVE with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Madrid to Essen.
Why book with Omio over Rome2rio, Raileurope or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Madrid to Essen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Madrid to Essen
Spain
Germany
Trains from Madrid to Essen run on average 3 times per day, taking around 28h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $557 (€456) but you can travel from only $76 (€62) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:50. The fastest train covers the 918 miles (1478 km) distance in 25h 8m.
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 $76 (€62)
Distance 918 miles (1478 km) |
Average train duration 28h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price $557 (€456) |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 25h 8m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:50 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 56 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 $76 (€62)
Train companies: AVE, Renfe Viajeros from Madrid to Essen trainsAVE, Renfe Viajeros trains will get you between Madrid and Essen from $76 (€62). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
AVE
About
Travel comfortably with AVE, Renfe’s high-speed trains. AVE connects major cities across Spain at speeds of up to 310 km/h (193 mph), offering a fast and smooth travel experience. Ticket options include Promo, Promo+, and Flexible fares to suit different budgets, along with discount cards such as the Gold Card and +Renfe Youth 50 Card for eligible travelers. AVE trains feature modern amenities including comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, and onboard catering, making them a convenient and enjoyable way to travel across Spain.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
25h 8m
Cheapest Price
$569 (€466)
AVE frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 3 pieces of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, end of carriages, and designated areas between seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund conditions depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafeteria car with hot and cold meals, snacks, and beverages. At-seat service in Preferente (First) Class
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for all classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance services available
Pets
Small pets under 10kg in carriers allowed free. Larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle. Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone
Renfe Viajeros
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
31h 25m
Cheapest Price
$557 (€456)
Renfe Viajeros frequency
1 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.
- 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 Madrid to Essen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid 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 Madrid to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $557 (€456), while the average price is around $563 (€461).
The train from Madrid to Essen takes 25h 8m and runs 3 per day.
The first train from Madrid to Essen leaves at 12:01 AM.
The distance by train from Madrid to Essen is 918 miles (1478 km).
The last train from Madrid to Essen leaves at 11:50 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Madrid to Essen.
There is no direct train service currently available from Madrid to Essen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Madrid to Essen.
The cheapest way to get from Madrid to Essen is by bus, with a cost of around $76 (€62).
The train journey from Madrid to Essen offers a mix of urban and natural scenery, including views of the Spanish countryside, the Pyrenees, and the picturesque landscapes of northern France and the Rhine region in Germany.
A day trip from Madrid to Essen is not feasible due to the travel duration of 25h 8m and the distance of 918 miles (1478 km). Trains run 3 times per day.
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 Madrid to Essen.
Since both Madrid 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 flight as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid 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 Madrid to Essen
Most Madrid to Essen trains use the to Essen Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Madrid and Essen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Madrid
Arrival train stations in Essen
Which Essen station do trains from Madrid arrive at?
Trains from Madrid to Essen most often arrive at Essen Hbf. Some services arrive at Gelsenkirchen Hbf, 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.
More options for your journey from Madrid to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Essen and Madrid
Most popular train connections to Essen
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
