Munich to Essen train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

Sun, Nov 01
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Munich to Essen

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 01
Cheapest price on Nov 01
$84
Average ticket price on Nov 01
$244
Fastest journey on Nov 01
5 h 2 m
Average journey duration on Nov 01
5 h 18 m
Trains on Nov 01
14
Distance
493 km
Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Munich to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Munich to Essen will cost around $244 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $84.

Fast trains

On Sun, Nov 01, we found 14 trains from Munich to Essen, including 1 direct services.

On Sun, Nov 01 the direct trains cover the 493 km distance in an average of 5 h 18 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 2 m .

On Sun, Nov 01 the slowest trains will take 5 h 42 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.

  • Deutsche BahnICE 596 · ICE 106
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 564 · ICE 216 · ICE 12 · 26829
    3 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 916 · ICE 28 · ICE 645
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 690 · ICE 200 · 89723
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 588 · 26728
    1 transfer

Journey information

Overview: Train from Munich to Essen

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Munich to Essen run on average 9 times per day, taking around 5h 51m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $22 (€18) if you book in advance.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 306 miles (493 km) distance in 4h 53m.

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
306 miles (493 km)
Average train duration
5h 51m
Cheapest ticket price
$22 (€18)
Trains per day
9
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
4h 53m
First train
12:01 AM
Last train
11:56 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
14 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

Frequently asked questions about your Munich to Essen trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Munich to Essen.

Train ticket prices from Munich to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $22 (€18), while the average price is around $138 (€116).
The train from Munich to Essen takes 4h 53m and runs 9 per day.
The distance by train from Munich to Essen is 306 miles (493 km).
The first train from Munich to Essen leaves at 12:01 AM.
The last train from Munich to Essen leaves at 11:56 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Munich to Essen. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.

Live departures

Munich to Essen train times

The table below shows live departures for Munich to Essen trains for today, Saturday, October 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 698 · IC 60402 · ICE 618
On time
10:46 PM Munich Hbf
8h12
6:58 AM Essen Hbf
2 transfers
Sunday, November 1
Deutsche BahnICE 1010 · 10219
On time
8:19 AM Munich Hbf
5h19
1:38 PM Essen Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1010 · ICE 926 · 89725
On time
8:19 AM Munich Hbf
7h08
3:27 PM Essen Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 1100 · ICE 682 · 26720
On time
8:34 AM Munich Hbf
7h09
3:43 PM Essen Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 690 · ICE 200 · 89723
On time
8:45 AM Munich Hbf
5h42
2:27 PM Essen Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 610 · ICE 926 · 89725
On time
9:28 AM Munich Hbf
5h59
3:27 PM Essen Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 610 · IC 2045 · ICE 1749 · 89727
On time
9:28 AM Munich Hbf
6h59
4:27 PM Essen Hbf
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 916
On time
12:20 PM Munich Hbf
5h02
5:22 PM Essen Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 916 · ICE 28 · ICE 645
On time
12:20 PM Munich Hbf
6h58
7:18 PM Essen Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 588 · 26728
On time
12:38 PM Munich Hbf
7h07
7:45 PM Essen Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 596 · ICE 106
On time
12:45 PM Munich Hbf
5h13
5:58 PM Essen Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 596 · ICE 106
On time
12:45 PM Munich Hbf
5h13
5:58 PM Essen Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 564 · ICE 216 · ICE 12 · 26829
On time
1:02 PM Munich Hbf
5h48
6:50 PM Essen Hbf
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 564 · ICE 216
On time
1:02 PM Munich Hbf
5h51
6:53 PM Essen Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 564 · ICE 216 · ICE 12 · 26829
On time
1:02 PM Munich Hbf
5h48
6:50 PM Essen Hbf
3 transfers

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Munich to Essen trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Munich to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Munich to Essen.

Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?

  • 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 train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Munich to Essen.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Munich to Essen.

