- Must visit
Museum Folkwang
One of Germany’s leading art museums, known for outstanding 19th- and 20th-century painting, photography, and modern art collections.
.png){kind=small}
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 Nantes to Essen
Showing times and prices for May 22
Cheapest price
$326
Average price
$334
Fastest journey
8 h 11 m
Average duration
8 h 41 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
779 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Nantes to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Nantes to Essen will cost around $334 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $326.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Nantes for Essen on Fri, May 22, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, May 22 the direct trains cover the 779 km distance in an average of 8 h 41 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 8 h 11 m .
On Fri, May 22 the slowest trains will take 9 h 11 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.
10:04 AM9h11Nantes7:15 PMEssen$3261One-way0 transfers- 12:04 PM8h11Nantes8:15 PMEssen$3431One-way0 transfers
- 12:04 PM8h11Nantes8:15 PMEssen$3431One-way0 transfers
- 10:04 AM9h11Nantes7:15 PMEssen$3261One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Nantes to Essen
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Nantes to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $54. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 8h 33m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $54, and a train costs an average of $221.
Distance: 484 miles (779 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$304 Average price | $93 Average price Cheapest | $289 Average price | $255 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 3m Average total duration Fastest 8h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 16h 2m Average total duration 15h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 12h 36m Average total duration 9h 36m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 9h 37m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Nantes to Essen is a bus with an average price of $93 (€75).
This is compared to other travel options from Nantes to Essen:
A bus is $196 (€159) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Nantes to Essen costing on average $289 (€234).
A bus is $212 (€171) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Nantes to Essen costing on average $304 (€247).
The fastest way to travel from Nantes to Essen is by train with an average journey time of 8h 33m.
Other travel options to Essen take longer:
Flight takes on average 9h 36m.
Bus takes on average 15h 32m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Nantes and Essen including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Nantes to Essen among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 1h 4m sooner (8h 33m by train vs 9h 37m by car). Tickets start at around $304 (€247) compared to roughly $255 (€206) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Nantes to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for Nantes to Essen trains for tomorrow, Friday, May 22. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:04 AM Nantes | 9h11 | 7:15 PM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:04 PM Nantes | 8h11 | 8:15 PM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Nantes to Essen by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, 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.
Fri
May 22
May 22
Sat
May 23
May 23
Sun
May 24
May 24
Mon
May 25
May 25
Tue
May 26
May 26
Wed
May 27
May 27
Thu
May 28
May 28
Journey information
Overview: Train from Nantes to Essen
France
Germany
Trains from Nantes to Essen run on average 3 times per day, taking around 8h 33m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $221 (€179) but you can travel from only $54 (€44) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:35, the last at 21:52. The fastest train covers the 484 miles (779 km) distance in 8h 11m.
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 $54 (€44)
Distance 484 miles (779 km) |
Average train duration 8h 33m |
Cheapest ticket price $221 (€179) |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 8h 11m |
First train 12:35 AM |
Last train 9:52 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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 $54 (€44)
Train companies: Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF), SNCF | TGV INOUI from Nantes to Essen trainsSociété Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF), SNCF | TGV INOUI trains will get you between Nantes and Essen from $54 (€44). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
SNCF | TGV INOUI
About
SNCF's TGV INOUI is a premium high-speed train service operating across France and to other European cities. Launched in 2017, it aims to provide an enhanced travel experience with greater comfort, connectivity, and services compared to traditional TGV services. TGV INOUI trains offer features like adjustable seats, electrical outlets, fold-down tables, and dedicated luggage spaces. Passengers can enjoy onboard Wi-Fi and access to the TGV INOUI portal for entertainment and journey information. The service also includes a "Bistro TGV INOUI" for dining, with options for online ordering. SNCF is also introducing a new generation of TGV INOUI trains from 2026, which will be more modular, energy-efficient, and 97% recyclable.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 7m
Cheapest Price
$332 (€269)
SNCF | TGV INOUI frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
1 hand luggage + 2 pieces of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, end of carriages, between seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund conditions depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (not all trains), at-seat service in 1st class, snack bar/cafe
Seat reservation
Second class: Optional, additional fee. First class: Included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers: Free. Large dogs: Paid ticket required. Guide dogs: Free
Quiet zone
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 25m
Cheapest Price
$389 (€315)
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) 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.
