- 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 Malmö to Essen
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$171
Average price
$218
Fastest journey
10 h 8 m
Average duration
11 h 18 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
607 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Malmö to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Malmö to Essen will cost around $218 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $171.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Malmö to Essen without transferring at least 2 times.
R 1071 · ECE 397 · ICE 61912:50 PM10h08Malmö Centralstation10:58 PMEssen Hbf$1711One-way2 transfers- R 1057 · ICL 50047 · IC 5761 · 1117911:05 AM11h53Malmö Centralstation10:58 PMEssen Hbf$2241One-way4 transfers
- R 1041 · ICL 50039 · IC 5759 · 111759:05 AM11h53Malmö Centralstation8:58 PMEssen Hbf$2601One-way4 transfers
- R 1071 · ECE 397 · ICE 61912:50 PM10h08Malmö Centralstation10:58 PMEssen Hbf$1711One-way2 transfers
- R 1057 · ICL 50047 · IC 5761 · 1117911:05 AM11h53Malmö Centralstation10:58 PMEssen Hbf$2241One-way4 transfers
- R 1041 · ICL 50039 · IC 5759 · 111759:05 AM11h53Malmö Centralstation8:58 PMEssen Hbf$2601One-way4 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Malmö to Essen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Malmö to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $60. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 8h 24m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $60, and a train costs an average of $198.
Distance: 377 miles (607 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$198 Average price | $87 Average price Cheapest | $253 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 54m Average total duration Fastest 8h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 13h 36m Average total duration 13h 6m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 13m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.6 - 1.5kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
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 Malmö to Essen is a bus with an average price of $87 (€72).
This is compared to other travel options from Malmö to Essen:
A bus is $111 (€90) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Malmö to Essen costing on average $198 (€162).
The fastest way to travel from Malmö to Essen is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 20m.
Other travel options to Essen take longer:
Train takes on average 8h 24m.
Bus takes on average 13h 6m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Malmö and Essen including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Malmö 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 $198 (€162) compared to roughly $253 (€207) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $55 (€45). The journey takes 8h 24m versus 8h 13m 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
Malmö to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for Malmö to Essen trains for today, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 9:50 PM Malmö | 10h08 | 7:58 AM Essen | 2 transfers | |
| 10:50 PM Malmö | 15h08 | 1:58 PM Essen | 2 transfers | |
| Sunday, June 21 | |||||
| R 1041 · ICL 50039 · IC 5759 · 11175 | On time 9:05 AM Malmö Centralstation | 11h53 | 8:58 PM Essen Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| R 1057 · ICL 50047 · IC 5761 · 11179 | On time 11:05 AM Malmö Centralstation | 11h53 | 10:58 PM Essen Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| R 1071 · ECE 397 · ICE 619 | On time 12:50 PM Malmö Centralstation | 10h08 | 10:58 PM Essen Hbf | 2 transfers | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Malmö to Essen by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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
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Jun 22
Jun 22
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Jun 23
Wed
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Jun 27
Jun 27
Why should you book Malmö to Essen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Oresundstag offer trains services from Malmö to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Malmö 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 Oresundstag to find the best option for your trip from Malmö 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Malmö to Essen.
Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Oresundstag to find the best option for your trip from Malmö to Essen.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Malmö to Essen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Malmö to Essen
Sweden
Germany
Trains from Malmö to Essen run on average 2 times per day, taking around 8h 24m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $198 (€162) but you can travel from only $60 (€49) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 22:35. The fastest train covers the 377 miles (607 km) distance in 9h 29m.
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 $60 (€49)
Distance 377 miles (607 km) |
Average train duration 8h 24m |
Cheapest ticket price $198 (€162) |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 9h 29m |
First train 12:03 AM |
Last train 10:35 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Best time to book 21 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 $60 (€49)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Oresundstag from Malmö to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, Oresundstag trains will get you between Malmö and Essen from $60 (€49). 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
9h 40m
Cheapest Price
$61 (€50)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
7 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.
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.
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.
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
Oresundstag
About
Öresundståg is a train company based in Sweden and Denmark. It operates a wide range of services, including regional, express and night trains. The regional trains offer frequent stops and are the most affordable option, while the express trains are faster and more comfortable. The night trains provide overnight journeys and are a great way to save time and money. The company offers a variety of ticket types, including single tickets, return tickets, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and comfortable seating. The most popular routes for Öresundståg are between Copenhagen and Malmö, Gothenburg and Malmö, and Stockholm and Malmö. These routes offer travelers a convenient and affordable way to travel between the two countries.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 29m
Cheapest Price
$198 (€162)
Oresundstag frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
Free hand luggage and larger items allowed
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Bistro car with snacks and beverages
Seat reservation
Seat reservation not included, can be purchased separately
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
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 Malmö to Essen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Malmö 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 Malmö to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $198 (€162), while the average price is around $198 (€162).
The train from Malmö to Essen takes 9h 29m and runs 2 per day.
The first train from Malmö to Essen leaves at 12:03 AM.
The distance by train from Malmö to Essen is 377 miles (607 km).
The last train from Malmö to Essen leaves at 10:35 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Malmö to Essen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Malmö to Essen.
The train station in Malmö that goes to Essen is Malmö Centralstation, which connects to Essen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Malmö to Essen is by bus, with a cost of around $60 (€49).
The train journey from Malmö to Essen offers scenic views, especially as it passes through the coastal landscapes of southern Sweden, the picturesque countryside of Denmark, and the charming regions of northern Germany.
A day trip from Malmö to Essen is not feasible, as the journey takes 9h 29m and covers 377 miles (607 km). Trains are available 2 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 Malmö to Essen.
Since both Malmö 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 Malmö 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 Malmö to Essen
Malmö
Essen
The major train station for departures in Malmö is Malmö Centralstation. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Malmö Centralstation for your trip from Malmö to Essen.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
Hotel
Ticket Office
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 09:15 - 17:15
Wifi
- The station WiFi is called "All Station Guests" and is free to use
Lockers
- There are storage lockers at the station that are locked digitally and opened with a code. Max storage time 7 days
Dining
- Bistro Royal
- Burger King
- Chao Oriental Express
- Espresso House
- O'Leary's
- Sliders & Shakes
- Woso Sushi
- Subway
- Sofra
- Spazio
- & many more
Accessibility
- Accessible entrances to the station are via the so-called Glashallen on the north side. Barrier-free toilets and handicapped parking spaces are available for a fee
Hotel
- Hotel Duxiana Malmo
- Moment Hotels
- Mayfair Hotel Tunneln
Ticket Office
- Mon - Fri: 09:15 - 17:15
Public transit options for Malmö Centralstation
- Bus lines: 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 31, 32, 35
- Train lines: City Tunnel, Øresund Line, Southern Main Line, West Coast Line
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 Malmö.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockers
ShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibility
WCHotel
Lounge
Lost and Found OfficeTicket Office
Bike Parking
Bike RentalCar Rental
Information 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
More options for your journey from Malmö to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Essen and Malmö
Most popular train connections to Essen
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