- 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 Malmö to Essen
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$198
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$198
Fastest journey on Sep 20
9 h 31 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
9 h 44 m
Trains on Sep 20
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 $198 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $198.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Malmö to Essen without transferring at least 2 times.
4:52 AM9h31Malmö2:23 PMEssen$1981One-way2 transfers- 7:50 AM10h08Malmö5:58 PMEssen$1981One-way2 transfers
- 8:50 AM9h33Malmö6:23 PMEssen$1981One-way2 transfers
- 4:52 AM9h31Malmö2:23 PMEssen$1981One-way2 transfers
- 8:50 AM9h33Malmö6:23 PMEssen$1981One-way2 transfers
- 7:50 AM10h08Malmö5:58 PMEssen$1981One-way2 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 train, with an average ticket price of $26 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 9h 14m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.2 - 0.5kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $26, while a bus costs an average of $105.
Distance: 377 miles (607 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$26 Average price Cheapest | $105 Average price | $257 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 14m Average total duration Fastest 8h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 14h 18m Average total duration 13h 48m 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 train with an average price of $26.
This is compared to other travel options from Malmö to Essen:
A train is $80 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Malmö to Essen costing on average $105.
The fastest way to travel from Malmö to Essen is by train with an average journey time of 8h 44m.
Other travel options to Essen take longer:
Bus takes on average 13h 48m.
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 $26 compared to roughly $257 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $231. The journey takes 8h 44m 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, September 19. 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, September 20 | |||||
| 4:52 AM Malmö | 9h31 | 2:23 PM Essen | 2 transfers | |
| 7:50 AM Malmö | 10h08 | 5:58 PM Essen | 2 transfers | |
| 8:50 AM Malmö | 9h33 | 6:23 PM Essen | 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.
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Sep 20
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Sep 26
Sep 26
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 30 times per day, taking around 8h 44m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $18 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 22:35. The fastest train covers the 377 miles (607 km) distance in 8h 6m.
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
Distance 377 miles (607 km) |
Average train duration 8h 44m |
Cheapest ticket price $18 |
Trains per day 30 |
Fastest train 8h 6m |
First train 12:03 AM |
Last train 10:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Best time to book 6 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
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Malmö to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Malmö and Essen from $58. 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
8h 6m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$18
Deutsche Bahn frequency
33 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
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 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 $18, while the average price is around $26.
The train from Malmö to Essen takes 8h 6m and runs 30 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 $58.
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 8h 6m 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
Most Malmö to Essen trains use the Malmö Centralstation to Essen Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Malmö and Essen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Malmö
Arrival train stations in Essen
Which Malmö station do trains to Essen leave from?
Trains from Malmö to Essen leave from Malmö Centralstation. The station is from Malmö city centre at Centralplan 6, 211 20 Malmö, Sweden.
Malmö CentralstationCentralplan 6, 211 20 Malmö, Sweden+46 841062600
City-centre transport
Getting to Malmö Centralstation from Malmö city centre
Bus7, 8 · 9m · $1 · every ~21 min
Malmö Centralstation train station facilities and services
Malmö Centralstation has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, Hotel, Ticket Office, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food options include: Bistro Royal, Burger King, Chao Oriental Express, Espresso House, O'Leary's, Sliders & Shakes, Woso Sushi, Subway, Sofra, Spazio, & many more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
The station WiFi is called "All Station Guests" and is free to use. ATMs are there are two ATMs at the station.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 09:15 - 17:15.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is there are storage lockers at the station that are locked digitally and opened with a code. Max storage time 7 days.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Malmö Centralstation: Parking, Taxis.
Bike and car services
Available at Malmö Centralstation: Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Malmö Centralstation: 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.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Duxiana Malmo, Moment Hotels, Mayfair Hotel Tunneln.
Which Essen station do trains from Malmö arrive at?
Trains from Malmö to Essen arrive at Essen Hbf. Essen Hbf is 0 miles (1 km) from Essen city centre.
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 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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