- Must visit
Ruhr Museum
A major regional museum inside the Zollverein Coal Mine complex, covering the natural, cultural, and industrial history of the Ruhr area.
- Recommended
Red Dot Design Museum
Design museum in a former boiler house at Zollverein, showcasing contemporary product design and award-winning objects.
- Must visit
Baldeneysee
Large lake area popular for walking, cycling, sailing, and scenic relaxation, especially in warmer months.
- Recommended
Kettwiger Straße
Essen’s main pedestrian shopping street, busy and central, useful for first-time visitors exploring the heart of the city.
- Recommended
Grugapark
Large landscaped park with botanical features, open lawns, and family-friendly paths; one of Essen’s best green escapes.
Currywurst
Sliced sausage served with a spiced ketchup-style curry sauce, a beloved Ruhrgebiet snack commonly eaten with fries.
Grugahalle Bratwurst
Classic grilled German sausage associated with fairs and events in Essen, typically served in a bread roll with mustard.
- Gluten-free
Pfefferpotthast
A traditional Westphalian beef stew seasoned generously with pepper, valued across the wider region for its hearty flavor.
Restaurant Schote
Refined Michelin-starred dining known for modern tasting menus, polished service, and a special-occasion atmosphere.
Hannappel
Well-regarded upscale restaurant serving modern German cuisine with seasonal ingredients in an elegant but relaxed environment.
Zur Kluse
Traditional and long-running local restaurant praised for hearty German and regional dishes in a cozy, classic setting.
Euro
Moderate by German standards. Supermarkets and casual dining are affordable, while hotels and upscale restaurants cost more during trade fairs and events.
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, but rounding up is standard. In restaurants, add about 5-10% for good service. Round up taxis and small café bills; tips are not obligatory.
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 City Center, Essen
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Tap-in is not used; keep your valid ticket with you for inspection on VRR services.
- Card payment is available in many ticket machines, but not always on board buses or trams, so buy in the app or carry a backup payment method.
FAQs: Trains from Nantes to Essen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Nantes 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 Nantes to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $221 (€179), while the average price is around $304 (€247).
The train from Nantes to Essen takes 8h 11m and runs 3 per day.
The first train from Nantes to Essen leaves at 12:35 AM.
The distance by train from Nantes to Essen is 484 miles (779 km).
The last train from Nantes to Essen leaves at 9:52 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Nantes to Essen.
There is no direct train service currently available from Nantes to Essen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Nantes to Essen.
The train station in Nantes that goes to Essen is Nantes station, which connects to Essen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Nantes to Essen is by bus, with a cost of around $54 (€44).
The train journey from Nantes to Essen offers varying scenery, with picturesque views of the French countryside, charming villages, and rolling hills, transitioning to more urban and industrial landscapes as you approach Essen.
A day trip from Nantes to Essen is not feasible as the travel duration is 8h 11m. There are 2 trips per day by train for this journey, covering a distance of 484 miles (779 km).
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 Nantes to Essen.
Since both Nantes 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Nantes 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 Nantes to Essen
Nantes
Essen
The major train station for departures in Nantes is Gare de Nantes. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Gare de Nantes for your trip from Nantes to Essen.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
15Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week from 5:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. Departures can be made outside of opening hours. Access via Boulevard de Stalingrad.
Dining
- Le Café de la Gare
- La Cigale
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- €0.80
Hotel
- ibis Styles Nantes Centre Gare
- Mercure Nantes Centre Gare
- Hotel Astoria
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 120 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-10 for TGV and regional trains
- Hall 2: platforms 11-15 for local services
- Hall 3: tramway and bus connections
Public transit options for Gare de Nantes
- Tramway: Line 1
- Bus: Several lines available
- Navibus: River shuttle service
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 Nantes.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockers
ShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation 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
Most popular train connections from Nantes
More options for your journey from Nantes to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Essen and Nantes
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.