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Munich to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Munich and Essen from $22 (€18). 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
4h 53m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$22 (€18)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
9 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.
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.
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.
Quiet zone

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Munich 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 night train from Munich 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.
Yes, rail passes such as the Eurail Pass and Interrail Pass are valid on most trains in Germany, including Deutsche Bahn regional and long-distance services. Some high-speed trains may require a reservation fee even with a rail pass.

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

Museum Folkwang

World-class art museum in the Villa Hügel parkland, famous for 19th and 20th century masterpieces and changing exhibitions.

  • 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.

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.

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 train journey from Munich to Essen offers a mix of scenic landscapes, including views of the rolling Bavarian countryside, picturesque towns, and the dense forests of the North Rhine-Westphalia region, making it visually appealing, especially in certain sections.
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 Munich to Essen

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Munich 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.

FAQs
Yes, you can take the train from Munich to Essen.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Munich to Essen

Most Munich to Essen trains use the München Hbf to Essen Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus. Use this guide to compare Munich and Essen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Munich
Arrival train stations in Essen

Which Munich station do trains to Essen leave from?

Trains from Munich to Essen leave from München Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Munich city centre at Bayerstraße 10A, 80335 Munich, Germany.
München HbfBayerstraße 10A, 80335 Munich, GermanyWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to München Hbf from Munich city centre

München Hbf is 1 km from Munich city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus100 · 15m · every ~11 min
Tram21 · 12m · $3 · every ~12 min

München Hbf train station facilities and services

München 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: Cantina Estación Mediterrano, Rischart Bakery, Ditsch Pretzels, backWERK, Cafe-Shop, Le Crobag, Yorma's, Coffee Fellows, Dunkin Donuts, McDonald's, & many more

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes. . ATMs are available at München Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at München Hbf. Information desks are there is an information desk located on the main concourse near the food court.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is the station has luggage lockers. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at München Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at München Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at München Hbf: Accessibility equipment, elevators, & mobility service. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include a&o München Hauptbahnhof, IntercityHotel München, Sofitel Munich Bayerpost.

München-PasingMünchen-Pasing, Pasinger Bahnhofsplatz 7-9 6-10, 81241 MünchenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to München-Pasing from Munich city centre

München-Pasing is 8 km from Munich city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRe72, Re96 · 5m · $3 · every ~2 min
Rb · 7m · $3
S3, S8, S6, S5, S4, S2 · 13m · $3 · every ~37 min
Tram19, N19 · 33m · $4 · every ~13 min

München-Pasing train station facilities and services

München-Pasing 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: Burger King, McDonald's, Hunsinger in der Goldenen Gans, Orexi Taverna

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at München-Pasing. ATMs are available at München-Pasing.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at München-Pasing. Information desks are available at München-Pasing.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at München-Pasing. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at München-Pasing: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at München-Pasing: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at München-Pasing.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Guenstigwohnen24.de, Jagdschloss Residenz, Hotel Miano.

München HackerbrückeMünchen-Hackerbrücke, Arnulfstr. 31, 80335 MünchenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to München Hackerbrücke from Munich city centre

München Hackerbrücke is 2 km from Munich city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS1, S3, S8, S2, S6, S5, S4 · 9m · $2 · every ~61 min

München Hackerbrücke train station facilities and services

München Hackerbrücke 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: Augustiner Bräustuben, Lenz, Das Bad, Subway

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at München Hackerbrücke. ATMs are available at München Hackerbrücke.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at München Hackerbrücke. Information desks are available at München Hackerbrücke.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at München Hackerbrücke. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at München Hackerbrücke: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at München Hackerbrücke: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at München Hackerbrücke.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Theresienhöhe, Hotel Schweiz, Hotel Uhland, Germania.

Train stations for Munich to Essen

Check train stations information for Munich and Essen, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Munich that goes to Essen is München Hbf, which connects to Essen Hbf.

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